Which is Right For Your Child?
Choosing the right education for your child is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. While both private and public schools have their strengths, understanding the differences can help you decide which option is best for your family. At Legacy School, we believe our approach to smaller class sizes, flexible curriculum, and supportive environment sets students up for success.
Class Size
Class size is one of the most significant factors parents consider. Public schools often have 24–28 students in a classroom. At Legacy, we cap our classrooms at around 18 students and provide both a teacher and a teaching assistant, creating an impressive 9:1 student-to-teacher ratio.
This smaller setting gives teachers the chance to know every child, personalize lessons, and encourage participation. Students build stronger relationships and gain confidence in sharing their ideas — something that’s harder to achieve in a large classroom.
Learning Beyond the Test
Public schools are heavily guided by state testing requirements, often leading to a “teach to the test” mentality and state-driven lesson plans. While this provides consistency, it can limit creativity in the classroom.
Independent schools like Legacy have greater freedom in designing curriculum because we are not driven by test performance. While we meet all state standards, teachers have the flexibility to adapt lessons to the needs and interests of their students. This freedom allows us to emphasize curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking, thus preparing students for lifelong learning, not just standardized exams.
Support for Every Child
While all schools aim to educate every student, some are better equipped at assisting certain students than others. Because of state and federal funding, public schools have more resources and dedicated staff available to assist students with disabilities. They also have the capabilities to implement IEPs for the students in their districts.
Private schools like Legacy may not have the same breadth of resources, but we provide what many families value most: small class sizes and individualized attention. This environment can be especially beneficial for students who thrive with more personalized support, allowing them to succeed academically and socially in ways they might not in a larger classroom setting.
Making it Possible
Of course, the last factor to consider is cost. Afterall, public school is funded through taxes making them tuition-free and private schools charge tuition. If you determine the pros of private school are worth the cost of tuition, private school would be a good choice for you.
Plus, at Legacy we’re committed to making private education accessible. Our Parent Advisory Board provides annual scholarships to families in need, funded by community support. It’s one more way we ensure that children who are a great fit for Legacy can join our school family.
Why Families Choose Legacy
At the end of the day, the right school is about finding the best fit for your child. Public schools provide structure and resources, but if you value smaller classes, personalized learning, and a supportive community, Legacy may be the perfect place for your family. Make plans to enroll for the 2026-27 school year on February 2, 2026.
Additional recommended reading: US News Private School vs. Public School
About Legacy School
Legacy School offers a nonsectarian, private school setting for parents looking for high academic standards, small class sizes, and exceptional teaching in Omaha, NE. Students experience the highest quality of learning through literacy-based instruction, thus giving them best opportunities to exceed curriculum standards. Experience an inviting, safe, student-centered environment that caters to the individual educational needs of each student.
The school sits on 11 acres of land, allowing for expressive, outdoor educational experiences for all students. Our outdoor learning and playing space allows for real world experiences that cannot be found anywhere else. Also on the land is a barnyard that holds both chickens and goats and a farm-to-table garden.
Come feel the Legacy Love!