Public School vs Private School: 11 Key Differences Parents Should Know

At first glance, it can be hard to tell the difference between a private school and a public school. Both provide academic instruction, extracurricular activities, and opportunities for children to develop skills. 

However, there are several significant differences between the two types of schools. Understanding these differences may help you evaluate which is the best fit for your child and your family.

If you’re beginning to explore your options, it can also be helpful to understand what to look for when choosing private schools in Minneapolis and the Twin Cities.

What is the difference between public and private schools?

Private schools are funded through tuition and donations and typically require families to apply for admission. Public schools are funded by tax revenue and serve students based on their home address. Because private schools operate independently, they often have more flexibility in their curriculum, class size, and extra programming.

Parents considering schools for their child often consider academic curriculum, class size, athletics, clubs, school culture, and educational philosophy.

Feature	Public Schools	Private Schools
Funding	Government & Tax-Supported	Tuition & Donations
Admission	District-Based	Application Process
Governance	Publicly Elected Board	Independent Board
Curriculum	State Standards & Tests	More Flexible
Class Size	Varies Widely	Often Smaller

1. Funding & Governance 

Private schools are typically funded through tuition, endowments, and donations. They operate independently from government funding, and as a result many private schools have greater autonomy in curriculum development, programming, and their budget.

Public schools are primarily funded through local, state, and federal tax revenue and are governed by an elected school board.

2. Admissions

Public schools most often serve students who live in the local community, and enrollment is determined by a family's home address. 

Private schools admit students from a wider geographical range, and the admission process is set by the school. Families must apply to the school directly, and the admissions decision may be based on a variety of factors such as classroom space and academic readiness.

3. Geographic Flexibility

Because private schools are not bound by geographical location for admissions, many families commute across city boundaries to attend their school of choice. 

Public schools are district based, which means that families generally attend the school that is assigned to them based on their home address.

4. Class Size

Class sizes vary at both public and private schools. In many private schools, the class size limit is lower than at many public schools.

A smaller class size can provide each student with more one-on-one time with their teacher, as well as individualized learning that meets the child where they are academically. Additionally, many private schools have classroom aides in lower grades. 

5. Curriculum Flexibility

Public schools must follow state academic standards and testing requirements. These standards and the corresponding testing guide the curriculum taught in class, assessment type, and classroom priorities.

Private schools many times align with the standards set out by their state standards, although they are not required to do so. Many private schools focused on college preparation meet and exceed state standards. Curriculum flexibility allows private schools to create specialized classes or programs that meet the needs of current students. Learn about special programs at Minnehaha Academy.

6. Academic Programming

Academic rigor can be found at both public and private schools, but the delivery of the coursework may be different. Private schools may have more flexibility to offer unique programs that align with the school's values and integrate faculty expertise. Learn about academic programs at Minnehaha Academy.

7. Extracurricular Opportunities

Public and private schools both offer fine arts, athletics, clubs, and service opportunities for their students. The opportunities available often depend on the size of the school and student interest.

Because private schools have more flexibility and are generally smaller than public schools, it can be easier for students to navigate the balance of homework with athletics and clubs.

8. Fine Arts Access

Access to the fine arts varies widely at both public and private schools and often depend on budget and institution priorities. Learn about fine arts at Minnehaha Academy.

9. Student Support Structures

Access to student support services such as social-emotional counseling support and advisory groups varies at both public and private schools. 

For example, some schools use a homeroom or advisory model as a way for teachers to monitor student well-being, academic progress, and their overall experience of school life. Access to counselors and the ratio of counselor to student varies between schools. Learn about student support at Minnehaha Academy.

10. Parent-School Communication

Communication between the school and families occurs at both public and private schools in a variety of ways and is set by the school. Families can stay informed through email, a communication platform, teacher conferences, and events.

Private schools often emphasize frequent communication and partnership with families.

11. Community and Culture

Most public and private schools offer a variety of events that allow families to participate in the community, such as sports, performances, and other activities.

In private schools, additional activities may depend on the core values and mission of the school. For example, faith-based schools many times offer chapel, worship, prayer events, service opportunities, and parent education sessions. Read about faith formation at Minnehaha Academy.

Choosing the Right School

Both public and private schools offer strong educational opportunities. Many factors influence what school may be the right fit for your child and family. You will want to consider your child's learning style, family priorities, location, program opportunities, and finances.

Visiting campuses, speaking with teachers and current families, reviewing academic programs, and learning about the school’s philosophy can help families determine which environment is the best fit.

Frequently Asked Questions About Public vs Private Schools

Is private school better than public school?

Both public and private schools can provide strong academics. The best choice depends on fit, which considers your family's priorities, your child's learning style, available programs of interest, and financial considerations.

Why do families choose private schools?

Families choose private schools for many reasons, including smaller class sizes, specialized academic programs and opportunities, school philosophy, religious education, or school culture.

Do private schools have smaller classes?

Many private schools intentionally limit class sizes as part of their educational model, though class sizes vary by school and grade level.

Learn more about Minnehaha Academy by taking a tour or requesting information.

If you're exploring private schools in Minneapolis, this guide can help you evaluate your options.