If you’re raising school-age children, you’ve probably heard a lot about the private school vs. public school debate. Which is better? How do you know what the right fit is for your family?
Making choices about your child’s future can feel overwhelming, but keeping track of the facts can help. Here are a few pros and cons of private school vs. public school to help you make the most informed choice.
Private School
In the private school vs. public school debate, private school is often touted as the better option. But why is that? What advantages does private school actually have?
- Smaller class size: Smaller classes mean your child won’t get lost in the rush. Many private schools have a better student/teacher ratio, meaning if your student is struggling, the teacher can provide extra attention and help when needed.
- Faith-based education: Public school can expose your children to a lot of different influences, which may or may not be the best thing. If you want your children to feel free to talk about and grow in their faith, a religious private school may offer the perfect opportunity to do so.
Of course, smaller classes can also be a disadvantage, as they limit your child’s opportunities for socialization. With this in mind, pay attention to the extras that private school offers, such as an academics or arts program, to ensure your child’s socialization needs are met.
Public School
Despite the popularity of private education in the private school vs. public school challenge, many, many families choose public education. Why is that?
- No steep tuition: Public school is paid for by taxpayer dollars, so you won’t need to be concerned about out-of-pocket expenses. However, before making a choice based solely on this factor, be sure to look into the widely available scholarships for private school.
- State-approved curriculum: Because private education isn’t overseen by the government, there can be tremendous variety in curriculum and academic standards, so it is important to ensure the private school you choose offers a similar—or even better—approved curriculum so that your child is ready for higher education when they graduate.
In the end, private school vs. public school doesn’t have a “one size fits all” answer. We suggest taking some time to explore your options and find what’s right for you.”