The Stay at Home Mother

Ok - if you are a mom with a child aged 5 onwards, then you are a mom who has had to make the decision on what type of elementary school to send your child to.

I really didn't think there was much of an issue about public school, and didn't give it any thought when I signed my son up for a public school that is within walking distance of our house - after all - we live in a great neighbourhood, so the school must be great too...right?.....

This past week, I visited the potential school my son is to attend in the fall, and was greatly disappointed. The teachers did not address my concerns, and glossed over the number of students in each classroom. It was only until after I asked more questions, did they finally reveal that there would be twenty per class, and that all of the grades have "splits".

In addition, the school does not excel in their academics, but rather are just below, or "meet" expectations. What?!

Who wants their child to attend a school where their child may be in a split class in later years with younger children? And what about the academics issue...isn't that a red flag?

I came home and started investigating private schools - which if you don't know - cost about $10,000 - upwards for one-year here in British Columbia. But what are their academics like?

In one word - exceptional. 95 - 98% of them go on to University, and have a high level of achievement. In addition, the class sizes are smaller so there is more opportunity to receive one-on-one attention.

However, I looked at all the pictures of the children wearing their suits and ties, and how regimented it appeared, and couldn't picture my son there either. I don't want him to be too stressed over school, after all, this is elementary school, but I don't want him to be an underachiever either.

I really encourage anyone with an opinion to weigh in on this issue that has me quite perplexed.

Both seem to have their pros and cons, but what do you feel is the most important thing for a child to have when they attend school?

And is this the norm for public schools or the exception?