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Why Private Schools Are Safer and Smaller Class Sizes Are Better

Why Private Schools Are Safer and Smaller Class Sizes Are Better

Thursday, September 07, 2023

With the volume of information available, myriad educational philosophies, and a vast spectrum of learning environments, parents researching education for their children can feel overwhelmed.

Choosing the best form of schooling for a group of children comes with the weighty obligation of affecting their development and their future. Every child is a unique vessel of potential, necessitating an environment that fosters their individual growth, nurtures their innate abilities, and addresses their distinct learning needs.

The daunting challenge for parents is to match their child’s distinct educational needs with the right learning environment, be it traditional, alternative, online, or homeschooling. It’s a process fraught with uncertainty, a multitude of options, and high stakes, with the underlying pressure of ensuring their offspring are well-equipped to thrive in an ever-evolving world.

For parents considering whether to choose private or public education for their children, academics, athletics, community, and beliefs are important factors. However, safety is often the key concern for parents of school-aged children.

In this article, we have compiled a short list of four ways in which private Christian schools are safer than public schools and four benefits of smaller class sizes.

Four Ways in Which Private Christian Schools Are Safer than Public Schools

1) Private School Students Are Less Likely to Experience Violence

Both private and public schools are committed to facilitating safe learning environments on their campuses; however, crime and violence toward students occur less than half as often in private schools, according to a study by the National Center for Education Statistics. Additionally, a higher percentage of public school students report that they have experienced theft while at school. 

2) Private Schools Students Are Less Likely to Experience Gangs and Bullying

Shockingly, per the NCES study, almost 20% of public school students reported that gangs are present on their campuses, compared to just 2% of private school students. Bullying related statistics favor private institutions as well:

  • Students Who Were Bullied: 28% Public, 21% Private
  • Students Who Were Made Fun Of: 18% Public, 14% Private
  • Students Who Were Subject of Rumors: 19% Public, 13% Private
  • Students Who Were Pushed, Shoved, Tripped, or Spit on: 8% Public, 5% Private

There are several factors that contribute to the lower bullying rates in Christian private schools, including:

  • Lower class sizes and more individual attention for students
  • More opportunities for community
  • Higher parental involvement 
  • Emphasis on the gospel, grace, and mercy

3) Private School Teachers Are Less Likely To Experience Threats

A particularly troubling statistic pertains to the percentage of teachers threatened with or injured by physical violence from students. 10% of teachers have been threatened, and 6% have been harmed by students. In contrast, just 3% of private school teachers report threats or physical violence. 

Additionally, over 40% of public school teachers state that behavioral interruptions interfere with their ability to teach, compared to just 22% for private schools. 

4) Private School Students Are More Likely To Engage With Teachers and Administrators

Private schools feature class sizes well below the national average of 25 students per classroom. At St. John Lutheran School, our classrooms range from 15 to 20 students. Small class sizes facilitate a greater sense of community, encourage student engagement, and contribute to higher teacher retention.

With greater availability of attention from teachers and administrators, students are less likely to experience the neglect and loneliness that contribute to violent behavior. 

Why Smaller Class Sizes Are Better for Students

Small class sizes have long been recognized for their myriad benefits in fostering a more conducive learning environment for students. Here are four reasons why smaller class sizes can be more beneficial for students:

1) Smaller Class Sizes Allow for Individualized Attention:

Small class sizes allow teachers to give more individualized attention to each student. This is crucial for identifying the distinct learning needs, strengths, and areas that need improvement for every child. 

In such settings, instructors can adapt their teaching methods to suit the learning styles of individual students, ensuring that each one can grasp the concepts being taught and can progress at their optimal pace.

2) Smaller Class Sizes Enhance Academic Performance:

Multiple studies indicate a positive correlation between small class sizes and improved academic achievement. In a smaller class, students are less likely to fall behind since teachers can quickly identify and address learning gaps and provide timely and specific feedback. 

The increased interaction and engagement in small classes often result in a better understanding of the subject matter and higher retention rates.

3) Smaller Class Sizes Provide a Better Classroom Environment

Smaller classes often lead to improved classroom behavior and a more positive learning atmosphere. With fewer students, there is usually a reduction in classroom disruptions, enabling a more focused and productive learning environment. 

This not only reduces stress for both teachers and students, but also fosters a sense of community and mutual respect, facilitating healthy student-teacher and student-student relationships.

4) Smaller Class Sizes Foster Greater Student Participation

In smaller classes, students are more likely to participate, ask questions, and contribute to discussions. This increased engagement allows students to develop critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills.

It can also boost the confidence of shy or reticent students who might feel intimidated or overlooked in a larger class setting, encouraging them to share their ideas and opinions more freely.

Safer School and Smaller Class Sizes at St. John Lutheran School in Defiance, OH

If you are in or near Defiance, Ohio, St. John Lutheran School has safer and smaller classrooms that will allow your students to learn and thrive in a private Christian school environment. Reach out to us for more information about how your child can be part of our school!