Public. Private. Alternative. Charter. Magnet. These are just some of the many educational options available to your child. Somewhat stereotyped as an educational option for families who are wealthy or children who are smart, many are not aware if they should, or how to begin contemplating sending their child to a private school.
"The most important thing that parents need to understand is that private schools come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. They are not exclusively for one type of student or financial ability and in fact there may be more than one private school that may suit your requirements," says Frances McCarthy, a retired private school administrator.
If you're considering pursuing a private school education for your child, begin your search by involving your child in the process. Discuss both of your academic, sports, extra-curricular activities and social expectations. Does your child thrive in a small or larger school? Is faith based education a consideration? Should the school be single sex or co-educational? How far is your child willing to commute to attend school?
Assess the basics
Curriculum and academic opportunities are often the basis for choosing a school. When considering a school, review the average class size, teacher to student ratio, and faculty turn-over which all lend stability and continuity to the educational process. Determine the expected study habits and disciplinary action for missing assignments. Review the enrichment opportunities such as artistic, music, drama and foreign language programs. Are the libraries and facilities usually equipped and staffed with specialist teachers and do they offer any specific resources you child may need?
Private schools can range in size from less than one hundred students to over one thousand. Assess your child's social skills very carefully. "Our son and daughter are very different students and individuals. One is a social butterfly and makes friends easily while the other is quiet and reserved and more comfortable in a small, family like atmosphere. Because of their differences, we chose two different private schools that each met both of their personalities and academic needs," says Carly Winters.
The chance to participate in organized sports at school is also another noteworthy factor that might appeal to your child's muscles as well as his mind. "We put some facilities on the list of potential schools when we learned they offered intramural sports clubs as well as organized school sponsored teams," adds Winters.
Specialty schools
Many parents and educators feel that children benefit from the minimal distractions offered by a single sex school setting. Others feel just as strongly that a co-educational school offers young people a valuable social laboratory in which to practice the skills so necessary in today's politically correct world. "Attending a co-educational school is a very personal decision and one that needs to be assessed individually," says McCarthy noting that "single sex and co-educational schools both offer unique and beneficial learning environments."
Personal religious requirements or beliefs should be considered when contemplating faith based schools. It is important to understand that children may attend religious services and regular religious classes, or be expected to practice the faith embraced by that school. Most denominational schools require students to attend religious services, while non-denominational schools usually do not adhere to one particular faith, but are often Christian based.
There are also private schools who tailor their curriculum toward specific areas of interest. Although still maintaining a concentration on core subjects such as math and science, some schools offer a more concentrated focus on subjects such as art or music.
Pay a visit
Once you've made a list of three to five schools that you and your child think could fit, arrange a tour of the schools. Guide your child to formulate a list of his or her questions to ask the administrator or tour guide, in addition to compiling your own list of questions. "It is usually a good idea to bring a copy of a child's most recent report card and standardized test results if applicable," says guidance counselor, Tom Westervelt "I once met with a family that brought a few of the books the children were currently using to compare them to the books in our school."
Ask to visit while classes are in session to see the dynamics of children in the gymnasium, hallways and cafeteria. Sample the food served for lunch and peruse the library and computer lab. "I always suggest families visit more than once to see the school in many lights," notes Westervelt.
Remember that regardless of whether you choose a private school, or another form of educational style, is it vital that your child feel comfortable and secure in his learning environment. Solicit input from your child on his impression of the school, uniforms, distance from home and the facilities. "Reviewing all aspects and options will help to make an educated decision that will benefit everyone," says Westervelt.
For information on private school ratings visit http://www.privateschoolreview.com/
Affording a Private School:
- Contact the admissions or business office to learn about available financing options, scholarships and grants.
- Private student loans can prevent dipping into savings or using high-interest credit cards. These loans are usually credit-based and spread out tuition payments making the tuition more manageable.
- Working and/or volunteering at a private school may make you eligible for reduced tuition. Ask if opportunities exist in the office, cafeteria, library or as a playground supervisor to offset some of the costs.
- If you have more than one child, ask about a quantity discount on your tuition.
- Participate in a uniform exchange to defray some of the costs of clothing.