Researching a school for your child can be very exciting, as well as an overwhelming time for your family. Our Admissions Director Nena Martinez put together a few tips on what to consider during your school search.
- Talk to your friends and relatives, to your dentist or doctor, that mom at the park, and anyone you admire, about where their children attend (or attended), and what schools they attended (if locally). Listen carefully to what they say. First-hand experience can be helpful and important to consider when making such a big decision for your child. Ask what they like about their school and learn from their experience.
- Research online to find out if there’s a school (or schools) no one has mentioned. Check out their websites and gather as much information as possible.
- All schools are unique and each has its own culture. Perhaps most important of all, make sure you call and set up a tour for each school you are considering. Nothing beats “feet on the ground” … observing in classrooms, seeing teachers and students working together, and meeting the adults … to give you a feel for the “personality” of each school.
- Check to see the school’s accreditation(s). Private schools should have a high level of accreditation which simply means that the school has passed rigorous evaluations and is monitored by an accrediting body, ensuring you are getting the very best education for your child.
- Don’t be discourages or scared off by tuition dollars – most private schools have some form of Tuition Assistance.
- Last, ask lots of questions, make a list, and keep asking until you understand the answers.
When deciding on a school, finding the best fit for YOUR child is the most important thing. Get the fit right and you will achieve one of your most important goals: preparing your child for the future and keeping them excited about learning and eager to go to school.
