Boarding and Day · Co-ed College Prep · Grades 6–12 & Postgraduate · Hebron, Maine

Worth the Investment: The Benefits & Value of a Private School Education

Two students are working with their teacher on a problem in their science classroom
Rachel McKinley

The future is bright for today’s young students. Exciting emerging career paths, unlimited opportunities for creativity and innovation, and an emphasis on personal wellness and fulfillment will likely give the next generation more professional options and choices than ever before. 

Yet with so many ways to pursue their passions while young, how do students ensure they’re on the right path forward? 

That’s why making the right choice for your child’s education is more critical than ever. When your child finds a school that supports their needs, empowers self-discovery, stretches their potential, and instills the skills needed for 21st-century success, their future possibilities expand. 

Here at Hebron Academy, we know that choosing the right school for your child is a significant, highly personal decision, and we see the difference it makes when students find and thrive in the right-fit environment. 

If you’re wondering, “What are the actual benefits of a private school education? Is it worth paying for a private school?”, here are just a few of the reasons you may want to consider investing in a private school education:

#1: Individualized attention creates more opportunities to develop student talents

One of the key benefits of private education is the smaller class sizes. Statistically, private schools have significantly lower student-to-teacher ratios than public schools (here at Hebron, the average class size is 10 students!), which means students receive more personalized instruction.  

Fewer students in each classroom mean teachers can also cater to specific learning needs and create a more engaging learning environment. Students have more time to discover and develop their interests – and teachers have more time to help them excel. 

#2: Enhanced academic opportunities expose students to critical topics and ideas

Most private schools provide a comprehensive curriculum beyond the standard educational requirements to which public schools must adhere. Private schools have the flexibility to offer specialized programs, advanced placement courses, and various extracurricular activities that foster intellectual growth, creativity, and critical thinking skills. 

Private schools can also adapt and innovate their curricula to meet students’ evolving needs. At Hebron Academy, students can explore a wide range of interests through signature programs such as Engineering, Design, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship (EDIE); an outdoor education program; a Words program; the Round Square global network, and more, preparing them to tackle the challenges of the 21st century.

#3: Exceptional faculty and staff provide life-altering guidance and mentorship

Private schools not only prioritize hiring highly qualified educators passionate about student success, but are also dedicated to supporting those educators and staff with the benefits and professional development they deserve. 

These institutions often have rigorous hiring processes to ensure they recruit and retain the best teachers, administrators, and support staff. The faculty at Hebron Academy, for instance, consists of experienced professionals who are fully committed to helping students become effective communicators, adaptable learners, responsible global citizens, and community leaders. This expertise creates an enriching academic environment that guides each student to reach their highest potential. 

#4: The safe and nurturing private school environment prioritizes student wellness 

In a private school setting, faculty and staff have the bandwidth to focus on whole-child development, with an emphasis on social-emotional learning, community values, respect, and discipline alongside academic growth.

At Hebron Academy, students benefit from a positive school culture, a supportive community, and natural surroundings that are as critical to learning as our academic facilities. Students benefit from living and learning with peers, developing a personal relationship with nature, and gaining a well-balanced education. 

#5: Private schools are committed to college preparation and student success

Private schools are renowned for their ability to prepare students for higher education in top colleges and universities. With dedicated college counseling departments and personalized guidance, private schools support students through the college admissions process, helping them choose right-fit institutions, prepare applications, and secure financial aid. 

According to national statistics, private school students often outperform their public school peers in college entrance exams and are more likely to attend top-tier colleges and universities. Hebron Academy’s students, for example, go on to thrive at the top institutions around the country and worldwide. 

#6: Alumni networks create lifelong connections

Attending a private school like Hebron Academy allows students to join a supportive alumni network that can provide lifelong connections and professional opportunities. 

Alumni networks often facilitate mentorship programs, internship placements, and career guidance, empowering students to achieve their goals well beyond graduation. These networks are valuable resources that can open doors and provide a strong foundation for future success. Here at Hebron Academy, our dynamic alumni network promotes Hebron pride, maintains lifelong connections, and supports our community. 

These are just a few of the numerous advantages that come with investing in private education, such as the one offered at Hebron Academy.

From individualized attention and enhanced educational opportunities to incredible faculty and staff, from the safe environment to comprehensive college preparation, private schools offer an invaluable educational experience that can shape your child's future, providing them with the tools, skills, and network they need to excel in an increasingly competitive world.

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