It's better to ask good questions before enrolling your child, rather than finding out the hard way! My husband and I recently decided which of the private schools in Boulder County, Colorado, is best for our child. In speaking with other parents, school administrators, and teachers, I have found there are common questions that parents ask to choose their school. Choosing the right private education is important, and this will make it easier.
10 Questions for Choosing Amongst the Private Schools
1. How does this school create a safe learning environment? You know that there are many safety issues these days, in the public schools especially, from violence to drugs. So when you're interviewing a private school, you'll probably want to find out how the school keeps kids safe.
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's the schedule? You probably want to know when to drop off and pick up your child, as well as how the typical school day would unfold for your child. As an example, would a small child have an opportunity for a mid-morning snack? Are academic subjects taught more in the morning when the child is fresher, or do they come after lunch? What about recess? Is there care available after class?
6. What opportunities are offered for parental involvement? If you are involved with the school, you get to help create the school experience and you create a sense of community for your child. Plus, then you'll have a better understanding of your child's 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. How does this school honor diversity? Depending on where they are located and how they are structured, some schools are required by law to have a policy of non-discrimination, and others are not. In addition, some schools have a philosophy of embracing diverse people and viewpoints.
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 understanding some basic differences between the schools. However, I wouldn't stop with these 10! What educational choice will give your child 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. - 30531
10 Questions for Choosing Amongst the Private Schools
1. How does this school create a safe learning environment? You know that there are many safety issues these days, in the public schools especially, from violence to drugs. So when you're interviewing a private school, you'll probably want to find out how the school keeps kids safe.
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's the schedule? You probably want to know when to drop off and pick up your child, as well as how the typical school day would unfold for your child. As an example, would a small child have an opportunity for a mid-morning snack? Are academic subjects taught more in the morning when the child is fresher, or do they come after lunch? What about recess? Is there care available after class?
6. What opportunities are offered for parental involvement? If you are involved with the school, you get to help create the school experience and you create a sense of community for your child. Plus, then you'll have a better understanding of your child's 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. How does this school honor diversity? Depending on where they are located and how they are structured, some schools are required by law to have a policy of non-discrimination, and others are not. In addition, some schools have a philosophy of embracing diverse people and viewpoints.
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 understanding some basic differences between the schools. However, I wouldn't stop with these 10! What educational choice will give your child 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. - 30531
About the Author:
To find out more about choosing among the private schools in Boulder, visit Ms. Andreas' site for the top 12 questions parents should ask but they don't! How did the author chose a private school?
