Often when students transition from elementary school to middle school, many families are faced with a decision about staying with public school or admitting their student into a private institution. This is especially common in the New England area, which is home to hundreds of top tier private schools. But in an area already filled with top tier public schools, how does one decide? Let's take a look at the comparables: 

Academics
Public- The state determines the parameters for curriculum. This is usually in accordance with state testing organizations and predetermined markers of success. 

Private- The school determines the parameters for curriculum. The focus of topics will change depending on what type of institution the private school is: meaning there could be a strong theological focus, STEM focus, etc. 

Extracurricular Clubs
Public- Likely offers a wide variety of common clubs like Spanish club, Photography club, Chess club, but could have many more specialized options such as a Gender and Sexuality Alliance, Video Game club, Glee club, Dodgeball club, etc. Public schools are always open to students starting their own clubs, too! 

Private- Also likely offers very common clubs comparable to some of those in public schools. Might not offer or allow certain other clubs if the school feels it goes against its mission or values. However, as private schools try to modernize, this may not be an issue. 

Sports Teams
Public- Most public schools have a variety of sports teams. These may include Football, Soccer, Basketball, Baseball / Softball, and many more. 

Private- Most private schools have a variety of sports teams students. The most popular will likely include Football, Soccer, Lacrosse, and Hockey. 

Student : Teacher Ratio
Public- Most classrooms have between 25-35 students to one teacher and maybe a teacher's assistant as well. Teachers must be certified to teach for that grade and for their subject and are encouraged to continuously stay engaged with their own education. 

Private- Most classrooms have an average of 19 students to one teacher and maybe a teacher's assistant as well. Teachers are not required to be certified, but often hold master's degrees or even doctorates in their subject. 

Environment 
Public- Many students will know their peers from younger grades and will likely live in the same town as each other. This can create tight-knit atmospheres or sometimes abundant familiarity. Schools seek to instill life values into their students, but the reinforcement of these are not often prioritized. 

Private- Students will likely enter the school not knowing many, if any, other students as attendance is open to several towns or counties. This can create a unifying atmosphere over shared experiences or sometimes reinforce town-based cliques. Private schools work hard to build a student's moral compass and constantly reinforce school values. 

With all that said, there's no one answer: What will be the right answer is whatever works best for your student. If they will thrive more under the tenants of a private education, then that might be the better fit for them. And if they would enjoy the public realm more, then that could be ideal. This decision is never easy, but JBG's admissions counselors can help. Connect with us today to learn more by emailing sarah@jbgeducationalgroup.com.
 

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Did you know?
JBG works with more than just high school students!



Yes, we work with students of all ages: Elementary to grad school, in fact! If your middle school student is looking for help with private school applications or academic tutoring, JBG has just the right tutors for the job. We even have tutors who work on graduate essays and college-level academics. No matter your need, we can help! Contact sarah@jbgeducationalgroup.com to learn more about our services and how best we can help your student.