Is An Orlando Private School The Right Choice For Your Child

By Margaret Wilson


A lot of people have strong feelings when it comes to whether or not private schools deliver a better education than public schools. There are compelling arguments on both sides. For some Florida parents, about to enter their little ones in preschool, there is a big decision to be made. They have to decide if the costs associated with an Orlando private school are worth the benefits and why.

Academic considerations are high on the list. Independent school students routinely score higher on standardized tests and university entrance exams. Most of them have the option to enroll in advanced placement courses and gifted programs. These schools often have more money to put into extracurricular activities, that are not necessarily sports related. Placing your child in this academic environment early means she will have a head start on her public school peers.

Classroom size is another factor that is important to parents. There are usually fewer students in the classrooms of independent schools. Children are more likely to do well academically when they get individual attention from the teacher. Teachers like smaller classrooms because it's easier for them to assess the strengths and weaknesses of their students. This benefits the students in a number of ways, including scoring well on academic achievement tests.

Parental participation is encouraged in public and independent institutions. There are opportunities for parents to be involved not matter which educational system they choose for their children. The independent schools sometimes have more activities that include parents. These can range from parent-teacher breakfasts and family camping weekend retreats to managing fund raising efforts. Involved parents are a key component in academic success.

While many public schools have eliminated the arts from their curriculum, and have reduced the amount of time children have for recess and breaks, independent schools continue to emphasize the benefits of a well rounded education. They have more money to offer art, music, and math and science clubs in addition to sports. Most even have a wider variety of sports programs for students to choose from than the public schools can offer.

The strength of the teaching staff is another determining factor. Independent institutions usually have more teachers with advanced degrees than public schools. Many teachers prefer a private environment because it allows them more time for individual instruction with students. Teachers are often more available after school hours to mentor and give special assistance.

Independent schools give parents options when it comes to educational philosophy. If you are a big believer in student driven classrooms, you can look at the Montessori schools in your area. Those interested in their children having an art based classroom structure should consider the schools offering Reggio-Emilia or Waldorf curricula.

Not everyone has the luxury of choosing between a public or private education for their children. If you have the financial freedom to make such a choice, your child will reap the benefits of superior academics, small classrooms, extracurricular activities and dedicated and well trained teachers. You will have the option of choosing the academic environment that you believe best suits your child's personality and talents.




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