Choosing the right school for your child is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a parent. With so many options available, from public to private, charter to magnet, it can be overwhelming to determine which path will be best.

This post is the first in a series designed to help you navigate this crucial choice. First, we’ll start with guiding questions to determine which types of schools to consider for your child. From here, each post will serve as a guide to one of the common school types families consider—private, independent, charter, traditional public and boarding.

Now let’s get into our questions.

What’s important to you?

Before diving into the school search, take a moment to reflect on your own values and priorities. What do you believe is essential for your child’s education? Is it a strong academic program, a diverse student body, a nurturing environment or a specific educational philosophy? Clarifying your individual priorities will help narrow down your options.

What’s important to your child?

While your preferences matter, don’t forget to consider your child’s unique needs and interests. After all, they’re the ones who’ll spend the bulk of their days attending the school you choose! 

Does your child thrive in a structured environment or prefer a more flexible approach? Are they passionate about a particular subject or extracurricular activity? Whether your child is a future mathematician or ballerina, considering your child’s learning style, aspirations and individual needs will guide you towards the most suitable school categories to consider.

How old is your child?

Your child’s age plays a significant role in determining the type of school they should attend. For younger children, you may prioritize a play-based curriculum, more individualized attention and a strong focus on social-emotional development. As they grow older, academic rigor and preparation for college or career may become more important.

Does your child have a learning difference or physical limitation?

If your child has specific learning needs or physical limitations, it’s crucial to find a school equipped to provide the necessary support and accommodations. Research schools that provide accommodations for students with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) or 504 plans, access to additional therapies like speech or occupational therapy and specialized programs, like assistive technology, to ensure your child receives the best possible educational experience.

How does your child learn best?

One of the many lessons we learned during the Covid pandemic is that the best learning formats for school-aged children can vary widely. While some students struggled with online learning, others thrived. If your child is in the latter category or would benefit from hyper-personalized instruction and individual attention, an online school or homeschooling might be right for you. 

Are you willing to pay for school for this age group?

Private and independent schools can come with a high cost depending on the type of school and the area you live in, so consider your financial situation and willingness to invest in your child’s education before college. Many parents defer this type of cost until their children are older, but if you start early, consider the impact of paying tuition over a more extended period. If you have a child who requires support with speech, occupational therapy or a diagnosed learning difference, you may also find that there are extra costs involved in supporting those needs in a private or independent school environment beyond tuition. Still, many private schools offer financial aid or scholarships, so don’t let cost be the sole deterrent.

Are you willing to commute to get your child to school, or is a robust bus system important?

Depending on your location and schedule, proximity of the school may be a key factor. Traditional public schools tend to have robust bus systems that serve their districts, while bus service at private and independent schools can be more limited (or nonexistent). Traditional public schools can also be more conveniently located in the neighborhoods they serve. Depending on your child’s age, proximity also becomes a factor when it comes to extracurricular activities on campus.

If you’re open to a longer commute, you’ll have more options to choose from. However, if you prefer a school closer to home or have limited time in the mornings and evenings to commute to and from your child’s school, you’ll need to prioritize schools within a reasonable distance from home.

Are you willing to manage your child’s friendships outside your immediate neighborhood?

When you attend a school outside your local community, maintaining your child’s friendships may require more effort, especially when they’re young. Consider whether you’re willing to arrange playdates, carpools and social activities with children in other parts of town to help your child build and sustain friendships.

How long do you want your child to be part of a school community?

Some schools, such as K-12 institutions, offer a continuous educational journey from elementary through high school. Others may only serve specific grade levels, requiring your child to transition to a new school at some point. 

If you want your child to be part of the same community from the time they learn to write their name until they cross the stage in their cap and gown, K-12 private or independent schools would be good to consider. If you’re open to having some separation between age groups, there are a variety of K-8, traditional elementary, traditional middle and traditional high school options across school types. Decide whether you prefer the stability of a long-term school community or are open to potential changes down the road.

Wrapping up

By carefully considering these questions and discussing them with your child, you’ll be better equipped to make an informed decision about their educational path. Remember, there are pros and cons to all school types, and ultimately, the “right” school is the one that aligns with your family’s values, supports your child’s growth and fosters a love for learning. 

Trust your instincts, do your research and don’t hesitate to reach out to schools (and other parents!) directly with any questions or concerns. With patience and persistence, you’ll find the perfect fit for your child’s unique needs and aspirations. And if you need a little help starting your search, don’t miss our K-12 School Quiz for personalized recommendations!