Some Virginia parents are opting for free public schools to cope with the souring economy.

Virginia Council for Private Education President Georgey McVey says people cut back where they can, leaving private schools to feel the pinch in a recession.

South Hampton Roads, with dozens of faith-based schools, has been especially vulnerable.

At Gateway Christian School, where tuition runs about $4,000, enrollment is headed for a ten-percent drop this fall. Principal Sam Postlewaite predicts he'll have 375 to 380 students, compared with 420 last year.

At Norfolk Christian Schools, academic dean Jane Duffey says enrollment is down about two percent and she's seen a 20 percent increase in requests for additional financial aid. Tuition ranges from $6,300 to $8,700.