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Private Schools
Parents select private schools for a variety of reasons.
Sometimes a child has special needs. Other times, the
child is gifted and the parents seek an accelerated
academic environment. In many cases, the parents are
simply looking for a more structured learning atmosphere
with smaller classes and more careful supervision.
If you are new to an area, check the phone book. Make
sure the school is accredited before going any further
with your search. Ask your Realtor, and even your
children's pediatrician.
What should I look for in a private school?
That answer depends on what you are looking for for your
child's education. Maybe you want a rigorous academic
program, like a preparatory school. Or perhaps you would
like a certain emphasis, like in the arts or music. Look
at class size and compare with the public schools in your
area. Maybe you want a nurturing, warm environment.
Decide what you want and then seek it out.
What should I expect from private school teachers?
Check out the credentials of the teachers. Do they have
specialized degrees in their areas, such as math or
chemistry? Or did they graduate with general degrees? How
long have the teachers been on staff? Is turnover a
problem?
Are the teachers well paid?
If the teachers are experienced, and have a long-term
history with the school, that will tell you that most
likely they are happy there. Check into the Principal or
Headmaster/Headmistress. What are his or her
qualifications, and how long has he or she been there?
How can I find out about the academic program?
When you visit the school, ask specific questions about
the curriculum. What math book do they use? Ask to see it
and page through it. What is their language arts
curriculum? What books do they read, and what writing
assignments do they have? What is the school's philosophy
on homework? Is it given daily? During weekends? How many
hours should it take, and what is the punishment if it is
not turned in on time?
Ask to see the science lab. Is it a regular classroom or
is it really a lab? What does the science curriculum
teach at each grade?
Do the children go on field trips?
How do they travel, by bus, car, train or plane? Who
supervises them on these trips?
Inquire about test scores. What standardized tests are
taken and how do the school's scores compare to national
standards. Also, where do these children go after leaving
the school? Do they have problems getting into their
schools/colleges of their choice?
Ask about grades. Is there grade inflation where everyone
makes an "A." Or are the grades distributed fairly. How
many tests are there per week on the average? What is the
test taking policy (in other words, can they make-up a
test if their score is low?).
How do I ask about discipline?
Be very direct, and ask how discipline is handled. Is it
time out, visits to the Principal, or extra assignments?
As you tour the school, look at the behavior in the
classroom. Is it under control or out of hand? Do the
students appear interested or bored? Be sure and ask to
enter classrooms during your tour. Visualize your child
in the room and ask yourself if that feels "right."
Ask direct questions like, "What action has been taken in
the past to handle those who cheat on tests?" "How are
drug problems handled?" "Have you ever expelled a child,
and for what reason?"
What about extracurricular activities?
Ask if there are clubs to join, sports teams and
enrichment classes. Request a list of opportunities for
the child.
What should I look for in the facility?
First and foremost, does the environment appear safe? Are
stairwells properly lit, with sturdy railings? Are there
sprinkler systems in effect? Do they have fire drills?
Is the building in good repair inside and out? Check for
water leaks (ceiling stains), hanging items that could
fall, proper kitchen facilities (especially if older
children can do some of their own heating up of food).
Is there a cafeteria? Is it clean?
Would the lunch menu appeal to your child?
Is there a gymnasium? What kind of surface does it have?
Is it large? What about the science lab, computer room
and audiovisual equipment? Are they up to date? Ask to
see the playground and note the condition of equipment.
Is it rickety and old, or new and safe? Is the surface
safer than grass? Pea gravel or other soft surfaces are
superior to grass.
Can parents be involved in the school?
Again, be sure to ask for the level of parental
involvement. Is it hands-on in the classroom? Will you
feel welcome at the school? Is there a parent-teacher
organization, and what activities does the group perform?
Who should I ask for references on a particular school?
It is advised to talk to parents of current students or
recent graduates. Ask what the positives and negatives
are. Remember that no school is perfect. It is your job
as a parent to locate the school that comes closest to
meeting your child's educational needs.
