A Quick Guide to U.S. Public and Private School Options

School is school – or so many parents think. What you may not realize, however, is that there are many different types of schools, even within the category of public schools. The school you send your child to will largely depend on where you live and what options are available, but if you have multiple options to choose from, it is essential to learn what you can about each one before making your choice. The right school for one child may not be suitable for another, so consider your options carefully.

Not only is a public school very different from a private school but there are over a dozen different types of schools (both public and private) scattered across the country. In this article, you’ll receive a brief overview of each of these school options, so if the choice becomes yours, you’ll be fully equipped to make an informed decision. Keep reading to learn the basics about different schooling options in the United States.

How is Public School Different from Private School?

The main difference between private and public schools is the source of funding. Public schools are funded by local, state, or federal government, while private schools are generally funded through student tuition. Because public schools receive federal funds, they must also follow federal guidelines, which sometimes limit what public schools can teach. Private schools are not subject to the same standards, so they have more freedom in developing their curriculum. Licensing requirements are pretty strict for public schools, but private school teachers may not even need a degree in their teaching field. Both public and private schools have pros and cons, which differ depending on the type of school. Keep reading to learn more.

This video discusses how public and private schools compare.

Overview of 4 Types of Public Schools

Though you may think that one public school is like any other, there are four distinct types of public schools – here is a quick overview of each:

This video explains the differences between magnet and charter schools.

Overview of 8 Types of Private School

In the same way that there are different types of public schools, there are also many options for private schools. Here is a quick overview of eight different types of private schools:

This video describes Montessori schools.

By now, it should be clear that every school is as unique as its students. Each school and every type of school has its benefits and drawbacks, so the choice that best suits your child may not be the right choice for someone else. It is up to you to know what is best for your child and to choose the school that will provide the best education possible.

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