Top 10 Tips for Choosing A Private School
A private school education is a significant investment for most families and therefore requires significant research and consideration.
The best place to start is a school’s website, followed by a campus visit. There, you’ll want to talk to current students and parents, teachers and administrators.
Not sure what to look for or ask about? This Top 10 list will provide guidance.
1.
All Girls or Co-Ed?
Girls’ high schools teach young women that regardless of what they want to pursue, there’s nothing that can stand in their way. That message provides powerful, relevant advantages. From politics and passion for a cause to pursuing leadership opportunities or a STEM major in college, research has found multiple ways in which young women who attend girls’ schools are more likely to stand out.
2.
Religious or No?
For some schools, religion is reflected primarily in a value system; for others, it means required theology courses and attending Mass. If you’re interested in a religious school, be sure to find out what that means in practice so you can find the right fit for your daughter.
3.
Location.
If a school is not easy to get to from work or home, regardless of everything else it has to offer, it probably isn’t going to make your short list. Transportation options are an important aspect as well.
4.
Educational Philosphy.
Strong academics may be the rule, but private schools’ educational philosophies can be quite different, as is the type of student they are trying to attract. Is the curriculum traditional or exploratory? Is everyone on the same track or is the course schedule personalized? How is technology integrated into learning? The most important thing is that a school’s approach to education matches the learning style of your student.
5.
Culture.
We all know there’s a private school student stereotype. At some schools, it fits. At others, like Merion Mercy, you’ll find a nurturing, caring community where sisterhood extends to every student. Another aspect of a school’s culture is its diversity. At Merion Mercy, we foster a welcoming and inclusive community.
6.
Class Size.
Class size and student-to-teacher ratio are advantages most private schools have over public schools. One expects a smaller class size to equate to more personalized attention from the teacher. At Merion Mercy, the average class size is 16.
7.
Enrollment.
What size school will my child thrive in? The good news is that there are private high schools of every size. Often the largest schools have the most resources and extracurriculars, while smaller schools are better engaged with parents and have the feeling of a close-knit community. At 430 students, Merion Mercy is large enough to offer the resources that students need and want, while being small enough to nurture them like family.
8.
Student Outcomes.
Parents often choose a private school for its outcomes. How well do its graduates do when it comes to college? Each school’s Admissions department should be able to tell you what percentage of their students are admitted to college, how many schools they’re admitted to and which ones graduates attend, and what kind of scholarship money is earned.
9.
Extracurricular Activities.
Often a school’s extracurricular offerings are influenced by its size, yet even with its relatively small enrollment (and the wonderfully small class sizes that result), Merion Mercy is big on athletics, arts, clubs and activities. In fact, there are more than 60 of them and time to meet is built into the weekly class schedule!
When choosing a school, be sure to select one that aligns with your daughter’s interests and abilities.
10.
Tuition & Financial Aid.
Tuition for Philadelphia-area private schools varies widely. Even if cost is not a significant factor for your family, it’s still worth asking yourself if the schools that cost more offer more of what matters most to you and your daughter. Are they worth the additional investment?
Taking Your Next Step.
As you consider these factors, write down what is most important to your daugther and your family. When you visit campus, ask questions of teachers, current students, and administrators. If current parents are available, be sure to engage them as well. The more you know the easier the decision will be!
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