Education in the United States

Education in the United States is a comprehensive system of public education, private education, and home schooling that spans a range of levels from preschool to higher education. The system is overseen by the United States Department of Education, a federal agency, but the majority of decisions regarding curriculum and educational standards are made at the state and local level.

History

The history of education in the U.S. dates back to the colonial period, with the establishment of the first public schools in the 17th century. The Common School Movement in the 19th century led to the widespread establishment of public schools across the country. The 20th century saw significant reforms in education, including the Brown v. Board of Education decision that ended racial segregation in schools, and the passage of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act in 1965, which provided federal funding for primary and secondary education.

Structure

The structure of education in the U.S. is divided into three main levels: elementary education, secondary education, and post-secondary education. Each level is further divided into grades or years. The U.S. also has a system of vocational education and adult education for individuals seeking to learn new skills or complete their education at a later age.

Issues and Challenges

Education in the U.S. faces a number of issues and challenges, including disparities in educational outcomes based on race and socioeconomic status, the debate over standardized testing, and the rising cost of college tuition. Efforts to address these issues include education reform movements, policy changes, and initiatives to increase access to quality education for all students.

See Also

• History of education in the United States
• Higher education in the United States
• Elementary and Secondary Education Act
• No Child Left Behind Act
• Common Core State Standards Initiative