No matter your child’s age, it’s important to consider the best form of education for them. And in an increasingly tense educational time in the U.S., considering the advantages of private school over public school can be an essential step in determining the best environment for your children.
But what are the biggest differences? Are there really any differences? Yes there are, and here are a few of the most important ones to consider.
Class Size
The first and most noticeable difference between public and private schools is the class size. While public high schools typically have a class size of 30 or more students, private high schools keep class sizes closer to 15 or 20 students.
In addition to this, many schools will publicize a student to teacher ratio. While this is a helpful figure, it’s important to keep in mind that this doesn’t necessarily imply a smaller class size. Be careful!
More Class Options
Smaller class sizes are one of the most noticeable differences between private and public schools, but another difference is the number of classes offered. Another one of the many benefits of private schools is class size combined with these electives. So not only are children getting a unique education, they’re getting personalized teaching at the same time, which makes for much more effective learning.
Selective Admission
Private middle schools and high schools are typically populated with high-achieving students, and for a specific reason. Many of these schools utilize a selective admissions process in which students with high potential and drive are selected from a pool of applicants to attend. So it’s no coincidence that these places seem to be teeming with intelligent, driven students who often excel at everything they do.
Teaching Requirements
Unlike public schools, private education teachers aren’t required to undergo some of the rigorous processes often required for a teaching degree. Instead, educators here will often have a masters degree or even a PhD in the subject they’re teaching. In addition to this, many private educators work based on a yearly contract, not for tenure.
These are just a few of the many differences between public and private schools.