Are Private Schools Really Free Schools?

When it comes to deciding where to send your children to school, one of the most difficult decisions parents can make is whether to choose a public or private school. Private schools are almost entirely funded by tuition fees paid by the parents of students, but they do receive some subsidies from the government. If you're worried about private school tuition costs, there are options available that can make a private education more affordable. Public and charter schools are funded by the government, so you don't have to pay for your child to attend one of these schools.

However, many private schools offer programs for little or no tuition costs, which means that a full four-year education in a private school can be affordable. For example, De Marillac Academy on the West Coast and Epiphany School in Boston both provide free education for high school students from their respective neighborhoods. The Milton Hershey School is another example of a private school that offers free tuition for families whose family income is less than a certain amount. Founded by the founder of the chocolate company that bears his name, this school provides a quality education without the high price tag.

The Gilbert School is also an example of a private school that serves as a local public school. Most private schools are located mainly in central cities (42 percent) and in the urban periphery or in large cities (40 percent). Money is an important factor when deciding to send your child to a private school, but it's not the only factor. Smaller class sizes and more individualized teaching may seem attractive, but private schools aren't always the best for all students.

When considering public and private schools for your children, it's important to determine what's important to you and arm yourself with real numbers and information about the schools you're considering. With financial aid offers, scholarship programs, and schools that offer completely free tuition, your child may be able to attend one of the best private schools in the country without breaking the bank.