Public or Private?

Weighing the Options: PUBLIC SCHOOLvs. PRIVATE EDUCATION

Weighing the pros and cons of public education versus private schooling can be daunting for parents. Here are some thoughts to consider:

Public School

Public schools are the most affordable option for families, as they are funded through tax dollars. This is what the majority of families choose for their children. In the 20192020 school year, 647,987 students were enrolled in Kentucky public schools over 171 districts. In general, experts agree that public schools offer a more diverse experience for students, creating more interaction with peers of different backgrounds. Public schools have a standard of certification, training and professional development. Public schools also have tightly regulated accommodations for students with special needs and different learning abilities. There’s a misconception that public schools take a “one size fits all” approach. Public school systems offer lots of opportunities for students to learn and grow. It’s essential to stay connected with your public school system so you can learn about all they offer. The bottom line: Public school is the popular choice! This affordable option provides an excellent education. Be sure to stay “in the loop” on programs your school system offers.

Private School

According to the Private School Review, Kentucky has over 350 private schools that serve 66,899 students. The average tuition is $7,500, which is generally lower than the national average. The benefits of private schools include smaller class sizes, impressive educational outcomes and tailored learning. Private schools have varying requirements for their educational professionals, which can sometimes be more or less strict than public schools. Some private schools specialize in particular modes of education, sometimes tailoring their curricula to differing learning styles and needs. Many private schools are religiously-affiliated, which is a consideration for parents. Many think of private schools as stodgy institutions, churning out future college students. While they do have great post-secondary enrollment stats, students at private schools generally enjoy rich, textured student life. The bottom line: Each private school is a unique institution. It’s important to thoroughly review all of the information available about a school to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your family.

In the end, deciding which option is right for your child comes down to what feels like a good fit. Each child has unique needs and what’s most important is that you work with your child and educators to foster learning.