Consider the Independent School Option

From the founding of the first independent school in America, the Collegiate School in Manhattan, in 1628 to the establishment of The Laboratory School in Chicago by the famous educational philosopher John Dewey, to the introduction of the Harkness method at Exeter Academy in 1931, independent schools have a long tradition of success in teaching and student development. 

A Tradition of Success and Innovation
The common characteristics of these schools have always been superior academics, exceptional opportunities, high levels of family and community involvement, and engaging and supportive learning environments.

Research Shows the Value
In 2011, the National Association of Independent Schools, in partnership with the Higher Education Research Institute, conducted a study entitled "Independent School Graduates: Well-Prepared, Open-Minded, and Eager to Learn" about the attitudes and attributes of independent school graduates.

The findings suggest that graduates of independent schools demonstrate a number of advantages including:

● Enhanced development of 21st century skills, such as evaluating and synthesizing multiple sources of information, problem solving, as well as the ability to support opinions with logical arguments.

● An eagerness to engage in intellectual, athletic, and social experiences that recognizes the importance of life outside the classroom.

In addition, children who attend independent schools perform better on national assessments such as the ACT, Advanced Placement, and Education Record Bureau (ERB) than national norms for their public school counterparts.

Prepared to Succeed
Ensuring all students are equipped with the skills necessary to make an impact is the hallmark of schools such as University School of Milwaukee. Beyond the data of student performance are the countless qualitative experiences that are unique to independent schools. These graduates enter society with a sense of purpose and drive that lasts throughout their lives. In fact, graduates of independent schools include political, public service, and business leaders who credit their experiences at these schools as the catalyst for success later in life.

Independent schools will continue to promote and advance innovation in the classroom — this is the “tradition” of independent education. As you consider the best educational environment for your child, consider the independent school option.

About the Author:
Sylvester Cutler is a teacher, coach, and administrator at University School of Milwaukee. He has an undergraduate degree in Sociology and a master’s degree in Organizational Leadership. He is the Director of USM’s Grants and Scholarships Program, teaches a history elective course in sociology, and is a coach in the Boys Basketball Program.