1. Public High Schools: These are government-funded schools that offer free education to students within a specific geographic area. They typically cover grades 9 to 12 and provide a comprehensive curriculum leading to a high school diploma.
2. Private High Schools: These are non-government funded schools that charge tuition fees. They may have different academic programs, religious affiliations, or specialized focuses (e.g., college preparatory, arts-focused, etc.) and also lead to a high school diploma upon completion.
3. Alternative High Schools: Also known as continuation or night schools, these schools offer flexible schedules and alternative educational approaches for students who may have difficulty succeeding in traditional high school settings. They can also lead to a high school diploma or equivalent credential.
4. Online High Schools: These virtual schools provide online education and allow students to complete their high school coursework remotely, often at their own pace. Some online high schools are accredited and offer legitimate diplomas recognized by colleges and universities.
5. Adult Education Programs: Community colleges, adult education centers, or workforce development programs may offer high school equivalency programs for adults who didn't complete high school in their younger years. These programs often culminate in a high school equivalency diploma (such as a General Education Development (GED) certificate or a High School Equivalency Test (HiSET) diploma) that is equivalent to a regular high school diploma.