In 1900, few students – less than 5% -- graduated from high school; and only 1% went to college. Most of those students were male and from privileged society. Today, school attendance in the United States is mandatory for all students, male and female, poor and rich, until the age of 16 (in most states). Students usually remain in school beyond age 16 and successfully complete the requirements to graduate. Those who “drop out” may later complete the coursework necessary to pass the GED test and receive the equivalent of a high school diploma.

The high school years generally include the 9th-12th grades. It is interesting to note the following:

• High school is the beginning or the end of education for students. It is the beginning of college preparation and beyond for those who intend to pursue a college degree. It is the end of the education years for many who work full-time, get married or travel extensively after high school graduation.
• Those who do not graduate from high school generally make less money, receive fewer promotions, and often do not meet minimum educational requirements for entry-level jobs.
• It is advantageous for college-bound high school students to follow a college-prep curriculum during the 4 years of high school and to enroll directly in college upon high school graduation, before too many obligations make attending college more difficult, and while motivation and energy are still high.
• For those adults who have been out of high school awhile and wish to pursue a college degree, distance learning is the way to go. The flexibility of online degree programs makes it easier to take college classes at any age without walking into a physical classroom, without spending money on transportation costs, and without spending additional hours away from home.

High school is a valuable time to enjoy the education that is available for all, not just for the privileged few in society. It is the best time to prepare for college and  for the career that lies ahead.

Directory of Schools provides a comprehensive High School Directory, which lists most high schools in the U.S. and links directly to each school’s website. This resource is particularly valuable to those who are relocating with teens and those who wish to research high schools in their area.