Many parents are conflicted when trying to decide where they should send their children to school. With so many choices of public, private, and parochial schools to choose from it is often difficult which course of action is best for your child. Quality of teaching, class size, teacher –student ratio, and teaching style are all important. There are so many things to think about when choosing a school but these are the most important areas to consider:
- Your child’s age – many times a private kindergarten is best for your child because of class size and a higher teacher-student ratio. Young children excel when given more attention and this may be more desirable. Public schools tend to have 20 children with only one teacher and no full-time teaching assistant. Private schools will have 10-16 students and two credentialed teachers. Middle school or junior high is a challenge for many students. Going from one class and teacher all day to a larger school is a huge change for your child. They will now be with older children and have six or seven different teachers throughout the day. The public schools may have as many as forty students in each class and over seventy in a physical education class. High school comes with its own set of challenges. A larger, public school many times may offer a wider selection of classes and extracurricular activities. If your child is involved in an advanced academic program or in a specialized sports program you may need to choose a school for them based on these criteria. You must look at the individual needs of your child during these years.
- Your child’s temperament, learning style, specific needs, and interests – What works for one child may not work well for another. You know your child better than anyone else ever will. Visit several schools and see how their program and routines will fit the personality of your child. Find out as much as you can about the school’s curriculum and other aspects of the teaching program. Your child may be more creative than academic at certain times during their school age years. Private schools have more flexibility with the programs they offer. Public schools must adhere to federal and local district mandates regarding the curriculum that is taught and even the textbooks and trade books that may be used in the classroom.
- Your family’s beliefs in regards to religion and teaching style – Have a family discussion early in your child’s educational experience to determine what information and curriculum you would like them to be exposed to during their time at school. Children of school age spend the majority of their waking hours in the classroom, where they will be exposed to ideas and information that you may not agree with. You may choose to have religious training for your child during their school day. Think about what type of material that you would like taught to your child, and at what age, and see which type of school fits that most consistently.
Sending your child to school should be a joyous time. You want them to have the best education possible with the least distraction, interruption, and unpleasantness. Take the time to research the available opportunities in your community and then choose which school experience will be right for your child and your family.
