Why Private Education for American Families
I live in and taught in Irvine, California. The school district here is one of the best in the nation. However, very few children in this area attend private schools. People actually move here specifically because of the high standards of our public schools.
Challenges with Public Education
Haha! Many would argue that our public schools have reached such high standards that they have strayed from truly educating our children. Instead, kids are often pressured into conformity, what some call “group think.”
Our schools no longer have high standards, and this has been true since World War II. Historically, America had a high standard for education, with our superpower status built on the shoulders of people with an average of an 8th-grade education. Today, we’re dealing with a dramatically overcomplicated educational system that has lost its way.
The Structural Defects in US Education
The biggest structural defect in the U.S. education system is a failure to get the basics right in grades K-8. By the time a student reaches 28th grade, it’s too late; their foundational education is damaged. Education has become a racket, and consolidation of schools has led to more centralized control.
Personal Decision for Private Schooling
Our son, for instance, used to attend private school due to the lack of available spaces in the nearest public school. Fortunately, we could afford it, and were able to arrange for him to avoid a two-hour bus ride to and from school. Access to a nearby school with appropriate resources is a critical factor for many families.
Racism and Chauvinism in Public Schools
In some public schools, particularly in other parts of the world like Barbados, there is a dangerous lack of discipline and respect. For example, boys who sexually assault girls in public schools often face no consequences. This is unacceptable and highlights the need for stricter regulations and enforcement of rules.
Religious and Moral Grounds
Education is about more than just gaining knowledge; it is about instilling moral values and religious principles. For this reason, I send my children to private religious schools. I do not want my children exposed to “drag queens” or gender ideologies that may promote feelings of gender confusion. Their bathrooms should be safe, and they should respect the established rules.
I do not want my children to be raised in an environment where religion is treated as wrong, or where parents are viewed as the enemy. A child’s whims should not always override parental authority. It is crucial for parents to be aware of the curriculum and the narrative pushed by schools.
Final Thoughts on Education Choices
For the time being, my children will never set foot in a public school in California. The choices we make for our children’s education are deeply personal and reflect our values. I firmly believe that private schools provide a better environment for instilling a solid foundation of knowledge and values, free from the political and societal pressures that can often dominate public schools.