There are approximately 117,000 primary and secondary schools in the U.S., which enroll 55 million students, reports the U.S. Department of State. The average primary school enrolls approximately 470 students. EuroEducation.net reports the age of entry to compulsory education in the U.S. varies between 5 and 7 years of age, but 6 is the most common. Students at primary school typically study between four and seven years total; the exact length is determined at state level.
Local government is responsible for the daily operations management of primary schools, as well as their funding and policy making -- from curricula to labor relations. The U.S. Department of State says that primary schools receive state funding but limited federal funding. They also may receive private contributions and donations. Primary schools are located within established school districts with boundaries that fall within the jurisdiction of relevant municipalities and counties.
The regulations and policies established by local government tend to be implemented across the entire district. Local school districts and their boards govern primary schools within the confines of these generalized requirements. Autonomy is therefore limited, except in special cases, such as private self-governing schools or special needs schools.
The leaders in charge of primary schools are known as principals. The professional body representing the heads of primary schools is The National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP). Although a primary school's teachers are the main source of student interaction and guidance, other administrative and support services are usually present. These include media specialists, curriculum supervisors and student counselors, as well as those associated with the school's food and health services.