In the U.S., education is compulsory and available to all. The school year runs from September to June, with a long summer break between school years, and holiday breaks around Thanksgiving, Christmas, and spring.

Public schools are supported by taxpayers, and budget and education officials are determined by public vote. This means that schools in wealthier neighborhoods tend to be better funded and run better than schools in poorer neighborhoods.

The U.S. school system:

Elementary Education . Elementary school starts at age 6 in kindergarten and lasts from ages 3 to 7, up to ages 10 to 11.
Middle School: Middle school runs between elementary and high school. It is usually from ages 11-12 to 13-14 (6th to 8th grade).
Secondary Education : Middle school runs from grades 9 to 12. Students focus on general classes in English, science (biology, chemistry and physics), mathematics (including algebra, geometry, calculus and statistics), social studies, physical education and art. All students take some core courses, with elective options. Many students are preparing for honors or commencement, while others may begin some classes in their professions.

Because of overcrowding and funding, these years may vary from district to district.

Registering for School in New York City
To register your children for elementary or middle school in New York City, find your child’s zoned school. Your zoned school is determined by your home address. If you do not know your zoned school, call 311 or visit the New York City Department of Education website . If you do not have a zoned school or want to register for one, visit the Student Registration Center in your area of residence.

The New York City Department of Education website is an educational institution in New York State and is the largest school system in the United States, with more than 1.1 million students in more than 1,800 separate schools.

In the United States, children usually begin school as early as possible, meaning that students can begin preschool as early as age four, although it is not necessarily until age six. After completing elementary education at age twelve, children move on to high school.

Private Schools in New York City
There are about 900 private secular and religious schools in New York City, some of which are considered the best independent schools in the entire United States. The New York City Education Department pays $70 million annually to the private school sector.

Tuition in New York City private schools tends to be very expensive, averaging $18,114 per year. The average cost is $18,114 per year (2019-20): $12,594. The average private school tuition is $24,400 per year for an elementary private school and $24,400 per year for a private high school. The average cost is $12,594 per year for a private high school. HOWEVER, the global school is considered the most expensive private school in NYC, about $94,050 per year.

The New York State Association of Independent Schools (NYSAIS) is a non-profit organization offering administrators, teachers, trustees and parents in private schools from pre-K through 12th grade.

Among all private schools in New York City, the following 5 are considered the best:

  • Brirley School.
  • University School
  • Trinity School
  • Spence School
  • Dalton School.