Secondary education in the United States.

Secondary education in the United States, better known as high school, is one level of the national educational system. Secondary education generally consists of grades nine through twelve and is only available to students who have successfully completed previous grades. This level of education may take place at public or private schools. At these schools, students take an array of courses, both mandatory and elective, designed to prepare them for higher education and/or their prospective careers. Upon successful completion of secondary education, most students receive a diploma at a commencement ceremony.