Questions to Ask High Schools
Important questions to ask high schools to understand their programs, culture, and support services to ensure you choose the right school for your child's education and development.
1What are your academic programs and curriculum offerings?
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What are your academic programs and curriculum offerings?
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Why this works
Helps you understand the academic opportunities available and whether they meet your child's educational needs.
2What are your graduation requirements and how do they prepare students for college?
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What are your graduation requirements and how do they prepare students for college?
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Why this works
Important for understanding what's required to graduate and how the school prepares students for higher education.
3What are your class sizes and student-to-teacher ratios?
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What are your class sizes and student-to-teacher ratios?
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Why this works
Helps you understand the learning environment and whether students receive adequate individual attention.
4What are your support services for students with different learning needs?
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What are your support services for students with different learning needs?
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Why this works
Crucial for understanding what support is available for students with learning differences or special needs.
5What are your extracurricular activities and clubs available?
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What are your extracurricular activities and clubs available?
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Why this works
Helps you understand what activities are available outside the classroom and how they enhance the student experience.
6What are your sports programs and athletic opportunities?
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What are your sports programs and athletic opportunities?
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Why this works
Important for understanding what athletic opportunities are available and how they support student development.
7What are your arts and music programs?
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What are your arts and music programs?
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Why this works
Helps you understand what creative opportunities are available and how they support artistic development.
8What are your technology resources and how do you integrate technology into learning?
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What are your technology resources and how do you integrate technology into learning?
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Why this works
Important for understanding what technology is available and how it enhances the learning experience.
9What are your college counseling and career guidance services?
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What are your college counseling and career guidance services?
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Why this works
Crucial for understanding what support is available for college planning and career development.
10What are your discipline policies and how do you handle behavioral issues?
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What are your discipline policies and how do you handle behavioral issues?
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Why this works
Helps you understand the school's approach to discipline and whether it aligns with your values.
11What are your safety and security measures?
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What are your safety and security measures?
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Why this works
Important for understanding what safety measures are in place and how the school protects students.
12What are your parent involvement opportunities and communication policies?
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What are your parent involvement opportunities and communication policies?
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Why this works
Helps you understand how parents can be involved in their child's education and how the school communicates with families.
13What are your diversity and inclusion initiatives?
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What are your diversity and inclusion initiatives?
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Why this works
Important for understanding the school's commitment to diversity and inclusion and how they create an inclusive environment.
14What are your special education services and accommodations?
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What are your special education services and accommodations?
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Why this works
Crucial for understanding what special education services are available and how they support students with disabilities.
15What are your mental health and counseling services?
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What are your mental health and counseling services?
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Why this works
Important for understanding what mental health support is available and how the school addresses student well-being.
16What are your transportation options and how do students get to school?
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What are your transportation options and how do students get to school?
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Why this works
Helps you understand transportation options and how students commute to and from school.
17What are your food services and meal options?
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What are your food services and meal options?
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Why this works
Important for understanding what food services are available and how they meet student dietary needs.
18What are your facilities and how do they support learning?
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What are your facilities and how do they support learning?
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Why this works
Helps you understand the school's facilities and how they enhance the learning environment.
19What are your admission requirements and application process?
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What are your admission requirements and application process?
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Why this works
Crucial for understanding what's required for admission and how to apply to the school.
20What are your tuition and financial aid options?
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What are your tuition and financial aid options?
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Why this works
Important for understanding the cost of attendance and what financial aid is available.
Choosing the Right High School
Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.
Research Thoroughly
Compare Schools
Compare different schools to find the best fit for your child's needs and interests.
Visit Schools
Visit schools in person to get a feel for the environment and culture.
Talk to Students
Talk to current students and parents to get their perspective on the school.
Ask the Right Questions
Understand Programs
Ask questions that help you understand the academic and extracurricular programs available.
Clarify Support
Get clear understanding of what support services are available for your child.
Assess Fit
Evaluate whether the school is a good fit for your child's needs and interests.
Make Informed Decision
Consider Long-term
Consider how the school will meet your child's needs over the long term.
Evaluate Trade-offs
Evaluate the trade-offs between different schools and what's most important to you.
Trust Your Instincts
Trust your instincts about the school and whether it feels like the right fit for your child.