Make a Wise Choice for PreK and Elementary School
Make a wise choice for PreK and elementary school by thoughtfully considering the options available. Use the considerations and questions below. The process doesn’t need to be complicated. Compile a list of possibilities in your community. Use the school websites to gather information. Determine what type of school would best fit your family and provide the best learning environment for your children.
Considerations
Faith-based or secular
Application process and admissions
Extended hours/childcare
Tuition schedule
Touring the School
Make an appointment to visit each school on your list, preferably without your child so you won’t be distracted. Tours are typically led by school administrators. Observe classes in session and meet teachers, if possible, to get a true feel for the school.
Questions to Ask
Learning Environment
- What is the school’s educational philosophy?
- Tell me about the school’s curriculum.
- What is the average student-teacher ratio?
- How are student’s assessed?
- How are the needs of all learners addressed?
- Are remediation and enrichment available?
- How are behavioral challenges handled? Describe the discipline policy.
- What is the school’s policy on screen-time?
- Describe an average day at school for a preschooler/kindergartener/ third grader.
- How is parent involvement encouraged?
- What on-going training and professional development is required for staff?
- Is the preschool licensed?
- What is the turnover rate for the school’s staff?
Health & Security
- How do you accommodate children with dietary needs or allergies?
- What is the vaccination policy?
- What is the school’s policy regarding illnesses?
- What procedures (security and child safety) are in place to protect the children?
Logistics & Communication
- What are the drop-off and pick-up policies?
- How do teachers communicate with parents, and how often?
- Is there a school-wide newsletter?
- If applicable, discuss tuition.
Look for engaged, happy children during your visit and staff members who are caring, kind, and knowledgeable. A secure, clean building and a safe playground are important too. Talk to other parents whose children attend your schools of interest. Plan a follow-up visit with your child to the schools that meet your expectations. Make an informed decision with through research and prayers for wisdom and discernment. Not every school or teacher will meet every expectation. Often the experience not only meets but exceeds your expectations.
When the decision is made, commit to taking an active role in the education of your children. Kids of all ages excel with involved parents who participate as part of their child’s home-school team. That’s a wise choice for everyone!
© 2024 Becky Danielson. All rights reserved.
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