Choosing a school for your child involves more than just considering the academic curriculum. It's also about the atmosphere of the school - the ethos and values that are conveyed and fostered there. A school should stimulate curiosity and foster a love for learning. It should provide a safe and nurturing environment where a child can grow physically, mentally, and emotionally.
It's about the teachers who will directly influence your child's learning experience. They should not only have a strong command over their subjects but also understand how to interact with children and inspire them.
Other considerations might include the school's location, extracurricular activities, and the opportunities they afford for students to excel outside the classroom. These factors play a crucial role in your child's overall development and their preparedness for future challenges.
As parents, you want to ensure that the school aligns with your values and caters to your child's unique needs and aspirations. That's why it's crucial to ask the right questions when considering a private school.
This article highlights the key questions that will help you make an informed choice on which private school may be best for your family.
10 Best Questions To Ask A Private School
Here are questions to ask any school before scheduling a tour:
General Questions To Ask Any Private School
1) Curriculum: What Educational Approach Do You Follow?
Understanding the school's curriculum and teaching approach provides insight into their academic standards and learning outcomes. It allows you to gauge whether they prioritize creativity, critical thinking, or exam scores and if this aligns with your own educational philosophies.
2) Extracurricular Activities: What Opportunities Are Available For Students Outside Of The Classroom?
Many skills and lessons are learned outside the classroom. Check if the school offers diverse clubs, sports, and creative pursuits that allow students to explore their interests, develop talents, and learn teamwork.
3) School Values: What Are The Core Values And Principles That Guide The School?
Shared values nurture a sense of belonging and purpose. Investigate the core values ingrained in the school culture. This could range from promoting intellectual curiosity, fostering empathy, or nurturing resilience.
Understanding the application of core values and principles in a school's everyday activities is as important as knowing what those values are. Ask how these principles are integrated into the curriculum, extracurricular activities, and disciplinary policies. For instance, if a school values inclusivity, how does it ensure all students are included and represented?
If it prioritizes resilience, are there structures in place to help students cope with challenges and learn from failures? This will give you a more comprehensive picture of the school's ethos and how it aligns with your personal values.
4) Tuition And Financial Aid: What Are The Tuition Fees, And Are There Any Financial Aid Options?
An essential practical question that factors into your decision-making is the cost. Besides tuition, inquire about additional costs for materials, trips, and extracurriculars. Also, ask about any financial aid, scholarships, or payment plans available.
5) Faculty Qualifications: What Qualifications And Experience Do The Teachers Have?
The quality of educators significantly influences student outcomes. Ask about their qualifications, their approach to teaching, and how they maintain their professional development.
Specific Questions To Ask An Individual Private Institution
6) School Culture: How Would You Describe The Overall Atmosphere And Community At The School?
The school's atmosphere can impact a child's attitude toward learning. Inquire about the student-teacher relationships, discipline procedures, diversity, and how the school handles bullying.
7) What Sets You Apart: What Makes Your School Unique Compared To Others?
Every school has a unique selling point. It could be their state-of-the-art science labs, a robust theater program, or a commitment to community service. Identify what makes them stand out. Some of A multicultural:
- A progressive approach to education that values academic prowess and character development
- Highly experienced educators who stay updated with the latest educational trends and strategies
- Commitment to nurturing a diverse and progressive community
- A multicultural learning environment that celebrates differences and fosters understanding of various cultures and perspectives
- Focus on community involvement to develop empathy and kindness
- Education that prepares students as future leaders and global citizens
8) Mission and Vision: What Is The School's Mission And Vision For Education?
A school's mission and vision statement reflect its educational philosophy and long-term goals. It can reveal their approach to student development and their commitment to continuous improvement.
Our school's mission, for example:
"We believe a strong foundation in academics and a well-rounded student are essential to the development in forming creative, thinking individuals. Challenging academics walking hand-in-hand with the community helps to create an outstanding citizen."
9) Help for International Students: What Support Is Available For International Students?
If your child is an international student, it's important to understand what support the school offers to help them acclimate, both academically and socially. Orlando is incredibly diverse and home to many families who have recently relocated to the United States. Crenshaw Academy supports and accommodates the needs of many international students.
10) Class Sizes: What Is The Average Class Size And Student-To-Teacher Ratio?
Class size can influence the individual attention each student receives. Smaller classes often mean more personalized instruction and a better understanding of each child's learning style.
- Increased Individual Attention: In smaller classes, each student has more opportunities to interact with the teacher, which means more chances to ask questions, seek clarification, and receive immediate feedback.
- Improved Student Engagement: With fewer students, teachers can create a more interactive and participatory learning environment, which can lead to higher student engagement and increased motivation.
- Better Understanding of Students' Needs: Teachers can more easily adapt their teaching methods and pace based on individual student's learning styles and needs, leading to a more personalized education.
- Stronger Student-Teacher Relationships: Smaller classes allow teachers to develop a deeper understanding of each student's strengths, weaknesses, and personality traits, fostering stronger relationships and better communication.
- Better Classroom Management: Fewer students in the classroom mean fewer disruptions, creating a better learning environment where students can focus and engage more effectively.
Get In Touch With Crenshaw Academy
Choosing a private school is a significant investment in your child's future. By asking these detailed and thoughtful questions, you can ensure that the school you choose aligns with your values and provides the best environment for your child's growth and learning.
Crenshaw Academy welcomes parents who are dedicated to their child's education and wish to explore what we offer. Our commitment to academic excellence, the development of life schools, and a nurturing environment make us a preferred choice for many families.
We are more than happy to answer all your questions and provide you with a comprehensive view of our curriculum, values, and unique approach to education.