Is Private School the right option?

Parents often ask our admissions officers: Is private school right for my son?

It’s the right question, and one anybody considering any private school must ask. Of course, a lot depends on the student, his abilities, interests and goals.

When it comes to considering private versus public education, there is no one study that conclusively chooses one over the other. That’s for several reasons. Chief among is the wide diversity in programs offered by both types of schools. However, we can share our beliefs based on what we’ve done and seen since 1879. 

We believe that compared to public schools:

• Private schools often offer smaller classes. These allow for tremendous student and teacher engagement. Here, we’re proud of our 6:1 student-teacher ratio, believing that it ensures individual attention and teaching methods shaped to each student’s needs. Smaller classes also can move at a pace and in a style most conducive to learning.
• Private schools can feature more structure. Frankly, students often wish for more freedom. However, parents and teachers both know that dress codes and clear, reasonable rules can create an orderly environment where learning can thrive.
• Private schools allow greater participation in athletic and extracurricular activities. Large schools can field impressive teams, but the number of students who participate on them is limited to a relative handful. The same is true for chorus, debate and all other activities. Due to their small size, private schools provide far more opportunities for students to find their niche outside the classroom.