If private school is something your family is considering, you’re not alone. Roughly 11 percent of Indiana’s students were enrolled in private school last year. The top private schools all share some common characteristics centered around academics, culture and enrichment programs. These are all factors to consider when making the best educational choice for your family’s needs.
Academics
While academics are often a top priority for families choosing a private school, that can mean different things to different people. The best schools consistently have low student-to-teacher ratios so children can get help when they need it. Fewer students per teacher equates to better opportunities for learning and more chances for students to be challenged in the classroom if that’s what they require.
The top private schools employ qualified professionals to lead the classroom and plenty of academic options. For some families this might mean AP classes, for others it may mean specialized courses to meet a child’s needs.
Most non-public schools in Indiana are accredited, but not all are, which means it’s important to know what to expect when selecting a school. When a school is accredited, the school complies with Indiana Department of Education’s standards and guidelines. Accredited private schools must meet certain curriculum, safety, and student to staff ratio standards. For students attending a non-accredited school, a diploma may not be accepted for post-secondary education or when finding a job out of high school.
Many of the top private schools are college preparatory, helping children transition to a successful college experience. Skills range from academic preparation and learning how to study, to time management and social skills that will enhance a higher learning experience. Some private schools offer early childhood programs, preparing youngsters to be before their academic career begins. Confidence, social skills, creative thinking and independence are foundational skills that the youngest students can learn.
When comparing academic quality between schools, review students’ SAT scores and look at the types of schools graduates plan to attend to understand what future learning opportunities might exist for your own child.
Culture
A school’s culture can vary quite a bit between schools. And each child can respond differently to these different approaches. This encompasses administrative expectations, discipline, specialized learning environments and a feeling of community.
Many of these factors are intangible and are easier to infer after speaking with staff and other parents. The most academically challenging school may not be a good fit if expectations are too high and the environment is overly stimulating. Some students may thrive in a challenging classroom, while others require something more traditional. Sometimes children in the same household require different private schools because every child approaches learning in a different way.
Although schools may differ in their culture, the top schools are student-focused with significant emphasis on a child’s learning environment. These schools will be open about opportunities for children to advance and find ways to help every student excel. They find ways to support students and make them feel accepted and valued by both teachers and peers.
Enrichment Programs
While enrichment programs aren’t always the primary reason a family might select a private school, they can be the deciding factor when comparing similar schools. Top private schools offer plenty of extracurricular options like sports, arts and clubs, giving students a chance to develop interests and skills in unique areas. Some private schools offer summer camps, month-long special studies or independent research. These options allow kids to explore specialized subjects not offered in a regular curriculum.
Many of the top schools offer programs that aren’t part of the core classes. These could include foreign language, specialized science courses, individualized technology programs or studio courses in the arts. Additional enrichment opportunities like these allow students to engage in leadership opportunities and build their strengths.
Other Factors
The best private schools often have uncategorized factors that contribute to their success. Things like high parental involvement, modern technology and a sense of safety all contribute to a student’s success, and all can be found in the top schools. Top schools will often work with families for scholarships or affordable alternatives so that finances aren’t a barrier to attendance. These schools recognize the benefit of having a range of students from diverse backgrounds, ethnicities and faiths.
With so many choices, it can be overwhelming to find the right school for your family. Starting with these similar characteristics will make it easier to find the perfect educational option that works for your child.
