Why an Independent School?
The most important decision you'll make in your child's life.
Chances are, you've already considered one of the main differences between private and public schools: cost. True enough, Lancaster Country Day School costs more money. But this is too important a decision to base on money alone. Let's consider value and other ways we compare to public schools. Data from the U.S. Department of Education show that independent schools excel in offering a values-added education. Use the Related Link to the right to connect to this National Longitudinal Study (NELS) performed by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).
Academics
Public schools are in a tough spot. With an average 16:1 student/teacher ratio, the educational setting becomes less personal, more anonymous. Educators often must "keep the peace" and enforce rules instead of teaching. Students who require or demand attention usually get it...while other students remain anonymous or "fall through the cracks." And saddled with larger classes and government testing standards, teachers are largely regulated to a strict focus on test-taking success.
In contrast, Lancaster Country Day School maintains a low student/teacher ratio of 8:1. Our instructors have time to give each student ample attention; they adjust curricula in response to class interest and ability. And by acting as mentors and role models, our teachers emphasize a long-view philosophy of education. Our students learn that critical thinking is a life skill with benefits that extend well beyond test-taking. The end result is a significantly deeper, more multi-dimensional academic experience.
Extracurricular
Lancaster Country Day School also differs from public school in our uniquely inclusive approach to sports and extracurricular programs. Instead of exclusive policies, which can lead to lower team involvement later in life, we carefully preserve an environment that encourages participation and the pursuit of diverse interests. In activities, clubs, and most sports we allow for maximum participation teaching kids the value of teamwork, understanding, and sharing a common goal.
Peer Group/Social Setting
In most public school settings, it's "cool" to fit in. Peer influence is unpredictable, and may promote negative behavior. Punitive systems are in place to deter breaking the rules.
At Lancaster Country Day School, it's "cool" to care about learning. Peer pressure promotes positive attitudes and behavior. And our culture-based on mutual respect-promotes understanding of real-life responsibility in a shared community. Another way to think about how schools compare: in Pennsylvania, 60% of high school seniors apply to college. In contrast, 100% of Lancaster Country Day School seniors apply to four-year colleges...100% are accepted...and 100% attend.
