Let's help the private schools too!

Much is written in the Village News about challenges in Fallbrook’s public elementary schools. This letter is about the excellent educational opportunities available at Fallbrook’s private elementary schools.

My husband and I sent our daughter, Madeleine, to Zion Lutheran Preschool last year and we’re thrilled with the result. We’ve prioritized our personal spending to send her to Zion Lutheran for kindergarten as well. At $5,000 per year, tuition cost is about average by private school standards, and the payback has been enormous. Our child blossomed in preschool, and we know the two kindergarten classes are equally excellent. For those of you who are data-driven, yes, both private schools have test scores significantly higher than local public schools.

Unfortunately, many families from Zion’s preschool can’t afford to continue private schooling, and I suspect many families of Fallbrook Union Elementary School District are in the same situation, unable to consider alternatives to low-performing public schools.

I strongly suggest that people who want to make a difference in the education of Fallbrook’s young people consider gifts to the scholarship funds of any of the worthy private schools in the Fallbrook Union Elementary District, including the two largest programs, Zion Lutheran and St. Peter’s Catholic School. Grandparents, consider getting your grandchildren off to a good start!

Like many parents at Zion, we are not members of the Zion Church, but our family has always felt welcome. We don’t consider ourselves overly religious but are comfortable with the strong moral foundation our daughter receives, as this will help her make good decisions throughout her life.

Anyone considering donating should know that all contributions can be made directly to the schools, not to the churches sponsoring them. I only know about Zion, but there, donations can be made specifically to a scholarship fund. Donations are, of course, tax-deductible.

What a great way to support the community! Thank you, Fallbrook.