One of the biggest differences between public and private schools in Ballston Spa is that the two private schools are Christian...Spa Christian and St. Mary's (Catholic) School. The foundation of each of these schools involves the integration of religeon within school day and as a separate curriculum component. Students have dress codes and are expected to act with kindness, to do their personal best and to have accountability for their actions. I can't really speak more about Spa Christian as my experience is as a parent at St. Mary's... St. Mary's ELA scores are exceptional...considerably higher than BSCSD and many other schools in the region. Math scores are also higher than BSCSD. The school is clean and bright and has a loving atmosphere. Parents are engaged. Teachers are certified and COMMITTED to being at St. Mary's...it is viewed as a vocation to them. An example of the differences---at Christmas, St. Mary's celebrates Christmas, says Merry Christmas...and students are a part of what it is all about. Public schools celebrate "Holidays". The difference is a personal choice...but one that many, including myself are very happy to have our children be a part of. Hope this helps!