Does Public School Cost Money in the US?

Find out how much public school could cost your checkbook before sending your children to the hallowed halls of your neighborhood schools. Learn about the different options available and how they can help you make an informed decision.

Does Public School Cost Money in the US?

School supplies, such as notebooks, pens, and a backpack, are essential for any student's success. Special programs, such as sports or extracurricular art, can also be beneficial for a student's development. However, this model presents a challenge for schools located in low-income areas because performance measures can be linked to this funding approach. Research has shown that there is a positive correlation between increased school spending and average student outcomes.

When it comes to the cost of public school, it varies from state to state. A family with an average income would pay only 7% of their income to send a child to a Catholic elementary school, but more than 50% for a seven-day boarding school. The student was already participating in the theater program, which cost the family the costs of producing school plays and the travel expenses for a theater group competition. The National Coalition for School Diversity (NCSD) reports that students of color do better in diverse schools than in segregated schools, and that white students do the same results.

Attending a racially diverse school reduces prejudice and improves communication, critical thinking, and problem solving skills. Before sending your children to the hallowed halls of your neighborhood schools, find out how much that public school could cost your checkbook. Parents are responsible for the cost of their children's school supplies, which today means not only notebooks and pencils, but also a computer and printer at home. Under the Education for People with Disabilities Act, public schools must offer educational programs for students with disabilities and employ teachers trained to work with those students. One solution to the identified problem is to distribute wealth evenly to enable better funding models for public schools.

Private schools may also offer a lower student-teacher ratio and smaller classes for younger children. Private school students are also less likely to see hate-related graffiti at school, to be called by a name related to hate, or to be bullied. The exception to this rule are private schools that specialize in specific activities, such as art or music. These schools still get their funding from tax money, but they operate outside the local public school system. It is important to understand the costs associated with public school before enrolling your child.

Researching the different options available can help you make an informed decision about what is best for your family.