Educational System in Micronesia

The Federated States of Micronesia, a group of islands in the Pacific Ocean, has a unique educational system that is influenced by its history, culture, and geography. The system is designed to provide a comprehensive education to all children, regardless of their location or socioeconomic status. This guide aims to provide expats with a detailed overview of the educational system in Micronesia, including the main stages of education, enrollment procedures, language requirements, availability of bilingual schools, types of private schools, and options for homeschooling and online schooling.

What are the main stages of education in Micronesia?

The educational system in Micronesia is divided into three main stages: elementary school, secondary school, and post-secondary education. Elementary school covers grades 1 to 8, secondary school covers grades 9 to 12, and post-secondary education includes vocational training, community colleges, and universities.

Elementary School

Elementary school in Micronesia is for children aged 6 to 14 and covers grades 1 to 8. The curriculum focuses on basic literacy and numeracy skills, as well as social studies, science, health, and physical education. The medium of instruction is English, although local languages are also used in the early grades.

Secondary School

Secondary school in Micronesia is for students aged 14 to 18 and covers grades 9 to 12. The curriculum includes English, mathematics, social studies, science, health, and physical education, as well as vocational and technical education. Students are required to pass a comprehensive examination at the end of grade 12 to receive their high school diploma.

How does a newcomer from a different country enroll their kids in school?

Newcomers can enroll their children in school by contacting the Department of Education in the state where they reside. They will need to provide proof of residency, a birth certificate or passport for the child, and immunization records. If the child has previously attended school, academic records may also be required.

My children are still learning English, can they enroll in a public school?

Yes, children who are still learning English can enroll in public schools in Micronesia. The schools provide English as a Second Language (ESL) programs to help non-native speakers improve their English proficiency.

Are there public bilingual schools?

Yes, there are public bilingual schools in Micronesia. These schools use both English and the local languages in instruction. The Department of Education can provide information on the location of these schools and the admission process for international students.

What types of private schools are common in Micronesia?

Private schools in Micronesia are typically religious, with Catholic and Protestant schools being the most common. There are also a few international schools that offer a curriculum based on the educational system of other countries, such as the United States or Australia.

Do expats typically send their children to public or private school?

Expats in Micronesia typically send their children to private schools, especially international schools, due to the perceived higher quality of education and the availability of a curriculum that is more familiar to them.

How expensive are Private schools in Micronesia?

The cost of private schools in Micronesia varies, but it is generally higher than public schools. Tuition fees can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per year, depending on the school and the grade level.

Are you allowed to homeschool while living in Micronesia?

Yes, homeschooling is allowed in Micronesia. Parents who wish to homeschool their children must comply with the regulations set by the Department of Education, which may include submitting a curriculum for approval and ensuring that the child takes the required standardized tests.

May kids attend online school instead of a local school while living in Micronesia?

Yes, children can attend online school while living in Micronesia. However, it is important to note that internet connectivity can be a challenge in some parts of the country, and not all online schools may be recognized by the Micronesian Department of Education.