Below are some questions to consider as you research school options for your child. Click on one of the following links for a comparison note sheet you can use as you research various schools.
Researching Schools (Google Docs Version - Make a copy)
Researching Schools (Microsoft Word Version - Make a copy)
Researching Schools (PDF)
Does the size of the school meet your child's needs?
What type of school is it? (Consider the levels of academic achievement, amount of support, independence required, religious affiliation, coed vs. single-sex, diversity, finances)
Where is the school located and how will your child get to the new school?
How will the distance to the school affect daily attendance, attendance at
school activities, peer relationships, etc.?
What is the student-teacher ratio? Are classes the right size to meet your child's needs?
How many students are in an average class?
Does the school permit tutoring during the school day? Are there extra fees for in-house tutoring? Do outside tutors come into the school?
How often does the student meet with his/her advisor or mentor?
Are counselors or psychologists available, if needed?
What percentage of students in the school are achieving at or above grade level? In standard classes, how much of the work is at or above grade level?
Are school staff available on a scheduled basis for academic support before school, during the school day or after school?
How does the school assess each student's progress on a day-to-day, month-to-month, and yearly basis?
How flexible is the school with regard to permitting academic supports such as: computers in the classroom, the use of recorded books, note-taking assists, previewing of texts during the summer, etc.?
What are the requirements for studying a foreign language? Are there exemptions?
Check out this article from Friends' Central School: 8 Private School Interview Questions for Parents to Ask