Is private school right for your child?
Do you feel strongly that a faith-based education is important for your child? Do you prefer smaller class sizes? How does your neighborhood school compare to whatever private options are available?
Finding a school that is right for your child takes a lot of research. It is, arguably, one of the most important decisions you will ever make. To make a savvy choice, you have to educate yourself. That means researching, networking, and making sure that you understand all the choices available to you and your child.
Here are some factors to consider before you make the leap:
The Benefits of Private Education
Higher academic advantages. According to the U.S. Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), students in private schools generally perform higher than their public school counterparts on standardized achievement tests. Private high schools typically have more demanding graduation requirements. In addition, students in private school are more likely to complete a bachelor’s or advanced degree by their mid-20’s.
Smaller class sizes. The average classroom size in a private school varies, but private schools tend to be half as large as public schools. Additional benefits include smaller average class sizes and lower student-teacher ratios, which means your child has less chance of being lost in the shuffle.
Strong parent involvement. Not only do private schools encourage parents’ participation, but it’s also true that the parents of private school students tend to be extremely committed to having a say in their child’s education. Also, if the school is faith-based, you can be assured that your child is getting a religious foundation, as well as an academic education.
The Drawbacks of Private Education
Expensive tuition. Tuition costs can be substantial. Many small, independent schools struggle with resources, so development and fund-raising efforts are a continuing, never-ending, sometimes frustrating need. Wealthier private schools may have the financial resources to offer scholarships and financial assistance to qualifying families.
Teachers have fewer qualifications. According to the NCES, public school teachers tend to be more qualified than their independent school counterparts in terms of education and experience. That is not to say that private schools do not hire people with Master’s degrees in Education. It is simply that private schools tend to pay lower base salaries, and educators with a Master’s degree are less likely to want to work for less.
Fewer resources for exceptional students. If you have a child with special needs, keep in mind that private schools are not required to comply with state and federal laws concerning your child’s education. Many private schools don’t have the funding or the resources to meet your child’s specific needs. If you have an exceptional child, make sure that your child’s physical and behavioral needs will be met.
Parents giving, and giving again. Along with tuition, expect to be hit up for donations to capital campaigns and endowments even after you’ve paid for tuition, books, and other supplies. Without tax dollars, the money for student travel, libraries, athletic facilities, and arts programs has to come from somewhere. Private schools count on your participation, from volunteering to financial support.
Other options
If traditional private education doesn’t work out for your family, consider enrolling your child in a magnet school, a charter school, or a non-traditional private school.
Magnet & Charter Schools
A number of public schools within the Muscogee County School District are Magnet or Charter schools. For example, Britt David Elementary Magnet Academy is a Computer Unlimited magnet school. It consistently ranks as one of the best elementary schools in the state and has a long waiting list.
Wynnton Arts Academy is a Charter school that focuses on the fine arts. All students receive daily instruction in drama, art, music, and dance. Content and skills from the fine arts are integrated with core subjects. Columbus High School is a Liberal Arts College Preparatory Magnet. It consistently ranks among the best high schools in the state and the country.
Some magnet schools have a competitive entrance process, requiring an entrance examination, interview, or audition. Others use a lottery system, or a system combining some elements of competitive entrance and a lottery. For more information, visit the Muscogee County School District’s website.
Non-traditional Private Schools
Muscogee County also home to several non-traditional private schools. Hallie Turner Private School provides an alternative education for area students, including smaller classes and individualized learning. Here, students ages 16 and older can work at their own pace. Hallie Turner offers a day program, night program and summer school. Graduates receive an accredited high school diploma and are eligible to receive the HOPE Scholarship.
The Campus at Columbus (a satellite of The Campus in Peachtree City, GA) is a non-traditional private school that offers a variety of enrollment options for grades 1-12. Students receive a personalized education that addresses each child’s unique learning styles. Graduates receive an accredited high school diploma and are eligible to receive the HOPE Scholarship. Best of all, The Campus at Columbus is eligible to accept students who receive the SB-10 voucher for education. (See the Georgia Special Needs Scholarship Program.)
Last, but not least, don’t write off your neighborhood school without investigating it first. Few things are nicer than a free education that is within walking distance of your house. If you wish to remain in the public school system, but are unhappy with your attendance zone, parents in Muscogee County can request a “hardship transfer” to another school within the school district, provided space is available at the requested school. Parents must have a compelling reason for requesting the transfer. For more information, contact the Central Registration Office at (706) 748-2222.
Ultimately, the decision where to send your child is a personal choice and depends on your child, the area you live in, and what works bests for your family.
SOURCE: U.S. Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
