Is Private School Worth It? What To Do When Your Child Falls Behind

High tuition, big hopes. Then, the sinking feeling. You enrolled your child in private school for the smaller classes, stronger academics, and the promise of a better future. But what happens when your child starts to struggle anyway? The grades drop, the confidence dips, and suddenly you’re asking yourself: Is private school worth it?

The truth is, the answer depends less on the school’s prestige and more on your child’s unique needs. And when those needs go unmet, even the highest-rated private school can start to feel like the wrong fit.

What Are You Actually Paying For in Private School?

Families often invest in private education for its perceived advantages:

• Smaller class sizes

• Individualized attention

• Academic rigor

• A tight-knit community or values-based curriculum

But there are tradeoffs. Private schools are not legally required to provide the same level of accommodations as public schools. Services like IEPs (Individualized Education Programs) or 504 plans are not guaranteed. For students with learning differences, ADHD, or executive function challenges, this can mean flying under the radar without adequate support.

And then there’s the cost. With private school tuition ranging anywhere from $15,000 to $60,000+ per year, many parents begin to wonder: Is private school a waste of money if my child isn’t thriving?

What Parents Often Discover When a Child Falls Behind

Private school doesn’t always mean personalized learning. Even with smaller classes, students who need targeted executive function support or differentiated instruction may struggle, especially if the school heavily leans on academic pressure or competition.

Students with ADHD, anxiety, or slower processing speeds may appear "fine" on the surface but experience deep internal stress. In many cases, these students begin to shut down, disengage, or lose confidence in their abilities.

Meanwhile, many private institutions don’t have the resources, staffing, or training to respond in a meaningful way.

Is Private School Worth It at Different Stages?

Elementary School

In early grades, social-emotional development and foundational learning are key. While a nurturing private elementary school can offer structure and stability, research shows that early academic advantages often level out by middle school, especially if learning differences go unaddressed.

A private elementary school could be worth it depending on your child’s temperament, the school’s ability to individualize, and your family’s long-term goals.

High School

The stakes feel higher in high school, and for some students, private school offers valuable resources: smaller class sizes, college counseling, and a safe, focused environment.

Private schools can shine in high school, only when they match the student’s needs. For many teens, especially student-athletes or neurodivergent learners, outside support, like academic coaching can make the difference between surviving and truly thriving.

Alternative Paths to Academic Success

Private school isn’t the only option. Many families explore:

• Public school districts with strong academic programs or magnet tracks

• Online/hybrid models that allow for more flexibility and customization

• Academic coaching as an additional layer of support, tailored to your child’s needs, regardless of where they go to school

Each path has its mix of cost, access, and impact. The key is finding a solution that supports the whole student.

What To Do When Your Child Falls Behind

You don’t have to make a big leap overnight. Start by:

• Observing patterns: Is your child disengaging, avoiding homework, or frequently anxious?

• Talking to teachers: Ask for specifics. What support is available? How is your child being monitored?

• Seeking outside support: Academic coaching can help bridge the gap, offering tools to improve time management, focus, resilience, and confidence.

Struggles in school are not a reflection of your parenting or your child’s potential. They’re a signal that something needs to shift.

So… Is Private School Worth It?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. For some students, private school is a lifeline—a place where they feel seen, supported, and inspired. For others, it’s simply not enough.

And remember: even if you decide to stay in private school, outside academic support may still be essential.

When You're Ready for Personalized Help: Meet Swoon Learning

At Swoon Learning, we specialize in academic coaching that meets students where they are.

Whether your child is a student-athlete juggling practices and homework or a neurodivergent learner who needs help with organization and focus, our coaches offer practical, compassionate support.

Through 1:1 and group sessions, proven learning strategies, and our proprietary tech platform, Swoon Front Office®, we help students manage time, track tasks, communicate effectively, and build lasting confidence.

Swoon is inclusive by design. We value diversity, sustainability, and the power of personalized support. And we believe that every student deserves to succeed on their own terms.

Book a free consultation today to see how Swoon can support your child’s learning journey, whether you stay in private school or not.

 

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