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Middle school (US)

A US school for grades 6 to 8 (sometimes 5 to 8 or 7 to 8), between elementary and high school.

Used in
United States
Topic
Phases and year groups

Being checked against official sources. This definition is written in our own words; always check the official guidance for your country.

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Junior high school United States
A US school for grades 7 to 8 or 7 to 9, an older model of middle school.
Elementary school United States
A US school for the early grades, usually kindergarten to grade 5 (sometimes to grade 6 or 8). Also called grade school or primary school.
High school United States Scotland
A US school for grades 9 to 12 (ages about 14 to 18). In Scotland some secondary schools are also called high schools.

More terms: Phases and year groups

Junior · K-12 · Kindergarten · Ninth grade · Pre-K · Preschool

More terms starting with M · Education glossary A–Z · Get a TIP for your class

Definitions are written by Classfern in our own words for teachers in the UK and the US. They are short explanations, not legal or official definitions: always check the official guidance for your country, nation or state. Classfern is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government department, inspectorate or exam board named here.