1. The Institution:
* The most common meaning: A place where students of various ages go to learn, guided by teachers.
* This includes:
* Primary schools: For younger children (usually ages 5-11)
* Secondary schools: For older children (usually ages 11-18)
* Universities: For higher education (ages 18 and up)
* Colleges: Similar to universities, but often focus on specific subjects (e.g., art, music, business)
* Vocational schools: Focus on job training and practical skills.
2. The System:
* A system of education: The whole process of learning and teaching, including all levels of schooling and curriculum.
* Example: "The current school system needs reform."
3. A Group:
* A group of students: "The whole school went on a field trip."
* A group of fish: "A school of herring swam past the boat."
4. Verb:
* To teach: "He schools his children in the arts."
* To train: "The coach schooled the players on their technique."
The specific meaning of "school" will be clear based on the context of the sentence or conversation.