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Choosing the right school for your child, no matter what their age, can be extremely important to their academic and career future. As a parent, it’s likely you want the best for your child, but it’s normal to be confused about some decisions you’ll need to make in regard to their educations. If you’re considering a move, enrolling a child into school for the first time, or think your kid needs a change, the best thing to do is break down your decision into categories. From safety to academic and social offerings, by looking at the pros and cons of a school in segments, your decision will be clear soon. For ways to pick the right school for your child, read on.
Overall Safety and Air Quality
If the global COVID-19 pandemic has taught us anything, it’s that a properly ventilated area with good air quality is key to increasing your child’s odds of better health. When making that list of pros and cons for schools for your child, start by thinking about basic things like what safety measures the school has in place for kids. Consider how old the building is, whether or not the district or board invest regularly in renovations, if classrooms are equipped with a HEPA air purifier, and the overall quality of the indoor air. If these are things you aren’t sure of, consider asking for a tour of the school before enrolling your child. The best way to find out if a school has clean air, is well maintained, and that teachers and administrators are careful with student health is to visit and ask questions.
Find out what the school does to address issues like mold, mold spores, dust mites, allergens, and the regular schedule for deep cleanings to protect children against viruses like COVID-19. While you’re there, consider asking about how the school handles classroom space, ground maintenance, and more. By knowing the administration is transparent about their building, you’ll have peace of mind overall. Don’t forget to ask about other types of safety plans, too.
As difficult as it can be to think about, you’ll want to know about the security policies at your child’s school. Find out how administrators and other staff will work to keep your child safe in the event of an unexpected emergency. This answer alone could make your decision easier.
Academic Offerings and Child Interests
Research shows that students who enjoy their time in school turn into lifelong learners. After you’re done asking about pure air, noise levels, protection against wildfire smoke, and airflow, think about looking at school program offerings. For example, maybe you have a child interested in the expressive arts. If one school on your list is like Muse Academy, which is known for encouraging expressive artists, and another is not, the choice could become clear.
Whether you decide to send your child to an independent private school like Muse or into a public school, it’ll be important your child gets the best early childhood education possible. For this reason, you’ll want to know if the school you’re thinking about includes kindergarten and even preschool. Giving your child a strong start into school with a creative kindergarten program, like the one Muse students enjoy, is a great way to ensure your child’s success for the long run.
Social Programs and Recommendations
After you’ve toured any school you’re considering and asked questions, you’ll want to talk to other parents and students. They will be more likely to give you an unbiased look at each school on your list. When looking for those word of mouth recommendations, be sure to ask about extracurricular activities, coaches, and wellness programs as well.
By the time your child graduates, you’ll look back fondly at all the agonizing you did over big decisions on their placement without regret if you take the time now to do your research. By paying attention to a school’s attention to safety, program offerings, and your own child’s interests or opinions, you and your child will thank yourselves for it in the end. Best of luck in making your decision. You know your child best. Trust your instincts!
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