Cindy attends a private school and says she is very satisfied with her education.

Bobby, meanwhile, spends his days at a public school. He says the public school fits his personality best and loves his school.

What are the differences between public and private schools?

Students who attend or have attended private schools and their parents were interviewed about the distinctions. Religion was reiterated as a major difference in private schools. Religion is part of the curriculum at some private schools. Public schools do not offer that.

Another difference, for some students, was that private schools have a tougher education, because the grade levels are harder. I think both schools should have an equal grading system. Another issue that popped up a lot that some students feel there is more one-on-one teacher/student time in private schools. As you can already see there are many differences between public and private schools.

Public schools have unique advantages also. Some students felt that public schools have better field trips, such as ski trips and trips to other states. Some of the students who have attended both private and public schools prefer the public school’s food, perhaps because of more variety.

Some pointed out public schools received more money from the government, and private schools more donations. One important difference was that public schools offer more special services, such as the WRAP or Bigs in Schools programs. Public schools also have computer labs and classes such as typing. Some of the people I interviewed said public schools have more diversity and you have the opportunity to meet more people in that environment.

Public schools are dismissed early on Wednesday. Private schools are not dismissed early.

Vacation is also dissimilar between the schools. For example, private schools were off for holy days, but public schools do not take that into consideration.

Public schools do take transportation into consideration. Public schools have bus systems, which I think is very convenient because not every family is able to drive their child or children to school.

Lastly, public schools also consider the location of their facilities so there is one close to every neighborhood. Some private schools are not that convenient. Students can not walk home so parents have to find another way to transport their children to and from school.

I think both public and private schools offer a good education and diversity within their many differences. I personally prefer private schools, but I have attended one since kindergarten, and I am planning to continue through high school.

— Katy Grimes is a sixth-grader at St. John Catholic School.