When it comes to deciding the best school for your children to attend, public and private schools are often hard to decide between. Rick Hess writes in Edweek that what parents look for in a public school is the proximity, socialization, safety and academic reputation of the school. In private schools, parents usually look for the academic reputation, safety and the school’s structure/discipline. 

When given the choice between public or private school, I’d pick public school for my children. One of the reasons is the diversity within the school; students are less likely to be marginalized. There’s inclusion everywhere, clubs and groups that help students socialize and get to know their fellow peers. Being bullied would be less likely because, for example, a homosexual student wouldn’t be the only homosexual in the entire school, same goes with race. 

The special education that public schools provide is another reason why. Children across the spectrum are often served best in the public system because diagnostic and disability services are provided alongside dedicated special education teachers. Public schools are also legally required to provide special education services under the Individual with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Private schools don’t have the same obligation, they can offer support but it isn’t required for them. 

According to the Education Data Initiative, the average annual tuition is $12,790 for private elementary and secondary schools while private high school is $17,123. Though they still offer financial aid, families do end up paying something. The cost is zero in public schools, and if financially struggling they provide free or low cost child care, free lunch and many other public resources. Public schools are funded by local, state and federal taxes while private schools are funded by tuition (and donations). 

I understand why some parents would pick private schools for their children, there’s more specialized programs and preparation for your child. There’s a small and close-knit community guaranteeing your child the easiest experience when it comes to the social dynamic of the school. However, at private schools a child is less likely to be independent due to most things being handed to them. In public schools students are thrown into a fast-paced environment, giving them a better simulation of real-life. 

Students in public schools are expected to reach out to their teachers for help, set meetings with their counselors in high schools for college applications and discover new opportunities by themselves. The environment is bigger and allows more activities to take place such as club fairs, shows, sports and more. 

When contemplating between a public or a private school, choose public. It offers many opportunities for students and resources like special education, sports and clubs that allow students to connect and interact with one another. It is also completely free. For parents seeking an environment where school meets real-world social interactions, public schools are the best options.