Private Schools (K-12)

Private schools are independent, charge tuition, and may offer scholarships. They serve similar ages as public schools.

Typical Ages and Grade Levels

• Kindergarten (4-6), Grades 1-5 (6-11), Grades 6-8 (11-14), Grades 9-12 (14-18).
• Mandatory Attendance: Same state laws apply (e.g., 6-18).
• Link: State attendance laws at National Center for Education Statistics: https://nces.ed.gov/programs/statereform/tab5_1.asp.

Step-by-Step Guide

• Understand the System:
  • Private schools may have religious or academic focuses and stricter criteria.
  • Scholarships (e.g., through Catholic or Lutheran schools) may support refugees.
  • Link: Search private schools at Private School Review: https://www.privateschoolreview.com/.
• Contact Your Resettlement Agency:
  • Ask about private schools with refugee-friendly programs or financial aid.
  • Link: ORR Affiliate Directory: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/orr/state-programs-annual-overview.
• Research Schools:
  • Identify schools via online searches or agency recommendations. Confirm ESL availability.
  • Link: Find scholarship programs at National Association of Independent Schools: https://www.nais.org/.
• Equivalency Check for Prior Education:
  • Process: Schools evaluate South African records or require entrance exams. If unavailable, interviews or tests determine placement.
  • Challenges: Stricter standards than public schools.
  • Support: Agencies assist with translation.
  • Link: Credential evaluation at World Education Services: https://www.wes.org/.
• Vaccination Requirements:
  • Mandatory: DTaP, MMR, Polio, Hepatitis B, Varicella.
  • Verification: Provide records or get screenings via ORR clinics.
  • Exceptions: Medical (doctor’s note), religious (varies by school/state), rare temporary waivers.
  • Note: Non-compliance may lead to denial of admission.
  • Link: State vaccination rules at CDC School Vaccination Tool: https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/school-requirements/.
• Gather Other Documents:
  • Proof of identity, residency, immunizations, academic records.
  • Affidavits may be accepted but requirements are stricter.
• Apply for Admission:
  • Submit applications (exams or interviews may be required). Apply for scholarships ($5,000-$30,000/year tuition).
  • Confirm ESL availability.
• Access Support:
  • ORR Support: Limited for private schools; some access RSI-like grants.
  • Community: Nonprofits or religious groups may fund tuition.
  • Link: Refugee scholarships at Refugees International: https://www.refugeesinternational.org/.
• Prepare for School:
  • Supplies: Notebooks, pencils, backpack, calculator, uniforms.
  • Cost: Supplies ($100-$200/year), uniforms ($100-$300/year), transportation ($50-$200/month).
  • Link: Free supplies via Kids in Need Foundation: https://www.kinf.org/.
• Stay Engaged:
  • Monitor progress and advocate for support.

Key Notes

• Cost: Tuition ($5,000-$30,000/year), supplies ($100-$200), uniforms ($100-$300).
• Challenges: Limited ESL and stricter requirements.
• Contact: School admissions or resettlement agency.