Questions to Ask Private School
Essential questions to help you evaluate private schools, understand their programs, and make an informed decision about your child's education.
1What is your school's educational philosophy and approach to learning?
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What is your school's educational philosophy and approach to learning?
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Why this works
Understanding their philosophy helps you assess if their approach aligns with your educational values and your child's learning style.
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
Learning about class sizes helps you understand the level of individual attention your child will receive and the learning environment.
3What curriculum and academic programs do you offer?
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What curriculum and academic programs do you offer?
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Why this works
Understanding the curriculum helps you assess the academic rigor and whether it meets your child's educational needs and interests.
4What are the admission requirements and application process?
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What are the admission requirements and application process?
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Why this works
Learning about admission requirements helps you understand what's needed to apply and assess your child's chances of acceptance.
5What are the tuition costs and what additional fees should we expect?
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What are the tuition costs and what additional fees should we expect?
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Why this works
Understanding costs helps you budget for education expenses and assess the financial commitment required for attendance.
6What financial aid and scholarship opportunities are available?
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What financial aid and scholarship opportunities are available?
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Why this works
Learning about financial aid helps you understand what support might be available to make the school more affordable.
7What extracurricular activities and programs do you offer?
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What extracurricular activities and programs do you offer?
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Why this works
Understanding extracurricular options helps you assess the school's commitment to well-rounded education and your child's interests.
8What are the teacher qualifications and experience levels?
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What are the teacher qualifications and experience levels?
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Why this works
Learning about teacher qualifications helps you assess the quality of instruction and the expertise of the teaching staff.
9What support services are available for students with special needs?
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What support services are available for students with special needs?
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Why this works
Understanding support services helps you assess the school's ability to meet your child's specific learning needs and challenges.
10What are the school's values and how do you promote character development?
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What are the school's values and how do you promote character development?
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Why this works
Learning about values helps you assess if the school's approach to character development aligns with your family's values.
11What are the homework expectations and academic workload?
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What are the homework expectations and academic workload?
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Why this works
Understanding academic expectations helps you assess if the workload is appropriate for your child and your family's schedule.
12What technology resources and programs do you offer?
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What technology resources and programs do you offer?
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Why this works
Learning about technology helps you understand how the school prepares students for the digital world and what resources are available.
13What are the school's policies on discipline and behavior management?
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What are the school's policies on discipline and behavior management?
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Why this works
Understanding discipline policies helps you assess if the school's approach aligns with your parenting philosophy and expectations.
14What are the school's safety and security measures?
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What are the school's safety and security measures?
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Why this works
Learning about safety measures helps you assess the school's commitment to protecting students and creating a secure environment.
15What are the school's academic performance and college placement records?
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What are the school's academic performance and college placement records?
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Why this works
Understanding academic performance helps you assess the school's effectiveness in preparing students for higher education and success.
16What are the school's policies on diversity and inclusion?
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What are the school's policies on diversity and inclusion?
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Why this works
Learning about diversity policies helps you assess the school's commitment to creating an inclusive environment for all students.
17What are the school's communication policies with parents?
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What are the school's communication policies with parents?
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Why this works
Understanding communication policies helps you know how you'll stay informed about your child's progress and school activities.
18What are the school's policies on homework, testing, and grading?
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What are the school's policies on homework, testing, and grading?
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Why this works
Learning about academic policies helps you understand the school's approach to assessment and your child's academic experience.
19What are the school's policies on student health and wellness?
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What are the school's policies on student health and wellness?
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Why this works
Understanding health policies helps you assess the school's commitment to student well-being and physical health.
20What are the school's policies on student transportation and after-school care?
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What are the school's policies on student transportation and after-school care?
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Why this works
Learning about transportation and care options helps you understand the practical aspects of school attendance and your family's needs.
Evaluating Private Schools
Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.
Making an Informed Choice
Assess Educational Fit
Evaluate if the school's philosophy, curriculum, and approach align with your child's learning style and your educational goals.
Consider Practical Factors
Factor in costs, location, transportation, and other practical considerations that will affect your family's daily life.
Visit and Observe
Schedule visits to observe classes, meet teachers, and get a feel for the school's culture and environment.