How to Choose Primary Schools

Select the perfect elementary school for your child.

The selection of an appropriate primary school is of paramount importance as it is at here that students learn the basics that they will require for academic success. The Department of Education urges parents to put time and effort into elementary school selection to ensure that the school that they pick sets their children up for success. If you are charged with the task of selecting an elementary school, carefully explore your options and consider what educational elements your child requires for optimum academic success.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Create a list of the five things that are most important to you in a primary school. Making a list is a great way to determine what really matters to you. Include things that you may expect to find at an elementary school, such as extracurricular activities, on-site tutoring and full day kindergarten.

2. Explore your area, taking note of each school that your child could potentially attend. Complete this step by performing an Internet search and driving around your area to find schools that are in easy driving distance.

3. Research each school. Look specifically for the five key elements that you placed on your list when researching schools to determine whether each school is right for your child.

4. Check the district report card for all potential schools. The Department of Education maintains district report cards for schools within the state. Search the website of your state Department of Education to obtain copies of these reports, or visit the schools themselves and request district report card copies.

5. Ensure that each school on your list is prepared to handle any special needs that your child has. If your child has a physical disability, mental disability or is an English language learner, explore each school's readiness to help your child overcome these extra challenges.

6. Set up visits with each of the schools on your list. Whenever possible, conduct your visits during the school day so that you can see how the school environment feels. If the schools in question offer shadowing, allow your child to sit in on classes at each of the schools so that she can determine which school feels like the best fit for her.

7. Speak to parents who send their children to these schools. Ask these parents to explain what they do and do not like about each school. Also inquire as to whether the parents would select the same school again if given the option.

References

• Department of Education: Choosing a School for your Child
• PBS: Choosing a School