California is one of the few states that does not approve of private schools. However, there are non-public, non-sectarian special education schools that enroll both students with private enrollment and those placed in public schools. These schools are considered a type of private school and are subject to the same regulations as public schools. Unfortunately, these regulations can make it difficult for children who don't fit the average to get the education they need.
This is why many parents consider private school as an option that offers something beyond strict state regulations. The State of California does not regulate private schools in the same way as public programs, allowing them to choose their own educational philosophy, decide teacher training standards, and implement enrichment opportunities without having to deal with bureaucracy. There are about 3675 private schools across the state of California, offering families unique learning environments. Unfortunately, there are currently no state scholarships in California to help families pay for private school tuition.
The data collected in the private school affidavit is used in directories, CDE program offices, and other local, state, and federal agencies. The lack of regulation can also be problematic if you choose a private school for your child that is not committed to the highest standards. California law (California Education Code section 33190) requires private schools that offer or provide education at the elementary or secondary level to file an annual affidavit with the CDE. In California, parents of students assigned to low-performing schools can transfer their children to another school under state limited open enrollment laws.
For other lists of private schools, such as elementary or high schools or closed schools, use the advanced search function of the California School Directory. The inclusion of a school in the above reports and data files should not be construed to mean that the State of California, the State Superintendent of Public Instruction (SSPI), the State Board of Education, the CDE, or any other agency has conducted an evaluation, approval or endorsement of any school included in the list. The state of California doesn't closely regulate private schools like it does with public programs, which is attractive to many parents. The California Department of Education (CDE) does not have the authority to license, evaluate, recognize, approve, or endorse any private school or course. Private School Enrollment by County & Grade provides a state summary of private school counts and enrollment by county for the previous school year. Private School Affidavit Information FAQ provides selected sections of the California Education Code related to private schools.
Teachers and private school administration can implement enrichment programs quickly and without any interference from the state. The data collected in the affidavit is used to create the private school directory and is also used to update the California school directory. This means that parents have access to reliable information about their child's potential educational options. Overall, while there are no state scholarships available for families looking for a private school option in California, there are still plenty of options available for those who want something beyond what public programs offer. It's important for parents to do their research and make sure they choose a school that is committed to providing their child with a quality education.
