Private Versus Public Schools
In response to the “Private Decisions” series, March 29-April 1:
It was great to see your article “Are Private Schools Really Better?” (March 29). With the emotional debate raging about California’s public schools and the school voucher initiative, it is important for the public to see a comparison of public versus private education that is not colored by ideological slants.
Most of California’s best and brightest students come from public, not private, schools. Public schools are hampered by socioeconomic influences such as lack of parental support, students who speak no English, gangs, etc. Funding has decreased while burdensome regulations have increased. Yet, despite these obstacles public school students generally learn as well as private school students.
Can public schools do better? Sure! Give us class sizes of 12 to 15 (like those in many private schools) and you’ll see quality schools that will make the world take notice!
ROBERT J. SEDLAK JR.
Trustee, Fountain Valley School District
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