Education

Every year, scores of parents look into the option of sending their children to private schools. But because no 2 schools are alike, finding the right one can be a difficult task. So where do you begin?

Tamara Solis, principal and dean of academics at Upland Christian School, says, “The best PR is word of mouth. Talk to other parents. Shopping for private school is just like shopping for college. Each school has something different to offer; decide what is important to you, such as academics or athletics, and start there.”

In his book “The Parents’ Guide to Alternatives in Education,” author Ronald Koetzsch states that rather than looking for a “perfect school,” parents should look for one that meets the needs of their child. “There’s no such thing as a perfect school,” he says. One school can be right for one child and wrong for another.

For this reason, parents should look at their child’s needs, taking into account his strengths, weaknesses, interests and talents. Also consider what sort of learning environment the child would be most comfortable in. A self-motivated learner, for example, may do well in a program where he gets to direct and carry out his own learning. But a child in need of constant direction might be more suited to a structured environment. Certain schools are right for certain children, says Koetzsch. It’s just a matter of finding what fits.

Make a wish list
Write down what you want in a school. Consider your own preferences, as well as your child’s personality, gifts and talents. “Be specific about ambiance, class size, teaching style, curriculum, the role of art and music, homework, where parents fit in the running of the school, and so on,” says Koetzsch. But, he warns, remember, you are not constructing an absolute educational ideal, just one that is appropriate for your child.

Next, make a list of all the schools in your area that are potential candidates. Call and ask them to send information about their school. Once the information has arrived, look at each one’s program, mission, services, faculty and administration. What makes the school unique? What is its teaching philosophy? Is there a vision for the future? Is there anything the school does particularly well? What about the curriculum? Will it cater to your child’s talents and interests?

Cost and commute: Are they also important?
While cost and commuting distance are factors, Koetzsch says these are hurdles that can be overcome. Some of the most expensive schools, he says, also have the largest amounts of financial aid available.

Upland Christian School’s Solis says, “Private school tuition is a huge commitment. You have to prioritize what is important to your family. That might mean not buying the nicest house on the block or owning a new car. It’s all a matter of priority.”

As far as the commute goes, there may be someone in your community who would welcome ride-sharing. Solis adds: “Our school has a bulletin board listed by area for parents to sign up for carpools. Carpooling is the best way to handle the commute. Also, some parents work in the city where our private school is. It makes drop-off and pickup easier for the moms and dads.”

Stop by for a visit
After reviewing the materials, arrange to visit those schools that appeal to you. Still, Koetzsch advises, be open-minded. Consider visiting a school even if it’s not one of your top selections. “There is tremendous variety even among schools that share a common educational philosophy and practice,” he says. “The school you expected to love may disappoint you, and you may find a gem where you didn’t expect one.”

While visiting, sit in on the classes and observe the teachers and students. And don’t forget your notebook, either. According to Koetzsch, it’s a good idea to keep a written record of every visit. “Note the obvious facts – school size, class size, ambiance of the school as a whole and of individual classrooms, absence or presence of a dress code, and general demeanor of the students and teachers.” Also, be sure to record your reaction. Did you feel comfortable and relaxed, or uptight and anxious?

You may also consider having your child “shadow” another student for the day. Shadowing allows the child to experience the dynamics of the school by attending class, having lunch and interacting with other students. At the end of the day, your child will be able to tell you whether or not she liked the school.

Talk to other parents and follow your gut
Get the names of some parents whose children attend the school and would be willing to talk with you. Ask them what they do and don’t like about the school. Also try to obtain a few names of parents who were not happy there, and enrolled their children elsewhere. As Koetzsch points out, all schools have success stories, but no school works for every child. “Find out about a child who did not thrive at the school,” he says.

Finally, and most importantly, follow your intuition. As a parent, you know your child better than anyone else. If you’ve done your homework, you’ll know if it’s the right school or not. And while it may not fit your specifications exactly, it more than likely will be an environment where your child can grow and flourish – intellectually, emotionally, physically and in some cases, spiritually, too.


Denise Yearian is a freelance writer and mother of 3 children.


Kathleen Crain is a staff writer for OC Family Magazine.

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QUESTIONS TO ASK WHEN
CONSIDERING A PRIVATE SCHOOL:

>> What is the school’s philosophy on teaching reading?
>> What kinds of books are the children expected to read? Who chooses them?
>> How and when is writing and composition taught?
Is there time for creative writing?
>> Is the curriculum established or does it emerge from the students’ interests?
>> How often do the children use textbooks? Workbooks? Worksheets?
>> When do children start getting homework? How much and at what grades?
>> How are the children assessed?
>> When does computer education start? How much exposure per week do they get?
>> What extracurricular activities are offered? Are they open to all children?
>> How much time is spent on music, art and physical education?
>> Are there many opportunities for cooperative learning?
>> How is discipline for improper behavior carried out?
>> What qualifications do the teachers have?
>> Who makes decisions about the school?
>> What level of parental participation is allowed?