How U.S. Schools Work

Plain-language guide for grades 6-12 students & caregivers

EdStart Guide

How U.S. Schools Work: A Friendly Guide for Immigrant and First-Generation Families

Understand classes, credits, services, and who to ask for help quickly and confidently.

Last updated: October 10, 2025 -+ Region focus: Washington (Bellevue SD & Lake Washington SD)

Disclaimer: Policies can change. Verify details with your school or district.

Quick Intro

U.S. K-12 schools are grouped into elementary (K-5), middle (6-8), and high school (9-12). The school year runs from late August/September to June. High-school progress is tracked with credits and a GPA, and final grades appear on a transcript. Counselors, teachers, and office staff are there to help at every step.

Quick Glossary (60-Second Read)

  • AP (Advanced Placement): College-level high-school classes with optional exams that may earn college credit.
  • GPA (Grade Point Average): Number from 0.0-4.0 that averages your grades.
  • Credit: Points you earn for passing a class; in WA, most students need 24 to graduate.
  • Transcript: Official record of all high-school courses, credits, and grades.
  • Counselor: Helps with schedules, graduation plans, wellness, and post-high-school options.
  • Elective: A class you choose (arts, world language, tech, etc.).
  • Prerequisite: A class you must pass before a higher-level class.
  • IEP: Special education plan with services for eligible students.
  • 504 Plan: Classroom accommodations for eligible students with disabilities.

How High School Works (Fast Basics)

  • Credits & Graduation (WA): Most students need 24 credits across English, math, science, social studies, arts, PE/health, world language, and electives. See WA's official graduation pages for details.
  • GPA Example: If your six class grades are A, A, B, B, B, C that's 4.0 + 4.0 + 3.0 + 3.0 + 3.0 + 2.0 = 19.0. Divide by 6 GPA 3.17.
  • Transcript: Colleges, scholarships, and programs use the transcript to review your record.

Class Types You'll See

  • Required (core): English, math, science, social studies, PE/health.
  • Electives: Arts, world languages, technology, music, and more.
  • Honors: Faster pace, more depth than standard.
  • AP / IB / Cambridge: Advanced programs that can lead to college credit (by exam or course, depending on the program).
  • CTE (Career & Technical Education): Hands-on courses connected to careers; some earn dual credit.
  • Dual Credit Options: Running Start (college classes during high school), College in the High School, and CTE dual credit. Ask your counselor which option fits your plan.

Running Start (WA): Usually for 11th-12th graders to take college courses and earn both high-school and college credit. Tuition is covered up to a state limit; students typically pay books/fees. Check district and college pages for timelines and forms.

Services You Can Use

  • English Learner (EL/ML) supports: Language assessment and classes/services to build English and content skills.
  • Special Education & 504: Evaluations, IEPs, and accommodations based on student needs.
  • Counseling: Scheduling, graduation planning, mental-health support, and college/career guidance.
  • School Meals & Transportation: Find menus, meal benefits, bus routes, and eligibility on district sites.
  • Nurse & Health Forms: Immunizations, medication forms, health plans, and care coordination.

Communication with School

  • Parent portals: Check grades, attendance, and messages (BSD uses ParentVUE; LWSD uses Skyward + ParentSquare).
  • Progress reports & report cards: Posted each term in the portal; dates appear on the district calendar.
  • Conferences: Short meetings with teachers to discuss progress and plans.
  • Emailing teachers: Use the staff directory. Include student name, class/period, and a clear question.
  • Interpreter services: Families have a right to free interpreters for school communication. Ask the office or counselor to schedule one.

Tests (What They Do)

  • Classroom tests: Created by teachers; affect course grades.
  • State tests (WA): Check learning in English, math, and science; may meet a graduation pathway.
  • PSAT/SAT/ACT: College-readiness/admission tests (many colleges are test-optional, check each college).

Who to Ask for Help (Text Flowchart)

  • Question about homework or a grade? - Teacher
  • Multiple classes, schedule change, graduation plan? - Counselor
  • Records, enrollment, transfers, transcript? - Registrar/Main Office
  • Behavior or safety concern? - Assistant Principal/Principal
  • Health forms, medications, immunizations? - School Nurse/Health Office
  • Interpreter needed? - Tell the office/counselor; interpreters are provided at no cost

Regional Resources (Official Links)

Bellevue School District (BSD)

Lake Washington School District (LWSD)

King County Library System (KCLS)

Statewide (OSPI & Partners)

FAQ

How do we get English Learner (EL/ML) support?

Ask the school to evaluate English language levels. Services and language access are free for families.

Where do I see grades and attendance?

BSD uses ParentVUE; LWSD uses Skyward Family Access (messages in ParentSquare). The school can help you log in.

Do AP/IB/Cambridge exams cost money?

Yes, but fee support exists for eligible students. Ask your counselor about reduced or subsidized fees.

What is Running Start and when do we apply?

It lets eligible high-school students take college classes for dual credit. Check your district and local college pages for timelines; your counselor can guide you.

How can I request an interpreter for meetings?

Tell the office or counselor what language you need. Schools must provide qualified interpreters at no cost.

How do I request transcripts?

Contact the school registrar or counseling office. Official transcripts follow district/state rules.

Printable 1-Page Checklist

Before School Starts

  • Download the district calendar; note grading and conference dates.
  • Activate your parent portal (ParentVUE or Skyward).
  • Tell the school your home language; request interpreters as needed.
  • Submit immunization and health forms (if needed).
  • Check bus eligibility and stops; review safety rules.
  • Review graduation credit requirements; pick electives of interest.

Each Term

  • Check grades/attendance weekly in the portal.
  • Email teachers with clear, short questions if concerns arise.
  • Use tutoring or Study Zone (KCLS) when needed.
  • Review a simple planner and set steady study times.

Planning Ahead

  • Meet your counselor at least once per semester.
  • Ask about Honors / AP / IB / Cambridge / CTE options.
  • Discuss Running Start timelines (if interested).
  • Track credits toward 24 and your GPA.
  • Keep copies of report cards and transcripts for applications.

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