Pros and Cons of Nonpublic Schools for High Schoolers

When public schools can’t meet a student’s needs, families may be offered a Nonpublic School (NPS) placement through the IEP team. These schools offer specialized support, but they aren’t the right fit for everyone. Here’s a quick look at the pros and cons.

Pros

1. Specialized Support

NPS staff are trained to support complex needs like autism, trauma, and behavioral challenges.

2. Small Class Sizes

Low student-to-staff ratios allow for more one-on-one attention.

3. Built-In Therapies

Speech, OT, counseling, and behavior services are often integrated into the school day.

4. Emotional Safety

Therapeutic settings help students manage emotions and behaviors.

5. Flexible Academics

Some offer credit recovery, vocational training, and alternative paths to graduation.

Cons

1. Limited Socialization

Smaller campuses may reduce access to typical peer interactions and school events.

2. Isolation

Students may be bused far from home, making it harder to stay connected to their community.

3. Academic Gaps

Focus on behavior over academics can limit college prep or challenge.

4. Reintegration Challenges

Returning to public school can be difficult and require extensive documentation.

5. Stigma

Students may feel labeled or different from peers, affecting self-esteem.

Final Takeaway

Nonpublic schools can be life-changing for some students but come with trade-offs. Always consider the individual needs of the student and involve them in the decision.