Education
Children between the ages of 5 and 17 are required to attend
school. Public education is available at no charge. Which public
school your children may attend is determined by your home
address. Call the local board of education to find out which school is
closest.
The US school system is divided into three levels: Elementary School is
Kindergarten (K) through grade 6, Middle School is grades 7 and 8
(sometimes called Junior High), and Secondary School is grades 9
through 12 (often called High School).
To enroll your child in the school, visit the school with your child
and complete the registration forms. You must bring a birth
certificate and proof of immunization against certain diseases. It is
also a good idea to bring your child's previous educational records
(translated if necessary).
The city may also offer specialized programs for students with special
interests, talents, or needs. For example, there may be special
schools for students in the arts or students with
disabilities. Special procedures must be followed for admission to
these programs. Some of the programs will have a competitive entrance
examination.
Mandatory English language instruction is provided to all children who are not
native speakers of English.
Private schools are an alternative to the public school system. Most
private schools charge tuition. Tuition can cost as much as several
thousand dollars a year -- sometimes as much as a college
education. Private schools are often affiliated with a religious
denomination or are designed for children with special needs. Many
people feel that private schools offer a better quality education than
the public school system. Private schools may also be safer than
public schools, with less violence and drug use. A list of private
schools can be found in the Yellow Pages of the telephone directory.