Questions to Ask a School
Comprehensive questions that help parents and students evaluate schools, understand programs, and make informed educational decisions.
1What's the school's educational philosophy and approach to learning?
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What's the school's educational philosophy and approach to learning?
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Why this works
Helps you understand the school's core values and teaching methods, ensuring alignment with your educational goals and values.
2What are the class sizes and student-to-teacher ratios?
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What are the class sizes and student-to-teacher ratios?
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Why this works
Provides insight into the level of individual attention students receive and helps assess the learning environment quality.
3What academic programs and extracurricular activities are available?
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What academic programs and extracurricular activities are available?
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Why this works
Helps you understand the breadth of opportunities available and whether the school offers programs that match your interests.
4How do you support students with different learning needs and abilities?
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How do you support students with different learning needs and abilities?
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Why this works
Ensures the school can meet your child's specific learning requirements and provides appropriate support for diverse learners.
5What's the school's approach to discipline and student behavior management?
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What's the school's approach to discipline and student behavior management?
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Why this works
Helps you understand the school's values around discipline and whether their approach aligns with your parenting philosophy.
6What technology resources and tools are available to students?
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What technology resources and tools are available to students?
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Why this works
Assesses the school's commitment to modern education and helps you understand the technological learning environment.
7How do you communicate with parents about student progress and school events?
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How do you communicate with parents about student progress and school events?
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Why this works
Helps you understand the school's communication practices and ensures you'll stay informed about your child's education.
8What's the school's policy on homework and academic expectations?
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What's the school's policy on homework and academic expectations?
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Why this works
Helps you understand the academic workload and expectations, ensuring they align with your child's needs and your family's schedule.
9How do you handle bullying and ensure a safe learning environment?
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How do you handle bullying and ensure a safe learning environment?
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Why this works
Addresses safety concerns and helps you understand the school's commitment to creating a positive, secure environment for all students.
10What professional development opportunities do teachers receive?
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What professional development opportunities do teachers receive?
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Why this works
Indicates the school's investment in teacher quality and ongoing education, which directly impacts student learning outcomes.
11What's the school's approach to standardized testing and assessment?
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What's the school's approach to standardized testing and assessment?
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Why this works
Helps you understand how student progress is measured and whether the school's assessment approach aligns with your values.
12How do you involve parents in the school community and decision-making?
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How do you involve parents in the school community and decision-making?
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Why this works
Shows the school's commitment to parent engagement and helps you understand opportunities for involvement in your child's education.
13What support services are available for students who need extra help?
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What support services are available for students who need extra help?
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Why this works
Ensures the school can provide appropriate support for students who may need additional academic or emotional assistance.
14What's the school's policy on diversity and inclusion?
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What's the school's policy on diversity and inclusion?
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Why this works
Helps you understand the school's commitment to creating an inclusive environment that values and respects all students.
15How do you prepare students for the next level of education?
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How do you prepare students for the next level of education?
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Why this works
Assesses the school's focus on student success and helps you understand how well they prepare students for future academic challenges.
16What's the school's approach to physical education and health education?
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What's the school's approach to physical education and health education?
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Why this works
Shows the school's commitment to student wellness and helps you understand their approach to physical and health education.
17How do you handle conflicts between students and between students and teachers?
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How do you handle conflicts between students and between students and teachers?
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Why this works
Helps you understand the school's approach to conflict resolution and ensures they have appropriate processes for handling disputes.
18What's the school's policy on field trips and experiential learning opportunities?
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What's the school's policy on field trips and experiential learning opportunities?
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Why this works
Shows the school's commitment to hands-on learning and helps you understand the breadth of educational experiences available.
19How do you measure and report student success and progress?
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How do you measure and report student success and progress?
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Why this works
Helps you understand how the school evaluates student achievement and communicates progress to parents and students.
20What makes this school unique compared to other educational options?
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What makes this school unique compared to other educational options?
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Why this works
Helps you understand the school's distinctive features and whether they align with your educational priorities and values.
Choosing the Right School for Your Child
Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.
Best Practices
Visit the School in Person
Schedule a tour to see the facilities, observe classes, and get a feel for the school's atmosphere and culture.
Talk to Current Parents and Students
Get firsthand perspectives from families who are currently enrolled. Ask about their experiences and satisfaction with the school.
Consider Your Child's Needs
Think about your child's learning style, interests, and any special needs when evaluating whether a school is a good fit.
Question Sequences
The Academic Assessment Sequence
The Support Services Sequence
Common Pitfalls
Don't Focus Only on Test Scores
While academic performance is important, also consider the school's culture, values, and whether it's a good fit for your child's personality and needs.
Don't Ignore Practical Considerations
Consider factors like location, transportation, schedule, and cost. These practical aspects can significantly impact your family's experience.
Don't Skip the Follow-up
After your initial visit, follow up with additional questions and consider a second visit to get a more complete picture of the school.