I haven't read all of the replies because I have to be out of the house shortly, but I will just comment on my own. My husband and I chose to send our children to public school through 5th grade and then switch them to private (Christian) school from 6th to 12th grades. My kids, having had the benefit of both, said they much preferred their private school experience. They knew it was a financial sacrifice and thanked us for investing that money on their behalf. I do believe it has also helped shape the adults they are today.