Why Choose a Private High School? 4 Reasons
As parents of 8th graders across the country settle in for their students’ last year of middle school, many are also considering what to do about high school. If you’re beginning to explore different options for your middle school student, you may be wondering about adding some private schools to your list of prospective high schools.
At The New School, we’re big believers in the power of small, independent high schools (another term for private schools) to provide a challenging, supportive environment for these crucial years. When students first walk through our doors as new 9th graders, they’re still children. When they receive their diplomas and head off to college, they’re adults. A lot of development happens during those four years. That’s why choosing the right high school matters.
So as you go through this process, checking out the places your student may spend their high school career, here are some reasons you might want to consider a private school.
1. Teachers are Mentors
At most public high schools, it’s very difficult for the average student to build deep, meaningful relationships with their teachers. Classes are too large, teachers teach too many classes and are overworked, and once a class is completed, students rarely see that teacher again for any sustained period of time. Independent schools are smaller, with smaller class sizes, where teachers can really get to know their students – how they learn, what they’re passionate about, what they struggle with. As parents, we realize that having experienced, trusted adults in the lives of our kids helps them mature, exposes them to different life experiences, and expands their worlds. At independent schools, teachers don’t just teach; they’re also role models and mentors to their students. They often teach students in different grades, deepening those relationships over time. Independent school teachers often become such important people in students’ lives that they continue to be mentors and advisors during their former students’ college years and beyond.
2. Students (and Parents) are Individuals
Another benefit of a small independent school is that it’s much easier for faculty and staff to see and treat students as individuals, with unique histories and needs. This benefit applies to time spent in the classroom and out, as private school schedules often include more time for independent study, tutoring, and mentorship with an advisor. Part of knowing students well is that independent school teachers and administrators will also know their student’s parents well. In both cases, teachers are much more available for a quick email, text, or conversation. If either you or your student have a question or concern, at a private school it will be answered and addressed quickly by adults who know your student and their particular needs.
3. College Counseling and Preparation
The vast majority of private high schools are college preparatory institutions, where most if not all graduating seniors go on to some form of higher education. That “college culture” rubs off on the students of private schools. College counseling is also much more individualized at private schools, and is focused on helping students find the colleges that will be the best fit for their particular interests, passions, and learning styles. Private school students graduate more ready for the rigor and independence of the college experience. Because private school curriculum is also typically more focused on experiential learning and problem solving, students leave with a greater sense of independence and a greater understanding of what it takes to be successful in the real world.
4. School Culture
It usually doesn’t take long after walking on the campus of any independent school to get a sense of that school’s culture. Is it formal, with students following a strict set of rules, or more casual? Are students friendly with and supportive of their peers, or do they see one another as competing for the top spots in school. At private schools, you’ll see a wide variety of school cultures, and it’s important to determine what school culture will be best for your student and family.
The school culture at The New School is often described by our students as a place where they can really be themselves. That kind of school culture isn’t common, and it can really only be nurtured in a small independent school where students are well known, and the faculty and staff work together to achieve the shared goal of creating a school that serves all of its students and their particular needs.
These are only a few of the ways a private school can be a great benefit for your student, but there are certainly more. Make sure to fully weigh your options and choose the best school for your needs. To help you along the way, visit our website at www.tnsatlanta.org for more resources, including this free, detailed guide to choosing a private school you can download now by clicking here.
Peter Lefkowicz
Peter Lefkowicz is the founding Head of School at The New School and has served in that role since 2014. Over the last 25 years, he has taught English and History at both the high school and university levels and is passionate about creating rich learning experiences both in and outside of the classroom. Peter has a B.A. from the University of Virginia, an M.A. in English from Hollins College and a J.D. from the University of Virginia.
