Need help creating a social media website?

I have tried elgg, ning, grou.ps, and joomla and none of these have helped me create what I want. I am a beginner and my site relates to education. I am trying to create school networks for all universities and high schools in the u.s. and to have members join their school network. How should I go about doing this. How complicated will this be and what program can help me the most to do this.