Market research has long shown that families new to independent schools choose an independent school primarily because they perceive the quality of teaching to be exceptional and the moral climate to be appropriate. Surveys of independent school parents reveal a remarkably high level of satisfaction in the following areas:

1.        Positive school spirit is evident.

2.        The school has a strong commitment to moral values and character
development.

3.        The school supports academic achievement.

4.        The school has a caring and community environment.

5.        Overall quality of education.

6.        Likelihood to recommend the school.

7.        Likelihood to continue supporting the school.

8.        Likelihood to increase support of the school.

Roughly speaking, students from independent schools are about twice as likely (or more) than their counterparts in “privileged suburban schools” to...

•     Take algebra I and foreign language in the eighth grade.

•     Enroll in an A.P. course as a sophomore.

•     Study with a teacher who has graduated from a “Top 100” most selective college.

•     Complete pre-calculus or higher level of mathematics.

•     Play on a junior varsity or varsity sport.

•     Participate in extracurricular arts, academics, and/or community service.

Sources: Powell (Lesson from Privilege), Heath (Schools of Hope), National Center for Educational Statistics (NCES