Debate Over Resurrection of the Presidential Physical Fitness Test
President Trump has signed an executive order to bring back the physical fitness test, sparking a debate on the role of government in promoting a healthy lifestyle.
American schools News and Analysis
About American schools
The term **"American schools"** broadly refers to the public and private K-12 educational institutions in the United States, encompassing elementary, middle, and high schools. These schools serve approximately 56.6 million students nationwide, with around 128,961 K-12 schools in total as of recent data[2][5]. The U.S. education system is structured into three main levels: elementary (typically kindergarten through 5th or 6th grade), middle (6th to 8th grade), and high school (9th to 12th grade)[1][4][5]. **What American schools do:** They provide compulsory education designed to develop foundational knowledge and skills across diverse subjects such as math, reading, science, social studies, and increasingly, technology and foreign languages. High schools offer advanced courses and electives that support career exploration and college preparation[5][9]. **Governance and history:** The governance of American schools is highly decentralized. States hold primary control, delegating authority to local school districts, which may further empower principals. The federal government influences education primarily through funding and legislation, exemplified by initiatives like the No Child Left Behind Act and Race to the Top[1][6][8]. Historically, the education system was formalized in the late 19th century by groups such as the Committee of Ten, which standardized the twelve years of schooling[1]. Public education is predominantly funded by taxes and free to students, while private schools operate independently, often with religious affiliations and accreditation by regional associations[1][2]. **Key achievements and notable aspects:** American schools have established a widespread public education infrastructure that serves over 90% of students through traditional public schools, charter schools, and private institutions. The system supports a broad curriculum that includes emerging fields like computer science and offers pathways to technical, two-year, and four-year colleges[2][3][4][5]. The National Education Association (NEA), the largest professiona
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