Public schools are not always adequate at providing an education for every child to prepare for college and future careers. Private schools offer an excellent alternative because they place stronger emphasis on exposing students to new experiences, giving them greater access to instructors, setting a higher bar for achievement, and providing them the support they need to succeed in college and life in general.

Because choosing a private school is an important decision, here are some elements to consider when navigating the process.

Make a List of Personal Requirements

Every child has specific needs you’ll want to consider when looking for a private school. Let your child’s personality, strengths, and weaknesses guide your initial search. Think about your priorities and consider if those priorities can be found in the schools you’re considering. You’ll also want to consider the school’s college preparation programs, class sizes, parental involvement, and unique subjects emphasized at the school.

Another important aspect to consider is extracurricular activities. If your child has an interest in music, arts, sports, or other clubs, be sure the schools you’re considering will meet those needs.

Look into the Statistics of Each School

Private schools aren’t ranked the way public schools are, so you’ll need to request information and statistics to learn the academic track record of each school. To learn about the performance of students, look into SAT and ACT scores, accelerated learning programs, programs for special needs, and other elements that are important to your child’s education. You’ll also want to consider the percentage of seniors who are National Merit-recognized, which provides a good measure of academic performance.

Consider Practicalities

Before getting too attached to a certain school, you’ll also need to consider the practicalities of your situation. First, consider the tuition you can afford for your child. Luckily, there is a private school to match almost any budget. Other practicalities to consider include:

• Distance from home
• Before- or after-school care
• Special needs of your child
• School transportation services
• Religious preferences

Think about whether you want your child to go to a mixed-gender school or one where boys and girls are kept separate. These elements are important in helping you rule out schools that will not be the best match for your child. Even the best school may not be the right choice for your child if it doesn’t meet the practical needs of your family.

Visit the School

Once you’ve considered your priorities, analyzed the practicalities, and narrowed down your options, it’s time to visit the school in person. Nothing will give you a feel for the right school like seeing it all in person. When you visit the school, consider the ambiance, communication style of the teachers, and condition of the facilities.

If you live in the Setauket, New York area, Laurel Hill School is an excellent option to meet your child’s educational needs. To learn more about Laurel Hill, contact us and see the environment first-hand.