Florida statute 1002.01 defines private schools in a three-sentence paragraph four inches long.
Every conceivable type of education is listed -- from kindergartens to below college-level schools of supplementary training in technology.
The statute includes correspondence schools in the definition, and states that private schools may be ".. parochial, religious, denominational, for-profit, or non-profit ..."
State private school requirements are briefer -- "Persons opening a private elementary or secondary school in Florida are required to complete two steps: 1) establish a private school; and 2) register the existence of the private school, once established, with the (state) Department of Education."
That's it folks. There is no more.
Oh, there are some general requirements, most about health, safety and transportation. For example, within five days of opening a school, a school owner must submit fingerprints for state processing and a criminal background check.
Educational standards, on the other hand, are not addressed.
Which is why it is so important for parents and adults going back to school to do their homework.
Just because a school is private does not mean it is superior to a public school.
Just because a school is private does not mean it does a good job of teaching.
Just because a school is non-profit does not mean it will cost less than one that is for-profit.
Because rules in Florida are so lax, too many school owners are more con-artist than educator. For example, anyone can own a school. There is no requirement that a school owner have an educational background or credentials.
There are questions to ask when looking for a school: Parents and adult students should check and make sure the school is accredited with a respected educational association. Talk to administrators and teachers; look up the school's standardized test scores, or graduation rate and number of graduates placed in jobs. Does the school have the respect of the community. How long has it been operating?
Here are some signs of trouble: The school has no campus nor building with a long-term lease; no report of teacher credentials; no curriculum outline; no school calendar.
When touring a school there are things to look for: Beware a high ratio of student to teacher; a poorly maintained facility; a lack of, or outdated, computer or training equipment; unanswered questions.
Most private schools provide a quality education; many private schools an exceptional one. Unfortunately, there are a portion of schools that do not. Some are just scams. Some actually do more harm than good.
Without true oversight from the state board of education, there are no guarantees.
Friday, January 18, 2013 - www.newssun.com/ed-011813