Public high schools in Missouri serve students in grades 9 through 12 and are part of the state's public education system. They are funded primarily through local property taxes, state funding, and federal grants. Each school is governed by a school district, which sets policies and curriculum standards to ensure students receive a quality education. In Missouri, there are over 500 public high schools, offering a variety of academic programs, extracurricular activities, and sports. These schools aim to prepare students for college, vocational training, or the workforce, providing resources such as counseling and career guidance to support their future endeavors.