Transitioning from Public School to Private School – 5 Main Concerns from Parents

There are many excellent reasons to consider a transition from public school to private school. That said, this decision can be a difficult one for many parents, as it involves a significant change in their child’s education and environment.

In this article, we will address five main concerns that parents have when considering a transition to private school and provide insight into why private school may be the right choice for your child.

Why Private School?

Before we dive into the main concerns, let’s first address why private school may be the right option for your child.

Private schools offer a more personalized and individualized education, with smaller class sizes and a focus on the individual needs of each student. This can lead to a more tailored and effective learning experience for your child.

Private schools also often have a more rigorous academic curriculum, with a focus on critical thinking and problem-solving. This can better prepare your child for higher education and future career success.

Additionally, private schools often have a strong sense of community and a supportive environment, which can foster a love of learning and personal growth in your child.

Concern #1: Cost

One of the main concerns for parents when considering private school is cost. Private schools can be significantly more expensive than public schools, with tuition ranging from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars per year.

Luckily, many institutions (schools and outside programs) offer resources for financial aid. Here are some examples:

• Scholarships: Many private schools provide scholarships based on academic merit, financial need, or specific talents and achievements.
• Financial aid and tuition assistance options: Private schools may offer financial aid packages to assist families with tuition costs.
• Flexible payment plans: Private schools may offer flexible payment plans that allow parents to spread out tuition payments over the academic year, easing the financial burden.
• External grants and funding sources: Parents can look for external grants and funding opportunities provided by organizations, foundations, or community programs to supplement tuition expenses.
• Seek support from friends and family: Consider reaching out to your social network for financial assistance whether through gift contributions from trusted family, interest-free loans, or fundraising efforts.

These are all great options for those of you feeling overwhelmed by the potential cost of private school. You may have to jump through a few hoops to turn them into reality (applications, written letters/requests, etc.) but it’s totally worth it to get your child into the right school for them. Keep in mind that open communication with the school administration about financial concerns can lead to personalized solutions and support tailored to the family’s needs.

Yes, private school is more expensive, but there are ways to make it work, regardless of your economic position. Here at Rubicon, we offer several different options for scholarships and financial aid. Please don’t hesitate to reach out.

One last note on finances. It’s important to consider the long-term benefits of paying the extra buck for private school education. Private school graduates often have higher college acceptance rates and earn higher salaries in their careers. Think of it as an investment in your child’s future.

Concern #2: The Pressure of Choosing the Right School

Another concern for parents is selecting the right private school for their child. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to determine which school will be the best fit.

When selecting a private school, it’s important to consider your child’s individual needs and interests. In order to find the right fit, we recommend playing close attention to the following criteria:

• Strong academic program: If you’re looking at private schools, we’d bet our bottom dollar that a large motivation is because you are seeking the best education for your child. Pay close attention to the curriculum of the school/s you are considering. And don’t be afraid to ask questions!
• Extracurricular activities: Look for schools that offer extracurriculars that align with your child’s interests. Whether that’s sports, robotics, fine arts, drama, or anything and everything in between, it’s important to find a school that will nourish your child’s hopes and dreams.
• Supportive and inclusive community: We’ll get into the nitty gritty of the social transition from public to private school in a minute but, for now, let’s just say that it’s important to find a school that will provide a welcoming environment for your child.

When going through the selection process, it can be helpful to visit the schools you are considering and to speak with current students and parents. Really get a better understanding of the school’s culture and values. If you’re in and around Conroe, Texas,  give Rubicon Academy a call and ask about a shadow day.

Concern #3: Selectivity on the Part of the School

Parents often fear the selectivity of private schools when considering the transition from public to private school. Private schools often have stringent admission criteria that focus on academic performance, extracurricular involvement, letters of recommendations, and interviews. The fear of not meeting these criteria or facing rejection from a desired school can cause stress and uncertainty for parents.

While the above concerns are valid, Rubicon Academy does it’s very best to ease those fears. Our admissions process does involve an interview and transparency around academic records, etc. but we look at the whole child, not just the numbers, regardless of social or economic background.

Concern #4: Social Transition

Transitioning from public school to private school can be a big change for your child on the social front. Here are a few things we find parents worrying about when considering the switch:

• Out with the old, in with the new: One main concern is the potential disruption in friendships and social circles. Leaving behind familiar faces and routines in public schools can create feelings of loneliness and isolation in a new private school environment. Moreover, the adjustment to a different social atmosphere, where norms and dynamics may vary, can be overwhelming for some children.
• A different social structure: The social structure in private schools may differ significantly from public schools. Children may face pressure to fit into new social hierarchies or adapt to different social norms, leading to feelings of insecurity and discomfort. The smaller class sizes in private schools can also intensify social interactions, making it more difficult for children to navigate social situations effectively.
• Lack of diversity: The lack of diversity in some private schools compared to public schools can impact a child’s social experience. Parents worry that limited exposure to various backgrounds and cultures may hinder their child’s ability to develop empathy and understanding for individuals in different situations.

These are all understandable concerns. Luckily, there are plenty of private schools out there that go above and beyond to combat them. Here at Rubicon Academy, we work closely with parents and children to ensure the smoothest transition possible.

“How about diversity?” you ask. Many schools, ours included, have robust scholarship programs that have made it possible for students from all walks of life to attend. If you select the right school, your child will be part of a diverse, inclusive environment.

To ease the social transition from public to private school, it’s important to involve your child in the decision-making process and discuss the reasons for the change. It can also be helpful to visit the new school together and attend any orientation or open house events.

Concern #5: Curriculum and Teaching Methods

Parents may also be concerned about the curriculum and teaching methods used in private schools. Private schools often have a more rigorous academic program, which can be intimidating for some parents and students.

Luckily, there are things you can do to ease your child into this more rigorous learning environment. Here are some ideas:

• Encourage strong study habits: Teach your child effective study skills and time management techniques to help them manage their workload and excel academically.
• Foster a growth mindset: Instill in your child the belief that intelligence and abilities can be developed through effort and hard work. Encourage them to embrace challenges and view mistakes as opportunities for growth.
• Provide academic support: Consider hiring a tutor or enrolling your child in academic enrichment programs to provide additional support and guidance in challenging subjects.
• Engage in intellectual discussions: Have meaningful conversations with your child about various topics to cultivate their critical thinking skills and enhance their ability to express and defend their ideas.
• Seek out extracurricular activities: Encourage your child to participate in extracurricular activities that align with their interests and stimulate intellectual growth, such as debate clubs, science fairs, or literary societies.
• Establish a strong parent-school partnership: Maintain regular communication with teachers and administrators to stay informed about your child’s progress and address any academic concerns promptly.
• Set realistic expectations: While it is important to challenge your child academically, ensure that you set realistic expectations that consider their individual abilities and well-being. Avoid putting excessive pressure on them to achieve perfection.
• Celebrate achievements and progress: Recognize and celebrate your child’s academic accomplishments and progress to boost their motivation and confidence in the more rigorous learning environment.

Though it may seem intimidating, a more intense learning environment can be quite beneficial. As mentioned before, private schools often have a more challenging curriculum, which can better prepare students for college and future success. Additionally, private schools often have more flexibility in their teaching methods, allowing for a more personalized and effective learning experience for each student.

Conclusion

Transitioning from public school to private school can be a big decision for the whole family, but it can also provide numerous benefits for your child’s education and personal growth.

By addressing the main concerns and understanding the benefits of private school, you can make an informed decision that is best for your child’s future.

Remember to consider your child’s individual needs and interests, visit potential schools, and speak with current students and parents to find the right fit for your family. With the right preparation and support, your child can thrive in a private school environment and reach their full potential.