7 Reasons a Private School Will Best Equip Your Student For Success

Choosing the right educational environment for your child is one of the most important decisions you as a parent will have to make. The options abound: public school, private school, homeschool, online. And the challenges are many. You’ll need the answers to some tough questions. Just to name a few…

• Will my child be safe at school?
• Will my child feel welcome – by teachers and other students?
• Will my child be challenged and prepared for success?

Every parent should weigh all of their options and evaluate the pros and cons of each environment. As you consider factors such as academic rigor, community, student programs, and family time, consider these top reasons why a private school education should be at the top of your list.

1. More Academic Rigor

Private schools aren’t required to comply with federal and state rules and regulations, and are free to create their own curriculum – designed to better challenge their students. Rather than answering to the government, they are subject to an accrediting organization, an oversight board, and/or parents. According to recent data from the National Assessment of Educational Progress, private school students consistently perform better than public school students in standardized tests, such as the ACT.

2. More Attention

Private school students often benefit from a lower student-to-teacher ratio, giving them more opportunities for focused attention and greater access to their teachers. Private schools can be more selective with teachers – attracting some with advanced degrees. Providing your student with excellent educators who can offer the attention that they need will make a huge impact on their academic performance and future success.

3. Values and Service

Private schools create and reinforce their own values which most public schools are unable to do. These values may be centered around religious beliefs, a specific cause, or preparation for specific careers. Private schools, driven by their values, provide opportunities for students to serve and invest in their cities and neighborhoods. Opportunities that most public schools can’t offer at the same scale.

4. Discipline and Safety

Because private schools are smaller than their public school counterparts, and can shape their enrollment, they can create their own culture that is often safer and more disciplined. Private schools don’t experience the same crimes that public schools battle. They can also invest in their own safety and security measures to protect their students and staff members.

5. Bonded Community

The parents of private school students often describe their school as a closely connected family. The school’s unique mission and values, and smaller student body facilitate deeper relationships that bond families together. That tight network of family and friends impacts student success – into college, and career opportunities. The community that students are nurtured within is one of the most valuable benefits of a private school education.

6. Personalized Curriculum and Programs

While public schools are required to follow government requirements around curriculum, teaching methods, and courses, private schools can offer curriculum uniquely tailored to their students, practice a variety of teaching techniques, and provide access to specialized programs and events. Private school students can enjoy greater access to the arts and other specialized activities.

7. Greater Opportunities

Because of the close community and variety of funding sources available to most private schools, students have greater access to clubs, trips, and programs. While some may not offer the breadth of specific activities offered by public schools, private schools can focus on the unique needs of their students. The more opportunities that students experience, the more well-rounded their education will be, and their understanding of the world around them.

Conclusion

A strong private school can offer your student, and your family, a greater educational experience than most public schools.

At SJB Catholic School, we offer excellent academic programs within a kind, safe community. We invite you and your family to schedule a personalized campus tour to discover for yourself why parents and students are embracing an SJB education. Schedule your tour here!

Resources:

• PrivateSchoolReview.com
• USNews.com
• NCES.ed.gov