There are over 30,000 private elementary, middle, and high schools across the United States, enrolling over 5 million children from age four until 18. Parents can rest assured that if their child attends a private school, he or she is statistically likely to enjoy smaller class sizes, turn in better standardized test scores, and benefit from a safer school environment with fewer incidents of bullying and fighting.
The question that many parents ask before placing their children in private school is: will my child become adequately socialized and “tough enough” for the real world? Small class sizes can allow quieter children to stand out. Teachers at private schools tend to have a more well-developed budget for supplies, projects, and trips and also tend to spend more time with each student.
Public schools across the United States often have anti-bullying initiatives, but smaller schools may be able to work more closely with individual children’s behavior issues, should they arise. Although private school attendees are socialized in what is often a less-competitive environment, they may develop an emotional maturity that comes from feeling secure with their fellow students and their teachers.
From preschool to middle school and beyond, children who attend private school should have access to a school library and after-school activities. Student athletes can also be scholars, and establishing an expectation of excellence and good character from a young age often inspires children to do their best at the high school level and beyond.
Some private schools focus on religious instruction, while others offer advanced or honors programs to students who follow along with the rules and excel at schoolwork. Private schools can be a great investment for families, parents report. Children who attend private schools often stay connected with classmates and teachers via the internet as they attend college and even afterwards, as they begin lives of their own.