Advantages and Disadvantages of Private Schooling

Private schooling may seem the ideal situation to many parents, yet such an education comes with both advantages and disadvantages. Parents should carefully consider a variety of factors to decide whether such schooling is right for them and their family.
Advantages
More individualized attention
In general private schools have class sizes that are far smaller than their public school counterparts. They may have ten students as compared to thirty or even forty in a public school classroom. Increased individual attention can have a great positive effect on the students. Students may pay greater attention. They can sit closer to the teacher. The teacher will be able to better recognize and meet the needs of students since he or she is dealing with fewer pupils. They may be able to go on more field trips or do more in-depth activities since there will not be as many children. They can give each child much more of their time since they do not need to spread it as thin.
Parents often have more influence
Many parents want to have a greater say in their child’s education than public schools provide. For instance, in most public schools the parents do not have a say in the teachers the child is assigned. Even if the parent is extremely unhappy, they may just be stuck for the entire year. In a private school, the parents typically are able to influence more.
More innovative methods of teaching
Many private schools have formed innovative methods of instruction. They may use cutting edge methods with computers and other programs. Students can benefit from these and in many cases learn more.
Better facilities
Many private schools have better facilities than public schools. Unfortunately, a lot of public schools are in extreme disrepair. Some even have mold and other issues that can affect health. Private schools tend to be in better condition.
Opportunities for religious schooling
Of course the separation of church and state prohibits religious education in public education. No such law prohibits private schooling of this type, however. If a parent wants religious education to be a part of the child’s regular school day, then private schooling is their only option.
Can be excellent for special needs students
Although public education does provide for special needs students, it often cannot truly meet the needs of these individuals. The schools are simply taxed too far to provide a completely focused education for those outside of the norm. All of the children with special needs are often lumped together in a single classroom. High intelligence kids with behavioral issues are often taught right next to well-behaved low IQ students – obviously not an ideal situation for any student. There are many private schools, however, that are specifically geared towards children with specific special needs such as autism. These can provide the focused education that allow the students to fulfill their potential.
Enhanced opportunities for college
Many private schools are very elite and well-known within the college world. Colleges may be impressed by a student’s performance at one of these schools, and they may help to not only prepare the student for college, but get him or her a berth as well.
Better atmosphere
In many private schools, there is a very positive atmosphere. Many of the students may be from families that are very interested in the education of the child, and in many cases, the children are better behaved than in public schools.
Disadvantages
Cost
Of course, most parents would consider the cost to be the greatest drawback to private schooling. Private schooling is by no means inexpensive and can even rival a college education in cost. Many of the less expensive ones are still $5000 or more, and expensive ones can cost tens of thousands of dollars. Of course, public school is free, and private education is simply not in the budget of many parents, especially those with multiple children.
Fewer social opportunities
Most private schools are smaller than public schools. Of course the classes are almost always smaller. A lot of students would prefer to be with more students. Many of their friends may go to their assigned public schools, so they may not get the opportunity to see them as much.
Parents with too much power
Although many parents would prefer all of the power when it comes to their child’s education, this can come at a price. Fearing the loss of students and income, schools may concede to parents’ demands even when they are not in the best interest of the student. For instance, a student may be not disciplined as he or she should because of fear that the parent will be unhappy.
Distance
Most people live fairly close to their assigned public school. The children may be able to walk or bike, or a bus may be provided. A private school may be further, and there are not always buses provided. It may be more of a hassle to get him or her there every day. In addition, some of their friends may end up living far away.
Fewer classes/academic opportunities
Many private schools cannot have as many classes because they are smaller. They may not be able to offer as many electives or advanced opportunities such as AP classes.
Uniforms
Almost all private schools require uniforms whereas some public schools do and some do not. Many students would prefer not to wear uniforms.
Private schooling provides both advantages and disadvantages to perspective students. Many of the factors listed above will vary based upon the exact school and your child. Consider all of these issues when deciding what is best for your child.