What Parents Need to Know: Public vs. Private Middle and High Schools
When it comes to deciding whether to send your adolescent to a public middle or high school, you may be facing numerous questions and considerations. As a parent, understanding the nuances can be crucial. Let's explore several key factors that can influence your decision, including school size, counseling support, standardized testing, pedagogy, and character education.
School Size and Support
The size of the school is a significant factor that can impact your child's experience and the level of support they receive. For instance, a school with over 2,000 students can make it challenging for teachers and counseling staff to provide the personalized attention that each student needs. At our public middle and high schools, there was a ratio of one counselor for every 450 students. While the counseling department had 6 or 7 counselors, this does suggest some level of support, but it still falls short in comparison to a private school where the ratio might be as low as one counselor for every 75 students, including other staff members. This smaller ratio means that if your child needs help, they are more likely to be noticed and assisted quickly.
Teaching to the Test
A common concern for parents is the practice of "teaching to the test." Standardized testing is often used to gauge student performance, but its impact on education varies. For example, at our public schools, the standardized tests seem to take up a lot of time and resources, which potentially detracts from the actual curriculum. These scores do not directly influence GPA or college entrance requirements. Instead, the tests are primarily used for state funding and accountability purposes. It's important to ask yourself: if these tests were to disappear, what would the teachers do with the extra time? Would they be able to engage in more hands-on and experiential learning that fosters long-term memory and understanding? Often, teachers would be free to concentrate on real-world applications, such as conducting experiments in science or demonstrating dissections. This would ensure that students not only memorize information but also gain a deeper understanding of the subject matter.
Education Philosophy and Mission
Many parents may overlook the significance of a school's education philosophy and mission statement. Private schools often emphasize their core philosophies and how they aim to impart knowledge and values to every student. This can include a focus on character education, experiential learning, and hands-on projects. While public schools may seem to have a built-in "audience" due to their accessibility, they can still benefit from clearly communicating their mission and pedagogy. Public schools might be losing students to private options or charter schools within the same district, which underscores the need for a more compelling narrative. It's crucial to ask questions about what your child will be taught and how they will be taught, as well as whether the school places an emphasis on character development. Stories from your own childhood, such as how a specific lesson or activity instilled a lifelong passion for science, can provide valuable insights into the school's approach.
Character Education and Values
Finally, the emphasis on character education is a critical aspect of adolescent education. While traditional teaching focuses on academic subjects, it's important to consider how schools approach values like integrity, responsibility, and leadership. For instance, if your child thrives by leading rather than following, a school that prioritizes hands-on learning and project-based activities can be beneficial. Experiential learning, such as field trips or hands-on projects, can foster a deeper understanding and engagement with the material. Moreover, a school that values leadership might offer more opportunities for student-led initiatives or mentorship programs.
Ultimately, the decision to send your adolescent to a public or private middle or high school should be based on a thorough evaluation of the school's size, support systems, approach to standardized testing, mission and philosophy, and emphasis on character education. Taking the time to research and understand these factors can help you make an informed choice that best aligns with your child's needs and goals.