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I've done two Skip Barber schools and raced in the SCCA from 06-14.
The first school was their 3-day beginner school in formula cars with non-synchro transmissions. The instructors were top notch, there was no damage waiver (ball up a car and you didn't have to pay anything), and there was a lot of knowledge imparted. The cars were in great shape and a ton of fun. I derived a lot of value from this.
The second was in MX5 Cup cars at Lime Rock. This was a two day advanced school that focused more on different lines and passing dynamics. The transmissions of the first two cars they gave me were shot, and I got the distinct impression that the suspension was not full cup spec. The instruction was excellent, but I gained more from having a faster driver in my own car and overlaying our data acquisition. This school wasn't as valuable.
My thoughts are that the beginner school will give you tools you will always use, and you will learn them from an excellent team. I can't speak to PCA, which I've heard provides excellent instruction, but regular HPDE track days won't guarantee you the comprehensive education you'd get in a school like Skip Barber. Also, I wasn't in a position to afford a wreck of my street car when I had no experience, so the ability to use a school car with no damage waiver was a big plus. Even as someone who may never race, it does provide a thorough appreciation of what goes on on track. It's definitely a rewarding experience.
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