Choosing between a private and public high school can feel like a major decision for parents and students alike. Both types of schools offer unique advantages and challenges, making it hard to know which option is truly “better.” 

Whether you’re weighing the benefits of smaller class sizes, specialized programs, or diverse environments, it’s essential to look beyond the stereotypes. In this article, we’ll take a look at the key differences between private and public high schools, breaking down what matters most when making this decision. 

Let’s help you figure out which path best aligns with your family’s needs and goals.

Private vs. public doesn’t matter as much as you think

We like it when parents approach us asking about middle school vs. high school. It shows a tenacity and forward-thinking nature, and the willingness to provide the student with what they need. 

On the other hand, students need to be given structured freedom to pursue activities. This means at first putting them into a variety of activities, seeing what they like, and pursuing that. The decision to pursue an activity should come from the student themselves, as they are the one who knows if they like it or not!

So Should It Be Public or Private?

Private schools have more resources. Everyone knows that, including admissions officers. The students we see coming out of these schools often have a well-tailored resume with a set of solid extracurricular activities. 

What really varies though is the student maturity and thought behind why they are doing these activities. And that maturity shows up in essays, and we can pick up on it immediately. You can bet admissions officers can too.

Key Factors in Choosing Between Private and Public High School

School Size and Environment

School size can significantly impact a student’s academic and social experience. The decision between a large public school and a smaller private school can shape the way your child engages with learning and peers. Private schools typically offer a more intimate setting with smaller class sizes, while public schools often boast a diverse and larger student population.

• Private Schools generally have fewer students, with classrooms averaging 15-20 students. This smaller environment often leads to more personalized attention from teachers, allowing for individualized learning plans tailored to each student’s strengths and weaknesses. A smaller school community also fosters close relationships between students and faculty, enhancing the support network available to each student.
  
• Public Schools, on the other hand, often have larger class sizes, ranging from 20-30 students per class. While this may mean less individual attention, it offers a more diverse and expansive social environment. Public schools often have a wide variety of social groups, clubs, and extracurricular activities, giving students a broader experience in social dynamics and cultural diversity.

Key Points:

• Smaller private schools offer personalized attention but may limit the diversity of social interaction.
• Larger public schools expose students to broader social networks and cultural experiences, but may lack personalized academic support.

Academics and Curriculum

When it comes to academics, the type of curriculum and the academic rigor offered by the school plays a crucial role in shaping a student’s future. Private and public schools differ greatly in their approach to education, especially in terms of curriculum flexibility and advanced coursework.

• Private Schools often have the flexibility to design their own curriculum, which can allow for specialized programs in areas like the arts, technology, and international studies. Many private schools offer Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) programs that help prepare students for college-level work. Additionally, private schools may offer more personalized academic programs with smaller student-to-teacher ratios, ensuring students get the attention they need.
  
• Public Schools, governed by state curriculum standards, often follow a more rigid structure, typically incorporating the Common Core curriculum. However, many public schools, particularly those in higher-performing districts, offer a broad selection of AP courses and dual enrollment opportunities with local colleges, allowing students to gain college credits during high school. Public schools also have the advantage of being free and more accessible.

Key Points:

• Private schools offer flexibility in curriculum, often catering to niche interests and specialized programs.
• Public schools provide a wide range of AP and dual enrollment opportunities, preparing students for college-level work at a lower cost.

Cost and Financial Considerations

Cost is one of the most defining factors in the decision between private and public education. Understanding the financial commitment required for each option can help families make an informed choice.

• Private Schools require tuition, which can range from $10,000 to $50,000 annually, depending on the institution. On top of tuition, there may be additional costs such as uniforms, extracurricular fees, and transportation. However, many private schools offer scholarships and financial aid programs to help offset these costs for qualified families.
  
• Public Schools, funded by local, state, and federal government, are tuition-free for residents in the school’s designated zone. While there may be minimal fees for extracurricular activities, sports, or elective courses, the overall cost of attending a public school is far lower. This makes public schooling more accessible to families from various economic backgrounds.

Key Points:

• Private schools come with a high tuition cost, but financial aid options are often available.
• Public schools offer a low-cost alternative, though there may be minor fees associated with extracurricular activities.

College Admissions and Future Opportunities

When deciding between private and public high schools, one of the most important factors to consider is how each option can impact your child’s college admissions prospects. Both private and public schools have the potential to provide students with the tools they need to succeed in the competitive college admissions process, but they do so in different ways.

• Private Schools often have specialized college counseling services and smaller student-to-counselor ratios, allowing students to receive more personalized guidance throughout the application process. Many private schools also have established relationships with college admissions officers, which may give students an advantage when applying to top universities. However, success in admissions ultimately comes down to the individual student, not the school.
  
• Public Schools, particularly high-performing ones, also offer strong preparation for college admissions through Advanced Placement (AP) courses, extracurricular activities, and leadership opportunities. While the student-to-counselor ratio may be higher, public school students who excel academically and take advantage of available resources can be just as competitive in the admissions process as their private school counterparts.

Key Points:

• Private schools offer personalized college counseling and have connections with admissions officers, but individual student achievement is the most important factor.
• Public schools provide excellent opportunities for college preparation, particularly through AP courses and extracurricular leadership.

Safety

Safety is a major concern for many parents when deciding between private and public high schools. The perceived security of the school environment can influence both academic performance and overall student well-being.

• Private Schools often have the resources to invest in enhanced security measures such as controlled campus access, security personnel, and more stringent disciplinary policies. With smaller student bodies, there may be closer monitoring of student behavior, and a more personalized approach to safety and well-being.
  
• Public Schools may vary significantly in terms of safety, depending on location and funding. While many public schools also have security measures in place, such as metal detectors or on-campus police officers, larger student populations can make it more difficult to manage incidents or ensure personalized attention to every student’s safety needs.

Key Points:

• Private schools typically offer more stringent safety measures due to smaller sizes and greater resources.
• Public school safety varies based on location and funding, though many schools have robust security measures in place.

Parental Involvement

Parental involvement is a crucial factor that can significantly affect a child’s academic success and school experience. The level of engagement expected and facilitated by private and public schools can vary.

• Private Schools generally encourage high levels of parental involvement, often requiring parents to participate in school events, fundraising activities, and board meetings. The smaller, close-knit community of private schools makes it easier for parents to engage with teachers and administrators on a regular basis.
  
• Public Schools tend to have more variability in parental involvement, often due to larger student populations and fewer direct opportunities to engage with teachers and staff. However, many public schools have strong parent-teacher associations (PTAs) and open communication channels for parents who wish to be actively involved.

Key Points:

• Private schools encourage and often require parental involvement, fostering a close-knit community.
• Public schools offer opportunities for involvement through PTAs, though engagement levels can vary by district.

Personalized Teaching

The level of personalized teaching available at a school can have a significant impact on student success, particularly for students who need more tailored academic attention.

• Private Schools are known for offering highly personalized education, thanks to smaller class sizes and flexible curriculums. Teachers in private schools are often able to adjust their teaching methods to fit individual student learning styles, which can help students excel in specific areas.
• Public Schools, while they can offer personalized teaching, may face challenges due to larger class sizes and state-mandated curriculum standards. However, many public schools have programs for gifted students, special education, and other targeted support services that aim to personalize learning as much as possible.

Key Points:

• Private schools offer a more personalized approach to teaching due to smaller class sizes and flexible curriculums.
• Public schools can still provide personalized education, though it may vary based on class size and available programs.

Resources

Resources, such as technology, facilities, and extracurricular programs, can play a significant role in your child’s overall educational experience. The availability of these resources often differs between private and public schools.

• Private Schools typically have more financial flexibility to invest in modern facilities, advanced technology, and specialized programs such as arts, sciences, and athletics. This access to additional resources often allows for a more enriched educational experience.
• Public Schools, depending on district funding, may have fewer resources or outdated equipment. However, well-funded public schools, particularly in affluent areas, can rival private schools in terms of facilities and technology. Public schools also often have more widespread extracurricular options, including sports, music, and drama clubs.

Key Points:

• Private schools often have more resources for facilities, technology, and specialized programs.
• Public schools may have varied resource availability, but well-funded districts can offer comparable facilities.

How Many Students Per Class?

Class size can significantly affect the amount of attention each student receives from their teachers. Smaller classes generally mean more personalized instruction, while larger classes can make it harder for individual students to stand out.

• Private Schools tend to have smaller class sizes, typically ranging from 10 to 15 students per class. This allows for more individualized instruction, where teachers can focus on each student’s specific learning needs and provide personalized feedback.
• Public Schools often have larger class sizes, particularly in urban areas or underfunded districts, where classes may have 20 to 30 students or more. Larger class sizes can make it harder for teachers to provide individualized attention, though well-structured public schools still ensure academic success for their students.

Key Points:

• Private schools typically have smaller class sizes, allowing for more individualized attention.
• Public schools often have larger classes, though well-managed schools still offer quality instruction.

How Your Child Feels

Perhaps one of the most overlooked but essential factors in choosing a school is how your child feels about their environment. A school’s atmosphere can greatly impact your child’s happiness, sense of belonging, and overall academic performance.

• Private Schools often provide a more intimate and close-knit community, where students may feel more supported and valued. The smaller student body can foster strong relationships between students and teachers, leading to a more personalized learning experience.
• Public Schools, due to their larger student populations, may offer a more diverse and dynamic social environment. Some students thrive in larger schools where they have the opportunity to meet a wide variety of peers and participate in numerous extracurricular activities, while others may feel overwhelmed by the size and prefer a smaller, more intimate setting.

Key Points:

• Private schools often provide a more supportive and intimate environment where students can build strong relationships.
• Public schools offer a more diverse social environment, which may be beneficial or overwhelming depending on the student’s personality.

Teacher Training

Teacher training and qualifications can significantly impact the quality of education students receive. Private and public schools differ in terms of the qualifications required for their teaching staff.

• Private Schools are often more flexible in terms of teacher certification. While many private school teachers hold advanced degrees or specialized training, some schools do not require state certification. This flexibility allows schools to hire experts in niche subjects but may also mean that teacher training varies from school to school.
• Public Schools are required to hire teachers who meet state certification standards, which include passing exams and completing specific education requirements. This ensures that teachers are highly qualified in their subject areas, though public school teacher salaries and working conditions can vary widely by state and district.

Key Points:

• Private schools have more flexibility in teacher hiring but may not always require state certification.
• Public schools require state-certified teachers, ensuring consistency in qualifications.

Transportation and Accessibility

Transportation is an often-overlooked factor when choosing between private and public high schools, but it can have a significant impact on a student’s daily life and overall experience. The availability and convenience of transportation can affect how much time your child spends commuting, which in turn influences their study time, extracurricular participation, and overall well-being.

• Private Schools may or may not provide transportation, and if they do, it often comes at an additional cost. In some cases, parents are responsible for arranging transportation, which can add logistical challenges, particularly if the school is far from home. This can lead to longer commute times and less flexibility in managing after-school activities and homework.
• Public Schools are generally required to provide transportation to all students within a designated residential area, making them a more convenient option for families. Public school bus systems are typically well-established and free, reducing the burden on parents and ensuring students can easily access school and return home without additional expenses or complications.

Key Points:

• Private schools may require parents to arrange transportation, adding potential logistical challenges and costs.
• Public schools provide free, reliable transportation within designated zones, offering greater convenience and accessibility for families.

Extracurricular Activities and Leadership

Extracurricular activities are a critical aspect of a student’s development, contributing to their leadership skills, socialization, and college readiness. The opportunities available at private versus public schools can differ both in scope and structure.

• Private Schools often offer a more structured environment for extracurricular activities. Due to smaller student bodies, students may have an easier time attaining leadership positions in clubs and organizations. The downside, however, is that private schools may offer a more limited range of activities due to their size and specialized focus.
  
• Public Schools, with larger student populations, usually have a broader array of extracurriculars available, including sports teams, music programs, and community service clubs. Because of the larger student body, students may find more diverse opportunities but could face more competition for leadership roles.

Key Points:

• Private schools offer accessible leadership roles but may have fewer extracurricular choices.
• Public schools provide a diverse range of activities, but students may face more competition for leadership opportunities.

Student Support Systems

Support systems play a vital role in a student’s academic success and emotional well-being. Both private and public schools offer varying levels of support in terms of counseling, academic assistance, and personal development programs.

• Private Schools tend to have more resources dedicated to student support, offering smaller student-to-counselor ratios, individualized college counseling, and specialized programs for students with learning differences. The focused attention from staff and faculty allows private school students to receive tailored advice and support that helps them excel.
• Public Schools, especially in underfunded districts, may struggle to provide the same level of individualized attention. However, public schools often offer guidance counselors, school psychologists, and special education services, though the availability of these resources may vary widely depending on the school’s budget and student population size.

Key Points:

• Private schools offer more personalized support systems, with dedicated resources for college counseling and personal development.
• Public schools provide essential support services but may face budget limitations that affect the quality of care.

Video: Choosing the Right High School for U!

Learn More About Choosing a School

Choosing the right school for your child is a decision that requires careful consideration of various factors. It’s essential to gather as much information as possible to ensure that you make the best choice for your child’s future.

Both private and public schools offer unique benefits, and understanding how each aligns with your child’s needs, goals, and personality is key to making an informed decision. Whether it’s the smaller class sizes and personalized attention of private schools or the diverse opportunities and accessible resources of public schools, the right fit will depend on your family’s priorities.

Remember, visiting schools, talking to teachers, and attending open houses are invaluable steps in the decision-making process. Every child is different, and finding the environment where they will thrive is the most important part of this journey.

Acceptance rates from private schools are about equal, if slightly higher, than public schools from our student group. We attribute this small increase – not enough to be a statistically significant standard deviation on a school-by-school basis, to the fact that private school students apply to more schools, have more resources, and are motivated to perform more on average than their public school peers with the same grades.

Public schools have a wide range of qualities. Elite public schools in New York offer more resources or opportunities than most private schools. So it depends on a case-by-case basis.

However, this statistical significance breaks down at the Top 20 schools. At these schools, the number of students applying from private schools negates any systematic effect as well as the fact regional admissions officers know the dynamics and can weight all of these factors.

In the end, students and parents should choose a school at which the student feels comfortable and can excel. For more tips on choosing in the Bay Area specifically (near Stanford), you can check out this article here.

We have found no systematic advantage to going to a private school over a public school, and we really believe what the Stanford Dean of Admissions recently said:

Focus on the student, not necessarily the school“

The Stanford Dean of Admissions recently spoke about focusing on students vs. the school. In the end, if you are aiming for a Top 20 university in the US, chances are against us. They receive tens of thousands of applications and have to choose a bit over 1,000 normally. So they have the pick of the lot. But is it all up to chance? No.

What makes a student really stand out is their extracurricular story, their ability to articulate themselves, and a baseline of test scores. The first two are accomplished from this internal introspection. Though questions like that of private vs. public high school may seem life or death, it’s not that concrete. About 60% of the students who approach us do not have a story or have not thought of this first step. We guide them to blog posts like this to get them back to step 1.

Video: Public Schools Vs Private Schools

Making the Right Choice: Your Child’s Future, Your Decision

When choosing between private and public high school, focus on what environment will allow your child to excel academically and socially. Consider key factors like class size, academic programs, extracurricular opportunities, support systems, and financial feasibility. The decision should center on what will best nurture your child’s unique talents, goals, and personality—because ultimately, it’s not about finding the "best school," but the best school for your child.

Work With Us!

Ready to turn your college admission dreams into reality? Join the 98% of students who have worked with Empowerly and been accepted into Ivy League and top 25 schools. Our college counselors are the best-rated in the country and have proven to improve college admission rates by 11x. Book your FREE consultation today.

Additional Resources

• When comparing extracurriculars and how they impact admissions outcomes, it’s essential to explore "40 Internships for High School Students," which provides valuable opportunities that strengthen college applications.
• For students in high school looking for additional ways to enhance their resumes, especially those attending private schools, "Top 16 STEM Programs for High School Students This Summer (2024)" highlights fantastic options.
• Understanding the academic expectations for college admissions can be supported by looking into "The Top 25 Colleges and Universities that Accept a 3.4 GPA," which provides insight into GPA benchmarks for various schools.

The post Private vs. Public High School: Is One Really Better Than The Other? appeared first on Empowerly.

College applications can feel like a stressful, competitive race to some far-off finish line. Instead, we suggest a slow and steady approach to winning college apps. What does that mean? Well, let’s break it down into smaller tasks. The more steadily you work on your overall goals the better your final product can be.  

About Our Team

In this post, we’ll feature highlights from our expert counselor Jennifer W! Here’s a little more information about Jennifer:  

Jennifer graduated from Cornell University as a Biology major with a minor in International Relations. Jennifer’s first teaching experience was in college as a rock climbing instructor where she pushed students to conquer their fears and learn safety protocols. Now, she continues to push students to reach their goals and has helped 200+ students gain admission into their top choice universities. Her students have been admitted to Yale, UPenn, Columbia, UC Berkeley and other top schools.

Our central question and focus:

How do students win the college apps race? 

One of the benefits of hiring a college counselor is that you have a built-in system to remind you of what to be working on. Your counselor helps keep track of your progress, to ensure you finish things on time “and submit high-quality work,” says Jennifer. If you’re going solo, you have to be extra diligent about mapping your journey. Either way, a logical calendar will set you on the right track. 

So, let’s get started with what you need to know.

Why do slow and steady matter?

Well, if you rush through your application process, there are all kinds of things you might miss. Rewriting all your writing supplements; submitting an important component of your application; and “sending your test scores on time!” After all, Jennifer points out, “These are mistakes that won’t happen” if you just give yourself enough time.  

Why do so many students rush instead?  

It’s tempting to feel like you have to be busy all the time in order to keep up. High school students tend to glorify the underslept, overworked, high-achieving condition that leads to disorganization and burnout. When all your friends and peers feel and talk this way, it’s all too easy to let it creep into your habits, too.

Not to mention, it’s often a fault of procrastination! Yes, that plain old problem is back. If you wait too long, suddenly you have a giant pile of work; and probably, Jennifer adds, “thousands of words to write for your college essays.” Even if you do get it done on time, it won’t be your best product. And you tack on a whole lot of stress in the process. If you’re stressed already, check out this article for self-care tips for students from one of our counselors.

What can I do to keep myself on pace with college apps?  

If you know you have time to start slow and steady on your college apps, reach out to Empowerly. We can help you make the absolute most of your time and produce top-quality applications. If you decide to do it alone, again, the best thing you can do for yourself is to start early. 

For those of you who are already running behind the clock, take a deep breath. I would also recommend considering working with a counselor to help you “work quickly and efficiently through the most critical tasks, to ensure you don’t miss any important deadlines,” Jennifer underscores.

How can this help me win the race?  

Not only will you retain more information by working at this pace, you also give yourself time to ruminate. Some say the hardest part is getting started. If you take small steps and give yourself time to double-check your work, you will be less stressed, more productive, and gain more from the experience. At Empowerly, we like to emphasize that the college application process is about introspection. If you are able to make the most of this time, you can come out on the other side with more confidence in yourself and your future plans.  

Now go get working! Take that first step today.

The post How to Win the College Apps Race? Slow and Steady appeared first on Empowerly.

Curious about what path will set your student up for the most success in college? Should we choose public or private high school? This article offers the unique perspective of a former student, reflecting on their own journey, which originates in the Bay Area of California. Keep in mind, this post is written primarily for Bay Area students and their parents. However, holding these tenets in mind as you choose a high school will be critical!

Student Story

It’s June, which means summer and graduation! While graduating from middle school is a huge stepping stone, the process of starting high school can be daunting. Many parents debate whether a public or private education is better for their child in order to get accepted to a top college. There are many factors to consider when deciding to enroll in a private or public school and which one a student will succeed in. I, too, went through the arduous task of picking between a multitude of high schools, and thankfully I was able to find one that suited me just right.

Phase One

I attended a private school called Challenger from preschool to middle school. I did not know what public school was like. In fact, all my information came from my friends. To specify, those friends attended my local high school…

Alternate Route

Evergreen Valley High School (EVHS). From the information they gave me, I imagined a crowded school of 4,000 kids where no one knew one another… While EVHS is a huge public school, it is also one of the top schools in the Bay Area. Turns out, the school offers a rigorous course load with AP classes for students to take.

Many of the students end up attending top universities such as Stanford, UC Berkeley, and UCLA. My friends who have attended EVHS praised the school for its diverse student body as well as the multitude of extracurriculars offered to students.

Not For Me

While EVHS seemed like a very promising high school, I was still very hesitant of switching from a private to a public school. This incessant interest for me to attend a private school led me to take the HSPT and get into my first choice school, Saint Francis High School!

Saint Francis High School is a private Catholic school located in Mountain View. While I was not brought up Catholic, the idea of going to a Catholic school intrigued me; I would be able to experience a different type of learning environment.

1. Well-funded

The school had many renovations, which made the campus look practically new. Each building and facility had millions of dollars dedicated to its construction, which facilitated a great learning environment for the students.

2. Cutting-Edge Curriculum

My parents were also very pleased with SFHS because of the rigorous curriculum they offered. Starting from freshman year, students are offered the choice to take honors courses. Starting Sophomore year, AP classes are offered to students to prep them for college classes. Because of the advanced course load I took, I am now able to thrive in UC Berkeley with an almost perfect GPA.

3. Extracurricular opportunities

But what truly mesmerized me was the extracurriculars offered at my school. I was able to explore numerous different activities, from volunteering to banking to dancing. Saint Francis was able to shape me holistically and prepare me for the real world.

My Verdict:

I am glad to say that my high school experience was a great one and continuing with a private school was the best decision I made! That being said however, those of my friends at Berkeley who went to public schools said they had equally thrilling experiences.

Choosing between public and private high schools can be difficult as there are many factors to be considered—” counselors, tuition, location, rigor—” when picking. However, the decision various based solely on what suits each student and parents’ individual needs. No matter which one a student ends up going to, it is what they make out of their experience. High school is a time to enjoy and make memories; I was able to build lasting relationships and learn so many things and I hope whoever reads this will be able to do the same.

Interested in receiving 1-on-1 guidance to selecting a high school for your child? Get matched to a college counselor today. Let’s start your journey together!

The post School Scoop: Public or Private High School? appeared first on Empowerly.

Many distressed 7^th/8^th grade parents and high school parents come to us unsure if their child should go to public vs private school. The main objective is to give their child more resources and a better opportunity to attend great universities. Some parents believe that going to private school directly correlates to the type of college their child will attend. In this article, we want to dispel the myths of private vs. public school, the challenges at each, and the benefits of going to each.

This article is an example of one discussion you may benefit from consulting a college counselor on. In the end, the decision is a personal one. By illuminating our experiences and those of thousands of students, we can shed some light on this important decision to help you start out.

Private schools increase my chances of admission

Private schools offer many good courses, extracurricular engagements with research programs, and other resources; and most importantly, other students that have a similar mindset. In our experience, the seriousness of other students and the quality of teachers is generally high at private schools. Parents sending their children to these private schools value education and want the best for their child. They are also able to afford the tuition.

Although there is likely a significant correlation between private schools and admission to top universities, the causation is unclear. We believe it is a combination of conscientious parents, good teachers, and healthy peer competition; essentially, you need strong opportunities inside and outside of school to build a story.

Yet these factors do not necessarily need a private school. Students and parents themselves can find opportunities, build a story, and find tutoring help if needed. The benefit of a private school is all of these resources are in one place. Therefore, students can consistently engage in conversation with teachers and students who encourage your student’s passion.

Colleges do not know the difference between local high schools

Many universities have regional admissions officers. These officers learn about schools in a specific area, down to the number of AP or IB courses available. These university officials also are in contact with your high school guidance counselor and sometimes with teachers directly. The differences in number of AP or IB offered, course difficulty, and activities do factor into the overall picture. These regional admissions officers learn about these differences, and communicate them to the broader admissions committee when reviewing applications.

School clubs are not very good at my high school, will I be at a disadvantage?

This is partially true, but think about the broader landscape. Millions of school clubs exist throughout the country; and students create thousands of new clubs each year in order to stand out in college admissions. At private schools, it is often easier to start new clubs. Some students and parents believe this key fact will be how they get into their top choice schools. The reality is school clubs is one of four types of activities that students must do. The other types of activities – out-of-school, social work, and competitions, are equally important for admission to university.

Public schools are overloaded with students and I will not be able to stand out.

This is sadly often true – and the statistics around college guidance counselors to student ratios are dizzying. We did an analysis from the NACAC  data on these ratios and found that across California, the average guidance counselor has 950 students.

Parents can combat this trend by hiring external tutoring and counseling, being proactive and finding opportunities for students through their network and online, and generally watching deadlines and stepping back to make a plan before the school year stars. This does sound stressful, but it is worth it. Creating a framework for high school is important, but overloading a student with deadlines and timelines can be overwhelming as well. It is about identifying your values first, then your goals, and finally how you will achieve these goals in discrete steps.

Private schools often have lower ratios, but that means that all private school students have more access to guidance counselors. The sheer number of applicants to the Top 70 universities in the United States points to the fact that the extracurricular standard is higher for private school students. Regional admissions officers know all of these nuances and account for them when reviewing applications.

Empowerly Perspectives on Public vs Private High School

In the end, the choice between public and private high school is a personal one. You must look at your value system and how much you value the convenience of having resources in one place. In terms of admission, the Ivy League schools and others are able to standardize the admissions process through regional admissions officers, unweighted GPA, and other measures.

In our opinion, and those of many universities, going to private school does not automatically increase a student’s chances of admissions. Rather, the challenges become different instead. Instead of focusing on joining a few school clubs, students must stand out in out-of-school activities from their peers who are also focused.

In either scenario, students and parents should find analogous activities that complement their extracurricular story. At Empowerly, we are building a searchable database of past summer activities and school year activities that is crowdsourced by our past students and those willing to help the next generation of high school students. Other ways to find activities include looking in the local newspaper, asking friends or fellow parents, and asking your school counselor or teachers for more resources.

Final thoughts

Ultimately, the story and the strength of an application is about the individual. It is about the student. And it is not a test, just a measure of where they are at that point in time. Students change, so colleges are instead looking for dynamic individuals that are open-minded, capable of learning, and able to contribute back to their community. These traits can be show at either a private or public school.

The post Public vs. Private School: Which One Is Right For Me? appeared first on Empowerly.

The road to college admissions can be rocky. Lost for where to start your journey to attending college? Wondering if you’re way behind your peers? Confused about what step comes next?

Don’t worry! We have a map to help you find your way. There are steps you can take to improve your candidacy for a university acceptance, through all four years—and especially those critical months leading up to graduation. Along with resources and some hard work, you can make it to the finish line! 

Step #1: Breathe.

We know all this information can be confusing, which is why we broke each step down for you. These are major steps to let you know what to do. But don’t let this box you in! Feel free to skim ahead if you’re starting early, or review early years even if you’re already past them. 

If you’re stuck anywhere along the route, there are resources to help you get back on track. From digital databases on our student portal to essay editing and research answers on-demand, you can call in experts; it doesn’t need to feel impossible. Not only can we help you catch up if you missed a step in the past, but our approach will help you emphasize your current strengths to make sure you stand out.

Here’s a quick key for how schools in the United States work!

• Middle School = Usually grades 6, 7, and 8 together 
• Junior High School = Usually grades 7 and 8 together (sometimes 9)
• High school:
  • Freshman (or freshman year) = First year of high school, grade 9
  • Sophomore (or sophomore year) = Second year of high school, grade 10
  • Junior (or junior year) = Third year of high school, grade 11
  • Senior (or senior year) = Fourth year of high school, grade 12 
• Then graduation and beyond!

So where does your road to college admissions begin? No matter how early you begin to show interest or aptitude for a subject theme area, you can begin laying foundational habits and skills that will prove invaluable later in life.

Now, let’s get down to business… 

As you can see, this guide walks you through each semester of your high school education. But don’t forget to take advantage of those summers, too! Even if your teachers or peers aren’t thinking ahead, we know that summer break from class is the perfect opportunity to set yourself apart. If you don’t know what summer activities are available in your area, you can always turn to the internet for guidance. Not your cup of tea? Empowerly has tried-and-true methods and recommendations to help you out in that department, too. 

Here are some suggestions for superstar summers along your road-way to college:

Rising Freshman Summer [8-9th]:

Prepare for a whole new school! Reach out to friends, walk around the campus once or twice so you know where your classroom buildings will be, and look at the list of clubs you can join. You can also brush up on fundamental subjects.

Rising Sophomore Summer [9th-10th]:

Practice target skills, take a class at a local community college or online, build good writing and study habits, and focus on exploration with extracurriculars and subjects.

Rising Junior Summer [10th-11th]:

Take slightly more advanced independent courses in the subject areas you are most interested in, and start participating in camps or competitions. Think about what majors most interest you and work toward them. Prepare for standardized tests.

Rising Senior Summer [11th-12th]:

Apply for competitive summer programs, internships, and hands-on opportunities to set yourself apart with a week or months-long intensive. And as stated above, begin hard work on the actual applications.

Final Summer before college:

Spend time with your family, check off any bucket list activities in your hometown, study, and get excited about your new home for the next few years! Some schools offer bridge classes to help you adjust to college workloads. You’ve graduated and earned a pat on the back.

Final thoughts

So now you’ve got the basics on lock. Looking for a customized checklist? This guide is relatively generalized, so we focus on information that will help all students. However, if you have a special situation, we recommend getting individual advice. A one-on-one counseling session will help you explain your goals to a mentor and they will be able to work with you to decide what makes the most sense for you. 

Call us today. We will be happy to answer your questions about how to get started and set you up with a complimentary consultation session to share more information about our program and approach. Your road to college admissions and beyond should be as individualized as you are. We are here to help you fall in love with your true best-fit schools, and hopefully, to make the process valuable.

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Let’s breakdown some ways you can prepare for college throughout your middle school year.

Fall Semester in Middle School

Young teens facing the close of the fall semester have their hands full juggling classes and clubs as final exams approach. Not to mention, college-bound students know that competitive summer activities, internships, and college applications will be due in the coming weeks. Middle school students, in particular, are faced with a difficult task: in the sixth, seventh, and eighth grades, young teens are asked to discover and invest in their passions for the first time in a very mature way. It’s no tall order to balance this kind of personal development alongside your most academically challenging courseload yet.

Middle School: A Time for Building Foundational Skills

As your workload ramps up, students will also need to work harder and learn important life skills, like time management and prioritization. In the unfolding academic journey, proactive planning becomes the cornerstone of a balanced and successful middle school experience.

In spite of all that, the new responsibilities as a middle school student are exciting. These autumn days are a welcome break to reflect on your progress and spend quality time with your family. Foundational skills and character built now will come in handy for the rest of your student’s life.

Plan Your Summer Activities Before the End of the Year

Don’t let the stress of your workload seep over into your holidays! For those of you planning out your summer holiday plans, especially younger students, now is the time to act to avoid a time crunch later. Most students would do well to plan their summer activities before the end of the year. 

Empowerly is here to help by collecting a list of some of the best middle school summer programs out there. Let us help your middle schoolers have a fun, engaging, and intellectual summer experience to boost them forward! 

What Middle Schoolers Can Do for College Now

For those of you looking to expand your intellectual horizons in 2024, consider browsing this list to see what catches your eye.

National Student Leadership Conference’s Middle School Programs

Subject(s): 

• Animal Sciences
• Engineering
• Medicine & Health Care
• U.S. History & Government

Length: 6 Days

Location: American University

Deadline: Rolling

Duke University Pre-College Middle School Programs

Subject(s):

• Technology
• Engineering
• Mathematics
• Science
• Information

Length: 1-2 Weeks

Location: Duke University

Deadline: February (early) or March

University of California, Berkeley Girls in Engineering

Subject(s): Engineering

Time/Date: 7 Days

Location: University of California, Berkeley

Deadline: March 31st

Kode with Klossy

Subject(s): Computer Science

Length: 2 Weeks

Location: Various locations, TBD

Deadline: Opens in Spring

New York University Middle School Programs

Subject(s):

• Math Program for Young Minds
• Science and Technology Entry Program
• Science of Smart City

Length: Various, 3-13 Weeks

Location: New York University

Deadline: Opens in Spring

Make the Most of Your Winter Holidays

As the fall semester winds down, a burgeoning wave of responsibilities looms on the horizon, urging students to chart their course well in advance. The specter of summer activities, especially for younger students, presents a formidable challenge that demands proactive measures to sidestep the last-minute time crunch. While the academic workload steadily intensifies, it’s healthier for students not to allow the encroaching stress to infiltrate the necessary respite of the holiday season.

For those seeking help in managing these challenges, Empowerly is there to guide the way. Our team can put together a carefully selected list of great summer programs for middle school students like you! If you’re excited about learning new things in 2024, working with a college counselor can be an invaluable tool to advance your progress. 

As you go through your school journey, planning ahead becomes a key part of having a successful and balanced experience. Empowerly not only helps with the current challenges but also acts as a guide for future growth. So, exploring the summer program list isn’t just about finding activities—it’s like finding a roadmap to make your 2024 an intellectually fulfilling adventure.

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Middle school is finally over, and your child has just graduated! While students are getting ready for the summer, they also have a new daunting task: how to select your high school. Numerous students simply attend their local high school as it is close by and free to attend. However, many parents question whether a private school education gives their student an advantage when applying to colleges. There are an extensive amount of factors that parents must consider when helping their child decide between a private and public education. It is no easy choice, however in the end a student will always succeed if they put their best foot forward.

Tuition

The biggest factor that many parents have to take into consideration in how to select your high school is tuition costs. Private schools can cost upwards of $15,000 and go up to $40,000. The tuition varies from school to school, however financial aid is available for students from low-income families. While the tuition may be a hefty amount to pay initially, students do gain a great amount from attending these private school academic wise and extracurricular wise.      

Classes

Another major factor is looking at the coursework offered at private schools versus public schools. Most private and public schools offer similar classes for students to take. However, one issue that students in public schools face is getting classes they want. Because of the large population of students, public high schools have difficulty getting seatings for students in the AP classes. This leads to a lottery system, where students are randomly selected to have a seat in the class. In private schools however, students are always accommodated to get into these classes and get the learning experience they desire.

Location

Location is a small factor, yet it affects many parents’ decisions to send their kids to private schools. For a lot of students, private schools tend to be at least a 15 minute drive away from their home. However, every neighborhood has a local public school which students can walk or bike to daily. The drive can also get tedious as there tends to be a lot of traffic to and from private schools. The downside however is that a student’s local public school may not be as great as other public schools in nearby areas.

Extracurriculars

Lastly, extracurriculars play a huge part in the decision of private versus public high school. Students need time away from academics and to enjoy different activities available at their school. While all private and public high schools have different activities available to students, students are always encouraged to create their own clubs on campus.

No matter which school a student picks, private or public, they can thrive as long as they  put in effort and do their best. There are pros and cons to both options, and therefore it depends  solely on what is best for each parent and student. But fear not, neither is a poor choice as long as a student has the means and the will to succeed.   Ultimately, we hope that your family is happy when you select your high school, and feels that you can thrive.

Keep in mind, middle school and the first year of high school are a great time to start your work with a college counselor. While college may seem like a long way off, there are always ways that you and your student can start building up long-lasting habits and extracurriculars now. Meet with one of our enrollment team members to discuss what that might look like for your family, and when it makes sense to start.

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As a middle schoolers prepare for high school, they face an important choice. What type of high school would be best for them? In this post, I will briefly describe the Peninsula, East Bay, and South Bay high school districts in the Bay Area of California. This will give you a sense of the vast diversity of school atmospheres available to you. For those of you with fewer options, this article can give you a sense of your competition in other districts! Ultimately, a driven student can succeed anywhere; but the social development, stress levels, and key memories that high school promises matter, too.

As a region, the Bay Area  in Northern California is home to some of the most elite public and private high schools in the country. This is partly because of its proximity to Silicon Valley, a global tech and innovation hub. As a result, the population in this zone prioritizes education highly. Therefore, these high schools are highly competitive! This based not only on university acceptance rates, but also due to the unique atmosphere that each campus possesses. These environments epitomize the drive, diversity, and desire to exceed limitations.

The Peninsula

The Peninsula’s well-known high school districts consist of the San Mateo Union High School District and the Palo Alto Unified School District. The Palo Alto Unified School District ranks among the best in California and is particularly recognized for its competitive academic intensity, great quality of education, and abundant diversity. However, one downfall is the poor mental health of students, perhaps caused by the extensive pressure to outperform.

The San Mateo Union High School District, on the other hand, is a couple notches below in terms of academic rigor. Rather, there is a greater emphasis on school spirit, and a balance of all extracurricular activities in sports, performing arts, and educational programs.

East Bay

The East Bay, contrastingly, is not notorious for having high schools that are overly rigorous in any designated field for college preparation. It is home to the Pleasanton Unified School District and Acalanes Union High School District, which includes schools distinguished by blue ribbons and a justifiable amount of academic intensity. Students coming from these schools are often well-rounded and do not usually carry a mindset characterized by an extreme inclination toward any sector.

South Bay

Lastly, the South Bay owns multiple outstanding high school regions. However, the two most outstanding are the Fremont Union High School District and the Fremont Unified School District.

These schools are extensively competitively in the field of academics and extracurriculars, as students often prioritize outperforming one another. There is an abundance of resources available; so ,it is the norm for students to utilize them to their utmost potential to craft fierce college applications. Furthermore, the extraordinary drive among these students makes them practically feeders to elite UC‘s and Ivy Leagues.

Concluding tips

Check out this blog post for   in-depth explanations for specific high schools within each district, including both public and private high schools! This will provide even more granular information about Bay Area schools specifically.

To review, this article reviewed a case study of each type of high school in the Bay Area. Using these types, you can do your own research (or have us research it for you)!

Did you find this post helpful? Still have questions about which type of high school would help you thrive? Let us know! We would love to hear from you, and work with you if you would like to sign up for counseling. Book a consultation below if you’re interested in learning more about how our counseling program works.

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There are numerous high schools in throughout the  California Bay Area that continue to deserve recognition. At Empowerly, we have worked with many students originating in this geographical area. We notice that these schools possess outstanding academics, and strengths in specific niches. Here are some of our top standouts for Bay Area high schools, below.  

Peninsula High Schools 

Aragon High School

• Public school in San Mateo, CA
• Aragon appears to be the  most well-rounded standout  in its district.  Though there are many resources available, students often have to take the initiative to discover what their interests lie in.  The faculty and staff support an environment balanced and relatively stable in terms of academics, athletics, and performing arts. Overall, Aragon would provide a solid experience for any high schooler.

Gunn High School

• Public school in Palo Alto, CA
• Due to its academic rigor and social selectiveness, Gunn is often deemed as a private school, disguised as a public school.  Gunn is not a superstar in sports, but instead boasts a four-year program that greatly hones students so that they are able to craft very competitive college applications. Though the overall experience is very stressful, students often are thankful for the intensity that prepares them for top-notch universities.

Lowell High School

• Public magnet school in San Francisco, CA
• Lowell is known for its high expectations of students to perform well. It is particularly rigorous in its  STEM  classes, and is far above the state measurement in pretty much every academic category. The school also does an excellent job  incorporating low-income students  into the driven and inclusive culture fostered there.

Sacred Heart Preparatory

• Private school in Atherton, CA
• Sacred Heart is outstanding in athletics, academics, and performing arts. Though the tuition is pricey, the school invests in its program; and as a result, students often come out of SHP very thankful for their experience. Students transform with the abundant amount of opportunities (not to mention, school spirit is HIGH) and caring staff. For graduates, the most popular destinations are USC and UCLA.

East Bay High Schools

There are a few high schools in the East Bay section of the Bay Area that deserve recognition. Though they may be physically distant from the centralized Bay Area, families in the East Bay should definitely check out these options!

Amador Valley High School 

• Public School in Pleasanton, CA
• Associated with its consistently outstanding test scores among its students; but at times, the administration prioritizes its reputation over the health of the students.  Students often become overly stressed when participating in outside extracurricular programs. Nevertheless graduates come out feeling very well-prepared for college. On the bright side, the school fosters a very safe environment where there is a lack of peer pressure.

Miramonte High School 

• Public school in Orinda, CA
• Particularly recognized for its rigorous academic workload and competition. It is an overall great experience for students who enjoy involving themselves in a variety of activities, and students have altogether done well in taking the initiative to develop their clubs. However, one downside is that the school has struggled to incorporate diversity into its culture. As a result, the social scene has become relatively divided over the years.

The College Preparatory School

• Private school in Oakland, CA
• With such a small population and selective enrollment size, freshmen have access to mentorship groups immediately. Due to this, they become folded into the school’s spirit. It earns status as one of the top private schools in the Bay Area; partially attributable to the extreme care on every teacher’s behalf. Students at this school commonly strive to attend Stanford or other Ivy League universities.

South Bay High Schools

The South Bay is home to high schools that have received national recognition. The public and private schools in this region consist of students who exemplify academic excellence, innovative leadership, and interpersonal relationships.

Monta Vista High School

• Public school in Cupertino, CA
• Monta Vista ranks among the best high schools in the nation. Located in the hub of growing Silicon Valley powerhouses, students at Monta Vista are driven, competitive, and continue to challenge themselves on a daily basis. Students, while on top of their academics, have notably high school spirit, and often reminisce about the events that made their four-year experience unforgettable and life-changing.  On the flip side, the school severely falters in terms of diversity, which contributes to students’ inability to drastically distinguish themselves from one another. Lastly, the pressure to outperform one another is of a high degree, and not receiving solely “As” troubles the mentality of many students. 
• Most of this can also be said about its direct rival in Lynbrook High School.

Saint Francis High School

• Private school in Mountain View, CA
• Saint Francis is very well-rounded school that focuses on the aspect of community. While academic and athletics are strongly steady, there is an emphasis on building strong relationships  with fellow classmates and teachers. Additionally, the idea of diversity is highly encouraged in both the educational and social scenes. On the other hand, one factor that students may experience conflict with is the strict dress code.

The Harker School

• Private school in San Jose, CA
• The Harker School is recognized for its students’  exceptionally  high test scores, which usually results in a large portion of each class attending  elite colleges  across the nation. Harker offers many opportunities that are not a reality in most public schools (for example, its specialization in  STEM), and represents a  great balance of academic rigor and educational support  among the teachers and administration.  However, there are a couple downsides – the athletic program is not prioritized, and the yearly tuition exceeds most public universities.

Conclusion

Not sure what high school your child should attend?  Many of our college counselors are Bay Area natives and can help you make the best choice for your child. Schedule a free consultation below!

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Choosing the right high school for you can be an overwhelming process, since there are so many options available! Beyond standard public and private schools, some of you may be considering boarding school. This option is not discussed as often. As a boarding school graduate, I have shared my own high school experience and some boarding school pros & cons. Hopefully this will help you make an informed decision!   

My Experience

As an international student from China, I attended high school at a boarding school called MacDuffie in Granby, Massachusetts. I had previously attended a  public middle school in New York City for half a year, when I first came to the U.S. with my mother who was a visiting scholar at Columbia University. After my mother left, I had to attend either a boarding school or a private school (stay with a homestay family) in order to further my education in the U.S.  I ended up choosing MacDuffie and had a great experience, achieving both academic and personal growth.

Boarding School Pros

Firstly, I believe that a boarding school has all the benefits that a private high school offers: small classes, diverse extracurricular activities, and a tight-knit community. We are very close to our peers, residential assistants, and faculty members. So, if you are someone who loves being in a tight community, it might be a good fit for you!

Also, living away from parents at a young age came with its unique challenges. Oftentimes I felt homesick and missed my family. I had to learn how to take care of myself at a younger age, making financial decisions and becoming more responsible (since my parents weren’t around to hold my hand).

Students in this situation develop strong practical and interpersonal skills such as independence and effective communication. With these skills, I felt like I was able to transition to my freshman year of college much more smoothly than my peers who attended “regular” high schools.    

Boarding School Cons

The first and biggest drawback of a boarding school is probably its high cost. Many have annual tuitions of around $50,000 to $65,000, almost as expensive as that of a private college. Without scholarship or financial aid, that tuition could be a huge expense for a student’s family.

If you are very close to your family, boarding school may be hard since you may see them so infrequently (unless they live nearby). Many boarding students go home and reunite with their families only over holiday breaks. Moreover, many boarding schools, like mine, are located in small towns, with very few off-campus activities for students to do. Therefore, if a student would like to have some fun outside of school’s extracurricular activities, the options are rather limited.

Last, boarding schools often have a lot of strict rules to ensure student’s academic efficiency and personal safety. The rules include mandatory study hours and curfew at night, which lead to less freedom than many students would have if they lived at home. 

Something for you to remember: Although your high school environment is conducive in shaping you, you can grow significantly anywhere with the right mindset and consistent effort! 

After reading my insights about boarding school, do you think boarding school is the right fit for you? Feel free to ask any questions or book a consult to chat!

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