When a child begins their education at a public school, you never know what to expect. The only thing you know for sure is that you live in a certain area, this is the school you must go to. Parents feel they do not have a choice when it comes to education. What you need to know is that for many, there are options. A private school, like University Christian School, can help you give your child the education they need while maintaining the Christian standards you are trying to instill in your child.
What is University Christian School?
University Christian School is a private school in Jacksonville, Florida. They offer schooling for Kindergarten through the 12th grade. UCS was founded in 1965 and offered one Kinder class. It expanded in 1970 to include all grades. The first graduating class was in 1973. From there the school continued to expand as the land was purchased to incorporate an Elementary, Jr. High, and High School. Today, the school sits on 15 acres and includes athletic fields, choir and band rooms, and several labs and centers for educational purposes.
University Christian School is not the only private school out there. There are many local Christian institutions in the area you live in. All it takes is a bit of research. Most private schools have ties to a church or an organization and are much different than a public institution.
How is a Private School Different than a Public School?
There are several differences between private and public education.
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- First, a private school does not receive funds through taxes or the government; it receives private funds through organizations, churches, and other private funding. It also receives much of its funding through tuitions paid by the school attendees.
- Second, while the courses are exactly what a student would receive in a public school, how they are taught is different. Private schools do not hold to “separation of church and state” laws. Since they are privately funded, schools like University Christian School can teach subjects with a Christian doctrinal element, teach the Bible, and hold chapel services.
- Third, private schools require attendees to pay tuition. Just as with Christian colleges, Financial Aid is almost always available. There are also discounts for military personnel, students of pastors, and if you have membership in the church with which the school affiliates.
- Finally, the area you live in does not limit you. With public school, you must attend the school that your neighborhood designates. With private schooling, these limits do not exist.
The Final Word
If you are a parent concerned about what your child is learning, or about the lack of what they are learning, then a private school may be worth looking into. Begin with asking questions at the church you are now attending. They may be able to point you in the right direction. This is more difficult if you live in a small community, as your options will have limits. But, like those in Jacksonville, Florida, University Christian School is a school that is changing the lives of students through a curriculum with a Christ-centered base.
If you live in the Jacksonville area and want more information on University Christian School, visit their website. They have information on how to enroll, tuition costs, and the financial aid that is available to you.
If you live in another area, you can search your state for the best private schools through Niche. Then visit the school’s website to see how you can enroll your child in a school that teaches Christ and steers a child in the way that they should go; all with a Christian outlook on life.
Jeff S Bray wrote this article.