There are a lot of misconceptions about private schools. This is probably because private schools are indeed private. Here are some common myths together with the reasons why they are simply that: myths.
Myth #10: Private school teachers make less than public school teachers.
Not true. This might have been the case years ago. Private school teachers are not unionized. They enjoy some perks public school teachers do not enjoy such as housing, meals and reduced or free tuition for their children. But, as a rule,
compensation is about the same in both sectors. The real disparity seems to occur within private schools themselves. Most parochial or religious schools tend to offer compensation which is on the low end of the scale.
Myth #9: Private schools are for rich kids or kids with behavior problems.
Many private schools students do come from wealthy families. But nowadays, most schools have very diverse student populations. If you have a behavior problem, you will probably be better off attending an
alternative school.
Myth #8: Gay teachers and same sex partners are not welcome in private schools.Homosexuality is not tolerated at many religious schools as it does not square with their religious teachings. On the other hand, most of the top tier independent schools have very compassionate policies regarding sexuality.
Myth #7: Certification is not required for private school teachers.
Legally you don't have to be
certified to teach in a private school. But it is just common sense to make sure that you have teaching certification. Most private schools will hire you without teacher certification with the understanding that you will become certified within a specified period of time.
Myth #6: Private schools require their faculty to live on campus.
Boarding schools typically want their junior faculty to live on campus as dorm masters. That means you live in an apartment in the dorm and are responsible for supervising the students who board. More senior faculty and staff generally live in school-provided housing located on campus. Day schools don't require their faculty to live on campus.
Myth #5: Private school teachers must wear academic gowns.
Many English public schools, called private schools in the U.S., such as Eton, still require teachers to wear a gown. Considering how cold and draughty English classrooms can be, that's probably not a bad idea. American schools got rid of that requirement decades ago. Yes, the image promoted in the Harry Potter series is just that - fiction.
Myth #4: If your cousin went to a private school, you are guaranteed admission to that school.
Being a legacy helps get your
application reviewed. But the only sure fire way to get admitted is to offer what the school is looking for. On the other hand, if your older brother went to the school or currently attends it, chances are pretty good that you will get in as your family is a known quantity.
Myth #3: Private schools cost a fortune.
Some do. Many don't. In fact a few private schools are actually tuition and expense free, thanks to the munificence of their benefactors. The trick is to find a school you like, then apply for
financial aid. Many private schools offer generous aid packages to qualified students.
Myth #2: Going to private school guarantees that you will get into the college of your choice.
Would that that were true. Unfortunately, like anything else in the United States, entrance to college is a matter of having good grades, a well-rounded dossier, and the luck to apply to a college which is not too selective. It is true that private schools generally offer excellent college preparation. Indeed it is one reason so many schools have prep in their names.
Myth #1: Private schools are just for geniuses.
The truth is that students go to private school because they want to learn. Not because they are geniuses. Most students are accepted at a private school because they have the potential to be good students. In an atmosphere where learning is cool and teachers will take the time to help, encourage and nurture you, your intrinsic genius will shine forth.
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