As a parent, we realize that the school your child attends sets them up for future consequences in higher education (college admissions) and career. Approximately 90% of students in America attend public schools because that is the norm. Factors such as location and cost, however, also limit the choices that families can have.
The limitations of choice can be overcome by finding supplemental education from accredited institutions. Here are some factors to consider in the process of choosing the right educational options that fit your needs:
Flexibility
Most private schools are able to accommodate your busy schedules in ways that public schools cannot. For example, at LCP classes meet only once a week and 1:1 teacher to student ratio options are available to work around your schedules. Some private schools may even provide online courses or additional services, such as course planning or tutoring.
Class Sizes
Another important factor to consider is the class sizes of each course. Every student has a different preference for learning and thrive differently. Smaller classes, such as ones at LCP, give personalized attention from instructors and increased participation compared to a larger average class size of 30-35 students. Our experience has shown us that personal rapport and relationship with students and families give us better insight on how to best serve academic needs.
Accessibility to Courses
Public schools are often very impacted, so many students do not get into the classes that they need in order to have a robust course of study. This includes UC A-G courses or higher level AP courses to make their college admissions process more competitive. This can pose issues like not being able to graduate on-time, due to lack of credits. Private schools are better positioned to offer these courses, some of which aren’t usually offered in public schools. In addition to exclusivity, they can offer further advancement even up to levels beyond what AP’s deliver upon, should a student be interested in such a pursuit.
The real insight to weighing these factors lies in assessing one’s own needs and finding solutions to them. Many LCP students have done the same and have come to leverage the benefits of a private school, part time, without giving up their public school life. Online options also allow greater access to such academic privileges while getting around the constraint of scheduling and the ability to reach physical locations.
There is a clear differentiation from other students who passively follow systems without standing out. When one takes advantage of opportunities, it clearly communicates the initiative to take one’s own education into their own hands and own the process. Best of all, it allows a student to actually have their needs met and their choices respected, which is an important experience to have in one’s youth.