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EqualityThe educational system wants as many people as possible to have access to as much education as possible. Therefore, in public schools, students from all backgrounds are admitted and educated. Parents are not charged for education, books, transportation, etc. There are even special programs available for low income families and special needs children. IndividualismAnother goal of the American educational system is to teach students how to learn and to help each individual reach his or her maximum potential. The focus of instruction is not memorization. Teachers want students to explore, experiment and analyze. Students are encouraged to ask questions, think for themselves and express their own opinions. The goal of education is to help students identify their strengths. In order to do this, schools require students to take a wide range of courses, including some non-academic subjects such as sports and music. Because of this, academic specialization comes later than it does in other countries. FreedomStudents have a great deal of freedom in American schools. Uniforms are rarely used and students may be given tests to complete at home. Remember that with these freedoms come responsibilities. The students are evaluated on all aspects of their work, including the ability to handle the freedoms that they are given. Local Control through the School BoardThe School Board acts as the governing body over the public schools. In Albemarle County, the members are elected for a limited term. They make decisions regarding policies, instruction, funding, facilities, etc. There are seven members on the Albemarle School Board. Both Charlottesville and Albemarle have their own School Board, so each school system may have different policies and rules. Related LINKS • U.S. Department of Education - www.ed.gov |
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United States Educational System is very different from many other countries.
Control of school policy and procedures is in the hands of local officials
called a School Board, not in the control of a federal department or
ministry of education. Also, at the base of the U.S. educational philosophy
are the principles of equality, individualism and freedom.
