Why Private Schools Thrive While Public Schools Struggle: A Deep Dive

In the ongoing debate over school re-opening, private schools have often stood out as shining examples of resilience and adaptability, thriving while many public schools struggle to reopen safely and maintain their operations. This article delves into the multifaceted reasons behind the contrasting fortunes of private and public schools, highlighting issues of funding, safety measures, and the dynamics at play.

Survivorship Bias in Private Schools

One of the critical observations is the phenomenon of survivorship bias, where only those private schools that have managed to remain open and function well are highlighted. In reality, many private schools have had to CLOSE DOWN PERMANENTLY due to the inability to meet the necessary safety and operational standards. This selective representation of success can create a misleading impression, as it ignores those schools that have struggled or succumbed to the challenges of reopening.

The key issue lies in the fact that most private schools have large donors and community support that enable them to invest in essential safety measures like advanced air filtration systems. On the other hand, public schools often depend on voter-approved funding, which is sometimes insufficient to cover the substantial costs of re-opening safely. This disparity in funding underscores the critical role that external support plays in the viability of private schools during crises.

Operational Flexibility and Community Support

Private schools, often non-unionized environments, can quickly implement stringent safety protocols without the cumbersome procedural barriers that unions often impose. Moreover, they have a strong support network from families who value education and are willing to adhere to guidelines such as wearing masks and maintaining social distancing. These factors contribute significantly to the smooth operation and re-opening of private schools.

In contrast, public schools in densely populated and economically disadvantaged areas frequently encounter significant operational challenges. For instance, many of these areas have poorly ventilated homes and buildings that make it difficult to meet recommended safety standards. Additionally, a higher proportion of students in these areas come from unstable family backgrounds, adding another layer of complexity to the educational environment. Such conditions exacerbate the difficulties in reopening and maintaining operations.

The Role of Teachers Unions

A significant barrier to the safe re-opening of public schools is the opposition from teachers unions. These unions, primarily motivated by political and economic reasons, have been fighting to keep schools closed throughout the pandemic. Despite the scientific basis for reopening schools becoming increasingly clear, unions continue to hold firm, leading to harmful consequences for both students and the economy. The prolonged closures have not only damaged education but have also hampered economic recovery by depriving the workforce of skilled and educated individuals.

Some argue that the unions' opposition is more of a strategic move than a genuine concern about reopening. This proposition suggests that closing schools might serve as a bargaining chip to benefit the unions, rather than a genuine concern for public health or educational quality. Whether intentional or not, this stance is detrimental to the broader community and future prospects of these schools.

Conclusion

The divergent fortunes of private and public schools highlight the complex interplay of financial, operational, and political factors in the education sector. While private schools can leverage external support to thrive during crises, public schools face numerous challenges, especially in areas with limited resources and infrastructures. As the world continues to grapple with the ongoing pandemic, it is crucial to address these disparities and find sustainable solutions that ensure the well-being and educational success of all students.