My family is in the process of preparing for a one-year stay in the United States. Considering that my children’s schooling is a significant aspect of this journey, ensuring their smooth adaptation is our top priority.
Checking Age Verification:
In the U.S., age calculations and grade assignments may differ from those in your country. It’s advisable to verify the age and grade calculation methods in advance. Even for kindergartens (often referred to as Kindergarten or Pre-Kindergarten), which fall under public schools, there may be variations in the age requirements from state to state. Double-checking this information on the respective school district websites is recommended.
Confirming Assigned Schools by Region
Given the differences in education systems across U.S. states and districts, even within the same city, schools may be divided among various districts, leading to variations in programs and schedules.
Once you have selected a state, you can check the assigned schools in your specific area. The school district assignment can be found by visiting the websites of the respective schools.
Choosing the Type of School
U.S. public schools generally fall into two categories:
- Traditional – Following a conventional academic schedule.
- Year-round – Having shorter, intermittent breaks throughout the year.
When planning a short visit, considering school adaptability issues and the fact that vacations don’t necessarily have to be in the summer, a year-round school might be a suitable option.
Choosing School by Ratings:
U.S. public schools are rated on a scale of 1 to 10 on websites like GreatSchools. A score of 8 or above is generally considered good. This evaluation includes various factors such as academic performance, demographics, and more. Checking the school’s rating can provide insight into the overall atmosphere and quality of education.
This basic guide should help you navigate the process of selecting a U.S. school for your children. Specific documents required for enrollment can be obtained from the individual school websites. If your child is in the lower grades of elementary school, there won’t be an extensive list of documents to bring from your home country.
I hope this information is helpful for many preparing for life in the U.S. Stay tuned for more posts on our journey!
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