The choice of where to send your kids to school is one all parents have to make. It can be as simple as choosing a particular neighborhood in which to purchase your home. But the choice between a private or public school education can be especially difficult due to two important factors that often arise.
Cost is arguably the biggest issue. Here, public school is always the cheapest option. Private school tuition can run anywhere between $4,000 to well over $50,000. When the tuition fees are very high, parents must weigh the benefits against the financial sacrifices that will need to be made. Some will find the smaller class sizes, faith-based curricula or university preparation invaluable and others may not. It is also important to note that many private schools now have financial aid and scholarship programs. Susan Hazell, former executive director of the Canadian Association of Independent Schools says,”There’s been quite a shift in the thinking of these schools compared to 25 years ago. Now they are really keen to get the best students possible, from all demographics.” Read the rest of this entry »

