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 Pennsylvania, schools are regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, which oversees both physical and virtual educational institutions. The state mandates education for children ages 8 to 17, which can be satisfied through public, private, or home schooling. Public schools, including charter schools, are funded by a combination of state, local, and federal funds, and must adhere to state educational standards. Pennsylvania also has cyber charter schools, which are a type of public school that delivers instruction over the internet. Private schools operate independently but must comply with certain state regulations, including compulsory attendance and teacher qualifications. Pre-kindergarten (pre-K) programs are available but not mandatory, and the state offers the Pre-K Counts program to provide high-quality pre-K to eligible children.