This is a big one. Let’s start with the basic premise that both public and private schools can be a wonderful place for your children to learn.   And let’s confess that it’s going to be a tie… we’re not stupid enough to presume we know what’s best on such a divisive and conditional decision.  But we’d still like to throw our two cents in on this showdown, maybe offer you some new things to think about in the battle of public versus private.

Oh how I wish we could know.  Public schools offer certified teachers who receive higher pay and generally have more qualifications; private schools offer smaller class size, advanced curriculum, and teachers who tend to have an advanced degree in their field rather than an education degree.  Study after study has proven… nothing.  And more than anything it likely depends on the school.  One public school is not the same as another, likewise for private schools.  You’re going to have to go on the opinion of parents in the know to figure out the best fit for your child.  But as far as whether public or private is better over all?  Depends on your child. 

Okay, public is free.  Private school varies, from not-free to shockingly expensive.  My sister paid upwards of $7,000 a year for one child.  Yikes! Around here, however, the private schools are very reasonable and offer financial support on top of that.  Most private schools also have busing available, although it’s a little more complicated (such as your child getting bussed to the public school, and then catching a second bus to get to the private school).  The parents paying for school tend to be more involved and believe the school is worth every penny.

Public schools have a lot more of that going on.  But the private schools offer the basics, which is probably enough unless your child has some specialized interests.

Public schools have a responsibility to teach all students, but they are not known for flexibility.  There is red tape, and they have to follow it.  This is great for handicapped children who need extra help.  This is not great for other medical issues which might need something out of the ordinary- such as a child carrying his/her own medicine.  Additionally, public schools have a bigger bureaucracy which can make it harder for decisions to be made quickly while private schools have a leaner management structure.  There are also political and union issues that come along with public schools.  Private schools usually don’t have teacher unions to deal with.

Many parents are convinced that kids need to experience “the real world” as it can only be experienced in public schools.  Others are positive that a young child should be kept safe, and “the real world” can wait until it’s no longer possible to hide.

Like I warned you, we’re just doing a tie on this one.  But do you think one is better than the other? Let us know!