If you are considering private schools for your child's education, it's important to make a good decision. We've recently chosen amongst the private schools available in Boulder County, Colorado, for our child. Having talked with other parents, and school staff, it turns out there are certain things that most parents want to know. What do parents ask to make a decision they'll be happy with?
Top 10 Questions Parents Ask to Choose a Private School
1. What approach does the school take to creating a safe environment? This isn't the same world it was when we grew up, and sadly, we can no longer assume a school is safe place for children. You probably would like to ask what the school does to keep children safe from violence, drugs, and unsavory influences.
2. What basic philosophy/theology does the school espouse? Private schools may or may not be based on a particular educational philosophy, and they also may have a particular theological orientation. So, you'll want to know what the schools philosophy is, and how it effects the child's experience in the classroom. As an example, some religious private schools teach their religious beliefs to the children, in subtle ways or not-so-subtle. Other schools impart a more broad-based sense of spirituality, and still others avoid the subject altogether.
3. What qualifications are held by the teaching staff? Depending on state laws, private schools may be allowed to employ teachers with different degrees or certifications than those in the public schools. Some private schools require more training for their teachers than public schools, and some accept less.
4. What is the class size? The number of students per teacher can make a significant difference in how much individual attention a child is able to receive.
5. What is the schedule for a typical school day (begin and end, lunch, snack, recess, after school offerings, etc.)? Of course, you'll need to know when to drop off and pick up your child. You might also be interested in the rhythm of the school day, and whether you think it is a good fit for your child.
6. Do parents have a chance to be involved with the school? Participating in school functions can give you a better sense of what your child experiences at school, and it helps your child have a bridge between his family life and his school life. In addition, it can be rewarding and fun to help create the school experience.
7. How do your teachers help children learn who have varied learning styles? Every child is a unique individual. How does the school approach different learning styles so that everyone can learn?
8. What does the school do to prepare a child for a broad world out there, with diverse people and viewpoints? Many schools have non-discrimination policies, and some school philosophies expressly embrace diversity.
9. When was the school established? Schools which have been operating longer may have developed a fuller curriculum and more detailed policies, and those which have opened more recently sometimes have smaller class sizes or lower tuition.
10. What will it cost, and are there scholarships? Do you have to pay a big lump sum all at once, or are the payments spread out? Along with the benefits of a private education, it's important to weigh the cost.
After you ask these 10 questions, you will at least have a good start in understand some basic differences between the schools. However, I wouldn't stop with these 10! What educational choice will give him the foundation for living the fullest life, and living up to his potential? I've also made a list of 12 more questions that are more in-depth, to really help figure out which private school in Boulder (or anywhere) could be the best choice for a child. You might think of other questions. If you ask the right questions, you will get the information you need. - 30224
Top 10 Questions Parents Ask to Choose a Private School
1. What approach does the school take to creating a safe environment? This isn't the same world it was when we grew up, and sadly, we can no longer assume a school is safe place for children. You probably would like to ask what the school does to keep children safe from violence, drugs, and unsavory influences.
2. What basic philosophy/theology does the school espouse? Private schools may or may not be based on a particular educational philosophy, and they also may have a particular theological orientation. So, you'll want to know what the schools philosophy is, and how it effects the child's experience in the classroom. As an example, some religious private schools teach their religious beliefs to the children, in subtle ways or not-so-subtle. Other schools impart a more broad-based sense of spirituality, and still others avoid the subject altogether.
3. What qualifications are held by the teaching staff? Depending on state laws, private schools may be allowed to employ teachers with different degrees or certifications than those in the public schools. Some private schools require more training for their teachers than public schools, and some accept less.
4. What is the class size? The number of students per teacher can make a significant difference in how much individual attention a child is able to receive.
5. What is the schedule for a typical school day (begin and end, lunch, snack, recess, after school offerings, etc.)? Of course, you'll need to know when to drop off and pick up your child. You might also be interested in the rhythm of the school day, and whether you think it is a good fit for your child.
6. Do parents have a chance to be involved with the school? Participating in school functions can give you a better sense of what your child experiences at school, and it helps your child have a bridge between his family life and his school life. In addition, it can be rewarding and fun to help create the school experience.
7. How do your teachers help children learn who have varied learning styles? Every child is a unique individual. How does the school approach different learning styles so that everyone can learn?
8. What does the school do to prepare a child for a broad world out there, with diverse people and viewpoints? Many schools have non-discrimination policies, and some school philosophies expressly embrace diversity.
9. When was the school established? Schools which have been operating longer may have developed a fuller curriculum and more detailed policies, and those which have opened more recently sometimes have smaller class sizes or lower tuition.
10. What will it cost, and are there scholarships? Do you have to pay a big lump sum all at once, or are the payments spread out? Along with the benefits of a private education, it's important to weigh the cost.
After you ask these 10 questions, you will at least have a good start in understand some basic differences between the schools. However, I wouldn't stop with these 10! What educational choice will give him the foundation for living the fullest life, and living up to his potential? I've also made a list of 12 more questions that are more in-depth, to really help figure out which private school in Boulder (or anywhere) could be the best choice for a child. You might think of other questions. If you ask the right questions, you will get the information you need. - 30224
About the Author:
Do you want the best questions to ask Boulder private schools (or private schools in other areas)? Read more from Tamara Andreas at www.privateschoolsboulder.com. Plus, you'll find out about the private school she chose!
