(Comparing Public School to Oak Hill Academy – The Best Private School in Monmouth County)

1. Teachers in independent schools are more than disseminators of knowledge. They are integral parts of their schools and are experts in their fields allowing them to always construct the learning environment to heighten student interest.  Teachers are not sidetracked by other distractions like policies that are not student friendly, but are able to provide a meaningful school experience for all.
2. Teachers at independent schools are more than gatekeepers of knowledge.   They are also curators of curiosity.  Teachers encourage deep thinking; they help students from “learning about” to “figuring out”.
3. Parent engagement is exemplary.  Parents are encouraged to attend performance assemblies, award presentations, and class special events. Parents volunteer, support the school with fundraisers, and generally have a high level of connection including a welcome mat for grandparents, special relatives, and friends. School Day open houses, STEAM Days, History and Science Fairs, extensive field trips,  as well as music and drama performances all let parents see their children thrive.
4. Private schools are student-centered rather than teacher centered.  Students are active participants.  They are generally small and more personalized, emphasizing a culture of learning.  Students are well prepared for college and life.
5. Private schools celebrate diversity across all phases of life.  Cultural diversity is realized through fairs, where children share their heritage and customs.  It is also woven into the fabric of the curriculum and daily interaction of the class. Children learn to respect and appreciate people from all parts of our world.
6. Children are known, respected, and treasured.  Their unique personalities are shared with classmates. A rigorous curriculum is offered, but always in reach; being just right, not too difficult nor not too simple.  Children can be themselves and explore their passions in a supportive community.
7. Private schools are committed to learning and students find themselves in an environment with like-minded learners.  Children can be themselves and explore their goals in a supportive community.
8. Free from mandated standards and testing, private schools provide a relational environment where students enjoy physical, emotional, and spiritual safety.  They will flourish in a “Home Away From Home.”
9. In private schools, students have endless opportunities.  Science labs feature an experimental setting taught by qualified educators who are true scientists.  They also provide endless opportunities in computer, foreign language, music, art, and drama staffed by specially trained instructors.
10. Independent schools are places where students have the foresight to believe that they can actually change the world for the better.  They have a deep concern for their families, fellow students, teachers, and communities in general.
11. Private schools focus on the child’s social and emotional development so that the child will be well-rounded and a productive member of society who has developed the strength to cope in a modern world. Volunteerism is promoted and these schools offer a wide range of clubs, activities, sports, events, and competitions
12. Independent schools are designed to be student-centered that provide an active learning experience where the learner can explore, build, investigate, and create.  Since they are not as burdened by bureaucracy and regulations as public schools are, they have more freedom to be nimble and experimental in their educational approaches.  Teachers are not tied down with outmoded pedagogy.
13. Children need positive affirmation and special attention to thrive in their school years, not just survive.  A private school offers smaller class sizes, more individual attention, and a better understanding of how each student prefers to learn.
14. Not every school is a perfect fit for every student; however, having private schools available, parents can select the school that best meets their child’s needs.
15. Because private schools like Oak Hill Academy are small, if a child does not understand a concept, teachers will discover this pretty quickly and can address the learning issue or the spot, rather than waiting weeks or months to fix it.
16. Affordability – Yes, public education is free; however, parents should think of private school education as an investment.  With a tuition assistance program most family’s financial needs can be met for a qualified student.