Misconceptions of Private School

Since becoming the principal of a private Christian school I have heard many myths and misunderstandings concerning private schools in general. While I realize that many people try to justify making difficult decisions concerning their child's education I feel compelled to address some of the more obvious flawed thinking. Over the next few weeks I will be posting some articles concerning people's misconceptions of private school. My desire is not to attack or condemn. I respect a parents right to make a decision concerning their child's education without guilt. However I would be remiss if I didn't take an opportunity to dispel rumors so the decisions that are made are based on good information.

Misconception #1: "Private schools are filled with rich snobs."

I understand where a misconception such as this comes from because I know of many private schools that have this reputation. However something to remember is that all schools have a degree of cliquishness and exclusivity. After an inevitable adjustment period your child will develop friendships. As a parent, you desire those friendships to be the kind that are positive and will not influence your child in a harmful way. It is my experience at Bethel Life School (BLS) that the overall culture of the student body is one of success and positive choices. Not all students are trustworthy all the time, but the predominate attitude is one of acceptance and accountability. And you can be reassured that if your child experiences something negative it can and will be dealt with in a definitive manner, always reinforcing Godly choices. If you are a Christian trying to raise children who honor God it is important that the school you choose reflect your values.


Misconception #2: "A small school has fewer opportunities for students."

It is my observation that BLS has many more opportunities for students to be involved than any other school I have taught in. We have great competitive sports teams where all students have an opportunity to be involved. Our robotics team starts in fourth grade and offers non athletic opportunities for boys and girls. Our fine arts and music program is emerging with the potential to be one of the strongest in the city. A Clogging (dance) team will be starting during the 2009-2010 school year for boys and girls of any age. Inter mural sports teams of all types for all ages form on a regular basis. We offer the opportunity to take private piano and voice lessons during the school day and we are always looking for ways to expand our extra curricular offerings. In truth, BLS offers far more opportunities for a child than the average school and we do it in a positive Chirst-centered environment.

Misconception #3: "I can't afford it."

This is frequently the most significant obstacle people face when choosing whether of not to send their child to private school. While I understand financial hardships can make this an impossible roadblock it is important to remember that you get what you pay for. There is no such thing as a moral/value free environment. In a public school your child will be immersed in a secular environment that concertedly excludes Godly morality. In the best case your child will be placed in the classroom of a Christian teacher that can temper some of the humanistic influences your child will be exposed to. In the worst case, your child will spend seven hours each day being indoctrinated with morals and values that are nothing like your own. It is my position that an environment based on Godly, Christ-centered values is an investment in the emotional and spiritual development of your child. Our children are our greatest asset and as parents it is our duty to invest in them accordingly.

Make sure to check out my next post when I address the misconceptions of:

"The only benefit to private school is religious training."
"My middle school child would be better off getting established in a public school before high school"
"Teachers aren't as capable in private schools."