What is the difference between public and private schools?

The terms "public" and "private" have different connotations in different countries, so this answer will focus on the United States education system. In the US, public schools refer to those funded by federal, state and local governments to provide free or low-cost education to local residents. Private schools are run by private organizations and typically require financial contributions from the families of students in the form of tuition payments. Although private schools are regulated, they typically operate without the control of a public school system and have the freedom to determine their own pedagogy. Some students attend private schools without paying tuition if they receive financial aid, either directly from the school they attend or though a third party.