8th Nov, 2010 | Source : National Association of Independent Schools
Finding a school where your child thrives provides a foundation for a successful future.
At independent private schools, you can choose the education that’s the best match for your child. Whether you’re looking for a specific style of teaching, a particular class or sport, or a community that shares your values, you can find an independent school that meets your child’s needs.
The private schools that belong to the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) share a commitment to providing safe environments in which young people can learn academic skills plus the importance of hard work, leadership, and good citizenship.
The rigorous academics at NAIS schools challenge students and help prepare them for success at the next level. A study from the U.S. Department of Education found that 99 percent of students at NAIS schools graduated and 90 percent of graduates attended four-year colleges.
In addition to the core subjects, independent private schools help children learn about the world around them. Some schools work on group projects with sister schools in other countries. Many have service learning programs, where volunteerism is tied into the curriculum. Experiences like these, coupled with the skills learned in the classroom and on the playing field, help children develop into well-rounded global citizens.
The extraordinary teachers at independent schools also contribute to student success later in life. Small classes allow teachers to develop a full understanding of how each student learns and what motivates each individually. Independent school teachers nurture intellectual curiosity and stimulate personal growth.
The 2008 High School Survey of Student Engagement (HSSSE), conducted by Indiana University, found that more than twice as many students at NAIS independent schools received helpful feedback from teachers on assignments, compared to students at all other types of schools. Students who attended NAIS schools were more than twice as likely as students at other schools to say that the school contributed “very much” to their growth in critical thinking.
The Freshman Survey Trends Report, an annual study conducted by the Higher Education Research Institute, found that NAIS school graduates felt more prepared for the academic demands of college than their public school counterparts. As college freshman, NAIS graduates reported that they were more likely to ask questions in class and explore topics on their own, even though it was not required for a class.
The Higher Education Research Institute also found that graduates from NAIS schools were more likely than their public school counterparts to have had an internship and to have accepted an offer of employment before graduating from college.
The NAIS website, www.nais.org/go/parents, offers a school search to help you locate the best school for your child. You’ll also find timelines for admission, information about financial aid and payment options, and lists of questions to ask to find a school that will help your child thrive.
Searching for the best school for your child can be a challenging process, but finding a school that matches your child’s needs will result in an education that pays dividends for a lifetime.
