Technology in Private Schools: 2025 Insights

What’s a Private School?

A 2025 Parent and Educator Guide

Private schools have long been a cornerstone of American education, offering families choices beyond their local public district. But in 2025, the definition of “private school” is more diverse and dynamic than ever. With nearly 4.7 million students enrolled across more than 30,000 schools nationwide, private education spans independent, religious, boarding, Montessori, Waldorf, STEM-focused, arts-centered, and even hybrid online models.

For parents asking what’s a private school, the answer now includes both traditional institutions with deep histories and innovative schools that harness artificial intelligence and personalized learning. Understanding these differences is essential when evaluating whether private education is the right fit for your child.

Defining a Private School in 2025

At its core, a private school is an institution of learning independently funded through tuition, endowments, and donations rather than taxpayer dollars. Unlike public schools, which must follow state-mandated curricula, private schools enjoy greater flexibility in curriculum design, teacher hiring, and instructional methods.

This autonomy allows schools to specialize—whether in advanced college-prep programs, religious instruction, arts immersion, or individualized learning tracks. According to the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS), more than 60% of private schools in 2024 adopted a hybrid or personalized learning model, blending in-person instruction with technology-driven tools.

Types of Private Schools

Private education is not monolithic. Parents exploring what a private school is will find a spectrum of options, including:

• Independent Schools: Fully self-governed, often college-preparatory, and supported by tuition

Transferring from Public to Private School Mid-Year: What to Expect

Most families begin planning private school enrollment many months—or even years—before the school year starts. But sometimes circumstances change, and a mid-year transfer becomes the best move for a student’s academic and personal development.

Whether due to relocation, unmet academic needs, or a search for a more supportive environment, transferring from a public to private school mid-year is more common than many parents realize. While it requires thoughtful planning, private schools are often well-equipped to welcome new students midstream with structure, support, and a personalized approach.

Here’s what to expect if your family is considering a mid-year transfer.

Why Families Choose to Transfer Mid-Year

Frequent reasons for mid-year moves include:

• A mismatch between the student’s learning style and the public school setting

• Concerns about class size, academic rigor, or peer dynamics

• Family relocation or lifestyle changes

• A desire for a values-based or faith-aligned education

• The need for more individualized attention or specialized programs

Private schools often offer smaller class sizes, enriched curricula, and flexibility to support transitions—making them a strong alternative for students who aren’t thriving in their current setting. Additionally, families may consider options like private schools in California or private schools in Florida, where mid-year transfers are more common.

Application and

A Guide to Day vs. Boarding School: Which Is Right for Your Family?

Choosing the right private school is a major decision—it influences not only your child’s education but your family’s daily life, finances, and long-term goals. One of the most important choices is whether to enroll in a day school or a boarding school.

Both models offer outstanding academics and personalized attention, but they differ in structure, lifestyle, and the independence they foster. Understanding these differences can help you make the best decision for your family.

What Is a Day School?

Day schools are private institutions where students attend during the day and return home in the evening. They can be coeducational or single-sex, secular or religious, and span from preschool through grade 12.

Key Benefits

• Daily family interaction. Students live at home, allowing for close involvement in family routines and values.

• Lower cost. Without room and board, day schools are typically less expensive than boarding schools.

• Local convenience. Students remain connected to community activities, friendships, and extracurriculars.

Considerations

• Limited after-school supervision. Parents often manage homework, time, and transportation.

• Less immersion. Students may not experience as much of the school community culture outside of regular hours.

For comparison with local options, parents may explore private schools in Florida or private schools

The A to Z of Private Schools (2025 Edition)

Private schools in the United States have long offered families an alternative to public education—emphasizing small class sizes, personalized instruction, and distinctive educational philosophies. But the landscape in 2025 looks different than it did even a decade ago. Rising tuition, new demographic shifts, and expanded program offerings make private education both more diverse and, in many cases, more accessible.

This A to Z guide walks you through the essentials of private schools in 2025, helping families and educators understand the key terms, trends, and opportunities that define the sector today.

A – Admissions

Private school admissions remain competitive, but many schools now emphasize “fit” over test scores. Some institutions have reduced reliance on entrance exams, instead considering teacher recommendations, student essays, and interviews. Waitlists are common at top-tier schools, particularly in urban centers.

B – Boarding Schools

Boarding schools are evolving. Once primarily East Coast institutions, they are now attracting international students and offering global curricula such as the International Baccalaureate (IB). In 2025, 20% of U.S. boarding school students come from outside the country, fostering diverse campus cultures.

C – Curriculum

Private schools often have flexibility beyond state-mandated requirements. Many emphasize STEM, arts integration, and experiential learning. Project-based learning and advanced electives—such as artificial intelligence or environmental science—are increasingly common.

D – Diversity

Diversity remains a priority. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, students of color now