Choose School

Part B: Before the Visit 

A) Availability and Accessibility

• Staff Response: Evaluate the responsiveness and friendliness of the staff when interacting with them. Do they answer your questions promptly and completely? Do they appear helpful and willing to address your questions and concerns? The first impression matters, and a positive interaction with the staff reflects the school's commitment to communication and parent involvement.

• Appearance and Organization: Observe the cleanliness and orderliness of the facilities, including bathrooms and classrooms. A clean and well-organized environment is not only conducive to learning but also demonstrates the school's care and attention to student well-being.​
   

B) Appearance and Environment

• Decoration: It is important to remember that classroom decoration should be intentional and not just fill empty space. It should have an educational and functional purpose that is relevant and important to students. Not just posters of shapes, letters, etc.

• Educational Materials: Look for relevant, age-appropriate materials that encourage learning. Evaluate the quality and variety of the available materials, and consider if they align with your child's educational philosophy and interests.

• Toys: Opt for schools with natural and free exploration toys that stimulate creativity and imagination. Avoid an excess of battery-operated or character-themed toys, as they can limit children's play experiences and hinder their ability to engage in imaginative and exploratory play.

• Display of Student Work: Look for evidence of an environment that values individual achievement and effort. Student work displayed on walls and hallways not only beautifies the space but also demonstrates the pride students feel in their accomplishments.

• Teacher Workspace: A clutter-free and functional teacher's desk suggests an organized and focused learning environment. Observe if the space is well-organized and if materials are easily accessible to students. Rotation of

• Materials: Evaluate whether learning materials evolve throughout the school year. A dynamic learning environment adapts to the changing needs of students and encourages exploration and growth. Not just changing toys weekly.

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C) Administration

• Accessibility of Leadership Team: Evaluate how easy it is to communicate with principals or assistant principals. Are they available to speak with parents and address their concerns?

• Interaction with Students: Observe how administrative staff interacts with students. Are they friendly, welcoming, and interested in the individual needs of students?

• Communication Channels: Ask about the available communication channels and how the school keeps parents informed. Are there newsletters, parent-teacher conferences, or online platforms to facilitate communication?

• Admissions Policies: Understand the admissions process, including documentation requirements and application deadlines. Ask about visit options and the availability of open house days.

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D) Food

• Meal Times: Investigate meal times, including lunch and snack. Ensure they align with your child's schedule and that there is enough time to eat and rest.

• Adaptations for Allergies or Dietary Needs: Ask how the school handles food allergies and special dietary needs. Are there established protocols to prevent cross-contamination and ensure the safety of all students?

• Food Provider: Find out who provides food for students. Is it prepared at the school or does it come from an external provider? Evaluate the quality and nutritional value of the food. Social

• Aspects of Mealtime: Observe how mealtime is organized in the lower grades. Some schools adopt a "family-style" approach, where teachers eat with students, fostering social interaction and community building.

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E) Behavior Issues

• Behavior Management Strategies: Ask about the school's approach to managing challenging behaviors. Investigate if they have dedicated special education teachers or trained staff to support students with behavioral needs.

• Experience with Special Education Students: If the school has experience adapting to students with special education requirements, ask about the strategies they have used to address challenging behaviors effectively.

• Adaptation of Strategies: Evaluate the school's commitment to individualized support by asking how they adapt behavior management strategies to meet the unique needs of each student.

• Monitoring and Adjustment: Ask about their process for monitoring the effectiveness of these strategies and adjusting them as needed.Look for schools that demonstrate a proactive approach to behavior management.

• Prevention, Intervention, and Ongoing Support: Look for schools that prioritize prevention, intervention, and ongoing support for students with behavioral issues.

• Behavior Management Programs: Investigate if the school implements any specific behavior management programs or approaches, such as Responsive Classroom activities.

• Evidence-Based Practices: While not mandatory, the incorporation of evidence-based practices can enhance the school's ability to teach discipline effectively and create a positive learning environment for all students.
   

F) Specials and Specialists

• Availability of Therapists and Specialists: Ask about the availability of speech therapists, occupational therapists, and counselors at the school. Investigate if the school has specialists in other areas, such as psychologists or social workers.

• Additional Support Services: Find out if the school offers additional support services to students who may need extra assistance. These services may include tutoring, early intervention programs, or support for students with unique learning needs.

• School Psychologist: Ask if the school has a school psychologist and what their role is in evaluating and supporting students. A school psychologist can be a valuable resource for identifying special needs and developing individualized support plans.

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