From boarding school to public school to online alternatives, not to mention Parochial and Montessori institutions that might have you searching for definitions, there are certainly enough options when it comes to your child’s education. This can add to the challenge of figuring out which school will make for the best investment.

After all, nobody cares more about your little one than you do, and proper education is vital to their development and future success. The first step in identifying the right solution is knowing the different types of schools available today. Here’s a brief overview of your potential choices.

Public School

The traditional option, public schools are funded by local, state and federal sources. As for the quality of education that you can expect, it largely depends on where you are, as funding proportions vary from state to state. That said, there are certain standards to which all public schools must abide, such as required licensure for teachers. You can use online resources to compare the performance of public schools in each state. Of course, you should always pay your local institution a visit to see if it fits your requirements.

Charter School

Like the aforementioned option, charter school is free to attend. The main difference is that you need to submit a separate application. Space also tends to be limited. Another key factor is the specialization or mission statement that charter schools are typically based on, which could better align with your child’s individual needs.

Magnet School

On a similar note, magnet schools cater to particular subjects or areas of expertise, be it science, technology or the arts. While also exempt from any tuition payments, these institutions are even more selective and highly competitive. They value diversity and are known to place an emphasis on creating a sense of community.

Private School

Any educational institution that isn’t funded by the government is technically a private school. However, the category itself contains an endless list of options. A conventional private school is characterized by unique curriculum and tuition fees that vary significantly depending on where you’re looking.

Additional Options

Perhaps you’re looking for something more specific. Fortunately, options abound, including the afore-mentioned Montessori schools that focus on each child’s individuality and interests, along with religious Parochial schools that are funded by the local church.

Then there are other unique options such as Salesian spirituality school and Reggio Emilia school. Another option is the less common Waldorf school, all of which are nonprofit. If you prefer the idea of an institution that aligns with your faith, then there are many religious schools to choose from as well.

Online School

Perhaps now more than ever, online schools are an attractive option for numerous reasons. This includes convenience for busy parents with work obligations or tight schedules. What’s great is that aside from private schools, there are also public online schools that are quickly improving as technology progresses.

It’s clear that there are plenty of choices, but few are likely to be a perfect fit. Take some time to compare the options available in your area, as the effort is sure to pay off.