Stuck paying for private school even though they say they can't help my son?

We had a meeting with teachers and administrators at my son’s private school, and they said there’s nothing else they can do to help him. He’s not at his reading grade level. I’m looking to move him to another school that can help, but his current school says I’m still financially responsible for the whole year, even if we leave early. Anyone know if there’s a way out of this?

Wow, that’s rough. Private school contracts can be tricky. Did you already sign the contract for the year? If so, you might need to check the terms carefully.

Peyton said:
Wow, that’s rough. Private school contracts can be tricky. Did you already sign the contract for the year? If so, you might need to check the terms carefully.

Yeah, we signed at the beginning of the year. I’m just frustrated because they’re admitting they can’t help him.

Peyton said:
Wow, that’s rough. Private school contracts can be tricky. Did you already sign the contract for the year? If so, you might need to check the terms carefully.

You could try to argue breach of contract since they’re not providing the service you’re paying for. It might be worth talking to a lawyer about that.

@Kingsley
Good point. I might need to consult one. I’m not sure if this is something I can handle alone.

If the school is saying they can’t help your son, it sounds like they’re not fulfilling their part of the deal. Definitely sounds like a breach to me.

Beck said:
If the school is saying they can’t help your son, it sounds like they’re not fulfilling their part of the deal. Definitely sounds like a breach to me.

Exactly! That’s what I was thinking. I don’t want to pay for a service that they’re saying they can’t provide.

@Abi
You might have a case there. I’d look into it. Schools can’t just take your money and then say, ‘Oops, we can’t help.’

I’ve been in a similar situation. You might want to try sending a formal letter to the school stating your case before escalating. Sometimes that’s enough to get them to work with you.

Vero said:
I’ve been in a similar situation. You might want to try sending a formal letter to the school stating your case before escalating. Sometimes that’s enough to get them to work with you.

That’s a good idea. I’ll try that and see if they respond. Thanks for the tip!

@Abi
I did that once with a school, and it worked for me. Hope it helps!

IDK much about private school contracts, but if they aren’t providing what you’re paying for, I feel like that should let you out of the financial obligation.

Zane said:
IDK much about private school contracts, but if they aren’t providing what you’re paying for, I feel like that should let you out of the financial obligation.

That’s what I’m hoping! I just don’t want to be stuck paying for the rest of the year when my son’s not getting what he needs.

You should definitely check with a lawyer about this. If they’re admitting they can’t help your son, you might have a strong case for breaking the contract.

Valen said:
You should definitely check with a lawyer about this. If they’re admitting they can’t help your son, you might have a strong case for breaking the contract.

Thanks! I’m thinking about reaching out to one soon. I just want to make sure we do this right.