What Does “Worth It” Mean for Your Family?
Debating whether or not private education is worth it? First, define what value really means to you? Many families report academic outcomes, personal growth and long-term success as the reasons why private schools are a great investment. Aligning school choice with family priorities and student needs is also key to choosing the right private school for your middle schooler or high schooler.
Potential Benefits of Private School at Army and Navy Academy
Discover some important benefits below that private schools like Army and Navy Academy offer. Ultimately, to determine if a private school is right for your middle schooler or high schooler, it is important to reach out to admissions, discuss your teenager’s specific goals and needs and schedule a campus visit.
Small Class Sizes and Personalized Attention
- Academic Support – Compared to public schools, smaller classrooms and dedicated faculty at most private schools mean students receive more Individualized support. This is the kind of support that can improve learning outcomes and boost confidence. For instance, at Army and Navy Academy (“ANA”), students receive personal attention in class, during the after-school tutorial period, as well as during mandatory study time..
- Improve Grades and GPA – Army and Navy understands that one of the key outcomes that students and parents expect is academic progress and achievement and this is precisely why the Academy adheres to classroom methods that align with how boys learn best. ANA offers interactive and engaging lessons to ignite a love of learning, improve grades, and help boys pass rigorous classes, including AP and honors.
- Robust College Counseling – Unlike public schools, at ANA, where there is a smaller student body, the counseling load is far more manageable. This allows academic counselors to assist students with academic schedules, as well as offer full college planning services at no extra cost. Counseling services also include workshops on various topics and individualized counseling sessions on social and emotional issues.
Access to Resources and Unique Opportunities
- Specialized Programs – Learning Strategies for mild to moderate learning differences can significantly impact academic achievement. Specialized ESL programs and classes for English Learners to advance their English skills and have a huge impact on international students gaining admission to U.S. universities. Beyond these two programs, ANA offers a stellar West-Point style Leadership Program, making it a stand out from other private schools. In addition, ANA offers JROTC classes, a robust aviation program, and other curricular opportunities in areas such as: robotics, aquaculture and the culinary arts.
- Visual and Performing Arts – While public schools experienced cutbacks over the past years, private schools like Army Navy Academy continue to offer robust visual and performing arts programs, where classes are typically taught by working professionals in music, band, visual art, and theater. Students are offered opportunities to perform and showcase their talents in art galleries, theaters, as well as in concerts and band performances.
- Athletic programs – As a private school, ANA is able to offer a broad array of athletic programs ranging from football, basketball, baseball, esports, golf, lacrosse, soccer, swimming, surfing, volleyball, water polo, tennis and more. Winner of many CIF Championships since its founding in 1910, scholar-athletes at ANA are well poised to receive athletic scholarships for college and some graduates have even become nationally known professional athletes.
- Extracurricular Programs – Most private schools offer rich co-curriculars and Army and Navy is exceptional. ANA offers a wide variety of clubs and activities, as well as dynamic weekend activities. Clubs and organizations are based on student interests and vary from year to year but typically include: Model United Nations, Interact Club, Harvard Model Congress, and clubs related to art, agriculture, band, technology, business, speech and debate, the environment, and community service.
Stronger Social Networks and Community
- Close-knit community – Being in a community with students from across the nation and the world, there is a deep appreciation for the bonds that are formed at ANA. The “brotherhood” is often cited as one the best takeaways from attending this private school.
- Social Networks – Building connections at ANA often results in lifelong friendships, roommates in college, and powerful career networks. Alumni events and opportunities to stay connected to alumni can be a formidable benefit later in life. Trips abroad and college campus tours further reinforce strong bonds and life-long friendships.
- Mentorship – At Army and Navy Academy, teachers, coaches, and residential life officers support and guide students in a consistent manner. Students can seek out mentors in the administration, faculty and staff as well as through peer mentoring programs. Mentors make a difference by helping individuals push their potential as well as through their high expectations, cohesive set of values, and adherence to school guidelines and procedures.
Rigorous Academics and High Expectations
- Challenging Curriculum – Rigorous University of California A-G standards are followed at ANA to ensure students have the greatest opportunity to gain admission to prestigious private and public universities or the elite service academies. Advanced Placement (AP), Honors, STEM and career-oriented electives like the “Warrior Aviation Course” also offer students a chance to push their potential and shine.
- Culture of Achievement – Attending a private school like Army and Navy provides a competitive edge to gain admission to top colleges and universities, The Ivy League or a service academy like West Point or Annapolis. It does so by offering students a chance to aim high academically, but also gain unique skills that colleges seek out in applicants such as: leadership, character, resilience, perseverance and grit.
- College Scholarships – College planning at ANA offers students increased opportunities to apply for college scholarships and grants. They also might stand out from other applicants due to engagement in various extracurricular activities, athletics, trips, and leadership roles.
- Discipline – An expectation of self-discipline, motivation and structure pervades the campus at ANA and allows boys to mature and move toward manhood with a strong level of independence and self-discipline.
Potential Drawbacks of Private School
Finding the right school and then making a financial plan are both critical to avoid any drawbacks or educational disruptions. Private schools recognize that private education is a significant investment, so as you look at private schools, here are some financial matters below to bear in mind.
Financial Considerations:
- Tuition Expenses – To find the cost of private schools in your area or explore financial assistance and tuition at ANA, check out school websites to ensure you receive the most current information. Also, please note that some private schools offer boarding and day options, with day being a lower cost option..
- Financial Aid – To qualify for aid at private schools like ANA,, families need to provide official tax returns and fill out an application, so applying early is strongly encouraged. Also, it is important to know that beyond documented financial need, a look at the student’s commitment level, academic promise and other factors may be considered in financial assistance awards.
- Long-Term Analysis – Evaluate the outcomes your teen will receive now and in the future as you explore and choose a private school. Think about areas such as: college admission, career opportunities and the social/emotional development benefits.
Choosing the Right Private School
- When choosing a private school, make sure you look at the demographic makeup and exposure to varied perspectives at the school. For instance, at ANA, students hail from states across the U.S. as well as from diverse countries around the world. This allows students to interact with students from various cultures, ethnicities, and religious backgrounds.
- Review the school policies, curriculum structure, and fit for different learning styles. Make sure your teen is on board to comply with rules, maximize academic and elective offerings, and take advantage of the support systems on campus.
- If you see limited options and flexibility in some areas, ask direct questions when contacting admissions and visiting campuses. There is a lot to cover when you tour a campus, so have questions ready and encourage your teen to do the same. If your son is struggling in school, really consider the benefits of an education and ANA, where brain science informs pedagogy.
Comparing Private and Public School Experiences
- For side-by-side comparison of academics, extracurriculars, social environment, and college preparation, check out resources such as: Private School Review, Boarding School Review, Niche, Great Schools and regional association websites like the Western Boarding School Association.
- Army and Navy Academy is quite distinct among private schools because of many factors. To name a few, consider the campus location overlooking the Pacific Ocean, day and boarding options, stellar leadership training, college prep learning geared for boys, and a variety of specialized programs like ESL and Learning Strategies.
How to Decide if Private School is Worth It for Your Child
- What are your child’s academic and social needs?
- What are your family’s educational values?
- Can your family afford the investment?
- Are you willing to visit a few schools?
- What are your teenager’s long-term goals?
A private school education can offer significant benefits, but the decision must be based on individualized goals and needs.
Army & Navy Academy Admission Office:
We encourage families to consult with us to evaluate whether ANA is the right fit for your teenager’s academic, athletic, and social/emotional growth and development. To fully explore, we encourage you to contact admissions, apply online and schedule an appointment to visit and tour the campus.
Phone: 888-762-2338