Yesterday, I happened to be around a group of women who were discussing their children's schools. At first, I wasn't paying much attention, but when they started talking about school fees, my ears naturally picked up the conversation. Honestly, I was surprised by some of the things I heard.
One of them proudly said her children's school is the best in the area. She admitted that the school fees are very expensive, but according to her, changing schools is never an option, even if it means borrowing money. Before I could even process that, another woman joined the conversation and said her husband has been complaining because the school fee for just one child is even higher than his monthly salary. Yet she still enrolled both of their children there because, in her words, "I want the best for my kids."
At that point, I didn't have anything to say. I simply listened and minded my business because everyone is entitled to make decisions for their own family. But on my way home, I kept thinking about that conversation.
Don't get me wrong, every parent wants the best for their children. I don't think there's anything wrong with wanting your child to attend a good school. If we all had unlimited money, we would probably choose the best schools, the best clothes, the best houses, and everything else for our families. But life doesn't always work that way.
As much as education is important, I also believe that children need balance. A child shouldn't attend the most expensive school while the parents are struggling to provide food, healthcare, decent clothing, or even peace of mind at home because all the income goes into paying tuition. Financial pressure can affect the entire family, and children often notice more than we think.
Sometimes I wonder if we allow society to define what "the best" really means. Is it the school's name? The beautiful buildings? The expensive fees? Or is it an environment where a child can learn, grow, and still have parents who are financially stable enough to meet their everyday needs?
I've seen people who attended ordinary schools and still became successful because they were hardworking and had supportive families. I've also seen children from prestigious schools who struggled in life. So, I don't think success depends only on the name of the school.
For me, the best school is the one that offers quality education without putting the family under unnecessary financial stress. Every family has different priorities and different financial realities, and there is absolutely nothing wrong with choosing a school that fits your budget. It doesn't make you a bad parent. In fact, it may be the wiser decision.
There is an old saying that we should cut our coat according to our cloth. These days, it sometimes feels like many people are trying to cut their coat according to the size they wish they had instead of the cloth they actually have.
This isn't meant to judge anyone because everyone has their own way of raising their children. It was simply a conversation that got me thinking, and I thought it was worth sharing.
What do you think? Would you take a loan just to keep your children in a school that is beyond your financial capacity, or would you choose a good school that comfortably fits your budget?
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