2 minute read
Public or Private School?
Should My Child Go to Public or Private School?
A local education expert offers her advice
By Anoo Padte
Talk to the parents of any rising elementary, middle or high school student about school choice and they lead with this one question: Is public or private school right for my child? The short answer is: Both are.
Families have many reasons for choosing either a public or private school. Those reasons evolve as a child grows. Entering one type of school doesn’t mean that school will be right for the child later on. Needless to say, there’s a lot to consider.
So, what should parents consider?
Parents need to look at both elements of the equation: family and school. Before investigating schools, clarify your child’s and your family’s needs. Consider these factors:
• Values — What are your values regarding education? What matters most to you? How does your own learning experience influence choices you make for your child? Does a school need to mirror your values? • Learning needs — Does your child have special interests, aptitudes or learning needs? • Sense of community — Where is your child’s primary community situated? What role do you hope the school community will play in your family’s life? • Cost — How much can you afford to spend on education? • Commute — Is it reasonable for your family to commute to school on a daily basis for several years? Will you move in order for your child to attend a particular school?
Then, when you do start the hunt for schools, consider these factors:
• Curriculum — Does the curriculum develop essential skills and thinking dispositions? Does it inspire teachers to innovate and adapt? Is it “real world” and relevant? • Teachers — How long have teachers been at the school? Do they collaborate? Do they have support in the classroom to meet the needs of individual learners? What professional development do they receive? • Administrators — What is the mission of the school? How does it value the student-teacher dynamic? How do administrators support teachers? How do administrators relate to parents? • Parent involvement — Can parents be involved in the school? In what ways? How do parents partner with teachers in support of a child? What communication do parents receive from teachers and administrators on a regular basis? What avenues are available to parents to advocate for their student? For all students?
There’s no magic formula that ensures positive education outcomes. Both public and private schools can lead to educational success for a child. How a school fits into each stage of a child’s education — rather than what type of school it is — has a greater impact on a successful education. So, don’t ask, “Public or private?” Ask, “Where will my child thrive?” ■ Anoo Padte is a teacher, education consultant and mother. She coaches parents on school choice through her practice, Art of Education.
The Sammamish Montessori School
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Child-centered, joyful atmosphere with strong academic focus Preschool, kindergarten, and STEAM Enrichment Family owned and operated since 1977
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DOWNTOWN 914 Virginia St. Seattle, WA 98101 206.621.9211 DOWNTOWN 914 Virginia St. Seattle, WA 98101 206.621.9211 Exceptional Elementary Education Exceptional Elementary Education Ages 5–11Ages 5–11
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