First of all, it is important to recognize the fact that money should not be an option when deciding on how to educate your children. So many people make the choice to have kids, and then make the wrong choice to educate them because "it's the cheapest way" or "we can't afford private school." If you can't afford to educate your child properly, you shouldn't have a child.
Now, you should weigh the options of what you want for your child.
Public School:
Besides the fact that the private market can do anything better than a government social system, public schools in America rank far below most other countries. This is most certainly not a way to provide the best educational opportunities to anyone. Middle school and High school are also on the verge of becoming traumatizing day care institutions.
Private School:
Private schools are like any other private business. You have to assess the quality of the product you are receiving. Most have standards, but not all follow them. Another thing with private school is that if you are not religious it may be difficult to find an appropriate one.
Home Schooling:
I would only suggest home schooling to a family where a parent stays home all day with the child, and has the qualifications to teach the child. I also wouldn't recommend home schooling a child if the curriculum is based off of a public school curriculum.
Other Options:
I'm not familiar with the other things on the list except for Montessori schools. I typically feel that children need to be exposed to a good curriculum, good teachers, and a good overall environment to succeed. 99% of the time they aren't going to get it from a public school. Any other option you try will most likely be successful if you are involved and you really make sure your child is in a high-standard institution.
Again, if you are basing your options off expenses, you aren't analyzing the correct data.  |