The decision to pursue private education rather than public can be a very important one, but it is can also leave parents confused with many questions. Parents can find themselves wondering which school is best, what are the advantages of private schools, and how do they choose. There are well over 30,000 private schools in the U.S. and these schools serve 5.3 million students in grades K-12. Listed below are some of the advantages of choosing private schools over public schools.
Small Classes
Class sizes directly influence student learning. Around 86% of private schools have fewer than 300 students enrolled. Students who attended a private school had smaller class sizes compared to those who attended public schools. These smaller class sizes amounted to more one-on-one attention between teacher and student. Teachers are better able to focus on student’s weaknesses and work to develop those areas. Private schools may be large or small, but one thing they all have in common is that they focus on smaller class sizes so the student to teacher ratio is better proportioned.
More Parental Involvement
Parents of students who attend private schools tend to be more involved. There is an open line of communication between teachers and parents which encourages parents to take an active part in their children’s education. This encourages parents to become part of the parent commitee and integrates families into a childs education while helping to strengthen the parent-child relationship.
Religion
No public school is allowed to teach religion and must keep religion out of the classroom. Private schools are not held to this standard. By choosing a private school that is centered around religious beliefs your child can be immersed in religion during the school day. Private schools which coincide with your current religious beliefs will also respect your beliefs where as a public school is not required to. Simple find private schools which meet your specific needs when beginning your search.
Arts and Athletics
Public schools are only allowed to spend a certain amount of money on things like arts and athletics. Private schools are not held to the same standard. As students get older parents wish for their students to get a balanced daily structure of academics, arts and sports such as basketball or football. Joining a high school basketball team helps older students learn time management skills, and allows them the chance to connect with students from other private high schools during games.
Academics
Since parents are usually more involved in their students education through a private school, it only makes sense that grades tend to be higher for those students. Private schools tend to offer a greater variety of advanced classes, and most of these classes have a high enrolment rate. Teachers of private schools have high expectations of students, this coupled with parents expectations leads to a high achieving learner.
Many parents who opt for private education are happy with their choice with 80% being pleased with the academic standards of those schools. With proper research you are sure to find the right private school for your student. Active involvement on your part coupled with the success of the school will help your child advance academically now and in their college years.