One of my nieces started a private school several years ago. She first started it in her home. When she needed a larger facility she looked for one close to where students lived, one with enough classroom space (former offices), and with accessibility for parents dropping off children and picking them up. When she found a location she liked, she contacted planning and zoning to be certain she could have a school there. The property manager for the facility helped with many of the details. That is part of their job. Because her school was a private one, she didn't need to be licensed by her department of education or any other entity until she added high school classes and needed accreditation for students preparing for college. Several private school associations offer accreditation, so that wasn't a huge problem.

Do check with your Dept of Education. In California, for example, all children are required to attend accredited schools. Home schools for one's own children are excepted. There is also a big movement underfoot for schooling via internet. We have a manual, too, on how to start a tutoring business from your home, drawing on the tools of the internet. If there is a local school district office near you, you might start there. They might be able to give you the name and phone number of the person you really need to talk to. MaryAnnBusiness Plan MasterStart and Finance Your Business Now ---This post was edited to remove a commercial link. Read our discussion policies for more Community best practices.

Hi Vitochka, You should contact the State Department of Education about general rules and regulations regarding starting your own private elementary school. Which state are you planning to register in? For example, the registration, licensing and accreditation information for the state of Louisiana is listed here. Does anyone else have experience with starting a private school? Please feel free to chime in! Message Edited by Christine_Lai on 09-21-2009 02:45 PM