Are Private Schools A Good Investment For Your Child’s Education?

Posted on Tuesday March 2 , 2021 by Carin Simon
Child Studying at Private School

Summary 

Choosing the right school depends on your child’s learning needs, goals, and future success. Private schools often offer smaller class sizes, personalized learning, and unique educational approaches that can provide added value for many families. 

Is Private School Worth the Investment for Your Child?

Yes, a private school is worth it for many families who are looking for personalized attention, smaller class sizes, specialized academic programs, and an educational experience that supports both academic achievement and personal growth.

When considering whether to enroll your child in a private school versus sending them to a public institution, there are a number of factors that may help you decide. For one, most private schools have a significantly lower ratio of teachers to students, so your child can receive more individualized instruction and additional help if needed. For another, private schools are not bound by standardized curricula or teaching methods, so students often learn different ways of learning that can better prepare them for the future and navigate the world around them.

How do private school graduates compare to public school graduates?

One important factor parents consider when researching private school vs public school outcomes is how students perform after graduation.

Research published by the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) and Gallup highlights differences in college enrollment and engagement outcomes among independent school graduates. When referencing these statistics, use the specific NAIS/Gallup research publication rather than linking only to the NAIS homepage. Some of their findings show:

1. Eighty-five percent of NAIS graduates enrolled in college immediately following high school, compared with 69% of public-school graduates.
2. Almost 100 percent of NAIS graduates went on to college, with more than 50 percent of them attending some of the most selective schools in the United States.
3. NAIS graduates outperform public school graduates in seeking out experiential learning and extracurricular activities, including:
a. Participating in research with a faculty member
b. Holding a leadership position in a club or organization
c. Participating in intramural sports
d. Being a member of a fraternity or sorority
e. Working on projects lasting more than one semester

These outcomes demonstrate why many families consider private education a long-term investment rather than simply a schooling decision.

Is private school tuition in Virginia Beach worth the investment?

Cost is one of the biggest considerations when families explore private education. Private school tuition in Virginia Beach can vary depending on the school, grade level, programs offered, and additional services available.

Many private schools offer financial assistance options to help make tuition more accessible. Families considering Strelitz International Academy can also explore opportunities such as the Virginia State Tax Credit Opportunity program, which may help eligible families offset educational costs.

When comparing cost and value, parents should consider more than tuition alone. The value of private education may include:

  • Smaller class sizes and increased teacher attention
  • Specialized curriculum options
  • Academic enrichment opportunities
  • Character development and community involvement
  • Preparation for future academic success

At Strelitz International Academy, families receive the benefit of a nurturing learning environment, small class sizes, and an internationally recognized curriculum designed to develop lifelong learners.

What makes Strelitz International Academy’s IB® program different?

At Strelitz International Academy, our curriculum and teaching methods are based on the International Baccalaureate (IB®) program. IB schools provide an inquiry-based agenda versus a standardized curriculum found in most public schools. Private IB® schools that serve Norfolk, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, and other surrounding areas seek to develop the student as a whole, both in academics and personal development, creating more well-rounded, globally conscious individuals who are ready to take on the world.

Strelitz International Academy provides the IB® Primary Years Programme (PYP) to students ages 3 to 12 in our elementary program. Our smaller class sizes, unique curriculum, and dedicated teachers, staff, and administrators help create an environment where students develop confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning. 

Key Takeaways: 

  • Private schools can provide more personalized instruction through smaller class sizes.
  • Private school vs public school outcomes show differences in college preparation and student engagement opportunities.
  • Tuition is an important factor, but families should also evaluate educational value, curriculum, and student support.
  • Strelitz International Academy’s IB® Primary Years Programme focuses on inquiry-based learning and whole-child development.
  • Financial support options, including financial aid, private school opportunities, and tax credit programs, may help families access private education.

Visit Strelitz International Academy to Learn More

Choosing the right school is an important decision, and seeing the learning environment firsthand can help you determine if Strelitz International Academy is the right fit for your child.

With our IB® Primary Years Programme (PYP), small class sizes, and nurturing community, we help students develop the confidence, curiosity, and skills needed for lifelong success.

Schedule a visit today and discover how Strelitz International Academy can provide exceptional value for your child’s education.

Contact us at 757-424-4327!

Frequently Asked Questions

The Top Considerations For Choosing Between Private and Public School Education

Posted on Tuesday August 25 , 2020 by Carin Simon
Teacher leading a lesson with students at IB Elementary School

Choosing between private and public schools is one of the most important decisions parents make, and there is no single right answer for every family. The best choice depends on a child’s learning style, personality, and the kind of environment that will help them thrive.

Understanding the key differences between the two can make this decision much clearer and less overwhelming.

Understanding the Difference Between Private and Public Schools

When comparing private and public schools, the key differences mainly come down to structure, funding, and learning approach. This is one of the most important considerations when comparing public vs private schools. 

Public schools are funded by government sources and operate within local school districts. They follow state-mandated academic standards to ensure consistent learning across K–12 education.

Private schools operate independently of the public system and are primarily funded through tuition and private contributions. This allows greater flexibility in curriculum design, teaching methods, and overall learning experiences.

These structural differences shape classroom size, teaching approach, and the overall learning environment. Here is a quick comparison of private schools vs public schools:

  • Class Size and Individual Attention

Private schools typically offer smaller class sizes, allowing teachers to provide more individualized attention and closely monitor student progress.

Public schools usually have larger classrooms, which can help students develop independence, collaboration skills, and adaptability in diverse groups.

  • Curriculum and Learning Approach

Public schools follow standardized state education guidelines to ensure consistent academic expectations.

Private schools often have more flexibility, allowing for enriched programs, specialized learning approaches, and innovative teaching methods based on the school’s philosophy.

  • Student Development and Learning Focus

Public schools focus on meeting academic standards and ensuring students achieve core competencies required by the state.

Private schools often take a more holistic approach, supporting academic learning along with character development, creativity, and personal growth.

  • Social Environment and Peer Interaction

Public schools generally offer a wider and more diverse student population, helping children build social awareness and adaptability.

Private schools often provide a smaller, close-knit community where students may form deeper relationships with peers and teachers.

  • Academic Outcomes

According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the U.S. public high school graduation rate is approximately 87%. Private school graduation rates are generally reported between 90–95%, though results vary by school type and student population.

While these numbers provide context, student success depends on more than graduation rates, including support systems, teaching quality, and individual development.

Which Is Better: Private or Public School?

There is no universal “better” option. The right choice depends on what environment best supports the child.

Private School May Be a Better Fit If:

  • A child benefits from smaller class sizes and more attention
  • Families prefer a flexible or enriched curriculum
  • Personalized learning is a priority
  • Holistic development is important

Public School May Be a Better Fit If:

  • Families prefer a tuition-free education option
  • The child thrives in larger, diverse environments
  • A structured academic system provides stability
  • Access to district-wide programs is important

Questions Parents Should Ask Before Choosing a School

To make the right decision, parents should evaluate schools beyond basic comparisons. Key questions include:

  • How does the school support different learning styles?
  • What is the student-to-teacher ratio?
  • How is academic progress measured and shared with parents?
  • What extracurricular and enrichment opportunities are available?
  • What teaching philosophy guides the school?
  • How does the school support emotional and social development?
  • How involved are parents in the learning process?

These questions help families understand how a school actually functions in daily life.

How to Decide What’s Best for Your Child

The best decision comes down to how a child learns and grows best.

Parents should consider:

  • Whether the child thrives in structured or flexible environments
  • The level of individual attention required
  • The importance of class size and teaching style
  • Family values and educational goals
  • The environment where the child feels most confident and supported

Key Takeaways

  • Both public and private schools offer valuable but different learning experiences
  • Class size, curriculum, and teaching approach are key differences
  • Private schools often provide more personalized attention
  • Public schools offer structured, standardized education with wider access
  • The best choice depends on the child’s individual needs 

Final Thought

Choosing between private and public school is not about which is better overall, but about which environment best supports a child’s growth. A thoughtful evaluation of learning style, structure, and support systems helps families make the right long-term decision.

At Strelitz International Academy, families can experience a warm, student-centered learning environment with small class sizes, personalized attention, and a strong focus on whole-child development. If you are exploring private school options in Virginia Beach, Norfolk, or Chesapeake, we invite you to schedule a visit and see how our school community can support your child’s learning journey. 

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