10 Essential Questions Every Parent Should Ask Before Choosing a School
Selecting a school is often one of the most difficult decisions as a parent. It is essential that when choosing a school, we consider the impact learning has on our child’s social, personality, and future career aspirations. This is often confusing for parents because of the plethora of options available to choose from. What if you can identify the right option by asking the right questions? Beyond the brochures, websites, and unfamiliar territories, here are ten vital questions to help parents choose the right one for their children:
1. What Is the School’s Educational Philosophy?
Every educational institution has set policies that guide its methods of teaching and interacting with the students. Some schools focus on rote learning while others prefer mechanisms that allow students to actively participate, such as experiential learning or inquiry-based techniques.
- Does the academic institution aim for high academic standards, or strive for complete development, or both?
- How are curriculum practices integrated with current standards of education and employment opportunities?
- In what manner do they blend the teaching of social courtesy and values with academics?
2. What Curriculum Does the School Follow?
The curriculum determines what your child gains in learning and what skills he/she develop.
- What curriculum does the institution follow: CBSE, ICSE, IB, IGCSE, or a state board?
- Does the institute focus on conceptual understanding or rote learning for examination purposes?
- Does the school offer courses in coding, robotics, or entrepreneurship?
2. What Curriculum Does the School Follow?
The curriculum determines what your child gains in learning and what skills he/she develop.
- What curriculum does the institution follow: CBSE, ICSE, IB, IGCSE, or a state board?
- Does the institute focus on conceptual understanding or rote learning for examination purposes?
- Does the school offer courses in coding, robotics, or entrepreneurship?
3. What educational background and teaching experience does the faculty have?
The school staff is important for the educational path of your child.
- What is the educational background of the teachers, and how long have they been teaching?
- Do they possess contemporary teaching and classroom management skills?
- Does the school engage the teachers in further training and updating of their skills?
4. What is the average number of students per teacher?
A correct proportion of students per teacher guarantees more guidance.
- How many students can be accommodated in one classroom?
- Are there younger grade classes with aide teachers?
- Does the school have assistance programs for students who require additional help?
5. What other activities and facilities can the students expect from this school?
A school that is well resourced improves the standard of education.
- Does the school have smart classrooms, and a library, laboratory, and a computer room?
- Are there sports grounds, studios for arts, and rooms for music in the school?
- Is there a program for other activities aside from or together with the normal lessons?
6. In what ways does the school provide supervision and ensure the child's safety?
Care is the overriding concern for each parent.
- Are there CCTV cameras and security guards on campus?
- What are the steps taken to ensure emergency preparedness and first aid?
- Is there an anti-bullying and harassment policy in place?
7. How Does the School Support Holistic Development?
Students’ development should not be limited to academic achievement. A child requires character-building and life skills development.
- Is there encouragement for developing leadership, team-work, and problem-solving skills?
- Is there a provision for mental health and counseling for the students?
- How does the school assist children in developing self-confidence and socially acceptable behaviour?
8. What Is the School’s Approach to Assessments and Exams?
A well-designed assessment system incorporates evaluation by non-observable behavior.
- Is there continuous test administration, or is performance appraisal over a longer period?
- Are students offered marks or grades without any guidance on how to improve?
- Are there other forms of appraisal aside from marks, such as through projects or presentations?
9. How Does the School Communicate with Parents?
It is no doubt that parents’ involvement is a key element of a child’s education.
- How frequently are parent-teacher conferences held?
- Are parents free to visit the school whenever they want?
- Can parents log into an online system to monitor their child’s development?
10. What are the values and culture in the school?
The culture of the school has an impact on the way students interact, learn, and grow.
- Does the school support multiculturalism and internationalism?
- Do the students learn about social responsibility and business ethics?
- What is the school’s approach to creating a sense of identity, belonging, and community?
The right school should be carefully chosen as it has far-reaching consequences on the child’s life. These questions will assist you focus on the school’s priorities, ethos, and culture. Celestiia School values open communication with parents and invites them to learn as much as possible beforehand. If you are searching for a compassionate, well-rounded and academically rigorous school, then The Celestiia School is the one.