Public School versus Private School

By: E. Landry
Published/Last Modified on Wednesday, August 20, 2008 6:15 AM CDT

As I approach the time to decide between public versus private school for my child, I seem to be having a hard time in making the decision. We are zoned for North Lewis Elem and there seems to be much excitement about the new school that is being built. Can anyone offer me opinions on North Lewis or the private schools in New Iberia. Thanks fellow Iberia Parish residents!

Print this story Post a Comment

Comments

Teresa Courtois wrote on Sep 12, 2008 3:40 PM:

" ...and does not want to lose it. for a challenge for my kids, I entered them into the French Immersion program. it is the best thing I could have done. My oldest is in the 6th grade - the first F.I. class in the school. (All 4 of my kids are in it and it challenges them.) As well, she can read speak and write French nearly fluently. Just something to consider. I love the teachers and staff and they are very open to parent involvement. I just feel public schools have more variety. "

Teresa Courtois wrote on Sep 12, 2008 3:37 PM:

" I have 4 children that currently attend NLE. I am from Calif. and graduated at the top of my class in a VERY large public high school and I am very big on my children's education. I am a very involved parent, helping out with the school, substituting, and sit on the PTA Board so I am in the school nearly every day. I could not be happier that my children go to school there. I feel the school and the teachers strive for a very high standard because it has a good reputation...continued "

involved parent wrote on Sep 10, 2008 2:27 PM:

" My children attend North Lewis and Belle Place. In my opinion both school are excellent. I don't always agree with everything that goes on but I am involved and try to work to make things better for the children and the teachers.

Public schools are not perfect but private schools aren't either. There are pro and cons to both.

North Lewis and Daspit has an excellent opportunity for your child to learn a second language. And in today's world every advantage your child has over another is provide for a better. "

Disappointed Parent wrote on Sep 10, 2008 3:17 AM:

" All you hear in the public school system is how they really want parental involvement. That is a joke, especially at the high school level. Try that with teachers that have been there forever and all you get is an attitude. I am posting on the last day of the current grading period and one of our teachers still does not have grades posted on the website. Try to get them and all you get is a run around. These teachers should be held accountable based on merit and not lonegevity in the system. "

MR CLEAN wrote on Sep 8, 2008 7:55 PM:

" My favorite school in this area is Westgate. I'm sad that the football game with Evangel Christian this weekend has been called off, but I know that many on the city's west side are still reeling from the hurricane.

Best wishes to everyone and God Bless. I'm a public schoool grad but I attended both public and private schools during my younger years. "

Proud Teacher in Iberia Parish Public School wrote on Sep 7, 2008 9:38 PM:

" I am a VERY proud teacher in the Iberia Parish Public School System!! I am a product of a Catholic education from elementary through college. My parents sent me to private schools because they wanted me to have a Catholic education. Every school has its problems whether it is public or private. Private schools do not have to meet state acoountability because their mandates are not from the state. Any person who questions the education students receive in IPS needs to come and see for themselves the hardwork and dedication of the teachers and administrators in our public schools! "

AJs Mom wrote on Sep 6, 2008 4:45 PM:

" I have typed this comment 5 times and then deleted it because of the amount of stuff I wanted to say about the public schools. My kids are in a private school do to the way the public schools are run. I am so against the public system right now that I would work 3 jobs to keep them in the private school. If you have special needs children be prepared to fight for their education in the public system. "

private parentpublic teacher wrote on Sep 4, 2008 11:46 AM:

" Ask to see ACT scores over the last 5 years. Private and public high school students take the same ACT! Also. Catholic school students undergo standardized testing EVERY year, giving parents data to compare to their OWN child's previous scores. The data also allows parents to compare their child's scores to NATIONAL scores. Parents should also ask to see graduation rates. (In other word, what percentage of freshmen graduate from high school four years later?) "

AC wrote on Sep 4, 2008 10:26 AM:

" It isnt the same Diploma. One is from a public institution and one is from a private one. Obviously the state does not feel that students at private schools need to be checked in the way that they feel public school student do. I do not know much about home schooling, do they have to take LEAP tests? I have a feeling the answer is no but if someone knows, please answer that. "

Wiseone wrote on Sep 3, 2008 7:29 PM:

" All that I am asking for is fair treatment for all students who receive the diploma from the State of Louisiana. Let all students from all school systems take the LEAP/ GEE test since they both receive the SAME diploma. That is all that I am saying. I agree with you about most students from private schools passing the test. So let them take it for the sake of fairness. At the same time, I know several students from private schools that dont take advantage of the opportunity that is offered to them. "

To Wiseone wrote on Sep 3, 2008 4:01 PM:

" Two of my children went through private school and one went through public school. I would be willing to bet with anyone that the students at the private school would pass the LEAP/GEE the first time around. Why? The LEAP/GEE are the bare minimums and the private schools go beyond teaching the minimal. My public school child had no trouble with the LEAP/GEE, and I know that given the chance, my private school children would have surpassed my public school child's score by a longshot. Remember, the private schools teach at a college preparatory/advanced level. "

Both Worlds wrote on Sep 2, 2008 10:44 PM:

" I have many fond memories of my public school education.I am proud to be a graduate of NISH and I will always "bleed" black and gold. My children however are students of private schools and have been since PreK. I am very grateful to be able to send them to a private school and can not imagine a different setting for them. Academics is not my main concern because they are bright capable children and they will learn in any setting. Instead my focus is on the faith community. Prayer everyday is what we cherish. "

ct wrote on Sep 1, 2008 8:47 AM:

" I am a public school teacher and all three of my children have gone, or are going to a private school. I enjoy the private school for it's faith community and for it's tradition and it's close knit "family feel." Being a teacher and having to be accountable in the public school systems, though, makes me aware of teachers or actions in the private school that sometimes make no sense to me. Being hard on kids or making them do more work doesn't mean you're a better teacher. The public schools in New Iberia are wonderful, the teachers are great. "

laci wrote on Aug 29, 2008 8:40 PM:

" No hate was intended. I thought an opinion from a student who went through both school systems would help. I guess it really depends on the child's personality and independence. I think my highschool years gave me the confidence and courage to get where I am today--1500miles away from home. In the public system, a student is on her own, if she needs help, it won't be handed over, it's got to be asked for.
I agree, new iberia can be very judgemental. I'm sure whatever decision you make will be the right one. Good luck. :) "

E. Landry original author wrote on Aug 29, 2008 3:58 PM:

" ...I also attended a public univeristy and graduated top of my class there. So basically all I can hope is that if my child needs to be challeged more in her education the school will provide that. I will do my part as well. Each parent should take part in their child's education. I really wish that some did not take this blog as an opportunity to "hate" on others... "

E. Landry original author wrote on Aug 29, 2008 3:55 PM:

" To Laci- I have not made up my mind about public vs private school yet but I have realized that some readers are very judgmental in this city. I did go to public school my entire life-graduated top of my class at NISH. The concerns I had were that I personally wanted to be challenged more and the classes were so large that it was not an option. continued "

wiseone wrote on Aug 29, 2008 2:00 PM:

" TO AC: You said “there is no written rule for that, or I highly doubt it, but there is an unwritten rule and it will never happen." I know there is no ruling/policy; my statement was in jest to challenge you to support your statements with facts. Could you get someone in authority to whisper that unwritten rule into my ears. I promise I won’t tell anyone else. Now on a serious note, why not allow all students who receive a High School Diploma to take the LEAP/GEE, public and private. Have "

AC wrote on Aug 29, 2008 9:06 AM:

" If you go back and read my post I said "it isnt all rich kids at CHS". I dont know if you misread that or what but I went to CHS, I know it is not all rich kids. "

AC wrote on Aug 29, 2008 9:05 AM:

" I am a little confused. What rule or policy do you want? You think that there is a policy that says "we wont allow our students to take a test to compare to private schools"? There is no written rule for that, or I highly doubt it, but there is an unwritten rule and it will never happen. "

To AC wrote on Aug 28, 2008 9:03 AM:

" If you checked it's not only rich kids that go to Catholic School. My children went their and we are far from rich. We just sacrificed and succeeded in sending him their. "

wiseone wrote on Aug 28, 2008 7:23 AM:

" TO AC: Can you provide me with a ruling/policy or a link as to where I may obtain that information? I would be interested to research that myself. Maybe it’s the other way around. Maybe some private schools do not want some of their students to take the test. ANY failures would insinuate something negative about that school. "

unimportant wrote on Aug 28, 2008 6:16 AM:

" Your school against my school, their school against someone else's school...really I can't believe it's so dramatically different. I firmly believe it's not the school but in the student. I actually had the experience of going to both private and public while growing up. I honestly applied myself in school to the best of my ability and believe I'm better for it. Did I have some great teachers? yep. Did I have some not so great teachers? yep. But I believe you get out what you put in. The other stuff is just frills and window dressing. "

AC wrote on Aug 27, 2008 1:11 PM:

" I also agree to an extent with Laci. I think that some of it has to do with the kind of child you have. There is no point in keeping them in private school if they dont like it there.Let them go to public school,they might end up better off,but Laci has an older sister who was pretty outgoing in highschool. She seemed to like going to CHS.Maybe I am wrong, she might have hated it, but if she didnt hate CHS then that shows you that one of your kids might like private school and the next might not. "

AC wrote on Aug 27, 2008 1:03 PM:

" I also do not in any way think that teachers at public schools are not good. I know some VERY good ones. Coach Schlisher comes to mind as I say this. He taught at CHS and then went to NISH. His classes are harder than any college english that I have taken.He goes farther than preparing them for under-grad,he prepares them for graduate school.I think one main difference at private schools is the parents.Most of them make a bigger deal about school for their kids because they pay a lot for it. It isnt all rich people at CHS. "

AC wrote on Aug 27, 2008 12:58 PM:

" The state doesn’t want private schools to take the leap test.If they do then there would be hard data showing that private are better.You can take the ACT scores if you like,but they will be higher in private schools on average.That isn’t fair though because the ACT is only taken by people thinking or planning to go to college.There are many very smart people who don’t choose to go to college.Also some people are just not good at taking standardized tests.That is why only taking the smartest 5 from each school and quizzing them would work. Make it an Annual-event. "

Just adding wrote on Aug 27, 2008 12:52 PM:

" You left out a veterinarian from the class of 72 from CHS. "

flowerchild wrote on Aug 27, 2008 8:53 AM:

" My husband and I are the products of both public and private schools. My oldest attended CHS from 4th to graduation, and a student of public school before then. We have two more children who attend public school now. No matter how you study the facts..."you get what you put into it!"
Look at the schools with the best reputations, and you will see the schools with the most parent involvement. If you want your child to achieve and be the best they can...invest yourselves in their future. "

It depends on the school wrote on Aug 27, 2008 8:28 AM:

" I understand you son may have come home from his private school with words not common to him. I know for a fact a St. Joseph Catholic School, in Jeanerette, that is not the case. It is very small and the children there are monitored very closely. That's why I say the smaller the school the better. By the way it is Pre K through 8th "

LACI JOLET cont... wrote on Aug 26, 2008 9:33 PM:

" to the person who posted this question: have you made a decision after all of this bickering? "

LACI JOLET wrote on Aug 26, 2008 9:26 PM:

" WOW!! The moment I read this, I knew it would start a heated "opinion session". I have experience in both places. I went to CHS and left in 9th grade to go to NISH. That was the best move I have ever made. NISH is responsible for making me the outgoing person I am today. The teachers there cut no slack and are top-notch. I loved the vast array of students; wealthy, poor, black, white, whatever--everyone there has a place. My opinion-don't waste your money! Send them to the public system! My kids won't step foot in a private school. "

from St Edward to NLE wrote on Aug 26, 2008 5:34 PM:

" In response to your question; I encountered the same fears. My daughter attended St Edward from PreK-3rd grade and I felt she received an excellent foundation.I would have loved to continue her catholic education, financially I was unable to send her to CHS but since I was zoned for NLE it eased my fears because I heard all good things about the school. From what I gather it is top notch in the parish and she is now in 6th grade and doing exceptional. "

Wow wrote on Aug 26, 2008 4:10 PM:

" I've been reading the posts between someone named me and I don't know who the other person is but I'm sure getting entertained. "Me" keep up the good work. "

Just Me wrote on Aug 26, 2008 4:06 PM:

" By your posts you sure don't act like you are laughing. I'm getting a kick out of getting "your goat". "

to Just to let you know sjcs wrote on Aug 26, 2008 4:02 PM:

" I disagree-my son was in private school for pre-k (AGE 4) and he came home w/ lots of inappropriate things he learned from other kids there so dont for one minute say a private school is better for the younger education. Just because these children go to private/christian or whatever schools does not mean they are taught the religious values at home. I pulled him out for one of these reasons-he was coming home w/ too much information I knew he was not getting at home or other places. "

personalexperience wrote on Aug 26, 2008 3:25 PM:

" I believe that if a child is underprivledged in the education arena then it means in my OPINION that the parents chose not to place that childs education first. I am being held accountable for this by not allowing my daughter to attend regardless of test scores and by requiring me to pay. The state covers the cost of the underprivledged children. The bottom line is that if you care about your childs education and want them to succeed then you make the decision and assist the teacher in educating your child for the betterment of society. "

personalexperience wrote on Aug 26, 2008 3:18 PM:

" Now with everything Ive said I believe public or private school still requires effective, positive parenting input. What this means is that parents needs to use the education system and assist teachers in making their children productive members of society. That is where the breakdown is, and that is where private schools draw a very distinctive line. They do not need to trouble the school nor the students with disruptive behavior. Public schools give alot more in this area because the public is entitled to this education for their children. contnued.... "

personalexperience wrote on Aug 26, 2008 3:14 PM:

" I was not going to pay twice and send my daughter to school where she chose to do what she wanted for the day. HBCS has smaller teacher to student ratios and I was told by the time my daughter would enter HBCS that she would know how to write her name in cursive and read small books and stories. The school is small, family oriented, has strict rules to include drug testing and projects the type of environment I would like my daughter to be educated in. continued..... "

personalexperience wrote on Aug 26, 2008 3:11 PM:

" My daughter has attended day care and knows her numbers, A,B,Cs, shapes and has begun to add and aubtract minimally. What drove me from this school was the lack of concern by the school staff and the fact that if my daughter was admitted that my wife and I would be required to pay becuase of the income we had. Now with that being said I think that it is ultimately unfair that I pay and another parent not be required to pay. I am already paying in the means of taxes. continued... "

Catholic Mom wrote on Aug 26, 2008 3:09 PM:

" What would Jesue Do??????????????? "

personal experience wrote on Aug 26, 2008 3:08 PM:

" Daspit had a secretary eating popcorn out of a bag show my wife around and was basically told by the Pre-K teacher that they let the children decide what they want to do for the day. I find this hard to believe but thats what we were told. We were also told that my daughter would test to get in. Now thats not a problem but if she tested too high then she would e denied enrollment and would sit out for another year until Kindergarden. My brother just suffered the same fate at the same school. continued.... "

personalexperience wrote on Aug 26, 2008 3:03 PM:

" I recently enrolled my daughter into Pre-K at HBCS. My wife and I did so for several reasons. I am a public school graduate and my wife is a private school graduate. I took college prep courses in public school and my wife on the other hand states that the school she attended did not prepare her for college. We ultimately decided on HBCS because my wife went to several private and public schools to basically "interview" the school. At St. Edwards the teacher to student ratio was a little high and we could not be guaranteed a seat.Continued... "

to me wrote on Aug 26, 2008 1:27 PM:

" Let me ask you a question. If we want to check your facts, what do we look for in the Catholic High 1972 yearbook? Will it say "Husband of Me"? You're petty and making me laugh. Keep it up. "

to ME wrote on Aug 26, 2008 1:22 PM:

" Once again, you are acting like a name dropper. Just tell us just what your successful husband does---you know you want to. Give me a break. Tell us something that you do and we might be impressed. Not having a private school in your town is no excuse. Long ago, students from out of town came to Mt. Carmel and Catholic High. And no, I am not jealous. I have my own college degree to speak of and don't have to rely on my husband's accomplishments. You really need to get a life. "

NOT THE QUESTION wrote on Aug 26, 2008 10:29 AM:

" Wasn't the original poster's question about North Lewis vs. private schools? Point blank, North Lewis is awesome. Whether you choose private for middle or high school is a whole different question, but NLE is great. "

Me wrote on Aug 26, 2008 10:03 AM:

" No I'm not a name dropper, just stating the facts. For that matter I went to public school. We didn't have a private school in my town. I was just stating that the private schools are just as good as the public schools. Oh and by the way my husband is also successful. Sounds like you are jealous, lol. Oh if you want to check my facts, he graduated from Catholic High in 1972! "

Private and Public wrote on Aug 26, 2008 8:22 AM:

" My daughter graduated from a public school and now is attending college.My son graduated from a catholic school he chose not to further his education and went to work. Both are doing well and I had great experiences at both schools. The teachers were helpful they both graduated with 3.0 gpa. The only thing that stands out for me is the fact that there were fights on a weekly basis at the school my daughter attended. That frightened me but we got through it.Just stay positive and good luck. "

To Teacher wrote on Aug 25, 2008 7:04 PM:

" I beg to defer. "

to ME wrote on Aug 25, 2008 6:48 PM:

" You speak of your husband's class and their accomplishments...Tell me, what are your credentials to be so critical of public schools? Just because a few of your HUSBAND'S classmates were successful doesn't mean that other schools' graduates are any less. You sound like a name-dropper, that's all. "

To Teacher wrote on Aug 25, 2008 5:34 PM:

" I'm sorry to disagree but I know for a fact, although the same material may be taught, it is the way the children are tested that is the difference between private, Catholic, and public schools. In Catholic and private schools the material is not tested from a study guide designed to make sure each student passes the test. The test is usually presented in entirely different wording and most times than not they are not even afforded a "study guide". They must comprehend the lesson on their own. That is the difference. "

Frustrated wrote on Aug 25, 2008 4:40 PM:

" We decided to send our daughter to private school after she was sexually harrased at school by a boy who lifted her skirt and was threatened with a knife on the bus. Nothing was done to these children. "

wiseone wrote on Aug 25, 2008 4:06 PM:

" Before we form quiz bowl teams (as suggested by someone) between public and private school students to determine who’s top students are better, how about all students from public and private school take the LEAP test (to advance between certain grades) and the GEE test (to graduate). I believe that all graduates from both public and private schools receive a high school degree granted by the State of Louisiana. I think that it is unfair to only require those test for public school students. "

In response to Me wrote on Aug 25, 2008 2:12 PM:

" Actually, I am sure if you look up the thousands of graduates from NISH in the last twenty years, I am sure you will find several successful doctors, lawyers, dentists, vets, etc... Especially considering the class size was often over 600. "

Teacher wrote on Aug 25, 2008 2:11 PM:

" cont... Just as in any other proffession, there are good teachers and bad teachers, both in public and private schools. Honestly, your children will receive the same education in both public and private school. How well your children do after school and in a post-secondary institution depends on them and their abilities and work ethic, as well as you as a parent. There are some very bad schools in Iberia Parish, but there are also some wonderful schools with wonderful students and teachers. "

Teacher wrote on Aug 25, 2008 2:08 PM:

" I am a teacher in the Iberia Parish School System. I find it unfair to say that teachers in the public school system do not have high expectations for their students and are just teaching in the public school system because the pay is better. It is often a lot easier to get hired to teach private school because individuals hired do not have to meet state qualifications to be a teacher. That being said, you should know that many teachers in the private school system do not have teaching degrees. "

Me wrote on Aug 25, 2008 10:41 AM:

" I have one thing to say, my husband went to Catholic High and out of his graduating class there were two surgeons, three attorneys, one judge, , one CPA, two dentists, and two veterinarians to just name a few besides successful business owners. Name me one class from Senior High who had that many successful graduates. Now I know this cause a big hurrah but so be it. Oh and about picking on someone about spellcheck , come on now aren't you being petty. "

to Just to let you know wrote on Aug 25, 2008 9:31 AM:

" Teacher/student ratio is mandated lower in public schools. Schools like St. Edward's can have 28-29 in a class. Public schools are locked in at 25 so smaller classes is not a very good argument. Some private schools have lowers numbers because they just don't fill up. If they had the applicants, I bet they'd pack them in. "

To Public School Mom wrote on Aug 25, 2008 9:20 AM:

" That's why I say the younger the child and the smaller the school the better. I know that my two children attended St. Joseph Catholic School and because it's so small these children were taught strict morals at home and at school. There was NONE of what you describe at your private school. It is unheard of at this Prek through 8th school. If you want your children to get a wonderful foundation of education and morals, this is the school for you. Worth even a drive. They are exposed to nothing but good there. "

AC wrote on Aug 25, 2008 9:14 AM:

" That will never happen though, because the IPSB would never allow their students to go up against private schools to have hard factual data showing that their best are not as good as private school’s best. Also let’s bring in ESA as well, and just to show I don’t just think CHS is better. I would be willing to bet that ESA would win because I do believe that ESA is a better school than CHS. "

AC wrote on Aug 25, 2008 9:11 AM:

" Also I would be more than happy to accept your challenge to put your Public honors student up against a CHS student. In Fact, why don’t we do that, take the valedictorians from WHS, NISH, and CHS and form quiz bowl teams and see who wins. 5 people per team, if there are not enough valedictorians at CHS, they can use salutatorians. I know NISH and WHS normally have like 6 or 7+ so some of them will have to sit out. Let’s put an end to what schools are better. "

AC wrote on Aug 25, 2008 9:07 AM:

" I went to St. Edwards and CHS my whole childhood so I cannot say what schools are harder, or better.I can say that I had friends who left CHS and went to NISH, they said it was pretty much the same.I also had friends who did well at NISH who came to CHS and started having trouble keeping their grades up.I think that is because the classes are harder at CHS.As for the block scheduling, CHS actually requires more courses to graduate than public, and CHS students don’t ever get half days during their Sr.Year instead of being in school. "

Pubic School Parent wrote on Aug 25, 2008 12:10 AM:

" I have never regreted pulling my children out of private school. They became well rounded people prepared for life in the real world. You know what I mean? They have been able to relate to all people. Private school in New Iberia will can't match the tools public school has to offer them. You'll be lucky if you don't have to give up some time during the week to go to the private school and cook the kids a meal. Private schools are very how can I say this. Very demanding of your time and/money. "

TO PUBLIC SCHOOL GRADE wrote on Aug 24, 2008 2:18 PM:

" I am a teacher in this parish and my children DO attend public schools. I have very high expectations for my students and I teach my students every bit as much as what's being taught in private schools. I can do that because my class is filled with students that have concerned and supportive parents. Teachers can only work with what they're given. If kids don't have parents who care, they don't care either. My oldest is well prepared for college in public schools, but I was always there guiding, and sometimes pushing, her through. "

Just to let you know sjcs wrote on Aug 24, 2008 12:33 PM:

" What grade are your children in? It makes a difference for younger chilren to be taught, I belive, in a smaller private school. Just so they are not exposed to anything that is way above their level. I hate to say it, but there are a lot of young children in public schools who have been exposed to some very mature language and activities. The smaller the private school the better exspecially when they are young. After they have thier foundation and are a little older you may want to let them in on/the/decision. "

Private School Mom wrote on Aug 23, 2008 7:23 PM:

" There are a lot of things that go on in private schools that are not made public. Moms buying test,students being taught an ACT test. Stealing,girls fighting over each other,and oh my the drugs and, pills are plentiful. So the bad things are not just in the public schools. I went to public school and I didn't experience any of this. My kids are in private school because the classes are so much smaller and the teaching level is higher. "

Public School Grad wrote on Aug 23, 2008 7:08 PM:

" continued..in the public school system because, it pays a lot more than private schools. Public schools are filled with 90% of one race, so it is set up for failure by the state. The former superintendent of Iberia Parish Sch.'s son was a 1999 grad. of Hanson High, a private school in St. Mary Par.
"Nuff Said?" Public school teachers have very,very low expectations of the students, and some feel that it's only a job, because their kids are being properly educated.This is only my opinion. "

Public School Grad wrote on Aug 23, 2008 6:45 PM:

" ..continued,one high in the parish numbers were so low for the past two years that their were rumors about closing it or turning it into an alternative school.Parents were moving their kids because the school board doesn't give them the teachers that they need to teach the subjects that are really needed for college. It's not the teachers.Also, a lot of the teachers who are teaching our children in this parish doesn't care about the kid's education because their children are not in public schools, because they don't think that public schools are good enough anymore. They are just WORKINGcontinued.. "

Public School Grad wrote on Aug 23, 2008 6:36 PM:

" I am a IB Parish public school grad from the 70's. Th public schools were pretty decent back then.One of my children graduated in 1999 from public school, but then we moved to another parish because I felt the my other kids would be better educated. We couldn't afford private schools. I don't feel that private schools are better because of the kids who attend, but they teach on a higher level.I teach in the public school system so I see it first hand.IB parish caters to one school in the parish,which happens to be mostly white students..continued "

wiseone wrote on Aug 23, 2008 6:12 PM:

" “To dear wiseone: You said that my statement “spread the word, but not though public schools as per the US Constitution” says a lot about me. It says that I support the Constitution of the US. There are countries that do have state supported religions including those controlled by Islamic fundamentalist/Taliban. They will do anything make you to believe the way they do, including decapitation.
Church-state separation does not mean hostility toward religion. Rather, it means that the government will remain neutral on religious questions, leaving decisions about God, in the hands of its citizens. "

to just somebody wrote on Aug 23, 2008 5:39 PM:

" You really need to check your spelling before you post. You even misspelled "somebody" in your name. I was reading these posts with a Catholic High student present. When I read your post about them getting rid of the riffraff, his reply was "Yeah, right!" "

what about this wrote on Aug 22, 2008 9:55 PM:

" When my son was in a public high school. There were some kids that left Catholic High because they were going to be doing a drug test and they knew they wouldn't pass so they switched to a public school. So kids at Private Schools are no better than kids at Public schools. It is just their parents that think that way. What are you going to do when they associate with the Riff Raff at college!!! "

GO HBCS wrote on Aug 22, 2008 8:20 PM:

" I'm a very proud parent of Highland. It was the best decision I've ever made. Wouldn't change a thing. BEST teachers, best principal, just best all around staff. Very family oriented! "

E. Landry wrote on Aug 22, 2008 3:48 PM:

" I thank all of you that have given me the advice I requested about making the public vs private school decision. I really did not want this blog to be about religious issues but what is right with the schools. "

Catholic School Mom wrote on Aug 22, 2008 1:20 PM:

" The day we have to put our Children through a Metal Detector to get an education is Horrible... I graduated from a Catholic School and sacrafice to send my children to one... which means no fake nails,no movie channels,no eating out 2week, using coupons when aloud, no designer jean etc. has been such a blessing. Just the enviroment and safty issues should be top dicision making. "

just somebody wrote on Aug 22, 2008 12:44 PM:

" Riff Raff are the students who go to school and are constantly in trouble, who do not want to learn, and disturb the classes. Public schools do not have the right to stop them from going there, and while the other students want to learn they just keep causing commotion. "

Dear wiseone wrote on Aug 22, 2008 11:43 AM:

" Your statement, "... spread the word, but not though public schools as per the US Constitution" says lots about you. The OLDEST history book I know of is the Bible. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchmen stand guard in vain.' (Psalm 12 7: 1) If you make a timeline or a graph, you'll see that the exponential increase in public school violence, pregnancy, and foul language all started at generally the time the Supreme Court threw prayer and Bible reading out of the schools. We told God we didn't need Him, and the results speak for themselves.LLTB "

Dear Chapel Clubs wrote on Aug 22, 2008 10:07 AM:

" "If you send your child to a parochial school, but don't bring them to church, you are doing no good." I very much disagree, so does the Bible. Yes, it is better if parents and children attend a church together. I really enjoyed my HBCS student (from the age of 2) coming home and teaching his father about Jesus! Your statement "Kids learn by parent examples", is very true but children also learn from others including teachers and their peers. Too bad we have allowed our government to take away the very foundation of WHO this country was founded on.LLTB "

wiseone wrote on Aug 22, 2008 10:05 AM:

" To dear wiseone: You said that public schools WON’T teach Jesus. Actually they CANNOT teach Jesus. The US Constitution prohibits the establishment of a national religion or the preference of one religion over another, or religion over non-religion. Supreme Court rulings apply this to state governments also. That does not make the public schools good or bad. I agree that our role as Christians is to spread the word, but not though public schools as per the US Constitution. That’s the job of parents and the church of your choice. "

chapel clubs wrote on Aug 22, 2008 8:24 AM:

" Although public schools cannot "teach" religion, they are allowed to have chapel clubs and moments of silence. If you send your child to a parochial school, but don't bring them to church, you are doing no good. Kids learn by parent examples. "

Just to let you know... wrote on Aug 21, 2008 8:08 PM:

" There is a wonderful little Catholic school located on the Old Jeanerette Road. St. Joseph Catholic School was established since the 1800's. Few people know about it. Teacher to student ratio is excellent and all children who attend this school are taught in an religious environment. It would be wise for you to look into this little jewel on the Teche. "

Dear wiseone wrote on Aug 21, 2008 2:44 PM:

" Not an implication just a definition of my character; no hidden meanings. I said nothing about paying taxes for roads/government services. Prayer is available 24/7 to everyone (not just between classes, etc.)! There are children who don't know Jesus; public school won't TEACH Jesus. As a Christian it is our responsibility to spread the word (not just parents responsibility). I think the difference between public and private is if you want Christianity in the curriculum or not. Don't say it - I will: there are christian public school teachers but they're limited by man's law on what they can teach.LLTB "

Just an Opinion wrote on Aug 21, 2008 1:22 PM:

" To Just Somebody

I deleted my response to your comment and decided to allow you to define riff-raff to the readers of this column. I must ask, however, how will your children, who have been raised in a sheltered atmosphere, survive when they will have to associate with the riff-raff of this world?

I would also like to ask you your opinion as to what should be done to the riff-raff at the public schools? "

prviatepublic wrote on Aug 21, 2008 1:06 PM:

" My son went to a private school for pre-k as well as he went there for daycare from the time he was one. They have taught him so many things from education to religion. I decided to pull him out for Kindergarten and place him in a public school (one of the good ones) and he has alot of adjusting to do. I fine in private school they baby fied him more and let him get away w/ more-although i love both schools we'll have to see how it goes. if needed i will change him back to private. "

TO JUST SOMEONE wrote on Aug 21, 2008 12:00 PM:

" Let me tell you one thing, I will put my honors program PUBLIC school daughter up against your PRIVATE kid anyday. Public school honors program students go to college with just as much preparedness as private. The block scheduling is awesome. We have some seniors this year at NISH who are finishing with the first TWO college Englishes completed. My daughter is already starting college with a 4.0, thanks to the PUBLIC SYSTEM. Also, private schools do keep the riffraff if "Daddy" has enough greenbacks. FYI: Use a dictionary for spell checking. "

another parent wrote on Aug 21, 2008 10:56 AM:

" I am completely happy with North Lewis. All, BUT ONE, of the teachers seem to be very caring. The BUT ONE just needs to retire, but the rest are great. They have a schedule for doing things and each parent knows what to expect. The new school will be nice, but what will be inside is even better. The principal is soft spoken and always well composed. She speaks to parents and her teachers with respect. That means a lot to me as a parent. I'm happy I made this choice. "

wiseone wrote on Aug 21, 2008 10:38 AM:

" To dear wiseone: You seem to imply that only responsible parents send their children to private schools to supplement their religious education. Is that what you meant? Also, I am glad that you DO have to pay your share for public education, roads, and other government services. Also, nothing prohibits a public school student from praying at school. They cannot pray out loud, but there are moments between classes/lunch where anyone may pray. Character education is stressed in public schools, but parents must ultimately develop character in their children. "

parent who was and is there wrote on Aug 20, 2008 8:56 PM:

" My daughter is a senior and went through NLE, BPMS, and now NISH. She is very well prepared for college because of choices WE all made in her curriculum. She could have taken the easy way out, but we never encouraged it. Honors courses at NISH are top-notch. Strong parental guidance is a must in any situation. My son is at NLE now. We had a few tough years, not with teachers, but following Katrina. All is settled now. The principal and teachers are the cream of the crop. They do teach/and/show/morals/and/values. "

Jeannine wrote on Aug 20, 2008 8:25 PM:

" My children go to St. Edward School. We are Catholic. I am extremely pleased with their religious, as well as academic education. It is also very family oriented and the principal, Mr. Cavalier, is wonderful. "

Proud HBCS Mom wrote on Aug 20, 2008 7:56 PM:

" My little girl has been at Highland since she was 2. She is now entering PK-4 & is very much looking forward to it. I cant imagine her going to a public school ever. In a small private school like Highland, the classes are small so the students can get more individualized help if needed. The teachers there really love their students. They have heart & want to teach & it really shows. I would recomend HBCS to anyone. "

Dear wiseone wrote on Aug 20, 2008 4:37 PM:

" " ... The primary role model for religion comes from parents, not public or private school." Yes wiseone you're correct but think about this: as a responsible parent I choose to supplement my child's religious upbringing through private Christian education. Many parents of my child's private school do not even attend church; therefore what religious education the child receives is at school. No, that is not how it should be but at least the child is allowed to say, write and pray to Jesus at school. I wish I didn't have to pay taxes to support public schools. LLTB "

Just Sombody wrote on Aug 20, 2008 4:32 PM:

" To Just an Opinion

Maybe you had better check your facts about private schooled children and public schooled children. Check to see the ratio of college graduates from publid schools versus private schools. You will be surprised. Private schools get the students ready for college. They take college preparatory courses. Also the private schools do not have to keep the riff-raff in their schools. They have the right to expell the ones who are not following the rules! "

Kim wrote on Aug 20, 2008 4:08 PM:

" My first child went to NLE till sixth grade and it was ok. My second child who is starting Pre-K this year will be going to Highland Baptist. It is more of a "lets see how private school makes a difference" thing. Incorporating faith into the curriculum is a great asset in my opinion. Good luck in your decision. "

Private School Parent wrote on Aug 20, 2008 2:47 PM:

" My son has been at Highland Baptist since he was 2 (now a 5th grader). Although the cost of sending 2 children (I have a 3 yr old at CLC) is quite costly, I find that is is worth every penny. HBCS is growing each year and their athletic program is taking off. The thought of having to possibly send my children to one of the public school terrifies me (I'm actually in Dodson & North Lewis' districts) even though their are some good schools out there. I really like the Christian background they are getting at Highland. "

just an opinion wrote on Aug 20, 2008 1:43 PM:

" I sent my children to school so that they can get an education that will prepare them for the future. The public high schools have block scheduling that enables students to take more courses than your parochial schools. Obviously, this will better prepare them for college.

Children will learn morals and values from the adults they see daily, their parents. Parents are also responsible for the spiritual education of their children. "

wiseone wrote on Aug 20, 2008 12:47 PM:

" There are many instances of success stories and failures from both public and private schools. Opportunities abound in both systems. The education that your child receives depends on how YOU interface with your child and the school concerning these opportunities. The primary role model for religion comes from parents, not public or private school. There are examples of children from private schools that don’t develop outstanding character traits. Also, there are many public school children who have excellent moral values despite the lack of religious teaching in those schools. "

Good Luck wrote on Aug 20, 2008 10:30 AM:

" North Lewis Ele. is an awesome elementary and has been for years. My children were there until we moved them to CHS. CHS has been through many changes lately and it seems has been getting a bad "rap" like they say. Our leader / principal has made many changes unfortunately but he just lacks in the communication dept with his ideas on his thoughts about the changes he has made and is making. Catholic education was a priority of ours and we are still happy with our decision. Good Luck "

avid reader wrote on Aug 20, 2008 10:19 AM:

" I am an employee of IPSB and if I could afford it, my children would DEFINATELY be in private school-no doubt about it. That LEAP test is a joke and is quite unfair. I could go on and on and on. If you can, send yours to private school too. Remember you get what you pay for, you pay for nothing, you get nothing. "

Amy wrote on Aug 20, 2008 10:15 AM:

" While the education of most of the public schools in New Iberia is stellar,especially at North Lewis Elementary,let me say this-God is not allowed in our public schools,the 10 Commandments are not allowed to be taught.My child went to public school until 5th grade and then switched to Parochial school.The morals & values taught to my child were a priceless asset.If a good education only is what you are looking for,the public schools in your zone are excellent.If you want your child to have a more enriching education,a Faith based school is well worth the money! "

WRITE A COMMENT

Use the form below to post a brief comment related to this story. Use the word count tool to assist you in keeping your remarks to 100 words or fewer.

•Comments must be approved by an editor or the publisher before appearing on the Web site but are not verified for accuracy nor have we verified the identity of any person supposedly posting an comment. Please consider this as you consider any statement made. A thoughtful contribution to the online discussion is appreciated.

• Please note your comments must attempt to follow basic rules of grammar and punctuation or they will not be posted. Do not use unfamiliar abbreviations or text-like short cuts, like ur for your. Please keep your tone civil. You can say someone's idea is stupid but you cannot say someone is stupid.

• Comments should deal with matters of public concern. Problems with private individuals or private companies are not likely to get posted.

• Questions or comments about items posted should be e-mailed to dailyiberian@bellsouth.net.

Classifieds

Place Your Ad

View All Ads

Contact Us

Subscribe
Vacation Hold
General Email

Mailing Address:
The Daily Iberian
P.O. Box 9290
New Iberia, LA
70562-9290

Street Address:
926 East Main St.
New Iberia, LA 70560

Phone:
(337) 365-6773

Fax:
(337)-367-9640

Inside Louisiana:
800-365-6773

Public School versus Private School

Comments

WRITE A COMMENT

Classifieds

Jobs

Homes

Autos

Contact Us

Local Weather