Arguments for government support often center on:
* Increased school choice: Competition from private schools can drive improvements in public schools. Vouchers or tax credits can allow parents to choose the best educational setting for their children, regardless of income.
* Religious freedom: Supporting sectarian schools is seen by some as upholding the right of religious groups to educate their children according to their beliefs.
* Specialized educational needs: Private schools may offer specialized programs not available in public schools, benefiting students with specific talents or learning styles.
Arguments against government support frequently highlight:
* Equity and fairness: Public funds should primarily support public education, ensuring equal opportunities for all children regardless of socioeconomic status. Subsidizing private schools diverts resources from already underfunded public systems.
* Separation of church and state: Government funding of sectarian schools can be seen as violating the principle of separation of church and state, potentially leading to entanglement and preferential treatment of certain religious groups.
* Accountability and transparency: Private schools may be less accountable to the public than public schools, making it difficult to ensure quality and adherence to standards.
* Potential for discrimination: Sectarian private schools may discriminate against students based on religion, sexual orientation, or other factors, contradicting principles of equal opportunity.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to support private schools, and to what extent, involves balancing competing values and considering the specific context of a given country or region. The level of government support, if any, often depends on a nation's history, political system, and prevailing social attitudes towards religion and education.