Recently we have gotten a lot of questions and requests to discuss the different types of private schools in California. Fear not, this blog post will be the ultimate guide to learning more about the various types of private schools!
Deciding and choosing the right school to attend is without a doubt already enough confusion, but add on the different types of schools that we can possibly attend. Here we have done the research for you and assembled the list below to make things easier.
Traditional Private School
Schools in America are categorized based on its funding; public schools accept funding from the government whereas private schools source their funding from anywhere else. As they do not receive funding from the federal, state, or local government, private schools are not limited to the school districts and zoning laws.
With a traditional private school, their education system is free to teach religious teachings or other curriculums that are not subjected to the state requirements. Private schools are not required to admit all students and generally expect comprehensive applications.
Boarding School
Boarding schools are traditional private schools, with the add-on that students also live on-campus. These are residential schools where learners and students from all around the states, or even countries, come to live and get educated all in one environment.
Since boarding schools have a residential feature, you can expect them to have greater diversity than a traditional private school. Students are presented with the opportunity to live in dormitories, identical to the college university experience.
Given students are living on-campus, boarding schools offer a variety of chances to participate in after-school extracurriculars and weekend occasions. As such, individuals that attend boarding school learn and grow more independent without their family and parents beside them - beneficial in helping high school students make the college transition more effortless.
Charter Schools
Charter schools are public schools that are free but operate independently. Some require an extensive application process similar to that of private schools (and often, spaces are limited). As such, some would say that they are an institutional hybrid.
Some charter schools are run through funding by the government, while others are managed through for-profit private companies. Those that are subsidized by the government are held liable to the charter that the government provides. Charter schools can cease to exist if mismanaged or if test scores are deemed inadequate.
Education at charter schools is considered challenging in comparison to the standard learning discipline. Some specialize in distinct areas of learning (i.e the arts, technology) and others cultivate the specific needs of gifted students, learners, or kids.
Montessori Schools
Montessori Schools follow Dr. Maria Montessori's teachings and philosophy. Such schools provide education only for students from elementary and middle schools (with the highest grade being eight).
Focused on providing hands-on learning, Montessori classrooms are designed to "meet the needs of children in a specific age range". With a Montessori education model, such crafted class environments led to higher knowledge and understanding of "language, mathematics, science, music, social interactions and much more".
To find out more, you can also visit: https://montessori-nw.org/what-is-montessori-education
Religious and Cultural Schools
Some parents prefer that their children attend and are educated at schools that are affiliated with religious beliefs. Private schools that are listed as a sectarian school identify with religions such as Roman Catholic, Christian, Baptist, Jewish, and more.
Incorporated into the curriculum of religious and cultural schools are teachings of the associated religion, alongside with the traditional educational program. Known for the values that religious schools instill in students, such schools additionally encourage participation in religious services, activities, and further learning opportunities.
Waldorf Schools
Founded in the early 20th century, Waldorf Schools teach education outlined by world-renowned artist and scientist - Rudolf Steiner.
Waldorf education places a heavy emphasis on "music, dance, and theater, writing, literature, legends, and myths". Students are expected to develop their "intellectual, emotional, physical and spiritual capacities".
Professors at Waldorf have the academic esteem from State Universities to Ivy League. The discipline fosters an environment of inclusivity and is dedicated to inspiring students to "life-long learning" and "[enabling] them to fully develop their unique capacities".
To find out more, you can also visit: https://www.waldorfeducation.org/waldorf-education/faqs-about-waldorf
