The 2025 PDK Poll revealed a dramatic divide in how parents feel about their child’s school. Every parent with a child in private school said they were satisfied, compared with just 61% of parents in public schools.
The poll didn’t dig into the reasons why, but based on what parents often value, here are four possible explanations:
1. Smaller Classes, More Attention
Private schools tend to have smaller student-to-teacher ratios. That means teachers can spot problems sooner, celebrate wins more often, and adapt lessons to fit individual needs. For parents, this translates into peace of mind that their child won’t slip through the cracks.
2. A More Responsive Environment
Unlike large public systems bound by layers of policy and bureaucracy, private schools often have more flexibility to respond to concerns quickly. Whether it’s adjusting teaching strategies, addressing a behavioral issue, or introducing new programs, parents may feel that their voices matter more — and that the school can act faster when something isn’t working
3. A Stronger Sense of Belonging
Many private schools actively cultivate community. You’ll often find parents volunteering, attending school-wide events, or even serving on advisory boards. That active involvement creates stronger parent-teacher relationships and a sense that “we’re all in this together,” which naturally boosts confidence and satisfaction
4. Alignment with Family Values
For a lot of parents, private schools (especially faith-based or mission-driven ones) resonate because they reinforce the values being taught at home. Whether through religious instruction, cultural traditions, or simply a likeminded peer community, parents appreciate knowing their child’s education reflects their family’s worldview
Why This Matters for School Choice
The message is clear: parents are happiest when class sizes are small enough to notice their child, responsive enough to adapt, connected enough to build community, and aligned enough with family values to avoid conflict.
But here’s the challenge — access to that kind of environment often depends on the ability to pay tuition. A robust school choice system — including education savings accounts, scholarships, and charter schools — would give all families, not just wealthy ones, the chance to pick schools that fit their children best.
Parents want options. Kids thrive when schools fit them. And school choice makes that possible. I’m thankful we have it in Iowa!