Though often confused, independent schools and private schools are two distinct alternatives to public education.

Indeed, both address the needs of students who do not benefit from the monopolistic nature of public education within our culturally diverse society. However, there is a key difference between what institutions are designated private or independent. Distinction lies in their structure and their acquisition of funding.

While all private schools operate much like a business controlled by one or more “bosses” for the purpose of acquiring profit, independent schools are run cooperatively by a board of trustees and the administration. Some parents may also choose to participate in the day to day operations of their child's school, taking a more active role in their child's education.

Funding can be obtained from governmental and private sources, depending on the province they operate in and the regulations set by their Education Act declared by their Ministry of Education. But most importantly, they are all non-profit organizations, whether they are religious or community-based, address special needs, teach in a specific method, or are home-schools.

Most independent schools are affiliated with associations, such as the Canadian Association of Independent Schools (CAIS) or the Federation of Independent School Associations (Fisa). Associations demand specific standards of their members, and all schools must meet those expectations in order to be members.

According to recent statistics, over 110,000 students in Ontario alone attend independent schools. Some schools have even been around since the early 1800s! Join the ranks and expand your child's possibilities.

To find out more, visit our website devoted to Independent Schools.