By now, most kids in the U.S. have returned to school, and so have my two German children who are in their second year of schooling in the U.S. Despite their experience, there are still some distinctive aspects of American schools that stand out to us:
1️⃣ School Choice: The U.S. offers a variety of schooling options, including public, charter, private, and homeschooling. Public schools are funded by local taxes and often have attendance zones based on student residence.
2️⃣ New School Year, New Class: As early as elementary school, students are placed in new classes with different classmates and teachers each year. This practice aims to help students remain open to new people and adapt to change.
3️⃣ Language Support: Many schools provide professional ESL (English as a Second Language) programs to assist students whose first language isn’t English. These programs help them integrate into regular classes as soon as possible. I wish German schools had similar extensive resources.
4️⃣ Extracurricular Activities: American schools emphasize extracurricular activities, such as sports, arts, and clubs. Participation is highly encouraged and can play a significant role in college admissions.
5️⃣ School Spirit and Traditions: American schools often have strong traditions and a sense of school spirit, with events like pep rallies, school mascots, and dances. These traditions foster a strong sense of community and school identity.
6️⃣ Parental Involvement: There is a high level of parental involvement in U.S. schools, with many parents engaging in school boards, parent-teacher associations (PTAs), and volunteering for various school events.
💡 What unique features stand out in schools in your culture?
