Private school says they can't help my son but still want me to pay?

Education Forums
1

Had a meeting with my son’s private school and they told me they can’t help him with his reading issues. He’s behind grade level, so I’m looking to switch schools. But now they’re saying I’m still responsible for the full tuition even if we leave early. Has anyone been in a similar situation? Is there a way out of paying for the rest of the year?

2

That sounds so frustrating! I think private schools usually lock you into those contracts for the year. Have you checked if there’s a withdrawal clause or something?

3

Tal said:
That sounds so frustrating! I think private schools usually lock you into those contracts for the year. Have you checked if there’s a withdrawal clause or something?

I checked but it’s pretty strict. It’s just crazy that they want me to pay even though they admitted they can’t help him.

4

Tal said:
That sounds so frustrating! I think private schools usually lock you into those contracts for the year. Have you checked if there’s a withdrawal clause or something?

If they’re saying they can’t provide the services you’re paying for, you might have a case for breach of contract. It could be worth talking to a lawyer.

5

@Ash
Yeah, that’s a good idea. I might need to reach out to someone who knows how to handle this legally.

6

That definitely sounds like a breach of contract if they’re not helping your son. You shouldn’t have to pay for a service they aren’t providing.

7

Jaden said:
That definitely sounds like a breach of contract if they’re not helping your son. You shouldn’t have to pay for a service they aren’t providing.

Exactly! I don’t want to be stuck paying when they’ve admitted they can’t meet his needs.

8

@Chen
For sure. I’d say consult a lawyer, but it sounds like you’ve got a solid argument.

9

I’ve been through something similar. Try sending them a formal letter explaining the situation. Sometimes that makes them more willing to negotiate.

10

Sloan said:
I’ve been through something similar. Try sending them a formal letter explaining the situation. Sometimes that makes them more willing to negotiate.

That’s a great suggestion! I’ll write something up and see if they respond. Thanks for the advice.

11

@Chen
No problem! I did that with my daughter’s school and it helped us a lot.

12

I don’t know the ins and outs of private school contracts, but if they aren’t doing what they said they would, I’d think you have some grounds to challenge the contract.

13

Lior said:
I don’t know the ins and outs of private school contracts, but if they aren’t doing what they said they would, I’d think you have some grounds to challenge the contract.

That’s what I’m hoping! It’s just frustrating being stuck in this situation.

14

Definitely reach out to a lawyer. They can probably help you figure out how to get out of the contract if the school isn’t holding up their end.

15

Mackenzie said:
Definitely reach out to a lawyer. They can probably help you figure out how to get out of the contract if the school isn’t holding up their end.

Thanks! I think that’s the next step for me. I just want to make sure I do this right.