Private high schools do not hold lotteries, but space is often quite limited. Many are more than half filled with a base enrollment from closely associated primary and middle schools. However, it easier to switch to a private high school as a sophomore, junior or even senior than to enter a public magnet school program after the ninth grade. As in public school magnet programs, prior academic performance, test scores and personal interviews are crucial to private school admission. Some private high schools do offer financial aid or scholarships.
Accreditation is a particularly important issue for parents of high school students.
Private schools are not licensed, approved, accredited or regulated by the state and may use an independent accrediting agency affiliated with a religion or educational philosophy. If your son or daughter plans to go to college, be sure to check out the private school's college placement record. St. Petersburg Times. All rights reserved.