A Brief Note On The Director Of Georgia's Department Of Education

Hello! My name is Cassie Henderson and I am the director of Georgia’s Department of Education. Private schools in Georgia provide different options throughout their environment including the type of environment, qualifications of teaching, funding, and technology. I hope you are able to take away many insightful points about this educational environment and everything it has to offer.

How does a private school differ from a public school? “Private, or independent, schools are privately owned and funded without the assistance of local, state, or federal governments” (What Are Private Schools, n.d.). They provide their own funds.They also provide enhanced opportunities, excellent resources, safe learning environments, and reducing class sizes.

Although teacher certification isn’t required, a bachelor’s or higher degree and three years of experience in education or health is. “However, a participating private school that enrolls students under the GSNS program must employ or contract with teachers who hold a bachelor’s degree or higher degree or have at least three years of experience in education or health” (U.S. Department of Education, 2016). We would love for anyone with these qualifications to consider coming and making a difference in our student’s

“The oldest American private school is Collegiate School in Manhattan founded in 1628” (Kennedy, 2022). This private school was a school for boys, and ethical men and women with high purposes and ideals were most of the founders of these early schools.

Many people choose private schools because of the flexibility it provides. “At private schools, class sizes tend to be smaller so each student is given more individual attention” (Why Do People Choose, 2018). This allows the teacher to give students that interaction they might not be able to receive in another type of school. The same thing goes for a balanced curriculum. “Private schools have more ability to provide a balanced education, including extracurricular activities” (Why Do People Choose, 2018). The flexibility of these are what makes our private schools run smoothly and successfully.

How are private schools held accountable? “What gives the concept of accountability teeth is a parent’s ability to freely choose a school or schooling type that works for their student” (How Are Private Schools, 2021). This environment allows families to choose what is best for their child. In Georgia, our students are not required to take standardized tests in a private school setting. We feel as though by not requiring these tests, students and teachers have less pressure on them and it allows for the curriculum to become more