My school district was set up with an elementary school within one mile of every residence, a Junior High School within 2 miles of every residence and a High school within 3 miles. I was a half mile from my elementary school, 2 miles from my Junior High and 3 miles from my High School. My University was 50 miles away, but there was one within 4 miles of my house.
But that was 1962-1975. Enrollment has declined sharply now that baby boomers are out of school, so many schools have closed/been sold, so not that way anymore. And more importantly, we have open enrollment now with schools offering various specialty focuses. So few students go to their closest school anymore. They go to the school they select. Focuses are 1) Fundamental 2) College Prep 3) Vocational 4)Culinary.