Why Many Parents Choose to Take Their Children Out of Public Schools: A Study of Safety and Educational Standards

Parents across the country, including those with children enrolled in Chicago public schools, often face significant challenges in ensuring their children receive a quality education. Concerns over safety and the quality of educational standards frequently lead them to seek alternative options, such as private schools. This article examines the reasons behind these decisions, drawing from the experiences of an alumna and broader parent perspectives.

Personal Experience in Chicago Public Schools

The journey of one concerned parent in Chicago illustrated the profound impact of safety and educational standards on decision-making. After noticing a significant gap in her child's reading skills, she vented her frustrations to the teacher, who responded that the school focused on making children feel "warm and fuzzy" rather than academic rigor. This attitude, reminiscent of her own poor educational experiences, fueled her resolve to find a better solution.

Furthermore, a past incident involving her son's broken arm in kindergarten highlighted the broader safety concerns. Despite her son's active nature, the lack of effectiveness in finding her or ensuring his immediate medical care left a lasting impression. This negative experience solidified her decision to seek a different educational environment.

Transition to Private School and Improved Outcomes

After transitioning her son to a Lutheran private school, she noticed a marked improvement in his academic progress. The new teachers emphasized a strong focus on academic achievement, which was lacking in the public school. The school's facilities were well-maintained, and the teachers displayed a better attitude, making the environment conducive to learning. Additionally, the improved parental involvement and communication reinforced her belief in the school's commitment to both academic excellence and child safety.

Parental Concerns and Broader Trends

Her experience is not unique. Safety and educational standards rank high among reasons parents choose to pull their children from public schools. In a national survey, safety concerns were cited by 84% of parents, while educational standards were a leading issue for 77%. Similar trends can be observed in cities like Chicago, where parental dissatisfaction is driving a growing trend towards private and charter schools.

Conclusion

The success of her son, now working as an aircraft mechanic and high school teacher, further underscores the benefits of private education. His positive outcome reflects the broader improvement in his academic foundation and overall learning environment. For many parents, the decision to leave public schools is a difficult but necessary step to ensure their children receive the best possible education and a safe learning environment.

Ensuring the well-being and future success of children is paramount. As more parents navigate the challenges of public school systems, alternative options like private schools provide a viable and often superior alternative, offering a safer and more academically rigorous environment.