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A Guide To Independent Private Schools: When To Consider Private vs. Charter vs. Public Education for Your Child

Choosing your child’s educational path can be a difficult decision further complicated by many options—from homeschooling, to online education, to public vs. charter schools, to private and independent schools.

Parents and caregivers must carefully consider their student’s individual needs and their goals for their child, and then balance those against their family’s time and resources.

As you weigh your options on where to enroll your child, use this guide to help you recognize when it’s worth considering private education. At Rowland Hall, a leading Utah independent private school, our friendly Admission Team can help answer any questions you may have as you consider your student’s future. To learn more about Utah’s leading independent private school, Rowland Hall, browse our website.

When Your Child Needs Academic Rigor and Accelerated Learning

Gifted and talented students may struggle in school if they aren’t academically challenged. An advantage of private school is that—due to small classes and the flexibility to teach the most meaningful, relevant curriculum possible—your child will be held to high academic standards, and consistently encouraged to take risks and strive for improvement.

Private education at an independent school is more comprehensive and holistic, catered toward caring for the whole child. Where public schools offer electives, private schools may require those electives as prerequisites for graduation, giving your child a more well-rounded school experience that includes arts, music, ethics, and community service.

According to a report by Gallup and the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS), “NAIS graduates scored higher on the ACT and SAT, on average, and were more engaged as seniors in high school” than graduates from public and non-NAIS private high schools.

Higher academic rigor and a curriculum that promotes applied learning often produce better results. According to a report by Gallup and the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS)—of which Rowland Hall is a member—“NAIS graduates scored higher on the ACT and SAT, on average, and were more engaged as seniors in high school” than graduates from public and non-NAIS private high schools.

Rowland Hall sets the standard for teaching and learning excellence. Our teachers receive constant training and support to stay abreast of best practices and maximize outcomes for students. Our students, in turn, receive a strong knowledge base in math, science, world languages, English, and history. They’re offered electives in choral and instrumental music, theatre, dance, visual media, debate, physical fitness, and competitive sports. Plus, Rowland Hall students have unique access to experiential, hands-on, and inventive courses that include field studies and class trips.

As your student progresses, Rowland Hall’s Upper School offers over 20 advanced and honors courses to challenge and engage our high-performing students. 

When Your Child Needs a Lower Student-to-Teacher Ratio

At Rowland Hall, the student-to-teacher ratio is 9:1. 

Why is this important?

A lower student-to-teacher ratio allows more interaction and encourages your child to increase their participation level. Teachers will truly know your child, celebrate their individuality, and provide guidance, instruction, and feedback that’s appropriate for their learning style.

In public schools with large student-to-teacher ratios, educators may need to teach to the middle of the class, potentially neglecting students at the upper or lower end of the academic spectrum. Students who have different learning styles and would benefit from more personalized attention may fall through the cracks.

When College Is Your Goal

NAIS graduates progress through college more consistently—and are more likely to seek out key undergraduate opportunities associated with positive long-term outcomes—than public and non-NAIS private high school graduates.—NAIS-Gallup report

Rowland Hall offers a college-preparatory program that has helped thousands of students attend and excel at institutions for higher education. According to the NAIS-Gallup report, the college matriculation rate is nearly 100 percent for students who attend NAIS schools. Plus, "NAIS graduates progress through college more consistently—and are more likely to seek out key undergraduate opportunities associated with positive long-term outcomes—than public and non-NAIS private high school graduates."

In our Upper School, your student will work closely with our college counselors to find and gain admission to the institution that best fits their academic interests, career goals, and financial considerations. In a typical year, our seniors earn admission to over 100 colleges and universities across the world, and perhaps more importantly, about three-quarters of them receive at least one merit scholarship.

When You Want Your Personal Values to Align with the School’s Mission

At private and independent schools, there is an emphasis on values, ethics, and community service. Many of these schools hold students to high ethical standards, and teachers and coaches weave relevant life lessons into classes and extracurriculars alike. When compassion and empathy are part of a school’s culture, young learners are less distracted by disciplinary problems. Students who have experienced bullying or social anxiety in public schools often find the inclusive and welcoming culture of Rowland Hall to be a refreshing change. 

Many independent schools don’t stop at a culture of kindness—they encourage students to take action outside the classroom. Community service opportunities instill a sense of civic duty and emphasize the importance of contributing to society. At Rowland Hall, we promote the pursuit of not only academic excellence, but personal excellence as well.

Our five core values are:

  • Think Deeply 
  • Learn for Life
  • Welcome Everyone
  • Live with Purpose
  • Relationships Matter

When You Want to Develop a Well-Rounded Person Who Will Positively Impact the World

Contrary to popular belief, accredited independent schools aren’t narrowly focused on academic rigor, high test scores, and ensuring all alumni attend elite colleges. Rather, many private programs help students understand how they fit into a large, diverse world.

When private schools prioritize caring for the whole child, students’ social-emotional health becomes paramount. Contrary to popular belief, accredited independent schools aren’t narrowly focused on academic rigor, high test scores, and ensuring all alumni attend elite colleges. Rather, many private programs help students understand how they fit into the larger world. Independent school teachers and mentors instill in students how the knowledge they acquire can be applied to help a diverse society, and not just used for material gain.

At Rowland Hall, social-emotional learning is central to the student experience. Our youngest learners practice identifying emotions and expressing themselves in constructive ways. As students grow, we focus on positive peer interactions, empathy, increased personal responsibility, and making good choices. Students interested in digging deeper and making a difference are encouraged to join related clubs and committees, from sustainability to social justice. And throughout our students’ journeys, our dedicated, expert counselors meet with students in groups and individually to ensure they feel supported.

When to Choose Rowland Hall, a Leading Utah Independent Private School

When choosing between types of schools in Utah—private vs. charter vs. public schools—parents need to do their due diligence. Due to low or no tuition, Utah’s charter schools seem like the perfect cross between public and private schools; however, in terms of academic performance, charter schools may not rank any higher than neighboring public schools. According to the think tank the Brookings Institution, "charter school students, in general, perform about the same as their matched peers in the traditional public schools." And here in Utah—as reported by The Salt Lake Tribune, KUTV, and other outlets—some charter schools are prompting questions around oversight, money management, and effectiveness.

Before making a decision on whether to send your child to a private school, a charter school, or a public school, consider attending one of our admission events or contacting our Admission Team to arrange an outdoor visit. They can also answer your specific questions or connect you with Rowland Hall students or alumni to help you get a sense of school culture, academic expectations, and extracurricular activities. Let us help you assess your student’s needs and determine whether our curriculum and program is the best fit for your family. 

Our two campuses are conveniently and centrally located in Salt Lake City, Utah. We offer preschool through high school and a robust tuition-assistance program, and we’re committed to our value of welcoming everyone. We’ve found that the most meaningful learning occurs in a school community of people from various backgrounds, encompassing differences in the human experience—ethnicity, race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, and more.

Inquire here.

School Choice

A Guide To Independent Private Schools: When To Consider Private vs. Charter vs. Public Education for Your Child

Choosing your child’s educational path can be a difficult decision further complicated by many options—from homeschooling, to online education, to public vs. charter schools, to private and independent schools.

Parents and caregivers must carefully consider their student’s individual needs and their goals for their child, and then balance those against their family’s time and resources.

As you weigh your options on where to enroll your child, use this guide to help you recognize when it’s worth considering private education. At Rowland Hall, a leading Utah independent private school, our friendly Admission Team can help answer any questions you may have as you consider your student’s future. To learn more about Utah’s leading independent private school, Rowland Hall, browse our website.

When Your Child Needs Academic Rigor and Accelerated Learning

Gifted and talented students may struggle in school if they aren’t academically challenged. An advantage of private school is that—due to small classes and the flexibility to teach the most meaningful, relevant curriculum possible—your child will be held to high academic standards, and consistently encouraged to take risks and strive for improvement.

Private education at an independent school is more comprehensive and holistic, catered toward caring for the whole child. Where public schools offer electives, private schools may require those electives as prerequisites for graduation, giving your child a more well-rounded school experience that includes arts, music, ethics, and community service.

According to a report by Gallup and the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS), “NAIS graduates scored higher on the ACT and SAT, on average, and were more engaged as seniors in high school” than graduates from public and non-NAIS private high schools.

Higher academic rigor and a curriculum that promotes applied learning often produce better results. According to a report by Gallup and the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS)—of which Rowland Hall is a member—“NAIS graduates scored higher on the ACT and SAT, on average, and were more engaged as seniors in high school” than graduates from public and non-NAIS private high schools.

Rowland Hall sets the standard for teaching and learning excellence. Our teachers receive constant training and support to stay abreast of best practices and maximize outcomes for students. Our students, in turn, receive a strong knowledge base in math, science, world languages, English, and history. They’re offered electives in choral and instrumental music, theatre, dance, visual media, debate, physical fitness, and competitive sports. Plus, Rowland Hall students have unique access to experiential, hands-on, and inventive courses that include field studies and class trips.

As your student progresses, Rowland Hall’s Upper School offers over 20 advanced and honors courses to challenge and engage our high-performing students. 

When Your Child Needs a Lower Student-to-Teacher Ratio

At Rowland Hall, the student-to-teacher ratio is 9:1. 

Why is this important?

A lower student-to-teacher ratio allows more interaction and encourages your child to increase their participation level. Teachers will truly know your child, celebrate their individuality, and provide guidance, instruction, and feedback that’s appropriate for their learning style.

In public schools with large student-to-teacher ratios, educators may need to teach to the middle of the class, potentially neglecting students at the upper or lower end of the academic spectrum. Students who have different learning styles and would benefit from more personalized attention may fall through the cracks.

When College Is Your Goal

NAIS graduates progress through college more consistently—and are more likely to seek out key undergraduate opportunities associated with positive long-term outcomes—than public and non-NAIS private high school graduates.—NAIS-Gallup report

Rowland Hall offers a college-preparatory program that has helped thousands of students attend and excel at institutions for higher education. According to the NAIS-Gallup report, the college matriculation rate is nearly 100 percent for students who attend NAIS schools. Plus, "NAIS graduates progress through college more consistently—and are more likely to seek out key undergraduate opportunities associated with positive long-term outcomes—than public and non-NAIS private high school graduates."

In our Upper School, your student will work closely with our college counselors to find and gain admission to the institution that best fits their academic interests, career goals, and financial considerations. In a typical year, our seniors earn admission to over 100 colleges and universities across the world, and perhaps more importantly, about three-quarters of them receive at least one merit scholarship.

When You Want Your Personal Values to Align with the School’s Mission

At private and independent schools, there is an emphasis on values, ethics, and community service. Many of these schools hold students to high ethical standards, and teachers and coaches weave relevant life lessons into classes and extracurriculars alike. When compassion and empathy are part of a school’s culture, young learners are less distracted by disciplinary problems. Students who have experienced bullying or social anxiety in public schools often find the inclusive and welcoming culture of Rowland Hall to be a refreshing change. 

Many independent schools don’t stop at a culture of kindness—they encourage students to take action outside the classroom. Community service opportunities instill a sense of civic duty and emphasize the importance of contributing to society. At Rowland Hall, we promote the pursuit of not only academic excellence, but personal excellence as well.

Our five core values are:

  • Think Deeply 
  • Learn for Life
  • Welcome Everyone
  • Live with Purpose
  • Relationships Matter

When You Want to Develop a Well-Rounded Person Who Will Positively Impact the World

Contrary to popular belief, accredited independent schools aren’t narrowly focused on academic rigor, high test scores, and ensuring all alumni attend elite colleges. Rather, many private programs help students understand how they fit into a large, diverse world.

When private schools prioritize caring for the whole child, students’ social-emotional health becomes paramount. Contrary to popular belief, accredited independent schools aren’t narrowly focused on academic rigor, high test scores, and ensuring all alumni attend elite colleges. Rather, many private programs help students understand how they fit into the larger world. Independent school teachers and mentors instill in students how the knowledge they acquire can be applied to help a diverse society, and not just used for material gain.

At Rowland Hall, social-emotional learning is central to the student experience. Our youngest learners practice identifying emotions and expressing themselves in constructive ways. As students grow, we focus on positive peer interactions, empathy, increased personal responsibility, and making good choices. Students interested in digging deeper and making a difference are encouraged to join related clubs and committees, from sustainability to social justice. And throughout our students’ journeys, our dedicated, expert counselors meet with students in groups and individually to ensure they feel supported.

When to Choose Rowland Hall, a Leading Utah Independent Private School

When choosing between types of schools in Utah—private vs. charter vs. public schools—parents need to do their due diligence. Due to low or no tuition, Utah’s charter schools seem like the perfect cross between public and private schools; however, in terms of academic performance, charter schools may not rank any higher than neighboring public schools. According to the think tank the Brookings Institution, "charter school students, in general, perform about the same as their matched peers in the traditional public schools." And here in Utah—as reported by The Salt Lake Tribune, KUTV, and other outlets—some charter schools are prompting questions around oversight, money management, and effectiveness.

Before making a decision on whether to send your child to a private school, a charter school, or a public school, consider attending one of our admission events or contacting our Admission Team to arrange an outdoor visit. They can also answer your specific questions or connect you with Rowland Hall students or alumni to help you get a sense of school culture, academic expectations, and extracurricular activities. Let us help you assess your student’s needs and determine whether our curriculum and program is the best fit for your family. 

Our two campuses are conveniently and centrally located in Salt Lake City, Utah. We offer preschool through high school and a robust tuition-assistance program, and we’re committed to our value of welcoming everyone. We’ve found that the most meaningful learning occurs in a school community of people from various backgrounds, encompassing differences in the human experience—ethnicity, race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, and more.

Inquire here.

School Choice

Explore More Tips for Parents

When choosing a middle school, focus on both on academic excellence and a nurturing atmosphere.

Picking the right middle school for your child is a significant decision that sets the stage for their academic and personal growth in early adolescence and beyond. Middle school is a time when students take on more responsibility for their own learning and begin to recognize and develop their strengths. It’s also a time of tremendous transition, as students bridge childhood and young adulthood. That’s why it’s essential to find a school that focuses both on academic excellence and on nurturing individuality through a holistic learning experience.

Rowland Hall, a top private middle school in Utah, shares the following four key factors to consider when searching for an ideal middle school—one that aligns with your student’s needs and aspirations.

1. Voice and Choice in Course Selection

A student-voice approach not only enhances engagement but also encourages deep learning, as each student takes ownership of their experience.

One crucial aspect of a high-quality middle school is an emphasis on student voice. A school that encourages student agency in their education understands that every child is unique, with distinct learning styles and interests, and so provides room for educational exploration. Furthermore, schools that incorporate authentic learning opportunities such as project-based learning (see below) allow students to explore subjects that resonate with their passions and give them a say in their educational journey. A student-voice approach not only enhances engagement but also encourages deep learning, as each student takes ownership of their experience.

2. Authentic Learning Opportunities

Authentic learning is an educational approach that emphasizes real-world, meaningful, and hands-on experiences to engage students in the learning process. It goes beyond traditional classroom activities and textbooks, aiming to add academic content to practical, relevant, and applicable real-world situations, many of which are designed to mirror or simulate tasks and challenges students may encounter in their personal or professional lives. Whether through field trips, community projects, or partnerships with local organizations, authentic learning fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills. A school that values these real-world applications ensures that students are prepared for the challenges they’ll face outside the classroom.

3. Leadership Opportunities

Middle school is a pivotal time for students to develop leadership skills that will serve them well in the future. Look for schools that provide ample leadership opportunities, whether through student councils, clubs, or other extracurricular activities designed to promote connection with and responsibility for the school community. A school that fosters leadership not only helps students build confidence but also instills a sense of responsibility and teamwork, preparing young learners for challenges beyond the classroom.

4. Close Relationships with Teachers

Strong teacher-student connections make a significant difference in academic performance and emotional well-being.

A nurturing and supportive environment is especially crucial during the transitional middle school years. Pay attention to schools that prioritize building close relationships between students and teachers, as strong teacher-student connections make a significant difference in students’ academic performance and emotional well-being. Look for institutions that encourage open communication, mentorship programs, and a genuine interest in understanding each student’s unique strengths and challenges.


Choosing Rowland Hall Middle School, a Leading Utah Independent Private School

Rowland Hall’s private middle school, conveniently and centrally located in Salt Lake City, Utah, recognizes and honors the significant middle school years. Centered around deep and meaningful relationships, our Middle School holistically supports early adolescent students, with expert teachers guiding them toward academic success and positive personal growth.

If you are interested in exploring our independent middle school for your student, contact our Admission Team to arrange a campus visit. They can answer your questions and connect you with Rowland Hall students or alumni to help you get a sense of school culture, academic expectations, and extracurricular activities. Let us help you assess your student’s needs and determine whether our curriculum and program is the best fit for your family. Inquire here.

Middle School

graphic of hosts of the Principals podcast

Listen below or on Apple Podcasts.

This special episode is about you, our listeners. Join Emma, Brittney, and Conor as they discuss some of your top child-rearing questions: how to get habits and behaviors to stick, how to address distressing current events, how to get kids interested in activities and hobbies, and how to manage sibling rivalry during the elementary years. This warm, supportive conversation will help you feel seen, understood, and even better prepared to support the children in your life.

Read the episode transcript.

Parent Education

PrinciPALS Podcast Episode 4.01: Screen Time
Listen below or on Apple Podcasts.

Screens are a necessary tool in today’s world, but they can cause a lot of family anxiety. As parents themselves, Rowland Hall’s princiPALS understand this struggle—and so they’re tackling the topic. Join the pals for a discussion about current guidelines (and why it’s understandable if you can’t always adhere to them), high-quality programming, social media, the importance of balancing screen time and productive play, and how you can get the whole family involved in identifying values and boundaries that will guide screen time in your home.

Podcast resources:

Read the episode transcript.

Parent Education

Parents walk their children to the first day of school.

By Deborah Wright, Emotional Support Counselor

It’s back-to-school season, and while some children are filled with excitement this time of year, others are anxious.

As a parent or caregiver, it can be difficult to see your preschool or elementary-aged child express anxiety about the start of school. However, back-to-school anxiety is completely normal, and with thoughtful support and guidance, you can prepare your student for a new year and successfully ease them into a new routine.

  • Talk about what to expect in advance. The biggest source of young children’s back-to-school anxiety is being separated from parents or caregivers for a significant portion of the day, so it helps to take time to talk to them about what will happen while you are apart, such as classroom routines, lunch, recess, and other activities they can look forward to. And don’t forget to stress that you will come back for your child when school is out.
  • If your child is worried about social situations, practice interacting with peers. Some children worry about the social aspect of returning to school. You can help them by practicing first-day conversations and introductions, such as, “Hi. I heard you were in my class. How was your summer?” or, “I think we’re in the same class. I’m glad.”
  • Establish a routine and practice it before school starts. Before the first day, take time to walk through a morning routine: have breakfast and gather bags, then drive to school and practice your drop-off and pick-up plans. With your school’s permission, you can even walk the halls ahead of time to get your child familiarized with the building. And be sure to take advantage of any classroom meet-and-greets before the first day.
  • Take your own emotional temperature. Back-to-school season can be stressful for parents and caregivers too. Check in with yourself to make sure you are not passing on your own anxieties to your child. Instead, reach out to a spouse/partner, friend, therapist, or other trusted person to discuss your own worries.
  • Listen actively and don’t dismiss your child’s worries. Be sure to validate your child’s worries and feelings while also showing your confidence in their ability to handle the situation. Keep these conversations short, as overprocessing may increase a child’s feelings of anxiousness. (You and your child may also enjoy reading and discussing these books that help young students manage their worries.)
  • Be prepared for big emotions and distress signals on the first day—and even for the first few weeks. Don’t be surprised if your child complains of physical symptoms, such as a headache or stomachache, on the first day, or even within the first weeks, as children’s anxieties often manifest in their bodies. Remind your child that you are confident in them, revisit what they can expect, and cheer them on as they try hard things.
  • Rely on your community. It’s completely normal for kids’ anxieties around school to come and go. If your child continues to struggle, ask for help in supporting them—reach out to their teacher, or even other parents or a school counselor.

About Deborah Wright
Deborah Wright is the emotional support counselor for Rowland Hall’s McCarthey Campus, which serves students in preschool through fifth grade. As a member of the McCarthey Campus student support team, Deborah’s goal is to support students’ learning and social-emotional growth.

Parent Education

You Belong at Rowland Hall