Get Schooled

By MacArthur

December 10, 2008 9:33 AM | Link to this

When I see the videos and new stories regarding public school students in Clayton County and Southeast Gwinnett County schools, for example, it’s an easy choice for me. Yes, I struggle to pay the private school tuition, but I love my kids dearly, and there’s no way I’ll let them go to school with “that.”

By Leah

December 10, 2008 10:05 AM | Link to this

MacArthur - I understand completely what you’re attempting to say, but, understand that when “that” gets expelled from Southeast Gwinnett Public Schools, guess where they end up - at private school with your kids! After they’ve served their “sentence” there, they come back to wreak more havoc.

I know what I’m talking about - I’ve seen it done too many times.

By SallyB

December 10, 2008 10:42 AM | Link to this

Kids who “wreak” even a little havoc” will be out of private school in a flash! And with a history of havoc wreaking, would not be allowed in in the first place.

That is a major disadvantage for public schools and it makes a performance comparison invalid unless it is heavily weighted variable. Public schools must serve every student that knocks at the door and cannot permanently rid themselves of havoc wreakers …nor can the rid themselves of those students who will not or cannot perform academically.

In general, a teacher in private school is paid much less than a teacher in public school and receives many fewer benefits. Even so, we all know why a person would choose to be private school teacher.

I, as most retired teachers who have taught in public schools and have grandchildren in private schools, would make almost any sacrifice to help keep them there.

Who was it that said of teachers :

The first 10 years you teach, you think you can save the children. The second 10 years you teach, you think you can change the system. The third 10 years you teach, you just want to get the h-[[ out of there and hope your grandchildren go to private school !!

By ABC

December 10, 2008 10:52 AM | Link to this

SallyB

Don’t forget another group public schools seem to have difficult time get rid of — incompetent teachers and administrators. They are full of them.

By TheBlogger

December 10, 2008 11:47 AM | Link to this

ABC Groan! You have to be the first to post something idiotic and off topic. Private schools also have incompetent teachers. They are in private schools for many reasons - they cannot pass the tests to get their teacher certification, the private school cannot find anyone qualified to fill the position and so they need someone in front of the classroom, they are retired from public school and just want a little more income and could care less about teaching anymore, and so on.

By Kelly

December 10, 2008 11:49 AM | Link to this

Gwinnett schools shouldn’t even be mentioned with Clayton County. Clayton County makes Gwinnett County Schools seem like Harvard! Now, DeKalb on the other hand is a total disgrace. My kids have been scarred in that school system and I pray that I get a higher paying job to send them to a private school. DeKalb is next on the accredidation microscope. The classroom environment is chaos!!

By KLK

December 10, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this

Depending on what your needs are, private school may be good. But, I have met a few ding bats that teach at private schools, and have met a few losers that went to private schools. Private school is not perfect. We have our kids in East Cobb public schools are are very happy. The parents are involved and the school operates better than the private school I attended as a kid. My middle schooler said just the other day, “HTMS rocks”. We have a nice home and the property taxes we pay goes toward our home and schools. What we have in East Cobb is special and the community plans to keep it that way. Public school teaches your kids how to deal with the real world, b/c if your kid is not a trust fund baby with a fine tuned social network, he/she will have to deal with all kinds of folks when entering the real world. Private school is not the real world. There are great public schools out there and we happen to be part of a great system.

By TheBlogger

December 10, 2008 12:03 PM | Link to this

Everyone Please understand that paying to send your child to private school is your CHOICE. This chice is made from a variety of options such as…..

You are never “trapped” into paying for private school. It is a CHOICE that you make.

Not all public schools are “bad” - there are many superior ones out there.

By FultonTeacher

December 10, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this

A teacher’s perspective:

First, not all private schools are equal. I’ve worked at a few private schools and I must admit that I wasn’t impressed enough to send my kids to any of them. Parents, make sure you research the school. If the school doesn’t have some sort of testing in place and recommendations for admission, I would think long and hard before sending my child there. That usually means that they will take whatever public school has put on the street!

Now that special education vouchers are accepted at most private schools, I would again double check to make sure that the school you choose doesn’t accept a bunch of special ed kids unless they specialize in that area. Of course there are schools like Woodward (just to name one) that offer special ed classes, but you must check. If not, you may find your little darling in a class full of students working below level. I’ve witnessed it.

I’ve done both public and private for my kids, but I did my research. There are pros and cons to each. Just do the research and know what you’re paying for. Don’t trust what they tell you! Check it out for yourself!

By GaNative

December 10, 2008 12:23 PM | Link to this

I’m sure today’s economy plays a big part of your child’s education. Although mine are out of high school it played a major part in my decision making even though times were not bad then. It was a sacrifice sending my 4 kids to private school, but I’m so glad I did. I sent my kids to private school to get a good foundation on learning and study habits. They went to private schools up through the 6th grade, afterwards, we enrolled them in the public school system where they excelled.

By FultonTeacher

December 10, 2008 12:25 PM | Link to this

The Blogger you are so right! Many teachers in private school can’t pass the certification test and teach in private school because of it. Again, parents must do their research! Certification doesn’t guarantee the quality teacher that you’ll get, but at least you know they know their content area.

By Mike D

December 10, 2008 12:28 PM | Link to this

Private schools are so far ahead of public schools in everyway. If you live in a good public school district, maybe you can decide to send your kids to public schools; however, if you live in Clayton, Dekalb, or South Fulton or Gwinette counties, you might as well send your kid to Haiti for an education.

By Private Mommy

December 10, 2008 12:29 PM | Link to this

I am sacrificing a lot to send my son to private school and will continue to do so as long as he stays on the right track. There are situations and people that he has not come across in private school, that friends of mine whose children attend public school have come across. The distractions of those children that wreak havoc is non-existent at my son’s school. He has been in private school since Pre-K and I sacrifice getting a new car (I have a 15 year old Nissan Sentra) among other things so he’ll have the best opportunity I can give him. He’s now in high school (9th grade) and doing well.

By Anon1

December 10, 2008 12:38 PM | Link to this

I have my school-aged child at a private school (in kindergarten). We are generally happy with the school. However, I don’t think my child’s experience there is necessarily better than it would be at a high-performing public school. And it costs what a lot of colleges cost! We are very seriously considering moving to East Cobb to enroll in the public schools. Home prices are more there, but taking into account the cost of tuition, the increased cost of a comparable house is paid off quickly (like 1-2 years, and that is with only one child in private school). And I’d rather live in a smaller house to be in a good school zone than pay tuition (and soon multiple tuitions) every year.

By Goldfish

December 10, 2008 12:40 PM | Link to this

The thought of pulling ours out makes my heart sink.We will be eating a lot of mac and cheese to keep it going next year.

By SouthFultonMom

December 10, 2008 12:47 PM | Link to this

Sorry Mike D but my kids attend South Fulton schools and are doing great! My son’s elementary has received many awards and students score well above the national norm on standardized tests. Randolph Elementary is awesome and so are the teachers. Don’t lump us all together. We’ve ALWAYS made the precious AYP. ALWAYS!

By Cobb mom

December 10, 2008 12:54 PM | Link to this

Both of my children are enrolled in a private Christian school that we dearly love. My husband was recently laid off, we hope that we can keep them their for the rest of this school year. Their $2000 monthly tuition isn’t in next year’s budget.

By Single Mom

December 10, 2008 12:54 PM | Link to this

As I sit here at lunch time eating my soup and tuna sandwhich, I must respond. I bring my lunch EVERY DAY to send my seven year old to private school. I drive a ten year old car so that I can afford private school.

She has been there since Kindergarten and I CHOSE a Christian school because those are the values that I want my child to be surrounded by. The school is small and I try my best to participate along with all the other parents in order to keep the costs low.

It is a choice, but that is the basis of this country.

I make the sacrifice necessay, because I think the rewards and my child are worth it.

By Bob Eubanks

December 10, 2008 12:58 PM | Link to this

I take the money I was spending on private school and now home school and travel 3 days a month to various places for field trips. Works great for us.

By time will tell

December 10, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this

Good topic.

I think time will tell. I do know that at my son’s private school there are families who will be leaving Atlanta to find jobs — so those spaces will be available. Will they fill? That is the question (right now the school is full).

I know that many public school administrators at the secondary level have been getting phone calls about next year. I expect the same is true at the elementary level.

One of the best kept secrets is that at some private schools over half the families are receiving some assistance from grandparents to have the children enrolled there. Given the huge hit, many portfolios have taken, this is a “gift” that may have to end. I know several families that are returning to public school because of this.

By Laura

December 10, 2008 1:00 PM | Link to this

I live in West Cobb and heard the public school system in our area is horrible. We will be sending our son to private school in 2 years for Kindergarten. Any recommendations for private schools in our area? We plan to cut back on all expenses to make sure we can afford it.

By GaNative

December 10, 2008 1:04 PM | Link to this

One of the things I noticed besides the tuition between private and public schools is it seems like private schools do more classroom teaching and require more classroom participation from the kids. My kids were never overloaded with homework because they taught them at school. When they came home, all they did was review what was taught most times. Once they went to public schools it was homework every night as if they had no other life. Thanks to the private schools my kids are heavily into reading books in their spare time. My son does not even have a TV in his home. My daughter has a tv but she uses rabbit ears (no cable) and this February she will be without TV as it goes digital.

By Pam

December 10, 2008 1:05 PM | Link to this

I have been a private school teacher and administrator for many years. I believe there are many good public schools out there and many great public school teachers. Each parent must do for their own child what is best for that particular child.I believe every school is not for every child.I feel for the good students who are zoned for poor public schools. We should do better by them!

By GaNative

December 10, 2008 1:09 PM | Link to this

One of the things I hated about private schools was the fact that they would really get into your private family matters by questioning the young kids. For example, I sent my kids to private christian school and they taught the kids that drinking was a sin. So some days the teacher would ask who needs prayer and of course my little darling would say “pray for my daddy cuz he drinks beer”. My little one even asked my wife one day at the dinner table while I was having dinner with a glass of wine “why does daddy displease God”. Now that she’s grown guess who has a wine cellar in their house?

By James H

December 10, 2008 1:10 PM | Link to this

I send my boys to private school. It hurts the wallet, make no mistake (and not all of us can afford to live in EAST Cobb). Most of the points stated in this blog are somewhat valid. I made my decision based on a few things. 1.) There is NO accountability for students in public School, which creates havoc in the classroom. 2.) I live in GEORGIA….Have you seen where our schools rank in the Country?!? Something is fundamentally flawed with the system and I for one am not willing to sacrifice my sons’ education while they “fix” it. 3.) A BIBLE in the classroom creates a problem while a Koran is no big deal. 4.)The tiny private school that my kids attend had 8 graduating Seniors last year….all went on to college and between them all received over 750 thousand dollars in scholarships offered. Seems to me that I am not the only one who believes in private school! ONe more thing in reference to Mr. “Real World”. I send my kids to a Christian school not to shelter them from the “real world” but rather to prepare them for it.

By jim d

December 10, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this

GaNative,

Don’t fool yourself, public schools delve into family life as well, it isn’t a private vs. public issue

By LeeLee

December 10, 2008 1:32 PM | Link to this

We send out daughter to private school because we want the best for her. We really don’t see the money because we put her in school right after daycare. It’s really about the same amount for us. The only problem is having another kid. Then we will really feel the pinch.

By E

December 10, 2008 1:35 PM | Link to this

My wife use to teach for Gwinnett County schools (High School), but due to a job move for me now teaches at a private school. She was really excited to teach at private school until she discovered that A) Special needs children were placed in the same class as students who qualified for AP, B) She had a Masters Degree, but the other teacher who taught English with her didn’t even have a teaching certificate and C) The kids were actually worse behaved than those in Gwinnett Public Schools. To top that all off with a 30K pay cut, she can’t wait to get back to teaching Public school. (Note: The private school is not in Georgia)

By art

December 10, 2008 1:44 PM | Link to this

The public school system in Georgia is one of the worst in the country, headed by not only a financially bankrupt superintendent but a morally bankrupt one as well. The public “educators” in Georgia should ALL be ashamed of themselves for the poor job they do, even when they think they are doing well. In fact, they should all be indicted as the criminals they are for stealing tax money to perform so far below national standards.

As for the private schools in Georgia, if you have children, they will be condemned to a pitiful education whether in public or private schools. Just move to a better state.

This state and its leaders hate children. They basically want you sheeple to procreate some service workers for McDonalds and the state’s trailer parks—their measure of excellence. In this state, a high school diploma is considered the equivalent of the Nobel Prize. Even college diplomas (public AND private) from this state are worthless.

The only thing this state is good for is setting up a business to take advantage of all the stupid people willing to fork over their cash for anything. My business is the only reason I live here.

It is Social Darwinism at its best to take advantage of the poorly educated people of this pathetic state.

By Sammy

December 10, 2008 1:50 PM | Link to this

And Art, what have you done to try to change this? Is complaining your specialty?

By Really you all are WRONG

December 10, 2008 1:53 PM | Link to this

I teach at a private school in Atlanta and I would NEVER teach at a public school. I make as much, if not more than public school teachers and I actually am allowed to make my own lesson plan. I do have a masters degree, which my school paid for, and am currently working on another one. How many teachers in public school have multiple masters degrees? I think if you can afford to send your children to private schools you should.

By Answer to Sammy

December 10, 2008 2:06 PM | Link to this

Why would I want to change the fact that education—public and private—in this state sucks? I make money off of stupid people. The more, the better.

Furthermore, I’m not complaining like most on this blog, just stating facts. I really don’t care about the schools other than my tax money being wasted. My kids were educated in Manhattan. If you want your children to have better schools, the answer is simple: MOVE.

By Kristen

December 10, 2008 2:09 PM | Link to this

My son is in his second year of Montessori school and I dread the thought of having to send him to public school next year for kindergarten. Both of my parents work for the county school system they live in and when I suggested the possibility of moving him they both emphatically said “DON’T DO IT!”

I am a young, single mother, and when I say his monthly tuition depletes nearly half of the income I bring home, that is no exaggeration. With that being said, I knew what I was getting into when I enrolled him and continued to commit him to the school. I will do anything in my power to keep him in not just private, but specifically Montessori school.

What 4-year old in a public school pre-k can tell you the states and countries and continents, read, name the planets, inform you of nocturnal animals, down to the basics of zipping and hanging their own coat, pouring their own drinks (which are activities that most parents do for their own kids until they’re about 15, right?), and the list goes on and on…and on.

Sure, there ARE decent public schools. I went to them my whole life and cannot say I didn’t learn some things. But in reality, parents who are concerned enough about their children’s education to pay for it will obviously rub off on their children-creating students who are excited about learning. Now that’s the kind of environment I want my child in.

By Rob Smith

December 10, 2008 2:21 PM | Link to this

* The Gwinnett County School Board, is holding a hearing to allow themselves to not follow State Educational Mandates/Laws for 5 years, such as (ex:Teacher Pay and Class Sizes). The hearing concerning this is this Thursday at 6:30 PM. At GCPS Headquarters in Suwanee.. Please plan on attending, and testifying ! You might not regret paying for Private School after all!

The Gwinnett County Board of Education will hold a public hearing on its proposed “IE2 Partnership Contract for Improving Student Achievement” with the Georgia Board of Education. The IE2 (Investing in Educational Excellence) contract would allow the school system to receive flexibility for its schools from specified state statutes and/or rules in exchange for greater accountability for student achievement. The hearing will be held on Thursday, December 11, 2008, at 6:30 p.m. in the Board Room at Gwinnett County Public Schools’ Instructional Support Center, 437 Old Peachtree Road, NW, Suwanee, GA.

This is a hearing on the possible use of video so a HIGHLY QUALIFIED teacher can teach multiple rooms full of students, elementary teachers will lose lunch break and many other things. The link on the GCPS website makes it all sound GREAT. I seem to remember that the GC Waste Management Plan sounded pretty good at first glance too.

By V for Vendetta

December 10, 2008 2:22 PM | Link to this

James H: Based on your reaction to a Koran, it sounds like “sheltering him” is exactly what you’re doing.

Art: I, too, believe in Social Darwinism. You are proof of it.

Really: You’d be surprised how many teachers at my public school have multiple Graduate level degrees. In fact, there are more teachers here with PhDs than anything else.

Look, it’s a CHOICE, and that choice it up to you. As a parent, it’s your responsibility to do what’s right for your kids’ education. However, to make blanket statements about public and/or private schools, and then pass them off as “facts,” is just naive and ignorant. Both have their upsides, and we’ve all seen good and bad examples of students at each. I have a lot of complaints with the public schools where I live, but, at the end of the day, I would still choose them over the private schools. I have a lot of friends who teach at both, so my decision is based primarily on fact and useful anecdotal evidence.

By MamaS

December 10, 2008 2:25 PM | Link to this

I taught in public schools in Newton, Henry and Clayton for 30 years. I put both my daughters in private Christian Schools from K-3 until graduation. I am now paying for my grandson and granddaughter to go to a private Christian School. It is not about the teachers — there are excellent teachers in the public schools. It is not about the curriculum — reading, writing, spelling and math aren’t much different in public or private. It IS about the other students in the class and the friends they will make. I want them to make friends with children from homes that I would not be afraid to have them visit. Not gangbangers, kids with their own probation officers, drug sellers and users, and kids from broken and dysfunctional families. They can learn to deal with that when they are adults.

By kitty

December 10, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this

Art —

Go to Helena - or any other city as far away from here as possible. No native Georgian wants you — and… I wish I knew what your business is — or probably was, in today’s economy. It would certaily be avoided by me and mine!!!!! Kitty

By Thomas

December 10, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this

If you can possibly do it, why wouldn’t you send your kid(s) to private school? I know there are issues in private school, but the issues are worse in government (public) schools. My daughter is already a year ahead of her public school peers in terms of math and reading. Plus, she doesn’t have to worry about keeping up with the latest fashions because she has to wear a uniform. The less distractions the better opportunity for learning.

By kip

December 10, 2008 2:32 PM | Link to this

Whenever possible, giving your children access to extraordinary education is one of the single most important things a parent is OBLIGATED to do. Parents should research, research, research educational choices and decide on what school best fits the specific personality of their kids and then do what they can to send them there. This isn’t a matter of whether we can afford to do this. In my household with the City of Atlanta schools we cannot afford not to.

By Leah

December 10, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this

Really you all are WRONG - I don’t have multiple Masters, but, I do have 2 BS degrees, 1 Masters, 1 Ed.S. and am working on my Ph.D. And I doubt very seriously that you make as much money as do I!

What’s your point?

By lring

December 10, 2008 2:42 PM | Link to this

We will continue to send our son to private school. I never could understand how you put a child into a certain public school because that is where you live… What? one size fits all? It is not a geography thing! My son fits in better at a private/independent school, so that is where he goes. His teachers greet him with a smile and a hug (yes, they can touch him!) everyday. They enjoy teaching, you can see it in their faces and in the everyday class environment. There is no government red tape, there are no crazy rules like no touching, no avoiding the word God, or Christmas. We even have windows that open! Imagine that! They teach my child to be independent and responsible and BEST of all, they teach him responsibility for his actions. A lot of public schools play the blame game so no one is setting the example for that. My son has had teachers teach him that do not have a teaching degree, they have been some of the best teachers he has had! Don’t we all have something to learn from everyone else? Teaching degree or not, I want someone who knows what they are talking about (most of these people have Masters in their field) and are passionate.
Yes, I’ll continue for as long as we can!

By PRJ25

December 10, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this

My son currently attends a private, Christian school in East Cobb. If I lost my job or we decided that we could not afford to send him there anymore, the public school is not a bad option. That is the good thing about the “EC”…. public schools are actually pretty good relative to some of the other schools in metro Atlanta. With that said, we will cut our cable, eat rice and beans, and drive clunker cars if that is what it takes to keep our son in private school.

By Lana

December 10, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this

My experience as a public school teacher is that the children we get from private schools are so far behind where we are. Why is that? I’m not trying to start an augument; I’m really curious.

And, my own child attends an excellent public school, and I wouldn’t think of taking him out unless there were extenuating circumstances. I do my job as a mother and my husband does his as a father, so, we didn’t depend on his teachers teaching him how to pour his drink, and hang up his jacket! That’s a lot of money to spend for someone who might not even be certified to teach your child something that you should’ve done at home!

By Casey

December 10, 2008 2:47 PM | Link to this

I agree with the earlier message that public schools are at a disadvantage when it comes to problem kids and problem teachers. It is much harder for public schools to rid themselves of these two elements. Most good private schools will not tolerate bad performance from either student or teacher for a very long time.

By jim d

December 10, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this

SallyB,

Perhaps when bashing students we should recall the fifteenth of May in the Jungle of Nool when Horton is quoted “a person’s a person, no matter how small”

By Pamela

December 10, 2008 2:52 PM | Link to this

Every Parent love their child, however everyone can not afford to put their children in private school. Just because a parent put their child in private school does not mean they love their children more than parents who can not afford to do so.
Private schools are O.K. I went to both private and public and honestly - on the outside of Religion class - there really isn’t a difference.

Children that are in private school also fight and carry on like children that are in public school. Children in private school do get pregnant - they do have aboritions - they do have bullies - and they do have the same problems children in public schools have. The only difference is when it happens in a private school it isn’t broadcasted all over that town, city or state. It just stays within the ‘private school’ community.

Private schools in the Atlanta area are way too high and it’s a rip off. It doesn’t make any sense to put a child in private school and let’s say rent an apartment! That is crazy! You are sending out the wrong message to your child(ren). You are telling them it’s O.K. to continue to make a landlord rich - eventhough you have absolutely no idea from day to day if you will still have a place to live - due to the fact that eventhough you may or may not pay your rent that your landlord could be in foreclosure and then you and your child that you are spending an arm, leg, stomach and other body parts just to keep them in private schools - could end up on the street homeless because you decided to keep your child in private school and NOT become a homeowner…then that’s your choice.

This economy isn’t affecting everyone in the same way. Some people are home owners that do have their children in private schools then that’s a positive message.

What it boils down to is it really doesn’t matter if your child is in private school or public school. If a child want to learn they will in either surrounding.

Just please don’t keep your children in private schools if your really can’t afford it just to keep up with the “Joneses”. That’s crazy and it will not do any good to anybody ESPECIALLY your child(ren).

Just be smart about it.

By Kristen

December 10, 2008 2:53 PM | Link to this

To Lana- I did not and do not depend on his teachers to teach him how to hang his coat-I depend on them to REINFORCE practicing those things. That is one of the areas of curriculum-Practical Living. Considering most children spend more time at school than at home, that’s a pretty important area to concentrate on, don’t you think?

Honestly, spending that kind of money to teach them to pour a drink? How ignorant. It’s the fact that they teach the children aspects of everyday life, about being independant and confident to do things on their own-that’s what I’m paying for.

By jim d

December 10, 2008 3:08 PM | Link to this

The choice is a personal one that should be entirely up to the each family.

Mine attended a private school for a few years and then went back to public school after a good amonut of discussion within our home.

Some here may ask why. Let me tell you the deciding factor in our decission. To be sucessful in life we must learn to deal with people from all walks of life and from varying social economic levels.(an education in itself)

Can that lesson be obtained from a private school? Highly unlikely. So what better training ground than in our public schools?

It was certainly an eye opener for my child. One that I’m certain will take him a long way.

Was either school better than the other? NO, just different. A child will walk away from a school with a knowledge proportional to the effort they put into learning. Nothing more—nothing less.

By Libby

December 10, 2008 3:27 PM | Link to this

My son attends a Gwinnett County School. We never planned on the housing market to nose dive like it did, but now we’re stuck. IT HAS BEEN HORRIBLE from the first. The school is located closest to Dekalb County line, so the kids that get expelled from Dekalb end up at this school. Gangs wander the halls….I’ve seen a dope deal happen before my very eyes while dropping my kid off at 7am! I drop him off because of the happenings on the school bus! Public school has been a horrible experience for us and we feel like prisoners because we’ve got absolutely no choice in the matter.

By Teacher

December 10, 2008 3:32 PM | Link to this

The bottom line is that a child’s school is only part of the overall learning process. Most overachieving students have parents who are very involved and who ensure that the concepts learned in school are practiced and studied at home and during the summer months when school is out.

However, it it each parent’s personal decision whether their child would learn better in a private school or not. Cost should not be an issue because most good parents would/could cut their lifestyle to the bone if they felt private school was in their child’s best interest.

By Ex Teacher

December 10, 2008 4:02 PM | Link to this

Whether you send a child to public or private school, the most impressionable years are before they begin school. It is the responsibility of parents to prepare the child for the path, not the path for the child.

By SallyB

December 10, 2008 4:03 PM | Link to this

Hello,jimd!! Horton is one of my favorites. Just not sure I get the reference to my post. You know, jimd, there are students who will do well no matter where they land. I’ll be willing to bet that your child is one of those. I think, also, that a foundation in private school probably was very significant in his later success. I get your reasoning about public schools being a great training ground for real life, and I agree, in general. I just am a little skeptical that an elementary age child is ready to make decisions and judgements required to successfully navigate successfully in some public schools

By nypeach

December 10, 2008 4:16 PM | Link to this

as a single parent, I put my daughter through private school until she was accepted at Kittredge magnet in DeKalb. What she got from private school is a more global perspective, ie, she learned about different countries and cultures at a very young age. It was tough going for a very long time, i mean peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, no cable, catch a matinee once every three months or so, and lots of meatless meals. But it was worth the sacrifice because I was disappointed in the low level of expectations set at public schools and in the way some students were so unruly. SHe has thrived in DeKalb’s high achievers program, but now that we are moving to Henry County I am reconsidering private school. My only problem with private school is having to deal with parents who assume certain things about my daughter since we are one of “that” as so eloquently stated by the first poster. Bigotry is a live and well in some private schools and that’s something I don’t want to support with my hard-earned dollars.

By nypeach

December 10, 2008 4:28 PM | Link to this

MacArthur, my family and I can be lumped into the “that” category that you so eloquently posted about. We are college educated and have paid for our daughter to attend private school. she’s now in public school in a high achievers magnet program and doing quite well. Since we’ll be moving we will probably have to revisit the private school option. But the one thing that I hate about private schools is the bigotry of the parents and the stupid stereotypes they teach their children to make about those of us who are of the “that” persuasion. Coded though it may be, your message, and that of many parents with children in private schools, comes out loud and clear.

By jim d

December 10, 2008 4:30 PM | Link to this

back attcha sally b,

Thanks,He is doing well. I attribute all of his success to a few excellent teachers,(public & private) a great church support group, Boy Scouts, his mother and a personal driving obsession with being the best at whatever he undertook. I claim no credit :)

actually dear, be more concerned for those in middle school than in ES.

ES schools rather encourage parental involvement where MS would prefer we go away. And that sweetheart is when the problems start. We pulled ours from Public school for the last two years of ES and sent him back 3 years later after an in length family discussion in which he was an intergal part of the decision.

And YES Horton’s a hoot.

By John

December 10, 2008 4:39 PM | Link to this

I will do whatever I can in my power to keep my kids out of government run schools.

By Nicole

December 10, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this

It amazes me how much people are influenced by the media and make absolute statements based on such. My son attends third grade in a Clayton County Public School. He is not a thug, gang member or comes from a dysfunctional home. He was reading before he started school. His test scores are in the 99th percentile nationally. He has a great teacher that challenges him. I as his mother have a Master’s Degree. I do understand that there are bad schools, but they are everywhere. To make a blanket statement about an entire school system, including every teacher and every student is ridiculous.

I think that private school choice is very individual. If there comes a point where his school is not meeting his needs academically and socially, I will make that decision, but as for now, my son goes to a great school with a wonderful certified teacher.

By Lana

December 10, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this

Kristen - I was merely responding to the examples used as a reason for choosing private school over public. If anyone is ignorant - it’s you. I-N-D-E-P-E-N-D-E-N-T. Hopefully the private school “reinforces” the spelling you’re teaching your children as well as coat-hanging and drink pouring!

By BlondeHoney

December 10, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this

Like GaNative, my two boys attended private school until the 6th & 7th grades respectively, when then requested to change to public school. I got them into magnet programs in both middle and high schools, and due to the good study habits they learned and the controlled environment they enjoyed in their private school, they excelled in their public schools. In fact, my youngest graduated 50th in his class of over 500 with an IB diploma, and is set to graduate FSU in the spring with his degree in chemical engineering and as an officer in the Navy’s nuclear power program. Bottom line is that there are excellent private AND public schools and as many posters have noted, do your homework on your children’s schools and be involved.

By HenryCo

December 10, 2008 4:46 PM | Link to this

My son attended Henry County public schools until the 4th grade. It was then that I noticed he lacked BASIC educational skills that he should know. He could not do multiplication, dare not speak about division. He couldn’t even write in cursive. I was truly upset and even more because his reports always showed A or B’s. He even told me that he once asked his teacher for help and she told him to use his resources!! What is she!!!! Well I pulled him out of this school about two months ago and placed him in a private school and he is now doing exceptionally well. I will make all the sacrifices in the world to help him further his education. The results really do speak for themselves.

By jim d

December 10, 2008 4:53 PM | Link to this

BlondeHoney

Kudo’s to your son. A military career is quite a choice. I’m sure you are proud.

WTG MOM

By BlondeHoney

December 10, 2008 4:53 PM | Link to this

One other thing I forgot to mention; the schools my boys attended are in South Florida, and n fact the high school they attended, Coral Reef Senior, is consistently rated in the top 30 high schools in the country annually by Newsweek magazine. I do believe that in general, Florida has a far better public school system then Georgia.

By The Truth

December 10, 2008 4:56 PM | Link to this

Parents with children in private schools deserve a tax break equal to the per-student average the assigned public school spends.

It is unfortunate that Democrat and union controlled schools fail students—but not giving these parents the deserved tax break adds insult to injury.

That public schools fail students, one need only examine the Chicago public schools (yes, the city that produced Governor Blago and President Select Obama) and learn that the majority of Chicago public school teachers send their children to private schools.

Sending children to Atlanta Public Schools should be considered child abuse.

Have a “goot” day.

By Observer

December 10, 2008 5:00 PM | Link to this

On one hand, I feel that the private vs. public thing may depend on the household and area. On the other hand, I will say that it seems like parents have gotten more lazy over the years and actually expect teachers and/or schools to instill values and discipline that should have already been established in the home.

If you handle your business and instill values and ethics in your children on the front end (i.e. not waiting until they mess up first), then they will turn out fine whether they are in the best private school or the worst public school.

By Reality Check

December 10, 2008 5:03 PM | Link to this

Henryco @4:46

Why did you not teach your child to write in cursive or to do multiplication and division? At what poit are parents responsible for the education of their chidren?

By BlondeHoney

December 10, 2008 5:09 PM | Link to this

Thank you jim d SO much…yes i am VERY proud of my boy :)

By EX-Cobber

December 10, 2008 5:24 PM | Link to this

We sacrifice A LOT (and we get partial fin. aid) to send our son to private school. He’s only in Kindergarten but he LOVES it and I see a huge difference verses most public schools! I went to public schools in Cobb and never even thought about the option of private schools until now. We live in a different city/state with not so good public schools so we felt we didn’t have too many options. I will say that depending on the tier of private school, there is a HUGE difference. But, I think if you can find or live in a great area with good public schools and great parent support, that is wonderful and go for it, but if not, sacrifice as much possible to provide a great school environment for your child. I know in the long run it will be well worth it! Look at our President-elect. His family sacrificed for him to attend great school and had they not, he may not have been afforded some of the same opportunities.

By atlmom

December 10, 2008 5:30 PM | Link to this

My child is in APS. One of the best schools out there. It builds community, as he walks to school every day, and we see our neighbors, walking with us, and it is great. He is learning so much there, I’m not sure I’ll be able to keep up with him in second grade. I am incredibly impressed by the school, the administrators and the teachers.

It is entirely a private decision to send your child to one school or another, and if you have the resources, that’s great. I think I could use that money in better ways (i.e., living in an area with excellent public schools - so my house cost a lot and my taxes are high). I was floored in college when I met someone (one of 10 kids) who said she and her brothers and sisters all went to private school (k-12) but her parents didn’t pay for anything for them for college (most of them didn’t go). Personally, any money that I might spend on private school - I would think is better kept for my kids for college - or as an inheritance of some sort. I can teach them all sorts of stuff, and we do. It’s not just drop them off and have it be someone else’s problem. My husband and I teach our children every day. And we’re there to teach every day.

By MacArthur

December 10, 2008 6:16 PM | Link to this

NYPeach, please, you misunderstood. You obviously are a caring, devoted, responsible parent, and raising your child to be the same. You are NOT “that.” By “that,” I mean those feral kids (of whatever demographic) who terrorize schools. Yes, there tend to be correlations between “that” and certain parts of the metro area, but of course, that will never be strictly true, as all people are individuals. If you took my statement otherwise, my apologies.

Seriously, we have become a nation increasingly divided NOT by race, but by values. And, it seems, those of us who try to make responsible decisions in our lives are rapidly becoming a minority.

By CS3

December 10, 2008 7:11 PM | Link to this

Private schools are so far ahead of public schools in everyway. If you live in a good public school district, maybe you can decide to send your kids to public schools; however, if you live in Clayton, Dekalb, or South Fulton or Gwinette counties, you might as well send your kid to France or Ireland for an education.

By reality check

December 10, 2008 7:13 PM | Link to this

As I’ve read through these comments, I find it funny that some of you seem to think that just b/c you send your child to a private school, your kids are surrounded by “good kids’” who serve as “good influences”. After talking with one of my friends who attended an exclusive Atlanta private school for grades K-12, she informed me of how much of a myth this is. All of the bad things you think only occur in public schools also occurred at her school (sex, drugs, etc.) She witnessed more drug deals in her hallways on a daily basis than I ever did at my public high school. She says that every drug imaginable was sold by her classmates. Instead of a teenage pregnancy problem, the girls just had abortions. I don’t know why people think that just b/c a child’s parents pay for their education, it somehow makes that child “better”. My friend now works in a public high school and says that she thinks the education she received is no better than the one students at her high school get.

By Melody

December 10, 2008 7:19 PM | Link to this

To the Blogger Kelly. Gwinnett is not a Havard compare to Clayton. My son Attends high school and Gwinnett, and he tells me abouth the gangs at his school and how many times they have approached him and he also tell me all the other things that goes own at his school, drug, sex and etc. And iam afraid for him. I moved here from Silversprings, Maryland, and i was told that Gwinnett Schools was o.k., but compared to what?? other School in Georgia. Georgia schools are behind compare to Schools in Maryland. This is my son last year attending public schools in Georgia. Private or iam sending him back to Silversprings to finish public schools there, I dont want him to get further behind.

By Sorry

December 10, 2008 7:27 PM | Link to this

I agreed with Reality Check!! And you are so right about Private Schools. I know!! I went to one. Because you are paying dosent mean you are getting a better education. I went to some wild parties attending private schools and the things that went own at school will make you head spins. So becareful chosing a schools. Because the uniforms are pretty and you have to pay alot dont mean nothing. Just alot of smoke and mirrors.

By Jeff in Roswell

December 10, 2008 7:29 PM | Link to this

Sending your child to private school is an elitist thing here in the Atlanta Metro. Parents think they are getting their children a better education. It’s like the placebo pill. These are the same idiots that buy a Lexus model that is the same exact car as the top of the line Toyota - but cost at the minimum $5 grand more. Where I grew up, private schooling was for kids that needed extra help.

By Crazy

December 10, 2008 7:33 PM | Link to this

IF YOU LIVE IN GEORGIA!! If you can, send your kids to private school!!

By Tater

December 10, 2008 7:39 PM | Link to this

Avoid public schools at all cost.

The bigotry of low expectations instilled there infect even naturally brilliant kids. Low self esteem cripples the bst and the brighest in the public system.

Private schools instill a healthy ego such that even kids with mediocre intelligence are driven to excel. Maybe private school grads graduate with over inflated confidence—but that will carry them far.

By Private school grad

December 10, 2008 7:51 PM | Link to this

Jeff - you’re clueless…

I graduated from a private school in Atlanta and we are getting a better education. I didn’t have to put up with the nonsense that occurs in government schools nor did my teachers. Out of my graduating class, over 30 attended Ivy League colleges. I’d like to see how many schools in Georgia could boast that. I could count on one hand the number that matriculated from the school I was destined for had I attend public high school.

Also, some of us do drive Toyotas…I have a Tundra; but then again who really cares?

By NY

December 10, 2008 7:59 PM | Link to this

I am from Up State NY, and i use to complain about the Schools System there, but Compared to Georgia, its like night and day. The Schools here need some HELP!!

By Cindy

December 10, 2008 8:08 PM | Link to this

I pulled my daughter out of public school because she bowed her head to pray during the ‘moment of quiet reflection’ and the other kids laughed at her. And the language she was coming home with….ugh!! I work 2 jobs just to send her to private school and will continue to do so as long as the Lord provides.

By Kristen

December 10, 2008 8:11 PM | Link to this

Wow! A mistake! Ignorant for misspelling a word? What can I say? I went to public school. Now you see why I’m sending him to a private school?

To some of the other points mentioned by others concerning children’s behavior at public vs. private schools, I’ll vouch for there being “problem children” at my son’s school. Of course there are going to be spoiled kids, loud kids, unattentive kids, etc everywhere. My child has had his fair share of issues, which is normal for all children. But in general, there just seems to be more of a desire, fondness, and appreciation for learning as a whole.

On that note, in no way do I feel elite for sending him to a private school. I’m poor and do not try to act otherwise. I simply refuse to send my child to the public schools in my county.

By Elliot Garcia

December 10, 2008 8:12 PM | Link to this

Fulton Teacher,

You were not impressed enough to send your own kids there because you couldn’t afford it….don’t kid yourself…

By Grateful

December 10, 2008 8:21 PM | Link to this

I went to public shools. My schools was not that great, My family was consider lowerclass, my neighborhood was not the best, my mother was a single parent, but in my household, education was first. My mother was a strong single parent, we didnt have a lot of useless material things. A bad grade was not an option in my household. I was an honor student and i recieved a full Academic Scholarship to the College of Charleston. Dont leave it up to the public or pivates schools to give your Child a education, it up to you and what you do in your household. Turn off the TV and get rid of those Video Games and put family first.

By Lee

December 10, 2008 8:24 PM | Link to this

My daughter only has one more year, so the question of whether or not to put her back in public is not an issue - she’s going private.

Probably the biggest impact this recession would have on the public vs private debate would be in the case someone is contemplating moving their child to private out of public.

If you have experienced the process of moving your child from a not-worth-a-crap-public to a top notch private, you would walk through Hell with a nail in your foot before you would ever send them back.

But, the biggest question is not how to pay for private school, the biggest question is “Why can’t public schools fix the crap that compells many to opt for private?”

Oh yeah, they’re government. I forgot.

By DoWhatsRightForYou

December 10, 2008 8:24 PM | Link to this

In the end, I do respect the fact that you need to do what works for you and your family. Also, I do believe that if a parent cares enough, a kid can do well almost anywhere!

However, with the exception of one year of public school kindergarten, my children have been educated in private schools (they are now in 5th and 9th grade). The one year of public school kindergarten was enough to convince me that it was not a place that would reinforce my families values. The event that took me over to the Private school side was when a beatiful little girl waltzed into class and declared “I got myself a new daddy!” (verbatim) Like they are interchangeable!!! I felt so sorry for her, but knew this was not the peer group from which I wanted my kids to choose their friends. The schools my children attend teach all the same subjects the public schools do (with the exception of religion,ethics and morals!), but they can also reinforce the religious concepts that underpin the values and morals of our family. While the Public School teacher was decent there were so many negatives…to name a few… chaotic environment, unruly and undisciplined kids, 10 kindergartens, eating breakfast in the classroom, eating “lunch” at 10 AM, peers who couldn’t speak English (and forget about their parentts), and endless requests for “community” snacks and supplies (which only about four or five families in the “community” ever bothered to send it. Even the “gifted” programs for the older kids appeared to be lame and just for show…doing things ALL the kids should have been challenged to do! The private schools set the bar high for all the kids….and most rise to the occasion. Plus, in my 10 years in private school we have had excellent teachers for the most part - although there were a few I could have done without. I don’t think there is a school around that would be able to deliver teachers perfectly suited for my children all of the time.

I went to an awesome public high school in a suburb or Chicago, so I know first hand that public school can work, but given Georgia’s standing in the overall ranking, the state has yet to demonstrate that it can work here!! I only have one chance with my kids and I’m not risking their future with a GA public school education, regardless of WHERE the school is located..Alpharetta, Buckhead, Buford, Valdosta, etc.

By Mel

December 10, 2008 8:28 PM | Link to this

To Cindy, its not the kids fault for laughing when you daughter tried to pray.That ignorance come for the home.

By Tater

December 10, 2008 8:35 PM | Link to this

After reading the comments on this board by private school parents, my comments on “healthy egos” is born out.

By deidre_NC

December 10, 2008 8:52 PM | Link to this

i sent my son to a private boarding school in new jersey-one where very elite kids went. he was a vey smart kid and the family thought it would be a great opportunity for him, open lots of doors, etc…well it did. he learned how to smoke pot-drop acid-etc…private schools are just like anything else. some are ok sopme arent…a lot depends on the kids-a lot depends on the parents.

By yellow jacket

December 10, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this

I have had the opportunity of teaching and coaching 15 years in public school system and I am currently in my eighth year teaching and coaching in a private school in Atlanta. The public school where I taught was outstanding in terms of teachers, community, support, and reputation. However, don’t fool yourself, there is a huge difference between public and private schools. Private is the way to go….hands down. I have experienced both and I would never leave the private school teaching experience. It is a win - win situation for both student and teacher. If your life-style can allow for the tuition then don’t hesitate to apply to a private school. Again…it’s worth the money / value that your child will receive.

By davan mani

December 10, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this

All you folks talk about education, I know better. It all comes down to marriage.

By Jeff in Roswell

December 10, 2008 9:50 PM | Link to this

Elliot Garcia proves my point wonderfully! Thank you.

By Lulu

December 10, 2008 10:16 PM | Link to this

art Your rant against the ignorance of Georgians and our schools might be explained by the fact that (if I understood you correctly)you are in a business that caters to uneducated, nonthinking people. A bit like asking a prostitute what she thinks of men. I was educated (private and public)totally in the south, mostly GA, taught school (Middle through college… public and private), am d/o a teacher.As a child my family (me too) summered each year with Manhattanites. I was NOT impressed with their educations. I went to college with them. AGAIN I was NOT impressed. Think you may be a bit delusional there, sport. For the most part this has been time well spent reading blogs about an important subject.

By Lulu

December 10, 2008 10:38 PM | Link to this

PS to art AND my two sons were totally educated in GA PUBLIC schools. When they graduated H.S. in 78,79 I was told by their counselors to look at any schools in the US they wanted to attend as they could get in them. And they did. One turned down Williams to go to Carleton (he preferred small liberal arts.) The other graduated from the top University in his field. Their first cousin whom I also helped raised had a ditto Public GA education and graduated Yale. There is more to education than the school. There is more to education than where your state schools rank nationally. I’ve always found rankings not totally objective. Ever wondered how Joe’s Hamburger Shack got to be the best eating place in Podunk?

By M

December 10, 2008 10:56 PM | Link to this

I am absolutely committed to keeping my boy in the private school he attends. There is no way I would leave him to the influence of the public school system. If I were laid off and could not afford the tuition, I might ask for assistance, but I would probably open up a loan instead. I take my lunch to work every day, my car is 12 years old and my house needs painting. I only shop the sales and even then I’ve trained myself to look at the clearance racks first. I ask for special deals and discounts and use coupons a lot. I do most of the electrical, plumbing, yard work and house maintenance. I cash in my credit card points for home depot gift cards to pay for the things I need there. Look at the bright side - I have learned how to scrimp and save better than most and considering the condition of my retirement accounts after the past year I’ll know how to stretch those funds when I retire!

By Rico

December 10, 2008 11:20 PM | Link to this

Private schools…Some good, some bad. Do your homework and make good choices. personally, I would sell both cars and our house to keep my child out of government educational facilities (public schools). If you live where the government schools are unacceptable (Clayton, Dekalb, Southern Cobb, etc..)then there are only two reasons why you would have your child in public school. Cannot afford or selfish……

By M

December 10, 2008 11:21 PM | Link to this

I should also say that I agree with some of the earlier comments - there are bad teachers and there are good teachers but the chance of a bad teacher staying around is lower when the school is well run. If the administrators are doing their jobs it shows! I attended private schools and yes, there were some wild kids, and there were bookish and athletic ones also - the whole range. I don’t know where some of these comments are coming from! The main thing is to find a school which can support the needs of your child and do your best to maintain that objective consistently - maybe your kids are fine in a public school, some are. All I know is mine were not served well by the public school system. If your child is still in a public school maybe you could at least be pleasant to me and even show a little gratitude and respect because I’m helping pay for your kids education as well.

By DB

December 10, 2008 11:27 PM | Link to this

I will do whatever I have to do to make sure my child will continue in their private school. Not necessarily because the “public schools suck”, because I fully believe that you get out of an education whatever you put into it — it’s just that at private schools, kids are encouraged to put a lot more into it than they often are in public schools, that tend to cater to an “average” majority. Yes, there are standouts on both sides. But my kids go to a private school for many other reasons.

I’m not too worried about “diversity”, as my children have had several church and community outlets such as Scouts and jobs, where they have worked with people from all walks of life. My daughter experienced some “reverse” snobbery this summer at one of her two jobs, which one co-worker sneered at her and said, “Private school b*tch, why you taking up space that someone who NEEDS a job could use?” (She was not taking up space — the manager often complimented her on her work ethic.)

On the bright side, the money we gladly spent on a private education came back to us, in a sense, when our eldest was awarded a full academic scholarship at one of the top 15 universities in the country. :-)

Jeff in Roswell, I laughed at your comment that only kids who needed extra help went to private schools. That was true when I was growing up, too. And my mother was horrified when I told her that we were looking at private schools for her grandchildren — but she lives in a part of the country where the public schools are superb and the only private schools ARE for the kids that get tossed out or need more help than they can get in the public schools. I didn’t grow up “elitist” — but I was well-educated, and learned how to use my powers of observation to determine if my local school was getting the job done. It wasn’t — for several reasons, but I knew that school reform wasn’t the battle I wanted to engage in.

By wheelmom

December 10, 2008 11:49 PM | Link to this

Private school is a major financial sacrifice and very worth it. We sent 2 kids through AMI-Certified Montessori school from age 2-1/2 to grade 6. They learned strong academics, and very valuable social lessons. They went on to excel in competitive private high schools. Oldest is a senior and has already been awarded two half-scholarships based on academic merit. With the scholarhips and excellent advising system, her college will cost less than private high school. Just build it in your budget. We skipped cruises, fancy house, 52-inch TV, and new car, and now it is totally paying off.

By PleaseHelpMe

December 11, 2008 1:56 AM | Link to this

Well, I have to say. I had to take my two kids out of Hopewell Christian Academy this year. My daughter is in her first year of middle school and it is not going well at all. My son is only in Kindergarten so he only had one year of private school. I have read all of the statements that were posted and for the people that say that we should do everything to keep our kids in private school, I say to them how. Both of our cars are old and paid for(‘88 Buick and ‘00 Explorer) my husband has taken a second job and we still can’t afford to put them back in private school. It got really hard last year because we went from 1 child in school to 2 children in school. I can’t even find a part time job to help and we eat the same kind of meatless meals that I saw someone else mention earlier. My daughter went from being an “A”, “B” student to a “B”, “C” student because the public school doesn’t want her to understand a concept. They want her to memorize a concept.
My husband and I are here for her but I just can’t seem to get an understanding of exactly what her day is like at school. To me there is no comparison and I cry almost weekly that my children are in North Gwinnett cluster schools.
Yes, there are some problem children in private schools but it is always much easier to put them out of our schools than public schools. I also agree with the person who commented on the touching. I am a firm believer that kids need hugs and lots of love during the younger years. Although I am really pleased with my sons K teacher, I would rather he was still enrolled in Hopewell. I have promised my children that they will go back to private they second I get a job, but that’s not going too well at the moment. My daughter asks me weekly when she can go back “home” as she calls it. She does not like her middle school and trying to get in touch with the teachers is crazy. I am not used to it taking 3 or 4 days for someone to get back to me about my childs education. I also think that I have been spoiled as a parent. Parents at Hopewell are always given the utmost respect by all of the teachers and we don’t wait for information. If you call in the morning, you know something by the afternoon. I really miss that. Plus, at the public school, I am considered a problem parent because I expect a certain level of professionalism and I also expect feedback when I want it. Instead of the teachers and administrators being glad that I am an involved parent, we get attitudes from these people. They don’t want involved parents, they just want us to send our children to their schools and sit back and do nothing. Then they complain when that happens. Bottom line, private school is worth the moeny if you have it. Unfortunately, I have run out of it at this point and time.

By NavyMom

December 11, 2008 2:18 AM | Link to this

All I can say is THANK GOD that this is my child’s last year in Public Schools, she’s a Senior. Having said that I will say that I have not had many problems because she has been in Honor classes most of her high school year.

Prior to coming into the Public School system she spent the first 5/6 years in Private school which I loved. We decided to take her out so that she could have a true balance in life. When she goes out into the real adult world she needs to know how to deal with those who aren’t necessarily pleasant to be around. As many have stated both have its good and bad points. She attended a private school where in her last year all they cared about was money so they took all the rejects from the Public schools and IT SHOWED.

@Please Help Me - BE VERY ACTIVE IN THE SCHOOL - PRAY AND YOU WILL FIND THAT IT’S NOT AS BAD AS IT SEEMS. Your child/ren will react based upon your reactions - give them a fair chance - don’t let them see you crying or hear you complaining because if they do they are never going to like the school.

By jim d

December 11, 2008 4:42 AM | Link to this

paying for private school

By DoWhatsRightForYou

December 11, 2008 6:37 AM | Link to this

Thank you “M” for your comment about people being thankful to those of us who send our kids to private school since we are footing the bill for the public school kids! Not only do we not receive anything for our money, the public schools are so mediocre, they don’t even boost our propery values.

On the the other hand, even though my kids are in private school, I do believe a strong public school system is important for the all people and the general health of a community. Consequently, I’m more than willing to pay taxes to support the public schools. Like anything that I support with my tax dollars, I do expect something more than average results! I live in Sandy Springs where many choose private school and if all of us shifted our kids to public school, the public schools would be more overwhelmed than they already are. Every school around me is packed with trailers and while they are building new schools, the schools seem to be bursting at the seams a few years later.

Another thing about public schools are saddled with is the “no child left behind” and all the associated mindless testing. What a waste of time! I understand the need for accountability, but there are less damaging ways to make our schools accountable for providing a solid education (that’s an entirely different subject!). My kids’ private schools deliver top quality educations without all the testing. Yes, they do take some standardized tests (e.g. Iowa’s), however, there is absolutely NO preparation and time wasted in the classroom teaching to the test! The tests are used a marker for both the student and the school to show them where they have strengths and weaknesses, but “passing” is not an objective. Classroom time should be spent on LEARNING - NOT MEMORIZATION. I totally understand why the schools / teachers spend hours on test prep..they fear for their jobs!

Finally, to those of you struggling to put your kids in private school, find ones that have financial assistance. The schools my kids attend both have programs and my daughter’s HS awards $1 million annually to students in need. Contrary to the opinion, not everyone in private schools is loaded. Good Luck!

By Mark

December 11, 2008 6:43 AM | Link to this

I respect all the parents out there that make a lot of sacrafices to send their children to private schools.I amire all of you for that.Its a lot of money but your children deserve all you can give them when it come to education..I wish I had sent my daughter to a private school.

By lynn d

December 11, 2008 6:51 AM | Link to this

DoWhatsRightForYou

Many of Atlanta’s richest private schools have seen huge drops in their endowments because of the stock market drop. At a time when more people will need help, fewer schools will have the resources to give it.

Most people use the less expensive private schools, the ones that cost under say 7 thousand. Those schools tend to not have generous endowments and thus scholarship funds. The Westminsters, Woodwards, etc give out more money, but only a handful of full rides. So, you still need to come up with a significant contribution.

Most Atlanta private schools hold admission’s information very close. It is unlikely that we will ever hear anything official about the impact of the economy on these schools.

We do have friends shopping for private schools right now. Without exception, they report smaller crowds at the open houses than when they did this with the older child.

By AlphaMommy

December 11, 2008 7:40 AM | Link to this

I’m thankful for the high performance schools in Alpharetta. Both of our children attend the public schools here and are getting an excellent education.

By John Galt Jr.

December 11, 2008 8:06 AM | Link to this

My 5 year old is in private Christian School and will stay there until she graduates high school. We will get by on less to make sure she has the best available education possible. She can already read and write, use a computer and has basic math skills in kindergarten. I have to say I am very impressed with her school, her environment, her peers, teachers, administrators. The cost is well worth it. My wife just lost her high paying position but we will make it through on my salary. We will cut back on all other expenses to make this happen for her. The sad thing is we pay a heap for public schools and get no benefit, vouchers, credit, anything. It boils down to what your priorities are. We do not drive the latest and greatest, but good, well maintained, older model used cars, etc, etc. Clark Howard and Dave Ramsey would be proud of us. Again, priorities. It is my responsibility to educate my child, not the government.

By Mike

December 11, 2008 8:23 AM | Link to this

We spend more month per month to send our children to private school than we do on our house note. This is because our priorities are in line. We would consider home schooling our children, but we would never send them to any GA public schools. The public education in GA as a whole is a joke and the safety for your children is always a concern.

Georgia spend as much money as any other state, if not more to educate. We are top 5 in the country and bottom 5 in results. It drives me nuts to hear the public school teachers saying “we need more money” to offer a better eduction. SPLOST-Give me a break. There is plenty of money. If you do not believe me, then drive down to the war zone “downtown Atlanta” and take a look at the shrine built by the Atlanta Public Schools with your tax dollars. Also, go on the county websites and look at the salaries for teachers and administators. Keep in mind that they get retirement and are off half the year. Yes, half of the year. They work till 3;30, have the holidays off, and the summer off.

While I know that I am getting the short end of the stick, it is the poorer families that do not have a clue. They continue to vote against vouchers and charter schools because they are misinformed and like to by their local school administrators. The reality is that if each student had the money that the Atlanta spends to educate each child, they could attend the finest private school in the state. (13K per year) If they chose to not go to school, they could just put this money into savings and at age 50, they could retire. The flip side is with a GA public education what are you guaranteed. A shot a getting into college and to spend some more money. Wake up GA!!!

By V for Vendetta

December 11, 2008 10:54 AM | Link to this

Mike, you’re a moron. That’s all I really feel like saying. Your argument for private schools holds about as much water as a hula-hoop.

Please, if we’re going to debate, can we at least do it intelligently and without ignorant blanket statements from people who sound like they weren’t educated at either institution?

By BlondeHoney

December 11, 2008 11:16 AM | Link to this

Mike, i don’t know what teachers you know that work until 3:30; I have a dear friend who is a middle school math teacher and she never gets home before 6:30-7:00pm and even THEN she is up late almost every night grading papers, etc. She pours her heart and soul into her students and my guess is that if you were to balance out her salary against the hours she puts in, she is barely at minimum wage. This is what good teachers do in both private and public schools; and lest you think I’m biased towards public, think again; my kids attended both private and public schools and both were outstanding.

By Leia

December 11, 2008 11:29 AM | Link to this

Mike - I have to agree with V on this one - you are a moron!

I am contracted to work 190 days per year. I get the weekends off (as most do), so that alone puts me at working at 73% of the year. Now, let’s talk about all of the days I’m at school at 6:30 am and working until 4:30 pm to help students who need remediation. Add onto that figure the days during my “summer off” that I’m either attending or leading a staff development. So, hopefully your children’s private school math teacher is doing a better job of teaching them about the feasibility or reasonableness of a conclusion, and also to not speak about things which they know nothing about!!

By karia

December 11, 2008 3:26 PM | Link to this

I went to public schools, had one child in public school for a year, had both in private school for a couple of years…then I taught at that private school for a year and learned more about its corrupt ownership than I ever wanted to know. I was shocked when I found out what my thousands of dollars had been supporting without my knowing it, because the school had a good image in the community.

Now we homeschool, and I wish we’d done it all along. It’s an amazing, valid educational choice, and one that I’m sure more private school parents will be considering as the economy wanes. We spend a mere fraction of the money we spent when they were in private school, but both are excelling in ways that just weren’t possible in a traditional classroom setting. We are involved in many social groups that more than provide for their need for social interaction. And the quality of friends they have now far surpasses the kind of kids they knew in both public and private school. It’s like night and day.

I know that not everyone can do it…when both parents work it would be quite a challenge to make homeschooling happen. But if you’ve ever considered it, I encourage you to give it a try. For the longest time, I believed that I couldn’t possibly handle the pressure of homeschooling. But now, after a few years of doing it, it doesn’t feel like pressure at all. It’s a joy.

By TheBlogger

December 11, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this

Mike You say that all public schools in GA are a joke? Gee - maybe you should let Newsweek know when they ranked MANY high schools in GA as best in the nation. You also may want to alert Havard, Yale, MIT, Cal Tech, Michigan, Notre Dame, Penn State, U Penn, and other colleges that accept these students from these “joke” schools even though they make super SAT scores.

By Camille

December 11, 2008 4:01 PM | Link to this

PleaseHelpMe, my oldest son also attends Hopewell. This is his 2nd year there, and he’s in 5th grade. He went to public school through 3rd grade, and while the public school did well with him, the environment at Hopewell is better for him. By no means am I financially wealthy, and really cannot afford for him to attend Hopewell. But, his teachers have done so well in pushing him to reach his academic potential (especially given his mild learning disability) that I cannot fathom sending him back to public school at this point. So, this year I picked up a part-time customer service job that I work from home on the weekends (and occasionally at night during the week). So, I’m making the extra money that I need to pay for my son’s tuition, while not having to worry about additional child care for my two boys while I am working. There are many legitimate work from home jobs doing customer service, technical support, or sales that may help you financially. If you (or anyone else) wants information about it, send me an email at d_handsford@hotmail.com.

By Mike is right

December 11, 2008 5:05 PM | Link to this

While I’m sure there are many public school success stories in Ivy League schools, it’s not because of the leadership of Georgia public school officials, it’s despite of it.

It’s far more likely that the success lies with the individual student, the student’s parents, and the student’s teachers, than it is from a public school system that not too long ago tried to ban the word evolution from the curriculum.

I think teachers are taking Mike’s comments personally; I’m taking them as an indictment of the public school system itself, and not the individuals who still make an impact despite the teaching conditions they face today in the public schools.

Of course it goes without saying that he is totally off the mark when he claims that teachers get half the year off, though if it were mandated that central office administrators had to start taking half the year off, no doubt things would improve drastically.

By TheBlogger

December 11, 2008 7:42 PM | Link to this

Mike is right If Mike MEANT to say that the structure/system of public schools is a joke, or that the leaders of public schools are a joke, then that is what he should have said. However, he did not. He said that ALL public schools are a joke. And that, my dear, is simply a horribly incorrect statement.

By M

December 11, 2008 8:33 PM | Link to this

Just a minute here - I keep seeing these posts from teachers - and they’re doing this in the middle of the school day! If you’re all working so darn hard and deserving of all that vacation then tell me why you’re playing on the internet during school hours. Clearly, there is something very wrong.

By Oh dear

December 11, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this

m - first, not all the posters are teachers; second, ever heard of a little thing called lunch break or giving the students a test? Finally, plenty of people posting on here aren’t teachers, but are working somewhere and you didn’t call them out! Some study a few years ago showed that on average, office workers wasted 2 hours a day - I don’t know a teacher who could afford to do that.

For the final time - teachers are only paid the days they work. All other days are unpaid - if you want to call it a vacation, fine, but in the so-called real world vacations are usually paid.