The value of an excellent education is a primary concern for every parent. With the job market becoming more and more competitive and the skills needed to succeed at an all-time high, parents are constantly aware that the education a child receives as early as elementary school (sometimes even before that) can play a major role in that child’s evolution. But does a private school education really outweigh that of a public one?
Approximately 25% of the schools in the US are private according to Council for American Private Education. They also state that students at private schools out do their public school counterparts in the areas of academics. Scores on the ACT and SAT for private students outnumber by more than 20% according to a 2002 study.
So clearly academic performance is increased, but what about other advantages to private education?
-Curriculum that is challenging
Many students are asked to go above and beyond the standard information when it comes to the academic rigors of their class work. Students are taught to become critical thinkers as well as creative problem solvers as well as have the ability to memorize and understand concepts.
-Smaller class sizes
Since enrollment is competitive and often limited, students are able to work in manageable class sizes where they are afforded more opportunities for personal attention. Educators are able to employ a variety of strategies including cooperative learning and multiple intelligences when teaching in the classroom.
-Increased advantage for off-campus learning
Independent study, field trips that connect directly to curriculum and professional development opportunities abound thanks to most private schools connected network of alumni and education professionals.
-Lifelong learning
Students at private schools are able and encouraged to explore a love of academics, athletics and the arts in many private school settings. Because of an increased exposure to other elements of academic life, private school students are better prepared to adapt, understand and create in an ever-changing world.
-Environment
Private schools foster a “family-like” atmosphere and often students and faculty have a healthier relationship. Families also see private schools as a safer place to place their children.
Of course there are certain disadvantages to a private school education.
-Tuition
Many private schools can be as expensive as college and families who come from lower socio-economic backgrounds might find it difficult to find the resources to send a student to a private school. With more and more charter schools pooping up across the country, many families are afforded the private school experience without the private school expense.
-Culture shock
Many children of priveledge attend private schools and a student who has won a place thanks to rigorous academics may find it distracting to be around those who have so much.
Many public schools are facing budget cuts; oversized classrooms and environments that feel more like a detention center than an academic institution. Often the student in a public school setting must deal with other factors outside of the academic “norm.” Private schools offer a great student/teacher ratio, a high success rate (almost all private school students go on to college) and a rich amount of diverse academic and extracurricular activities that offers a well-rounded education and prepares the world for the next group of professionals.
Sources:
www.columbusacademy.org
www.capenet.org
www.publicschoolreview.com
