Why choose an independent private school?
What distinguishes an indepedent school education at AFS:
Deciding whether to switch from public to private school in the metro-Philadelphia area is a significant decision, one that carries academic, financial and philosophical considerations.
Many families in Montgomery County and the greater Philadelphia suburbs begin in public school because of accessibility, location and familiarity.
Our region is home to strong public school districts. But as children grow and educational priorities evolve, families often begin exploring whether a private school in the Philadelphia area might better meet their child’s needs.
1. A Purpose-Driven Curriculum
Independent schools are not defined by district requirements. Instead, they design curriculum aligned with mission and long-term vision.
This allows for:
- Interdisciplinary courses
- Experiential learning opportunities
- Signature programs unique to the school
- Flexible pacing
- Emerging fields like artificial intelligence, ethics and global studies
Your child benefits from a curriculum built with intention, not by default.
2. Exceptional, Values-Aligned Teachers
Independent schools can hire educators who reflect the school’s mission and culture.
That means:
- Hiring for relational strength, not just certification
- Investing in professional growth
- Structuring roles as advisors, mentors, and coaches
The adults in the classroom model the values they teach.
3. Teacher Flexibility that Benefits Students
Independent schools can act quickly in the best interest of students.
That means:
- Piloting innovative programs
- Adapting to changing demographics
- Investing in new technologies
- Discontinuing what no longer serves students
Innovation reaches your child faster.
4. A Relationship-Centered Community
Public systems are often constrained by scale and policy. Independent schools intentionally structure for belonging and connection.
This includes:
- Advisory programs
- Small class sizes
- Cross-divisional collaboration
- Integrated student support
This is education built around people, not policy.
5. Mission-Aligned Leadership and Governance
Independent school governance is focused on stewardship, not politics.
This ensures:
- Decisions guided by values
- Long-term planning
- Financial clarity and responsibility
- Thoughtful innovation when it benefits students
Families feel this stability.