Under a very broad definition, an alternative school is any school that differs from the traditional public system. More clarification is needed to make sense of all the different choices parents face today in deciding what education method they should choose for their child.
Alternative schools often use non-traditional methods to educate. They break from the mainstream and offer items that are not usually part of traditional schools’ mandate. Their programs follow a certain philosophy or engage around an innovative procedure; an example of this is Green Learning Academy, who base their philosophy around Student-Directed Teaching.
The plethora of school choices available today include: Academic Schools, Alternative Schools, Boarding Schools, Catholic Schools, Charter Schools, Language Schools, Magnet Schools, Military Schools, Name-Sake Philosophy Schools, Religious Schools, Special Needs Schools, Sports Schools, Subject-Focused Schools (art, science, etc.) and Traditional Schools. I summarize each type below.
The big question parents have, though, is “what is the best school for my child?” Parents need to investigate all options available to them: gone are the days when the local public school is the only choice. Today’s parents have more options then ever before and the task of sorting through it all can be daunting. Understanding the different types of schools is really the first step towards making an informed decision.
Schools can fall under more then one category but usually have a dominant category. When choosing a school for your child be sure to examine all your options and gather as much information as you can. An informed decision is always the best decision. The brief summaries below are meant as an introduction to the many types of schools available.
Academic Schools
These schools are focused on academic achievement and test scores. They constantly challenge children on an intellectual level. They usually require students to pass an entrance exam and achieve certain grades throughout the year.
Alternative Schools
These schools have created or follow programs that are outside the traditional schools. Their programs usually include items that aim for more creativity, accountability and higher success with students. These are usually private schools that charge a tuition and choose who is admitted to the program. Parents registering in these schools usually agree with the school’s philosophy and are dissatisfied with what is offered in the public sector. (read more)
Boarding Schools
Being away from home is one item that sets these schools apart. Other items that are unique to these schools are the inter-student relationships, mentorships and broader horizons the students develop. Their days are spent doing chores, completing school work and after school activities. It is a well rounded daily schedule that better prepares the students for the future. Living away from their parents means the students have to deal with problems on their own, creating a high level of self-reliance. (read more)
Catholic Schools
These schools fall under the Religious School category but have their own title due to the fact that they receive public funding. They have done away with nuns and priests teaching the lessons and now employe certified teachers. Students entering a Catholic School may not be required to prove they are Catholic but may or may not need to pay a tuition. (read more)
Charter Schools
Charter Schools receive public funding but do not have to abide by the traditional boundaries and can thus draw students from any area. They must have a program that is different from the Traditional School. Because no tuition is associated with these schools the waiting lists can be very lengthy.
Language Schools
These schools immerse students in a foreign language while teaching the curriculum. Usually 80 to 90% of the students’ courses are taught in the chosen foreign language of the school.
Magnet Schools
Magnet Schools receive public funding and recruit students beyond the traditional school boundaries, but they usually have an entrance exam and commonly restrict access to their program to only the top students. Just like Charter Schools, these schools must also offer a program that is different from the traditional school.
Military Schools
Similar to Boarding Schools, though these follow a military mindset. They tend to be extremely strict and require a great deal of responsibility. Emphasis is placed on students overcoming physical challenges and setting personal bests. Some of these schools specialize in admitting students with discipline problems or behavioural issues. (read more)
Name-Sake Philosophy Schools
Many education pioneers are remembered for the education philosophies they created. When a school specializes in a particular philosophy they are usually named after that educator (for example; Montessori, Waldorf, etc.). These schools are usually a franchise with the freedom to customize the program they offer.
Religious Schools
These schools intersperse the doctrine of a particular religion throughout the curriculum. Often discipline practices revolve around scriptural writings. Moral or religious ideas are practiced freely with in the walls of the school. Teachers can be clergy or people that are not necessarily certified instructors. Families may be required to prove that they belong to the religion the school program follows.
Special Needs Schools
Focuses on physical or learning disabilities and students with special requirements. Often receiving extra funding from the government to assist with extra teachers, therapists, aides or classroom resources needed to facilitate the modified programs they specialize for their coded students. (read more)
Sports Schools
Sports school cater to students who are very active in sports. Students have extended gym classes and pay extra attention to physical activities. Some schools focus on a particular sport (i.e.; hockey, soccer, etc.)
Subject-Focused Schools
Just as “Subject-Focused” insinuates these schools concentrate on a specific subject area. These subject areas can include: Art, Science, Dance, Music, etc. These schools can focus on more specific items that are sometimes glossed over in a traditional school.
Traditional School
A Traditional School is usually a publicly funded school that is responsible for educating children in a certain geographical area. These schools typically use traditional classroom setups and instructional methods that often rely heavily on rote, memorization and recitation. (read more)
The next article will show what to look for when choosing a school, how to gather information and what should be part of the final decision.
Great overview of the many options parents have when considering the best independent school for their child.