Not everyone considers going to a private school. The debate of private vs. public schools is a popular one. You may think that private schools are not worth a second look. Especially if the public schools in your area are pretty good, the teaching staff are qualified, and many of their high school tutor and candidates go on to good colleges. Public schools may also offer a lot of academic activities and sports. Is private school worth the extra expense?
It’s cool to be smart
In private schools, being smart is cool. The reason you go to private school is because of the best education. In many public schools, kids who want to learn and are smart are labeled as weirdos and are the target of social ridicule. Children who excel academically in private schools often find that their school will do its best to meet their needs through advanced courses, online school options, etc.
Focus on personal development
In most private high schools, the primary focus is on preparing your child for college, but the student’s maturity and development go hand in hand with academic preparation. In doing so, graduates leave high school with both a degree (sometimes two—if the school you choose has an IB program ) and a greater understanding of their life purpose and who they are as individuals. They are better prepared for college, as well as for careers and life as citizens of this world.
Best facilities
Libraries, now called media centers, are the centerpiece of top private high schools such as Andover, Exeter, St. Paul’s, and Hotchkiss. Money has never been an object of desire in similar old schools, with every kind of book and study material imaginable. But media or learning centers are the centerpiece of almost every private high school, big or small.
Private schools also have first-class athletic facilities. Many schools offer horseback riding, hockey, racquet sports, basketball, football, crew, swimming, lacrosse, field hockey, soccer, archery, and dozens of other sports. They also have facilities to accommodate and support all of these activities. In addition to the professional staff that manages these athletic programs, private schools also expect their faculty to coach the teams.
Extracurricular activities are also a major part of the private high school program. Choirs, orchestras, bands, and drama clubs are found in most schools. Participation is optional but expected. Again, online tutor guide or direct extracurricular activities as part of their job requirements.
In challenging economic times, extracurricular tasks such as sports and the arts are the first programs to be cut from public schools.
Highly qualified teachers
Private high school teachers typically have a first degree in their subject. A high percentage (70-80%) also have a master’s degree or a terminal degree. When hiring teachers, private school principals and principals look for the candidate’s ability and passion for the subject they will teach. Then they review how the teacher teaches. Finally, they check at least three references from the candidate’s previous teaching positions to ensure they are hiring the best candidate.
Private school teachers rarely have to worry about discipline. Students know that if they cause trouble, they will be dealt with quickly and without any help. Teachers can teach without being traffic cops.
Small class
One of the most important reasons many siblings begin to consider private high schools is because of the smaller classes. The student-to-teacher average is normally 1:8, and class sizes are 10-15 pupil ratios. Why are small classes and low student-to-teacher ratios so vitally important?
They’ll get the individual attention they need and crave. Most public schools have 25 or more students, and teachers don’t always have access to extra support outside of regular school hours. In private schools, especially boarding schools, teachers expect to be more accessible to students, and they often arrive early and stay late to accommodate extra support sessions with groups or individual students.
Another consideration to keep in mind when researching private school education for your child is that most private high schools are fairly small, typically 300-400 students. This is much smaller than the typical public high school with 1,000+ students. It is very difficult to hide or conceal numbers in a private high school.
Conclusion: Why Private High Schools Stand Out
Private high schools offer a transformative experience that goes beyond academics. They foster a culture where intellectual curiosity is celebrated, ensuring students excel without fear of judgment. With small class sizes and individualized attention, students receive tailored support, while highly qualified teachers inspire and challenge them. These schools emphasize personal growth alongside academic success, preparing students for college and life with confidence and purpose. Exceptional facilities and diverse extracurricular options further enrich the student experience. Choosing a private high school is an investment in unparalleled education and holistic development, equipping students to achieve their full potential in every aspect of life.
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