For me,the most important difference between the private and public schools is the environment.In theory, private schools are safer and their policies are not so influenced by the "politically correctness" mentality. Regarding the quality of education and the academic results,I believe that the most important factor is the parents involvement.If the parents are watching their children school activity ,the difference between public and private schools is not necessarily so big.Again,the "neighborhood" is important but not decisive.
I have considered, at some point ,a private school for my son (he is 8 years old) ,even the homeschooling option.Finally,I took him to a good public school and he is doing great.I check daily his homework and I make sure that he understand his lessons.I try to keep a balance between the "requirements of the system" and the independent work based on free will and independent thinking.
To encourage him to learn I try to connect his school activity with the real life and I did this through one of his hobbies,aviation.You can learn more about that if you will visit my site,
Aviation for Kids .
So far he has only A and A+ and I think this is a direct result of my involvement.Also,the teachers know that I am watching him and I keep in touch with them on a regular base,even if it is just a small chat when I pick him from school.I must admit that I am fortunate to have a flexible working schedule but I believe the any parent can do this in a way or another and this is a proven method to reduce the difference between the public and private schools.GET INVOLVED and TAKE ACTION are the two "secrets" of a good education in school and home.