Schools are places or systems for learning or education and may be physical locations composed of a building or a campus that includes multiple buildings. Schools may also be virtual or online institutions that offer educational experiences and degrees. Schools are usually physical locations for children in grades 1-12, as well as kindergarten and pre-kindergarten (pre-K) classes.
In Massachusetts, schools are regulated by both state statutes and federal law. Public schools, from kindergarten through 12th grade, are overseen by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), which sets educational standards and accountability frameworks. The state mandates school attendance for children ages 6 to 16, with options for early childhood education such as pre-kindergarten (pre-K) programs. Massachusetts also has a variety of private and charter schools, which must comply with certain state regulations but have more autonomy in their curricula. Virtual or online schools in Massachusetts are also available and must be approved by the DESE. These online schools provide education to students who may not attend traditional brick-and-mortar schools and are subject to state standards for curriculum and teacher qualification.