Who should choose where ones child attends school? Who should choose the forms of schooling made available to families? These questions have been an issue for many years in and outside of our government and culture. It is these types of questions that have led to an increase in private schools across the country and enrollment at these schools. We're not going to debate these questions here but we would like to provide a little information as to why you may consider a private school and where to gather more information.

   To begin with, there are at least 2 types of private schools. One type of private school is one that caters to teens that have struggled academically as well as socially. These types of schools are often referred to as private boarding schools, specialty boarding schools, or just private schools. These are not "typical" private schools and, therefore, do not enroll "typical" students. If your son or daughter struggles with some of the following issues you may want to consider one of these "private boarding schools":

•    Failing in public schools
•    Communication problems at school and home
•    The Teen Lies and / or steals
•    Has defiant behaviors toward authority figures or parents
•    Very rebellious to parents and others
•    Has bad peer groups or friends
•    Has been to counseling with little results
•    Is or has been involved in illegal activities
•    Is involved with drugs or alcohol
    
    The other type of private school is kind that we are more familiar with. These types of schools enroll students that choose not to attend public school for a number of reasons. These types of schools are often referred to as college prep schools, traditional private schools, or just private schools. These schools claim higher academic achievement and a more positive pier environment than most public schools. Much of these results are attributed to better-compensated educators, fewer restrictions, and student bodies that have higher academic standards for themselves.

A few things to consider when choosing a private school:

•    Can you receive a high school diploma from the school.
•    Do your homework on the history and track record of the school.
•    Consider the size and location of the school.
•    Student/teacher ratios are often important to look at. A student can get lost just as easily at a private school if there are too many students to a classroom.
•    Whenever possible, talk to other parents with students at the school.