High school is one of the most important academic journeys your child will embark on. These are the years where your children will build their life-long friendships and prepare for the next phase of life ahead of them, whether that be college or a career.
Because the high school you choose for your child will have such a large impact on their growth, you’ll want to make sure you choose the best high school for them. When choosing a high school for your children, there are several things to look for.
Learn how to choose a high school today by following the tips listed in our guide below. Continue reading to find out more!
Table of Contents
1. College and Trade Programs
Learn what your child has interests in. Does your child plan to attend college after graduating or going straight into a career? Talk to your child to learn more about what they believe their future looks like.
If your child isn’t sure what they want to do after graduating, then there’s no need to panic. Find a good high school with the right type of programs to help your child succeed. These programs can range from auto shop classes to dual enrollment for college.
Another example is this school with alternative learning programs that allow your child to graduate on their own terms. You want to find a school where you know your child will succeed and find success no matter what that looks like for them.
Remember, each child is different and the best decision for one child might not be the best for another, so take your time in deciding which programs will benefit your child the most.
2. Classroom Size
Classroom size is another important factor to consider. The larger the classroom size, the less amount of time the teacher has to focus on individual students. When the classroom size is smaller than average, the teacher has fewer students to focus on and can spend more time creating engaging lessons and working with students one-on-one.
Be sure to look into the classroom size maximums of each high school you’re considering. You might find that private high schools or charter schools offer smaller classroom sizes.
If you believe your child could benefit from more one-on-one time with the teacher, then these are the types of schools you’ll want to look into.
3. Academic Requirements
What standards does the high school hold its students to? What will be expected of the students there? Check with the school to learn what the academic requirements are.
Which classes or courses must be passed by each student in order for them to graduate. You’ll want to find a school that sets a high enough standard for your child to push them to do their best.
Will advance classes or AP classes be available for your child? You want only the best for your child, so be sure the school offers the type of courses or classes your child needs.
4. Extracurricular Activities
Not all children engage in sports, but sports aren’t the only type of extracurricular activity your child might enjoy. These types of activities are essential for a school to have. If your child does enjoy playing sports, be sure there are plenty of sports for your child to choose from.
Aside from sports, make sure the school offers different types of clubs and activities such as journalism, dance, travel and tourism, and more. You never know what types of interests your child will pick up on while in school.
When their friends are engaging in certain sports or programs, they might be willing to as well and ultimately find their calling in life. Find a school with plenty of extracurricular activities to give your child as many options as possible.
5. Your Child’s Needs
Does your child have specific individual needs? Children with learning disabilities or other types of disabilities should have all the resources possible to make their high school experience as normal as every other student.
If there are any specific needs, then be sure to speak with the school about these needs. Does the school have the resources needed to help your child succeed?
Have your child join on a tour of the school with you. How do they feel about the school? Do they seem to like it?
Remember to take your child’s opinion into account as well.
6. School Environment
The school environment is essential as well. What are the school’s policies on safety and dealing with behavioral issues? Is the school campus clean and well maintained?
How do the teachers interact with the students? You should also ensure there’s a no-bullying policy in place as well with procedures to follow if a bullying situation should occur.
Know all of the school’s policies and agree with them before enrolling your child there.
7. Available Resources
Each student comes with their own unique academic needs and desires. Sit down with your child and the school’s administration to discuss these needs. What resources does the school have to provide the best environment possible for your child?
Is there a guidance counselor there each day? Is there a mentoring program available? Ask the school for a list of all resources for your child depending on what their specific needs are, such as mental health support.
Find the Best High School for Your Children Today
You can find the best high school for your children today by following the tips listed here in this guide! If the school meets your child’s needs and marks everything off the list, then you can feel at ease when enrolling your child there.
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