seattle-network

Relocation can be stressful, there’s no doubt about it. And when you add children and their education to the equation, the stress seems to increase exponentially.Take a step back and relax.Following is a quick checklist to help you keep information organized so you can make the best decision after visiting a few different schools.

1. Ask yourself some serious questions before you even start the evaluation process. Examine what you believe the school should provide, what your goals are for your child, what your child’s goals are for him/herself, what extra-curricular activities are important, and how important it is that your values blend with those that a specific school teaches.
2. When physically visiting the schools, what are your first impressions? Make sure you notice how adults treat the students, and how the students interact with adults. Also keep an eye open to see whether or not disciplinary rules are actually enforced and if so, how?
3. What are some of the school’s special programs? Are there several that you think your child will benefit from and find interesting at the same time?
4. If you can witness an actual classroom setting, pay attention to things like class size, desk arrangement, whether there is a structure (organization) that is clearly evident, and whether the materials are current.
5. Outside of the classroom take notice of things like level of supervision in the halls and outside areas, whether the restrooms are clean and private, and whether or not there are security guards on premises.

On top of these observations you are within your rights to ask specific questions such as: what is the school’s philosophy, or what are the school’s objectives and plans to attain educational excellence?Not to be clich, but information is power. So to power yourself during this transition period, make sure you’re armed with the information you need to make the right decision.