Private vs. Public Schools: What's the Difference?
By Victoria Thorp and Jesse James
GreatSchools.net Staff

When it comes down to it, your goal is to find a school that will meet your child's needs. But how do you decide between a public school and a private school? Start here and learn about the differences between public and private education!

Cost
Public schools are free. Well not completely. Public schools are funded by federal, state and local taxes. So, when you pay your taxes, you are paying for your child's education.

Private schools cost money. Private schools do not receive tax money, but instead are funded from tuition, fundraising, donations and private grants. If you send your child to a private school, you can expect to pay tuition ranging anywhere from $2,000 to over $10,000 per year.

Admissions
Public schools admit all children. By law, public schools must educate all children, including students with special needs. To enroll in a public school you simply register your child by filling out the necessary paperwork.

Private schools are selective. They are not obligated to accept every child, and in many private schools admission is very competitive.

Governance
Public schools must follow federal, state and local laws about how to educate children. Such laws usually include specifics about funding, program development and curriculum.

Private schools can make up their own rules. Private schools are funded independently and don't have to follow any laws or regulations. They can do whatever they want, as long as it's acceptable to the parents that pay tuition, the board of directors and the major donors.

Curriculum
Public schools offer a general program, designed for all children, which usually includes math, English, reading, writing, science, history and physical education. In addition to these key subjects, many public schools offer programs in music and art. In a public school, the substance of what children learn is mandated by the state and learning will probably be measured through standardized tests.
NOTE: The charter school movement is picking up momentum in many states; these schools are public, but many offer specialized programs and smaller classes. Check here for more information on charter schools.

Private schools have the flexibility to create a specialized program for students. For example, private schools may use art or science in all classes, or take children on outdoor trips that blend lessons across the curriculum. Private schools can create their own curriculum and assessment systems, although many choose to also use standardized tests.

Teachers
Public schools: All teachers in a public school are usually either state certified or working toward certification. Certification ensures that a teacher has gone through the training required by the state, which includes student teaching and coursework.

Private schools: Teachers in private schools are not required to have certification, and instead often have subject area expertise and an undergraduate or graduate degree in the subject they teach.

Student Body
Public schools: The children at most public schools usually reflect the neighboring community. Once at school, students may be split up based on ability or interests, but in most public schools, there is a diversity of student backgrounds.
NOTE: In many states, if you are not satisfied with your assigned school, you may be able to send your child to another public school in the area. Start here to learn about intradistrict and interdistrict transfers.

Private schools: The student population at a private school is determined through a selection process; all students must apply and be accepted to that school. Although students may be from different neighborhoods, they will probably have similar goals and interests, which tends to create a fairly homogenous student body.

Special Needs
Public schools: Due to special education laws, public schools must educate all children, and provide programs to meet their special needs if necessary. This means that most public schools have special education programs and teachers who are trained to work with students that have particular needs.

Private schools: Private schools do not have to accept children with special needs, and many choose not to (although there are a small number of private schools specifically designed for special needs children). As a result, most private schools do not have special education programs or teachers trained to work with students with severe special needs. Private schools will try to help all the students they admit, but extra resources may also come at an additional cost.

Class Size
Public schools: Many states recognize the value of small classes and have provided funding to keep class sizes small in grades K-2. As students become older, class size tends to get bigger in public schools, especially in large school districts and urban schools.

Private schools: Private schools are generally committed to providing small classes and individual attention to students. Many parents choose private schools for this reason.

The Bottom Line
There are a few fundamental differences between public and private schools, but here's the bottom line: There are great private schools and there are great public schools; the trick is finding the school that best fits your child's needs. It's a good idea to research the schools that interest you, but don't forget; the best way to get a feel for a school is to visit it in person.

Additional Note: There are more educational options than private and public schools. You may also want to consider charter schools or homeschooling for your child. Check under "Other Resources" to find out more about these options.

Other Resources
Use these GreatSchools.net resources to find the best school for your child!

School Choice In California: An Overview of Your Choices
Charter School Enrollment: The Choice Is Yours
Find the Right School For Your Child
The School Visit: Things To Look For, Questions To Ask
Choosing A School: Seven Steps From Start To Finish
Imagining Your Ideal School: An Exercise For Setting Priorities
Homeschooling: Key Facts and Resources

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