If you are considering private school for your children or currently have kids enrolled in private school, you may ask yourself if it’s worth the cost.  A private school tuition can come with a pretty hefty price tag with no guarantee of access to an Ivy League or equally competitive college.  You can check out some of the average costs of private school on the Private School Review website.  

Benefits Not Measured

The benefits of private school are not always measured in the list of where recent graduates attended college. Graduates of private school may feel much better prepared for college than public school students.  Parents are wise to look at how the process of education prepares students for life after high school.  Improved time management skills, increased independence, and introduction to rigorous academics are not necessarily captured on college admissions lists.  Researching achievements such as advanced degrees and career success can also help parents understand what private schools have to offer.

Best Fit

The best school for any child is one that fits their needs and offers a curriculum that will benefit a student’s life-long learning.  It is important to provide him or her with an environment for advancing his or her interests and development.  Cost should be considered, however the true value of a school must be viewed with a particular student in mind.

Christian vs Secular

For my family personally, the cost of private school is worth it.  We want our children to have a Christ centered, biblically based education, not just a college preparatory education. A Christian school infuses a biblical worldview into students in every aspect of their school experience.  Ministry opportunities to the local community and beyond are often encouraged and provided in a Christian school as well.  A Christ centered education will not be found in a secular college preparatory school.

Our oldest son is currently a sophomore in college.  He believes his private school education is invaluable and is grateful for the sacrifices we made to send him to a school that challenged him to think deeply.  He learned how to debate ideas and speak articulately about topics.  He was surrounded by coaches, teachers and staff members who genuinely love him.  He was encouraged to become all God created him to be and found his calling as a missionary.

There are many factors to consider when choosing a private school and cost seems to be a major factor for many families. With a cost that could easily exceed $100,000 per student for a K-12 education, there is no clear answer to the question, “Is it worth it?”  I suggest do your research, ask other families and if you’re searching for a Christian education, pray about it.