The public school systems in the Washington metropolitan area are among the best in the nation. In addition to academic excellence, schools offer vocational training, special education classes, remedial studies, and programs for children with learning disabilities. Special educational resources for gifted and exceptionally talented students, and adult career centers are also offered.
The Washington metropolitan area is also home to a substantial number of private and parochial schools, ranging from neighborhood preschools to nationally recognized college preparatory schools.
The national capital area offers hundreds of academic programs through colleges and universities. Several of these premier universities are members of the Consortium of Universities of the Metropolitan Washington Area, a cooperative venture of twelve local institutions.