How to Know When You Should Switch to a Private School

One of the biggest decisions you make as a parent is deciding which school your teen will go to. There’s plenty of research, in-person visits, talks with staff, and maybe even talks with other parents at the school. After all, you’re dropping your teen off in a new place and you want to make sure they won’t only receive a quality education, but they’ll be taken care of as well.

As parents of teenagers with special needs, you know that finding the right school maybe even more difficult. You might have checked out a number of private and public schools in order to find the best fit and, in the sense of trying to give your teen the most “typical” experience, you opt for a public school.

While the choice might work out, there is a lot to consider before going with a public school for your teen. Today, we’re going to talk about some signs it might be time to switch to a private school.

Public Schools Often Don’t Have the Necessary Resources

This is not to say that public schools lack the ability to administer a proper education to students, but their resources are often stretched thin, and they might not have the ability to provide the proper resources for those students with special needs.

If you’re finding that your student’s needs are not being met, then it’s a clear sign that it’s time to switch schools. You don’t want your teen to lag behind in any area and not being able to access the right resources is a surefire way to set back their education and growth.

Extracurricular Programs or Clubs & Electives Don’t Fit Their Needs

We all know that going to school is more than just doing homework and trying to get straight A’s. It’s largely about personal growth outside the classroom via clubs, or in the classroom via electives. 

Public schools are often dependent on state or federal funding and many times when funding is cut, those creative or extracurricular programs are the first to go.

As you know, these creative and extra classes are a time for your teen to express themselves and learn many of life’s fundamental skills such as communication and empathy. Plus, even we have to admit, these programs are just more enjoyable than your average math class.

At PS Academy we offer over 20 clubs and electives such as Baking, Robotics, Girl Power, Music Class, and many more. Each year, our clubs and electives are updated according to student interest.

There is Lost Communication Between You and the Teacher

As we mentioned above, public schools often have their resources spread a bit too thin. This means that one teacher may be in charge of up to 35 students and may not be able to give each student the necessary attention that they need.

It’s no fault of the teacher, but it’s a challenge for anyone to give adequate attention to that many students over time. 

At a private school, class sizes are smaller and your teen will have more interaction with the teacher. Usually, there are also instructional assistants to support student learning. When teachers are not overwhelmed and have enough time for each student, that translates to better communication between you and the teacher and you’ll know that your teen is receiving the best attention and care possible.

Virtual Learning May Not be Adequate

We know, we know. It’s a word that all parents are probably sick of hearing (and maybe dreading). We agree that students thrive in school. Math and grammar are important, but so are interpersonal relationships.

But, virtual learning is going to be in our lives for the foreseeable future. 

It’s tough on students, but it’s also tough for parents. You have to take time out of your day, your work, to make sure they’re doing well. Virtual learning for students with special needs presents all kinds of challenges. 

Public schools just aren’t going to have the resources to take care of those students with special needs, especially virtually. It can be hard enough to get one-on-one time when school is in session, how will it improve virtually?

You Feel Your Teenager is Behind

No parent wants their teen to feel left out, but being behind can also be just as detrimental. If you feel your teen is behind at school, then that may be a clear sign they need to change.

It may be for a multitude of reasons; the material is too difficult, they’re not getting adequate time to complete projects, they’re not getting enough one on one time with teachers, or something else entirely. At a private school, there is going to be more support for your student.

Your Teenager Asks to Change

If you’re looking for a more clear sign, you won’t find one. If your teen has come to you a few times asking for a change, then it’s time to look into different schools.

All students can have a bad day at school, but if you notice this becoming a recurring issue then it might be time to look at other options.

What We’re Doing at PS Academy

We offer everything your teen needs, from small class sizes to an individualized education. We take pride in our extracurricular activities and programs, strongly valuing cohesion, and making sure your teen gets the education they deserve. 

We have funding specialists that are available to walk you through your options. We also have a respite and habilitation services partner which matches your student to a mentor or caregiver to help you out when needed, because we know that everyone needs a little help from time to time. 

Reach out to schedule a virtual tour or contact us. We look forward to hearing from you!

A Complete Guide to Free Tuition

When it comes to finding the right school for your student, we know there is a lot to consider. Not only do you want to find a place that your student will thrive, but you have to find a place that fits all the other criteria.

Like the programs they offer, the schedule, transportation, and of course, how to pay for school. In the state of Arizona, there are two primary sources for funding your student's education:

• The Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA)

• Student Tuition Organizations (STOs)

  Download our ESA & STOs guide and find out if your student qualifies for free tuition! In this guide, we cover:

• ESA vs STOs & how to apply

• Eligibility requirements

• For students with autism & other exceptionalities

• All of your questions about private school funding answered