Independent schools are private educational institutions that operate without government funding. They rely on tuition fees, donations, and endowments to support their programs. These schools often have the freedom to create their own curricula and set their own policies, which can lead to a unique educational experience tailored to their students' needs. Many independent schools emphasize smaller class sizes, allowing for more personalized attention from teachers. They may also offer specialized programs in areas such as the arts, sciences, or athletics. Some well-known independent schools include Phillips Exeter Academy and Harvard-Westlake School.