Why More Families Are Leaving ‘Great Public Schools’ Behind
"It’s not just about leaving the system; it’s about finding a better fit for your family’s values and your child’s potential." - Ascend Academy Parent
Public schools with strong reputations often seem like the obvious choice for families, but more and more parents are questioning whether these schools are truly meeting their children’s needs.
Even in areas with “great” public schools, families are seeking alternatives that better align with their values and goals.
Here are 5 of the key reasons families are making the shift:
1. A One-Size-Fits-All Approach Isn’t Working
The problem: Public schools, even top-rated ones, often follow a standardized model that doesn’t account for individual learning styles or needs. Much of the learning is one-size-fits-all in a world filled with unique thinkers who approach challenges in different ways. If a child doesn’t fit into the mold, they may either slide by with low grades just enough to get by and fly under the radar, or they are flagged as a “problem” in the classroom.
What families want: Parents want their children’s unique talents, interests, and learning styles to be nurtured—not lost in a crowd. They also want opportunities for their children to pursue curiosity-driven learning and real passions rather than just meeting standardized benchmarks.
How we help: At Ascend Academy Milford, we focus on learner-driven education that adapts to each child’s strengths and passions. Our individualized learning plans and regular one-on-one check-ins ensure that every child is seen, supported, and thriving.
2. Concerns About Emotional and Social Well-Being
The problem: Even “great” schools can come with intense social pressures, bullying, or over-reliance on screens in the classroom. Additionally, children spend the majority of their day stuck indoors, leaving them with pent-up energy and little opportunity for physical activity. This often results in physical unwellness alongside emotional struggles, compounded by hours of homework after school.
What families want: Families are looking for an environment where children are not just academically supported but are also taught how to navigate relationships, manage emotions, and build a strong sense of self-worth. They also want schools to value outdoor and unstructured play as critical parts of development.
How we help: Our community prioritizes emotional resilience, positive relationships, and a low-tech, high-engagement learning experience that includes plenty of outdoor time and physical activity. Team-building exercises, structured outdoor exploration, and a focus on character development complement academics to support the whole child.
3. A Desire for Real-World Skills and Independence
The problem: Public schools often emphasize test performance and rote memorization over practical skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership. Many follow a traditional school-to-college pipeline, even as it becomes increasingly clear that college doesn’t always prepare students for success after graduation. This outdated model leaves children following a plan that doesn’t always align with their future goals or today’s world.
What families want: Parents want their children to develop resilience, adaptability, and creativity—skills that will serve them no matter the career path. They value experiences that connect learning to real-world applications, like hands-on problem-solving or exposure to entrepreneurial thinking.
How we help: Our programs are designed to build independence and confidence through hands-on learning and real-world projects. At Ascend Academy Milford, learners develop the courage and skills to blaze their own paths, whether that means pursuing college, entrepreneurship, or another fulfilling direction. Mentorship opportunities, project-based learning, and showcases connect learning to real-world outcomes.
4. Family Priorities Are Being Overlooked
The problem: Traditional school schedules and policies often clash with family values, lifestyles, or faith-based practices. Additionally, with illnesses becoming more prevalent and public health declining, families are often forced to send their children to school unwell once they reach the limit of parent-excused absences.
What families want: Families want a school that respects their right to make decisions about their children’s health, schedules, and values without being penalized or restricted.
How we help: Ascend Academy Milford has no attendance policy, giving families the freedom to prioritize their children’s health and well-being without unnecessary restrictions. Flexible attendance policies and a learner-driven schedule empower parents to make decisions that work best for their family’s unique circumstances.
5. Parents Are Reclaiming Their Role in Education
The problem: Public schools can feel disconnected from parents, making it hard to play an active role in a child’s education. Parents often feel left in the dark about what’s being taught, how it aligns with their values, or how their child is progressing.
What families want: Transparency and a partnership with educators that respects their insights and input. Parents want to be informed and involved in their child’s educational journey, ensuring it aligns with their family’s values and goals.
How we help: At Ascend Academy Milford, we prioritize parent involvement by fostering open communication and collaboration. Parents are regularly invited to observe, contribute to learning plans, and provide feedback. We believe education works best when it’s a team effort between families and educators.
If you’re questioning whether public school is still the best fit for your family, you’re not alone. Families across the country are rediscovering the freedom to choose education that truly works for them. At Ascend Academy Milford, we’re here to support families who are ready to explore something different—and better.
Click here to download our Essential Info Kit to learn more about school or reach out to learn more about how we can help your family thrive!
