Hated Private School But Good A Good Education, Would You Still Send Your Kids?

[Anonymous]

I went to a high-end private school, on scholarship. The education was great, but the school life aspect was horrendous at times, not just for me as a scholarship kid, which no one knew about. I think we will look at private schools as a possible option for our kids, but I don't know if I can get over the shitty time I had at one. Anyone else feel the same? I know there's no perfect school fit for everyone -- are DC area privates good about dealing with school life and social issues? Or are there drugs, sex, and racism everywhere?

[Anonymous]

I think there are drugs, sex, and racism at every school, public and private. So let academics drive your decision.

[Anonymous]

there are so many "non-high end" private schools where money is not worshipped or squandered. if you are unhappy with publics, take a look at the aforementioned.

[Anonymous]

I went to public. Socially it was fine but academics were terrible. DC is in private - academics are great but not loving it socially. It's always something! A lot depends on their classmates.

[Anonymous]

I wasn't on financial aid, but I feel the same as you: got an excellent education, but the social scene and general values left me unhappy. My kids are now in public elementary school; we will reevaluate at middle and/or high school.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I went to a high-end private school, on scholarship. The education was great, but the school life aspect was horrendous at times, not just for me as a scholarship kid, which no one knew about. I think we will look at private schools as a possible option for our kids, but I don't know if I can get over the shitty time I had at one. Anyone else feel the same? I know there's no perfect school fit for everyone -- are DC area privates good about dealing with school life and social issues? Or are there drugs, sex, and racism everywhere?

I hated my private girls school too - that insight made it easier to pick an appropriate fit for DD.
Obviously you don't just look at test scores or location but the school life.
What are you looking for and what grades?

[Anonymous]

K-8 schools have the advantage here. Greater focus academics in younger kids, and they are not exposed so soon to the "drug culture that seems to start in high school".

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I think there are drugs, sex, and racism at every school, public and private. So let academics drive your decision.

Ask your doctor about getting some good anti-paranoia meds

[Anonymous]

Look at the school, not necessarily whether it is public or private. Target a good public school district if you are open to public, then compare with private. Really look at the culture (and ask a lot of questions that might get you the facts you need -- of course they all say they have nice communities but you can read between the lines). You can get a goo dedication in either if it's the right school for your child.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I think there are drugs, sex, and racism at every school, public and private. So let academics drive your decision.

Ask your doctor about getting some good anti-paranoia meds

In what fantasy land do you live?

[Anonymous]

My friend went to a very high end academically great private school and had a hard time with the other kids and didn't like anyone.
As such, she has is a super good judge of private schools and has found an amazing one for her daughter. Her daughter is very, very happy there.
I think you can be a more informed consumer and look for a school that meets your requirements, which may go way beyond just academically challenging.