Public vs. Private education

Many (affluent) parents often consider sending their kids to private school. Here in Ontario, there are many private schools to consider (albeit very expensive alternatives) to public schools. Private schools offer lower class sizes and more individualized teacher time. Public schools often are overlooked for their effectiveness in teaching. In my opinion, in Ontario, the public school system offers a superior level of education compared to private schools in Ontario.

Firstly, lets look at what both school systems are based on. Both purport using the Ontario curriculum to deliver information. In fact, teacher training within the public system on the approaches to curriculum is far superior to teacher training within the private realm. In fact, the purpose of a board of education is just that: To facilitate professional development among its teachers which most boards in Ontario do very effectively.

Secondly, public school teachers in Ontario are some of the highest paid teachers in the world. Private schools (largely) do not have similar pay (or benefits or pension) as public schools. Although some do try to match pay, they fall short of offering job security. Private schools offer their teachers an annual renewable contract whereas public school teachers contract are essentially "for life". If you were a teacher, which type of school would attract you? In most cases, the most highly trained teachers teach in the public school system. Public schools mimic, for the most part, societies. Private schools tend to show a more elitist approach to education and therefore do not prepare students adequately for the "real world". Students and teachers of private schools are oblivious to members of the society who "fall" beneath them. Terms such as ADD, Aspergers, LD are foreign to many teachers in the private realm. To conclude, therefore, a public education in Ontario, by far, is the most effective form of education for our kids. Hip, Hip Hooray for Public Education!