Why Choose a Private School?
Is Private School Right for Your Child and Family?
Choosing the right educational path for your child is one of the most significant decisions you will make as a parent. For many families, the choice between public and private school can feel overwhelming. While public schools offer the benefit of no tuition, private schools provide unique advantages that may make the cost worthwhile, depending on the options available in your area. In cities like Chicago, where public schools vary greatly in quality by neighborhood, private schools can offer an attractive alternative.
The Benefits of Private Education
Private schools often provide a more challenging academic environment with smaller class sizes, allowing for personalized attention and stronger student-teacher relationships. These schools also tend to offer a more consistent value system and a safer, more controlled environment compared to many public schools. While public schools are typically larger and offer more diversity, extracurricular activities, and access to students across all income levels, private schools can offer a focused educational experience with specialized opportunities that may not be available in public systems.
Key statistics—such as academic performance, extracurricular opportunities, and student-teacher ratios—can be helpful in your decision-making process. A 2022 NAEP report found that "Students in private schools scored significantly above the national average in grades four, eight, and twelve." At St. James, our students consistently score in the top 85th percentile in grades 3-8, based on the Department of Education’s Blue Ribbon standards.
Smaller Class Sizes and Personalized Attention
One of the hallmarks of private schools is their smaller class sizes. The lower student-to-teacher ratio creates an environment where students receive more personalized attention, which can significantly boost academic success. The Condition of Education 2018 found that “Placing students in small groups tends to foster close working relationships between teachers and students, thus enhancing learning, particularly among at-risk students and those in the early grades.”
At St. James, our class sizes range from 12 to 20 students, with an average of 16. Our student-teacher ratio never exceeds 10:1, ensuring that each child gets the individual support they need to succeed. This personalized environment encourages students to speak up in class, building their confidence both academically and socially.
Community, Values, and Parental Involvement
In many private schools, a strong emphasis is placed on cultivating personal values and character. Private schools often incorporate honor codes, behavioral standards, and a clear cultural ethos that promote respect and responsibility. This creates a focused, disciplined environment where students learn both academics and life skills in tandem.
Choosing a private school also means joining a close-knit community of families who share similar educational values. Parents at private schools tend to be more involved in school activities, contributing time, resources, and support. This sense of community can enhance your child’s experience, as students benefit from strong relationships with their peers and a network of supportive families.
At St. James, we view our partnership with families as vital to our success. Many of our parents volunteer their time, talents, and resources to enrich the educational experience, fostering a collaborative and supportive environment for our students.
Exposure to the Arts and Enrichment Programs
One area where private schools often excel is in offering rich, varied arts and enrichment programs. With greater flexibility in curriculum design, private schools can prioritize subjects such as music, drama, and visual arts, all of which play an essential role in fostering creativity and critical thinking. In contrast, public schools often face budget constraints that limit funding for arts programs.
At St. James, we believe that a well-rounded education includes robust music and arts programs, which are integral to developing our students’ creativity and emotional intelligence. With smaller class sizes, students also enjoy more opportunities to participate in these activities and gain exposure to a wide range of creative disciplines.
Conclusion: What’s Best for Your Family?
Ultimately, the decision between public and private school comes down to what is best for your child and your family’s needs. Private schools can offer smaller class sizes, a safer environment, a strong sense of community, and specialized programs that might not be available at public schools. However, public schools provide diversity, a broad range of extracurriculars, and accessibility for families across various income levels.
Whatever you choose, your involvement as a parent is crucial to your child’s academic success. Take the time to research your options thoroughly and consider what kind of environment will best support your child’s growth, both academically and socially.
We encourage you to explore all available options to ensure you make the best decision for your family’s future.
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