Choosing their child’s school is one of the most momentous decisions parents can make. And many families pick private schools for a host of reasons: a strong academic focus, smaller class sizes, values-based education and college and career preparedness, among others.
So, is private school right for your child? While every student is different, these moms found private school to be the perfect fit for their families:
KAREN ABERNATHY
Why her family chose private school: We choose private, and specifically Catholic, school to ensure that our children had not only a strong academic foundation, but also religious one.
How has this been a good decision? Private schools have been an amazing decision for our children because of the individualized attention and care that they are receiving. We previously had them in public school, and making the move has been the best decision for both of them.
Her advice to others considering private school: My best advice would be to make sure you know the school’s focus aligns with your family’s focus. For us, we would like a strong academic focus, as well as religious.
ANNA STIRRAT
Why her family chose private school: As a public-school educator, I wanted my children to be afforded access and opportunity without so much of the red tape that is wrapping up educators and education in our public schools. I wanted my children to feel safe and treasured with smaller class sizes and more one-on-one time with their teachers. The study skills and compassion my children have gained at SVS are irreplaceable gifts I so treasure.
How has this been a good decision? This decision was the best decision I could have made for our children. Not only have my children developed compassion for others, but they also go out into the world with kindness and a willingness to help others. I also believe that my children are challenged on an academic level that would not be the norm within a public-school setting.
Her advice to others considering private school: Please consider it! Look into multiple schools. Ask to view their curriculum and sit in on a class. If your child has a learning disability or a health issue, ask how those needs are met.
SUSIE DAVIS
Why her family chose private school: The purpose was to ensure that while they were navigating their way through life that they had the foundation of faith to guide then and nurture them. As tough as life is, the goal was to remind them that God would always be front and center.
How has this been a good decision? As we have endured various trials in life, their foundation has not faltered. It has been what has guided them to push forward. The smaller classes and attentive faculty have nurtured them through their scholastic journey.
Her advice to others considering private school: Don’t think twice! It’s a sacrifice for sure. But when you watch your children make decisions based on faith as they grow in high school, it is a reminder that their faith will guide them as older adults. Trust the process, and more importantly, trust God!
JENNIFER BYERS
Why her family chose private school: We felt that it is extremely important to have a Christ-based school. The environments of Catholic schools and public schools are extremely different. Catholic schools are more loving, in our opinion.
How has this been a good decision? This was by far the best decision that we could have ever made for our children’s future. We like the fact there are smaller classes with more one-on-one opportunities.
Her advice to others considering private school: I would say stop procrastinating and start doing your homework on the local Catholic schools in your area. Don’t be discouraged by the actual cost because if you’re a church member, you get a discount. You also may qualify for Catholic school aid from the school and church you attend.