Are Parachial schools better than public schools?

Question

Parachial (Catholic) schools have a reputation for being better than public schools. They teach mostly the same curricula - BUT is the main difference that they don't tolerate unruly children in the class room? Public school teachers have to put up with more disruptions, bad behavior, etc. - and this leads to ALL the students (even the good ones) getting less time learning. Is this accurate and worth paying the extra money?

Answer 1

In general, yes, your statements are pretty accurate. However, in specific cases, it's not necessarily true.

For example, many top-end magnet schools or specialized public schools outscore parochial schools consistently. I went to the High School for the Engineering Professions in Houston, and we consistently creamed parochial schools in many academic competitions.

Jesuit schools tend to be on the top-end of parochial schools, and may be worth the money. Before choosing a parochial school, check out any magnet, special, or charter schools in your area.