A comparison of public vs private school discussion. Include a judgment of which is better at the end
Compare and contrast public vs. private school, and include a judgment of which is better at the end.
Public School vs. Private School
One of the hardest decisions parents can make is where to send their child to school. The government funds both public and charter schools. You do not have to pay for your child to attend one of these schools. Private schools often carry large price tags and can further create an economic struggle for a family.
No doubt, money is a significant factor when it comes to deciding to send your child to a private school. Although the smaller class size and more individualized teaching may seem appealing, private schools are not always best for every student.
Pros of Public School
As you look over the list below, keep in mind that your situation is unique to you, and not every benefit may apply to your child.
• There is no cost to attend a public school.
• Your child will attend school with children living in the neighborhood, making it easier to encourage friendships with classmates residing nearby. You will also meet local parents in your community.
• Public schools often have more options for classes, after-school activities, and varied curriculums than many smaller, private schools.
• Your child may be exposed to a greater diversity of cultures and ethnicities than in some private schools that may be religion-based.
• Public schools tend to offer more accommodations and services such as Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), speech therapy, physical, occupational, and behavior therapy to students who need it.
• Some public schools have better facilities, such as sports fields, swimming pools, art and music programs, and even theatres.
Cons of Public Schools
• Overcrowding is often an issue as communities grow faster than schools that were built for fewer students. With funding cuts, class sizes increase, and some students may study in portable classrooms far from the main building. This could pose a problem for some children with limited mobility.
• Larger class sizes mean less individualized attention. Your child may not get the one-on-one attention he or she might need.
• Some public schools face increased discipline issues in certain neighborhoods. The school may be limited in its actions.
• Not all public schools are the same. The quality of education can differ significantly from one school to another – even in the same city.
• School budgets may limit access to quality learning materials.
• Students are required to take standardized tests, and teachers are pressured to spend a significant amount of time “teaching to the tests.”
Pros of Private School
A private school education might be right for some families, but it is not the optimal choice for every child. Here are benefits to a private school.
• Smaller class sizes may be less overwhelming and mean more individualized attention. The teacher can find a learning method best geared to your child.
• Many private schools provide a more challenging curriculum and students who are high achievers may thrive in this atmosphere.
• The values of the school will represent its core beliefs. You may find more traditions and expectations at a private school.
Cons of Private School
• Private schools do not have to uphold the same regulations for teaching children with special needs. Your chosen school may not be able to provide your child with the services he or she requires.
• The cost can be prohibitive and put a financial strain on the family.
• The student body will often be less diverse, especially when looking at a religion-based school. There will likely be fewer students with special needs in a private school.
• You will have to apply and be selected by the school to attend – admission is not guaranteed.
• Religion-based schools often reduce secular class hours to fit in religious subjects.
• The school is not required by law to work with a child who is out sick. Discuss this in advance with the school before enrolling.
• Many students may come from wealthier backgrounds, sometimes making children from less affluent families feel “not as good” as their peers.
Link: https://www.parentingspecialneeds.org/article/public-school-vs-private-school-the-pros-and-cons/