Questions to Ask a New School as a Student
Essential questions to evaluate a new school, understand its culture, and determine if it's the right fit for your academic and personal goals.
1What's the school's academic philosophy and approach to learning?
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What's the school's academic philosophy and approach to learning?
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Why this works
This question reveals the school's educational values and teaching methods, helping you understand if their approach aligns with your learning style and goals.
2How do you support students who are struggling academically?
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How do you support students who are struggling academically?
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Why this works
Understanding their support systems is crucial for your success. This question reveals their commitment to student welfare and academic assistance.
3What's the typical class size and student-to-teacher ratio?
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What's the typical class size and student-to-teacher ratio?
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Why this works
Class size significantly impacts your learning experience. This question helps you understand the level of individual attention you can expect.
4What extracurricular activities and clubs are available?
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What extracurricular activities and clubs are available?
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Why this works
This question reveals the school's commitment to holistic development and what opportunities you'll have beyond academics.
5How do you handle student diversity and inclusion?
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How do you handle student diversity and inclusion?
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Why this works
This question reveals the school's values around diversity and how they create an inclusive environment for all students.
6What's the school's approach to discipline and student behavior?
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What's the school's approach to discipline and student behavior?
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Why this works
Understanding their disciplinary approach helps you know what to expect regarding rules, consequences, and the school's culture.
7How do you prepare students for college and future careers?
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How do you prepare students for college and future careers?
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Why this works
This question reveals their commitment to your long-term success and what resources they provide for college preparation and career guidance.
8What's the school's technology integration and digital learning approach?
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What's the school's technology integration and digital learning approach?
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Why this works
Technology is increasingly important in education. This question reveals how the school incorporates modern tools and digital learning into their curriculum.
9How do you handle student mental health and well-being?
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How do you handle student mental health and well-being?
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Why this works
Student well-being is crucial for academic success. This question reveals their approach to mental health support and student wellness programs.
10What's the school's approach to homework and academic workload?
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What's the school's approach to homework and academic workload?
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Why this works
Understanding their approach to academic workload helps you know what to expect regarding homework, projects, and time management.
11How do you communicate with parents and families?
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How do you communicate with parents and families?
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Why this works
Family involvement is important for student success. This question reveals how the school keeps families informed and involved in their child's education.
12What's the school's approach to student leadership and involvement?
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What's the school's approach to student leadership and involvement?
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Why this works
This question reveals opportunities for student leadership and how the school encourages student voice and participation in school life.
13How do you handle students with different learning styles and needs?
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How do you handle students with different learning styles and needs?
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Why this works
This question reveals their approach to inclusive education and how they accommodate diverse learning needs and abilities.
14What's the school's approach to assessment and grading?
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What's the school's approach to assessment and grading?
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Why this works
Understanding their assessment methods helps you know what to expect regarding grades, testing, and academic evaluation.
15How do you handle student transitions and orientation?
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How do you handle student transitions and orientation?
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Why this works
This question reveals their approach to helping new students adjust and feel welcome in the school community.
16What's the school's approach to student safety and security?
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What's the school's approach to student safety and security?
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Why this works
Student safety is a top priority. This question reveals their policies and procedures for maintaining a safe learning environment.
17How do you handle student conflicts and peer relationships?
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How do you handle student conflicts and peer relationships?
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Why this works
This question reveals their approach to conflict resolution and how they support positive peer relationships and social development.
18What's the school's approach to student creativity and artistic expression?
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What's the school's approach to student creativity and artistic expression?
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Why this works
This question reveals their commitment to arts education and creative development, which are important for well-rounded education.
19How do you handle student feedback and suggestions for improvement?
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How do you handle student feedback and suggestions for improvement?
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Why this works
This question reveals how the school values student input and whether they create opportunities for students to contribute to school improvement.
20What questions do you have for me about my goals and expectations?
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What questions do you have for me about my goals and expectations?
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Why this works
A good school should be interested in understanding your goals, interests, and expectations to determine if you're a good fit for their community.
Best Practices for Evaluating a New School
Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.
Best Practices
Research Thoroughly
Investigate the school's reputation, academic performance, and culture. Check reviews, talk to current students, and visit the campus if possible.
Ask About Both Academics and Culture
Balance questions about academic programs with questions about school culture, student life, and support systems.
Consider Your Goals
Think about your academic and personal goals and how the school can help you achieve them. Ask questions that help you evaluate the fit.
Question Sequences
The Academic Assessment
The Culture Explorer
Common Pitfalls
Don't Focus Only on Academics
Remember that school is about more than just academics. Ask about student life, support systems, and the overall school culture.
Avoid Making Assumptions
Don't assume all schools are the same. Ask specific questions about their unique approach, values, and what makes them different.
Don't Ignore Your Gut Feeling
Pay attention to how you feel during the conversation. Trust your instincts about whether the school feels like a good fit for you.