About 25% of all U.S. schools are private schools, and with those numbers in mind, it can be easy to see why there are so many misconceptions about what these schools are actually like. However, all parents should make it a priority to come to a full understanding about their child’s academic schooling options. Here are just a few of the most common myths and misconceptions about private schools.
Private school teachers don’t require certification.
This is a statement that’s wildly misleading, and in most cases, not true. Private schools often have different standards for teachers than public schools, but that doesn’t mean they’re less strict or selective with the educators they hire.
“Legally you don’t have to have a teaching certificate to teach in a private school. But it is just common sense to make sure that you have teaching certification. Most private schools will hire you without teacher certification with the understanding that you will become certified within a specified period of time. Several private schools offer intern programs for recent graduates. These programs are designed to provide teaching experience under the expert guidance of experienced teachers,” writes Robert Kennedy on Private School Review.
Private schools have very strict requirements for students.
Having strict requirements for staff is understandable, but most schools don’t have super strict standards for the students they accept. There are plenty of exceptions, of course, but for the most part, a private school will accept a student as long as parents can pay tuition and the student maintains their grades.
Private schools don’t prepare students for college as much as public schools.
This is an incredibly outdated myth that’s been statistically proven wrong. The fact is, counselors at private schools say they spend about 55% of their time on college-related counseling. Public high school counselors, on the other hand, say they spend only 22% on college-related counseling. That being said, private schools and day care centers may be a better long term option for parents who prioritize their child’s college preparation.
Ultimately, understanding the truth behind these myths can help ensure that you choose the right educational path for your child.