In the United States, education is offered at all levels from prekindergarten to graduate school. Elementary and secondary education involves twelve years of schooling the successful completion of which leads to a high school diploma. A distinct feature of the American educational system is its decentralized organization. Elementary and secondary education is financially supported by three levels of government - local, state, and federal. Furthermore, it is divided into public and private institutions. The main disadvantage of the decentralization is the quality of education received by the students. On the other hand, a real plus to the idea is the fact that not all students are concentrated on the same topics of study, which allows ... Showed first 120 words of 519 Size (words) ...

... Continuing with another 115 out of 519 Size (words) ...by the students. Rich communities can afford to pay more per student than poorer communities; consequently, the disparity in wealth affects the quality of education received.

Until well into the 19th century, most students attended private schools. Then, in the decades before the American Civil War, a transition took place from private to public school education. This transition was to provide children of all classes with a free education. The idea of private schools however has a definite advantage in providing high quality education for those who can afford it. Its intent is to create individuals well prepared for today's competitive job market.

Even though the US education system has ...Essay still continues 100 more words...