Hey Alok,

My landlord has a son in a private high school, in the last year. I spoke to this lad — talented and very bright. I said most students there are rich. He said his son doesn’t come from a rich family but these schools have grants to take in academically outstanding students, like his son.

I said some parents buy an expensive house in a top school district, but he feels private schools are still better. He said the teacher/student ratio is much higher and distractions much lower. He said if you are the academic type in a (average) public school, you will be called a nerd (by your peers?) and likely lose your motivation.

He emphasized over and again, that despite these external factors, student’s motivation is ultimately the key. His son is motivated.

I feel if I have enough financial resources I may still choose a top school district, since my property would appreciate. However, if my son suffers in his school then I would consider a private high school, provided I can afford it.

My recent view favors private high school — https://tanbinvest.dreamhosters.com/2017/07/20/private-high-schoollow-cost-area-like-bayonne/

Another friend said good schools offer additional programs not available in the average schools. I can only guess — perhaps these are extra-curriculum programs. If the student struggles academically and misses out on these programs, then it’s kind of wasted. The best match would be a student with adequate academic abilities (not necessarily top of the school) and with spare capacity to experience the additional learning opportunities.