This comment on my last blog on Montessori schools is an eye-opener.

"I love the concept of the Montessori schools. As with all privately operated schools parents should always be concerned with the curriculum.

Just a few days ago there was the story in Canada of a Montessori school in Toronto introducing a new learning method called applied scholastics. It is a study technique based on L. Ron Hubbard’s Church of Scientology.

Parents [are] expecting Montessori, then they should be provided a Montessori education.”

Dr. Maria Montessori never trademarked her name or teaching methods. As a result anybody can open a school and call it a Montessori school. The American Montessori Society stands behind the authenticity of its members' programs. Concerned parents should always do their due diligence. Be sure to ask questions about curricula and affiliations.

Most private schools have a uniform or a dress code. Why? Because it levels the playing field as far as appearances go. Everybody looks the same not matter what your financial circumstances may be. Uniforms and dress codes also help to create a standard. Young people tend to respond to standards which really are just expectations. Read In Hartford Schools, Uniforms for All for a look at what one public school district is discovering about uniforms. Our Secondary Teachers Guide, Melissa Kelly, has written in depth on the subject in a piece entitled School Uniforms. Please share your thoughts on school uniforms and dress codes in the Private Schools Forum.

A blog which I wrote in January 2007 continues to attract comments from students. While we have come a long way as far as gender equality is concerned, the old stereotypes persist in some quarters. I personally believe that every parent should at least consider a single sex school. Put one on your wish list and check it out.

That's what most of us remember of that childhood nursery rhyme. But the original 1887 poetry reads "Friday's child is full of woe" My point is simply that things change. So it is with private schools. They used to be elitist. They were not diverse. All of that has changed. Private schools now are safe learning communities where it is cool to be smart. Private schools are accepting, supporting communities where your child can explore all her options and can aspire to be all she wants to be. Perhaps a private school is right for your child.