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 Virginia, schools are regulated by both state statutes and federal law. The Virginia Department of Education oversees public education in the state, setting standards for learning, teacher certification, and school accreditation. Schools in Virginia include traditional public schools, public charter schools, private schools, and homeschooling options. Public schools are free and available to all children in grades K-12. Virginia also has a growing number of virtual public schools, which provide online education to students across the state. These virtual schools must comply with the same standards as physical schools. Pre-K education is available but not mandatory in Virginia, and the state offers the Virginia Preschool Initiative (VPI) for at-risk four-year-olds. Federal laws, such as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), also apply to Virginia schools, ensuring that all children, including those with disabilities, have access to education.