Car Tremmel, second grade teacher at Shorecrest Preparatory School in St. Petersburg, is surprised while student Ryan Dougherty, left, reads a report about an organism that was found in a molecule of sea salt. Holy Family Catholic School fourth-graders Suzanne Proplesch, left, and Paige Mooney, right, play in the parking lot while waiting for the school day to begin. Reasons vary, ranging from a need for a smaller, more structured setting to the desire for a different educational philosophy such as religious instruction, strong academics, or a sports orientation. Many choices are available. Parents considering enrolling their child in a private middle school should visit the school, talk to the director and teachers, and consult with parents whose children are already enrolled.
Cost is also a factor.
Some private schools offer financial aid or scholarships. Deadlines and entrance requirements differ widely among private schools. Parents should start the process well before the beginning of the school year. As in public school magnet programs, prior academic performance, test scores and personal interviews are crucial to private school admission. Many private schools do not have separate middle school programs, folding grades 6 through 8 into their elementary programs.