Questions to Ask on a School Tour
Essential questions to ask during a school tour to understand the educational environment, programs, and whether the school is the right fit for your child.
1What is the school's educational philosophy and approach to learning?
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What is the school's educational philosophy and approach to learning?
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Why this works
Critical for understanding the school's teaching methods and whether they align with your educational values and your child's learning style.
2What are the class sizes and student-to-teacher ratios, and how do they affect learning?
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What are the class sizes and student-to-teacher ratios, and how do they affect learning?
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Why this works
Important for understanding the learning environment and whether your child will receive adequate individual attention.
3What are the academic programs and curriculum, and how do they prepare students for the future?
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What are the academic programs and curriculum, and how do they prepare students for the future?
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Why this works
Helps you understand what subjects and skills your child will learn and how they'll be prepared for higher education or careers.
4What are the extracurricular activities and programs available, and how do they enhance student development?
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What are the extracurricular activities and programs available, and how do they enhance student development?
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Why this works
Important for understanding what opportunities are available beyond academics and how they contribute to your child's overall development.
5What are the school's safety and security measures, and how do they protect students?
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What are the school's safety and security measures, and how do they protect students?
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Why this works
Critical for understanding how the school ensures student safety and what measures are in place to protect your child.
6What are the school's discipline policies and procedures, and how do they handle behavioral issues?
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What are the school's discipline policies and procedures, and how do they handle behavioral issues?
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Why this works
Helps you understand how the school manages student behavior and what consequences are in place for different situations.
7What are the school's support services, and how do they help students with different needs?
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What are the school's support services, and how do they help students with different needs?
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Why this works
Important for understanding what support is available for students with learning differences, special needs, or other challenges.
8What are the school's technology resources and how are they used in the classroom?
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What are the school's technology resources and how are they used in the classroom?
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Why this works
Helps you understand how technology is integrated into learning and what resources are available for students.
9What are the school's facilities and resources, and how do they support student learning?
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What are the school's facilities and resources, and how do they support student learning?
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Why this works
Important for understanding what physical resources are available and how they contribute to the learning environment.
10What are the school's communication policies, and how do they keep parents informed?
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What are the school's communication policies, and how do they keep parents informed?
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Why this works
Critical for understanding how you'll stay connected with your child's education and what communication channels are available.
11What are the school's homework and testing policies, and how do they assess student progress?
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What are the school's homework and testing policies, and how do they assess student progress?
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Why this works
Helps you understand the academic expectations and how your child's progress will be measured and communicated.
12What are the school's diversity and inclusion efforts, and how do they promote equity?
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What are the school's diversity and inclusion efforts, and how do they promote equity?
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Why this works
Important for understanding how the school creates an inclusive environment and what efforts are made to promote diversity and equity.
13What are the school's parent involvement opportunities, and how can parents contribute?
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What are the school's parent involvement opportunities, and how can parents contribute?
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Why this works
Helps you understand how you can be involved in your child's education and what opportunities are available for parent participation.
14What are the school's transportation and meal services, and how do they work?
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What are the school's transportation and meal services, and how do they work?
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Why this works
Important for understanding practical aspects of school life and what services are available to support your family.
15What are the school's admission requirements and process, and what are you looking for in students?
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What are the school's admission requirements and process, and what are you looking for in students?
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Why this works
Critical for understanding what's required for admission and what qualities make a student a good fit for the school.
16What are the school's tuition and financial aid options, and how do families afford the cost?
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What are the school's tuition and financial aid options, and how do families afford the cost?
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Why this works
Important for understanding the financial aspects of attending the school and what options are available for families who need assistance.
17What are the school's alumni success stories, and how do graduates perform after graduation?
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What are the school's alumni success stories, and how do graduates perform after graduation?
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Why this works
Helps you understand the school's track record and what outcomes you can expect for your child.
18What are the school's biggest challenges and how are they being addressed?
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What are the school's biggest challenges and how are they being addressed?
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Why this works
Important for understanding any issues the school faces and how they're working to improve and address challenges.
19What are the school's future plans and goals, and how do they plan to grow and improve?
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What are the school's future plans and goals, and how do they plan to grow and improve?
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Why this works
Helps you understand the school's direction and what improvements or changes are planned for the future.
20What advice would you give to parents considering this school, and what should they know?
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What advice would you give to parents considering this school, and what should they know?
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Why this works
Critical for understanding what insights and advice you can use to make the best decision for your child's education.
School Tour Success
Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.
Best Practices
Research the School
Take time to research the school's programs, philosophy, and reputation. Understanding the school will help you ask more informed questions.
Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Prepare questions that show your interest in your child's education and your understanding of what makes a good school.
Observe the Environment
Pay attention to the school environment, student interactions, and overall atmosphere. This will give you valuable insights into the school culture.
Question Sequences
The Academic Explorer
The Safety Seeker
Common Pitfalls
Don't Ask Generic Questions
Avoid asking questions that could apply to any school. Make your questions specific to this school and your child's needs.
Avoid Being Too Focused on Academics
While academics are important, don't overlook other aspects like safety, support services, and overall school culture.
Don't Ignore Your Child's Needs
Make sure to ask about support for your child's specific needs, whether they're academic, social, or emotional.