Private Schools, Worth the Money?
Boarding Schools
Overcrowding in public schools, cuts in funding, gang violence, and drug use gives a parent reason to think about a private school education. A growing number of students attend private prep or boarding schools.
When I was in school, only rich, snooty kids went to private schools. Things were different then. Students respected and sometimes feared teachers and principals. A trip to the principal’s office was sure to bring a worse fate when you got home. Keep in mind, I went to high school in a small southern town where the teachers not only knew your parents, they probably taught them. They had no qualms about calling your parents to report your transgressions and your parents thanked them. What a concept!
Today’s teachers are challenged by parents who do not believe in discipline, severe cuts in funding, gangs, drugs, and a general disrespect for adults. This is not every school, but the problems exist. My husband is fond of saying that kids today have too many rights whereas we did as we were told. Do I sound like an old fogey yet?
Parents today who are concerned about the quality of education their children are receiving are turning to private boarding schools or prep schools. They are pretty much the same. Prep refers to a focus on preparation for college. All private schools have strict academic standards and an adherence to school policies. Yes, discipline is enforced. I’m not talking about physical discipline, but taking responsibility for ones actions and knowing violations of the rules will have a consequence.
Many parents want to remove their children from peer pressure and bad influences that may exist in the public school system. A boarding school provides a safe environment where the student can pursue his or her studies with smaller classes and more access to the faculty. Private funding and endowments allow for the latest in equipment and technology.
Certainly money is a factor. Private school education costs around twenty to thirty thousand dollars a year, similar to the cost of many colleges. It is not out of reach for the average family. There are merit grants, grants based on need, and scholarships, not to mention education loans. This makes it a little more affordable.
If you think your child can benefit from private school education, check out some schools. They welcome visitors and demonstrating all they have to offer. Some have summer programs so a student can “try out” being away from home and see what school will be like. A modern boarding school offers not only superior academics, but an opportunity to pursue special interests and fun extracurricular activities.
