Charter schools are a really big thing here in Arizona. But from what I hear, it sounds like an exclusive environment with a lot of busy work. Is it? What's the big difference between public, private, and charter schools?
I grew up attending the same public school from kindergarten to graduation and I'd say I turned out relatively well education and somewhat normal. What can you expect to be different from a charter school?
Sara won't be starting kindergarten for a few years, but I want to make sure we are making the right decision. Any ideas??
Charter schools vary from each one. You need to ask them what their "Mission Statement" is and that will give you a good idea of what their focus is. Some charter schools focus on art, while others are strictly math and literacy, and some are science.
ReplyDelete*A critical difference between a charter school and public schools is that a "teacher" at a charter school does NOT have to have a certified teaching license to teach there. Although, some certified teachers do teach at charter schools.
Public schools also vary, but Challenger are very academically focused on math and literacy and not the arts. In my opinion, I would stay away from Challenger (they are very rigid on the only "one right answer" mind-frame).
But other private schools can be great.
You just have to find the right school based on your child's needs.
I hope that helps a little bit.
Erin
I have friends that have used public, private, and charter schools. Each has advantages and disadvantages and it really comes down to personal preference. The best way to discover what might work well is to visit the schools, ask to spend a day in the different classes, meet the teachers, learn their personal teaching philosophies, etc. If a school refuses to accommodate you on this point, I would be a bit worried unless they have a highly legitimate reason for not doing so.
ReplyDeletePersonally we are leaning toward a private school. We want our child to be challenged academically, but that is our preference.
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Jax is going to Franklin and that's where I taught for 5 years. It is a public magnet school. That means it has a different mission statement than a traditional public school, but is still governed and funded by the school district, has to have licensed teachers etc. It is hard work for both parent and child. If you want your child's work to stay at school, its not the place for you, but I love their values, rules, and accomplishments! I agree though that as long as the parent is very involved and helpful, most students can find success wherever they are at!
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