The right education can provide students with the foundation for future success. Many parents enroll their children in private school from an early age in order to give them the best possible start in life.
However, there is a lot of misinformation about private schools out there that may make a parent reconsider enrolling their child in one. Here are four of the most common myths about private schools, along with the facts and figures that back them up.
Private School Misconceptions to Avoid
1. Private Schools Are Exclusively Religious
According to this study, approximately 78 percent of private schools in the United States are religiously affiliated. This is the majority, but there are certain educational opportunities available for parents who want the benefits of private school without the religious aspect.
It’s important to understand that because religious schools are based on certain guidelines set by the religion, they can select their teachings and staff on the grounds of religion. Non-religious private schools instill values that will be useful in everyday life that affect the child's future.
2. Only Wealthy Parents Send Their Children to Private School
One of the most common myths about private schools is that only the children of the extremely wealthy attend. When deciding whether you and your family want to be part of a private school, keep these things in mind:
- A significant but worthwhile investment in your child's future is a private school.
- Scholarships and financial aid can often help offset the cost of tuition.
- Apply for financial aid even if you don't think you'll be eligible. Amounts awarded can range from small to large.
- If the school appears to be a good fit for you and your family, the cost of tuition should never be a factor in deciding whether or not to apply.
4. Private Schools Are Only for Top Students
Students come from a wide range of financial, racial, and cultural backgrounds, and their learning styles and academic performance reflect this diversity. When it comes to day-to-day academic life, any school's goal is to provide each and every student with the best education possible.
With smaller class sizes and more curriculum flexibility, private schools can often provide the key factors of individualized attention and extra support. These advantages of attending a private school are available to all students, not just the top performers.
5. Students Have No Free Time or Fun
When parents hear about the high academic expectations that many private schools place on their students, it leads to the common misconception that these schools are places where children aren't allowed to be children. There is a widespread belief that there is no time for play or recreation because everyone is learning and working diligently.
However, this is not true. Outside of study time, private school students have time for relaxation, play, hobbies, and extracurricular activities. Play and free time are also important components of the school day for the younger age groups.
St. Paul Lutheran Church & School Northville, MI
Like anything, nobody really knows what private school is like until experiencing it firsthand. If you’d like to see what a day in the life of St. Paul Lutheran Church & School in Northville, MI is like, schedule your tour today.
Our school facility has ten classrooms, a full kitchen, a gymnasium, and administrative offices for both the church and the school. St. Paul provides a comprehensive Christian education program for students in preschool through grade eight.