Public schools are educational institutions funded and operated by government entities. They are free for students to attend and are required to follow state education standards. Public schools often serve a diverse population and provide a range of programs, including special education and extracurricular activities. Private schools, on the other hand, are independently funded through tuition fees and private contributions. They have more flexibility in their curriculum and teaching methods, allowing them to offer specialized programs. Private schools may have religious affiliations or specific educational philosophies, and they often have smaller class sizes compared to public schools.