For many people, the decision of choosing between a public and a private school is never an issue. Many families choose wisely when it comes to where they live, hoping to inhabit the public school districts with the best approval ratings and test scores. In fact, thousands of elite school districts border on charter-type schools that lie within the metrics of public school systems. Spaces in these institutions are highly coveted. Parents endure lengthy waiting lists, pay high tuitions, and even uproot their families to move closer to these desirable public school districts. Why? First, because the education of our children is something that every parent should take seriously. Secondly, public school districts with high rankings can save families tens of thousands of dollars per year in educational costs.
Evaluating Costs and Benefits
Rather than diving into facts and statistics about which option is clinically better, it is more reasonable to consider the benefits of both and discuss costs. Obviously, cost is a significant factor. Even families wishing to send their child to private schools can expect high tuition rates, along with uniform and other expenditures. In the United States, the average cost of private schools for elementary students—where teachers are state-licensed—ranges from $500 to $2,500 per month. Many private schools, such as Montessori and other specialty educational institutions, can charge anywhere from $2,500 to $25,000 per year per student. For many families, especially those with one or two working parents, these figures can be unaffordable.
Private schools that cater to preschool students are often housed in residential churches. Many of these teachers are not board-certified, yet tuitions can range from $90 to $500 per month. In some areas, tuition for a typical 2- to 3-day program can reach $1,000. While smaller, less professional private schools typically cost less, many of them double as daycare facilities.
For financial reasons alone, the public versus private school debate can often be settled before it even begins. However, if you are interested in private schooling for your child, you may want to explore scholarship opportunities or consider employment at the schools, which can lower tuition costs.
Another important issue in the public versus private school debate is which option offers a more comprehensive educational experience for children. According to the National Educational Bureau, both types of schools are held accountable for providing a core learning system to students by grade level. One major difference is that public schools cannot deviate from the school system curriculum as freely as private schools. For students who excel, this can hinder their learning and prevent them from progressing as quickly as they could. Additionally, public schools are not able to offer God-based or other religious educational materials.
Other points to consider in the public versus private school decision include school size, class size, and the safety factors of your local public school system. Does the school offer special programs that match your child’s interests, such as band or sports activities? Are there art and music initiatives to round out the learning experience, or have many cuts been made, limiting these options? If you find you will need to supplement your child’s education considerably through outside programs, the cost of tuition may not be as burdensome. Perhaps the most important aspect of choosing between public and private schools is academic reputation. Numerous websites, as well as state and federal resources, provide open records where anyone can access performance records and other reports related to a school’s reputation.
If you are looking for educational resources for older children, especially those planning to attend college in a few years, the public versus private school decision can hinge on college preparatory measures. Interviewing administrators at both public and private institutions may be a valuable first step. Additionally, reviewing college entrance exam scores and researching the types of preparation offered can be fundamental. Even if you have not invested in a private school education for the entirety of your child’s schooling, providing them with an advantage as they approach college applications is always a good idea. Keep in mind that many private institutions offer scholarship programs for students enrolled in certain private schools.
Aside from the obvious concerns, the private versus public school question also involves what is best for your child socially. Opinions vary on this topic; some believe that a private school setting with stricter rules allows for less room for failure. Many parents feel that religious-based private schools or expensive institutions tend to keep “riff-raff” out of the school environment. While you may find yourself surrounded by other parents who care deeply about education, it’s important to remember that a private school does not guarantee your child will be shielded from trouble. Sure, there may be more resources available, and your child might encounter fewer so-called “troublemakers,” but the real world will present its challenges soon enough.
The final consideration is, of course, location. The school system you choose must be convenient. Most private schools do not offer transportation to and from school, leaving this responsibility to parents. For those with full-time jobs, arranging transportation can be challenging unless you have help. Additionally, commuting long distances to and from school districts may not be practical.
Consider how your children feel about the public versus private school debate as well. Many parents, upon seeing poor results or experiencing issues at public schools, make hasty decisions to transfer their kids. While this might seem like a hopeful solution to future problems, there are no guarantees. For children whose parents wish to provide them with a more enriching educational experience through private schools, it’s essential to consider their emotional needs. For many kids, the transition can be difficult, and leaving friends behind can be devastating.
The debate surrounding public versus private schools will not end quickly, nor will every parent arrive at the same conclusion. However, it is crucial to understand that while you may have your heart set on a private school, you can also make the most of every educational experience by staying involved.
