Selecting a school that will meet your child's needs can be a challenging and daunting task. Many public school districts allow you to choose the school you would most like your child to attend. You also have the option of exploring private, parochial or charter schools, reports Healthy Children. Taking the time to learn more about each of your options will allow you to make the choice that will lead to the best education for your child.
Step 1
Write a list of schools in your area, including schools you are considering and schools you would like to learn more about. Include contact information for each school, such as its address, phone number and the name of the principal.
Step 2
Call each school and set up an appointment to visit. Ask if you can have a tour of the building and if it is possible to meet the teachers your child would have if you enroll her at the school.
Step 3
List the questions you have for each school and take the list with you on your appointment. Ask what types of things your child will learn, what the policies are for dress code, what training the teachers have and how discipline is handled in the classroom. Plan to find out what the teacher-to-child ratio is, what resources are available and how disabilities are addressed, recommends Healthy Children.
Step 4
Tour the classrooms. Watching teachers interact with the children will help you make your decision, writes Scholastic. Look to see whether students have time to use learning resources, if your child will have access to a variety of different hands-on activities, including a wide selection of books, and how well the teacher guides the learning process for individual students, as well as in small group and whole group activities.
Step 5
Create a two column chart and list the pros and cons of each school. Narrow your options down to two or three and consider what the advantages and disadvantages of each school are. Call the school and set up an additional appointment so you can get answers to any questions you still have.
Step 6
Choose the school you think would be the best fit. Use your instincts as well as your research to help you make your decision. Call the school and set up a time to fill out the paperwork and pay any fees to enroll your child.
Tips and Warnings
- Take your child with you to meet his potential teachers and see the classrooms. His reaction to the school can help to guide your final decision.
- Making the best choice may not happen the first time. Know that you can always choose a different school if your first choice does not end up being the best choice. says Scholastic. You may be put on a wait list if the school you choose is one of the most popular, so have a backup plan in case this happens.
Things You'll Need
- Paper
- Pen
- List of Questions
