Consider the "Fit factor"

Finding the right high school can be a tough decision. What's important to remember, however, is that it should be a decision made with you and your family. Keep in mind, what is a good fit for your friends, may not necessarily be a good fit for you.

You and your family are encouraged to complete the Fit Factor Worksheet to help you determine a high school that is a good fit for you.

Use the questions below while completing your worksheet to think about what type of a high school may be right for you:

ACADEMICS & ACHIEVEMENT

• Does the school offer AP classes?

• Do they offer the opportunity to take a language I'm interested in? (e.g., German, Japanese)

• Do they have internship and career partnerships?

• Do they partner with any colleges to offer college credits while in high school?

• What kinds of supports do they offer to their students? (credit recovery, tutoring/mentorships, etc.)

• What are their graduation rates?

• Do they have a trade program that I am interested in? (Carpentry, Automative, Cosmetology)

• How do you support students with Special Needs?

LOGISTICS

• What is the travel time to get there in the morning? What happens when I miss the bus?

• What is the bell schedule?

• Will I be able to work while attending high school without too much?

EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

• Do they have sports teams that I want to play? Does a good percentage of their sports players receive scholarships towards college?

• What kinds of after-school clubs do they offer? (Dance/Cheer, Chess/Debate, Robotics, etc.)

CULTURE

• How big is the student population?

• What are the demographics? Do they have diversity amongst students and staff?

• What is the student/teacher ratio?

• What do their disciplinary practices look like? Do they use Restorative Practices?

• What kind of supports do they have? (Counselors/Social Workers)

• How do you celebrate diversity at your school? How are students educated about ALL races, ethnicities, religions, cultures?