With options ranging from boarding schools to alternative schools, there is almost certainly a school to suit each and every child. Read on for some of the reasons why parents are choosing options such as private school.
Enriched Academic Opportunities
One of the benefits of private schools is that they provide challenging educational experiences through enriched academic opportunities. Extracurricular activities, advanced placement courses, the International Baccalaureate program and gifted programs, just to name a few.
Private School And Smaller Classes
Studies on class size show that the smaller the class size, the better the average student performs on academic achievement tests. And the gains from smaller class sizes are stronger the longer a child is exposed to them. Private schools vary greatly in size, but depending on the teaching style, many focus on the importance of small class sizes. All to individually help students’ weak areas and advance their strengths.
Parental Involvement
Private schools encourage open communication between parents and administration, and they involve parents in the community. From parent-teacher meetings, social events and the participation of parent committees in fundraising initiatives, families become an integral part of the child’s education.
Dedicated Teachers
In a study completed by the Fraser Institute in 2007, 91 percent of parents surveyed said the dedication of the teachers was their main reason for choosing private school. Instructors are both qualified and passionate about their subjects, often holding advanced degrees in their field. Also, small class sizes make teachers and staff more readily available for extra help or to further challenge individual students.
A Safe Environment
Private schools have reputations for maintaining high standards for discipline and respect. Lower staff-to-student ratios allow for more observation and control of school grounds. In the Fraser Institute study, around 72 percent of parents surveyed with children in the private school system strongly agreed that their school was safe. This greatly improves the quality of the child’s educational experience and achievement.
Private School And Community Environment
According to a Fraser Institute survey, 62 percent of parents with children in the private school system believe their school’s environment is motivating, supportive and nurturing. Former students repeatedly report that the friendships they formed in private school have lasted post-graduation. A strong sense of pride is often instilled in private school alumni, creating networking opportunities upon entering the workforce.
Ample Resources
Private schools offer resources to support student learning in the classroom, sports field, art studio and beyond. Resources and extracurriculars provide students with the opportunity to fully explore their interests and talents.
Private School And Extracurricular Activities
While academics remain the priority for most private schools, many also place a strong focus on a well-rounded education. This includes participation in extracurricular activities such as sports, music, arts or clubs. This involvement helps stimulate students in their studies, as noted in a study at Stanford University. Extracurricular activities can provide a much-needed break from the stresses of academics. All while developing skills and engaging in valuable social situations.
Shared Educational Philosophy
There are many approaches to education; finding a school or preschool that matches one’s own perspective can create a positive, productive academic experience for your child. Whether you prefer the student-directed learning method of Montessori or the arts-based curriculum of Waldorf or Reggio Emilia-inspired school, choosing the right private school will not only allow students to thrive in a supportive environment and build independence, but also gain unique skills that fit their learning style.
Development for Today’s and Tomorrow’s World
Private schools go beyond offering the mandatory subjects required by provincial curriculum; they can offer students a wide range of specializations including arts programs, athletics, math, science. Private schools are responsible for producing many leaders in politics, business and society, with a history of adapting quickly to changes in technology and culture. And today, they are also sought by parents of kids with special needs such as behaviour, learning, developmental or physical disabilities.
