Researching and narrowing down schools that are the best fit is one of the most important decisions a family can make prior to beginning their search for a home. In Greater Cleveland/Akron, we are lucky. We have excellent public, private, and parochial school options.
Starting Point
Over the years, EA has helped hundreds of families find the right schools for their children. We have listened to and worked with school administrators, guidance counselors, parents, and students to understand the important factors in choosing the right schools.
We have compiled a list of relevant questions that every family should ask as they search for the right fit for their children. Let this list spark your own questions as you begin your research.
We cannot stress this enough: When possible, visit schools with classes in session to see teachers, students, and administrators on a typical school day. EA is happy to facilitate these visits.
Students
What is the typical classroom size for PreK-2, intermediate 3-5, middle 6-8, and high school 9-12?
What is the average number of students in a typical graduating class?
What percentage of your high school graduates attends college?
What are the demographics of the school?
Staff
Do you provide administrative staff names and contact information?
Is support staff available - social workers, counselors, psychologists, nurses, speech therapists, etc.?
Curriculum
Do you offer half and/or full-day Kindergarten? Is there an extra cost associated with the full-day option?
Describe the curriculum including the textbook series used for Reading, Math, Science, and Social Studies. Does the school use E-books?
Please describe encore subjects such art, physical education, music, instrumental music, and how often per week are they available? Do you have a STEAM program? Do you offer enrichment and/or remediation programs during the day?
What foreign languages do you offer and beginning in which grade?
What kinds of technology are used in the classrooms (interactive projection system, Promethean Boards, iPads, iBooks, Chrome Books, clickers, etc.)?
Describe the lab facilities. How much time is scheduled in labs?
What types of social emotional learning opportunities are available?
Do you offer off-site field trips?
Do you offer gifted programs? How do students test into these programs?
Extracurricular Activities
Are there activities and programs before and/or after school? Are there fees associated with extracurriculars?
Athletics
What sports programs are available for fall, winter, and spring?
What is the mandatory start date for high school/middle school fall sports practice and required documentation for a transferring athlete?
Is there a 'pay to play' fee?
Schedule
Ask for a copy of the school calendar including start and end dates, holiday breaks, and quarter or trimester reporting of grades.
Other
Does the school have a dress code and/or uniform?
Is there transportation to and from school? To and from daycare facilities?
Is there a lunch program/breakfast program? What is the cost?
Ask for copies of the Ohio state school report card and AYP (Adequate Yearly Progress).
What sets you apart from neighboring school districts?
Have there been any recent levies on the ballot? Did they pass or fail and why? Photo Credits Preview modal-
Photo Credits
Monarch classroom - courtesy Monarch School.
Photo Courtesy of Orange City Schools.
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