1. They Are Diverse Communities.
30 or 40 years ago you might have been able to make the case that private schools were elitist. However, just as the laws of the land have changed to foster a society which champions multicultural approaches to just about everything, so have private schools moved with the times. Private schools aren't just for spoiled white rich kids anymore, as the popular press would still lead us to believe. Diversity is no longer a theme in private schools. It is an integral part of most schools' philosophies and mission statements. Private schools don't just talk about diversity. They are actually doing something about it. Proactive recruiting and encouraging applicants from every economic strata is the key. Providing generous financial aid allows applicants who could not otherwise afford to attend the opportunity of a lifetime.
2. They Allow Teachers to Teach.
That is one of the reasons why private schools attract teachers who are passionate about their subject. They can actually get to teach it. What's even better is that they they don't have to teach to the test either or worry about discipline. Teachers who are passionate about their subject turn on their students to learning and academic discovery. It's cool to be smart in private school.
3. They Accommodate Every Need.
Literally there is a private school for every need. There are private schools for every religious persuasion. There are military schools, alternative schools, Waldorf schools and Montessori schools. There are schools which have the skilled teachers, specialists and curricula to cope with every kind of learning difference and need. If your child does not fit into any of the usual categories, you will find a private school which will be perfect for him.
4. They Are Affordable.
Of course, affordable is always a relative term. Fortunately private schools have gone the extra mile recently to make sure that qualified applicants can attend a private school without concern for finances. Almost every private school offers financial aid in one form or another. A dozen or so private schools offer a completely free education for qualified students. When it comes to financial aid, always ask the admissions staff for assistance.
5. Private School Students Have No Constitutional Rights.
It's true. You and your parents sign a contract with the school. Your rights are spelled out in that contract. Even the ACLU becomes somewhat embarrassed on this subject because there is nothing it can do. This is an important fact to understand because you will be asked to leave if you commit a major infraction of the school's rules.
