Many K-12 Private Schools fail to address the elephant in the room. By this, I mean they would rather answer questions in person than talk about them on their website. This is a huge misconception and mistake.
Prospective parents are looking for answers about their child’s education, and the more a school can answer those questions on its website, the more likely they are to rise to the top of the list of private schools these parents want to enroll their children in.
Therefore, here are twenty-one of the top questions parents want answers to:
Top 21 Questions Parents Ask About K-12 Private Schools
Question 1: Why Should I Choose a Private School over a Public School?
Answer:
K-12 private schools offer several advantages, including smaller class sizes, specialized programs, and a focus on academic excellence. They often provide a more rigorous curriculum, individualized attention, and a supportive learning environment.
Question 2: What Is the Tuition Fee, and What Does It Cover?
Answer:
Private schools have varying tuition fees based on location, facilities, and reputation. Tuition fees generally cover expenses like academic instruction, textbooks, technology resources, extracurricular activities, and access to specialized programs.
Question 3: What Is the School’s Academic Curriculum and Approach?
Answer:
K-12 private schools often offer unique academic curricula tailored to their educational philosophy. They may focus on specialized subjects, offer advanced or accelerated courses, or incorporate alternative teaching methods. Private schools generally have the flexibility to design their curriculum, allowing for innovative approaches and tailored educational experiences.
Question 4: How Are the Class Sizes and Student-Teacher Ratios?
Answer:
Private schools typically maintain smaller class sizes and lower student-teacher ratios than public schools. This allows for more individualized attention and opportunities for meaningful teacher-student interactions. Smaller class sizes can foster a tight-knit community and a supportive learning environment.
Question 5: What Extracurricular Activities Are Offered?
Answer:
K-12 private schools often provide various extracurricular activities to complement the academic curriculum. These activities may include sports teams, art clubs, music programs, drama productions, robotics clubs, community service initiatives, and more.
Question 6: What Support Services Are Available for Students With Special Needs or Learning Differences?
Answer:
Private schools should provide support services and accommodations for students with special needs or learning differences. Elaborate about the school’s approach to individualized education plans (IEPs), specialized instruction, and the availability of support professionals such as learning specialists or counselors.
Question 7: How Does the School Handle Discipline and Behavioral Expectations?
Answer:
Each private school may have its approach to discipline and behavioral expectations. Elaborate about the school’s disciplinary policies, code of conduct, and how the school fosters a positive and respectful learning environment. Understanding the school’s disciplinary practices helps ensure parents that their child will thrive in an environment that promotes positive behavior and character development.
Question 8: How Does the School Handle Issues Like Bullying or Conflicts Among Students?
Answer:
It’s essential to explain how the K-12 private school addresses bullying and student conflicts. Talk about the school’s policies, prevention strategies, and support systems in place to create a safe and inclusive environment.
Question 9: What Is the School’s Approach to College Preparation?
Answer:
Many parents may have long-term goals for their child to attend college. It’s essential to know how the school prepares students for higher education. Elaborate about college counseling services, standardized test preparation, and the school’s track record of college placements.
Question 10: How Does the School Involve Parents in the Educational Process?
Answer:
Parental involvement plays an essential role in a child’s education. Elaborate about the opportunities for parents to engage with the school community, such as parent-teacher associations, volunteering, or attending school events. Having avenues for parental involvement allows you to actively participate in their child’s educational journey.
Question 11: How Does the School Ensure the Safety and Security of Students?
Answer:
Ensuring the safety and security of students is paramount. Elaborate about the school’s safety protocols, emergency preparedness plans, and measures to prevent and address potential risks. This may include procedures for visitor management, surveillance systems, staff training, and communication protocols. Understanding the school’s safety commitment helps provide parents and students peace of mind.
Question 12: What Is the School’s Philosophy or Mission Statement?
Answer:
K-12 private schools often have a distinct philosophy or mission statement that guides their educational approach. This may include academic excellence, character development, community service, cultural diversity, or religious affiliation. Understanding the school’s mission can help you assess whether it aligns with the parent’s educational goals and values for their child.
Question 13: How Are Students Assessed, and How Are Grades Determined?
Answer:
Private schools use various assessment methods to evaluate student progress and determine grades. These methods may include tests, projects, presentations, essays, and class participation. Elaborate about the school’s assessment practices and grading criteria so parents can understand how student performance is measured and reported.
Question 14: Are There Any Religious or Cultural Affiliations Associated With the School?
Answer:
Some K-12 private schools may have religious or cultural affiliations that shape their educational programs and values. Talk about the school’s affiliations, if any, and how they are incorporated into the curriculum and school activities. Understanding the religious or cultural context helps prospective parents assess whether it aligns with their family’s beliefs and values.
Question 15: What Are the Qualifications and Experience of the Teaching Staff?
Answer:
Elaborate about the qualifications and experience of the teaching staff at the school. Don’t be afraid to brag about their educational background, certifications, professional development opportunities, and experience working with students.
Question 16: Are There Any Transportation Services Provided?
Answer:
If the private school offers transportation services, clearly state it on the website. Some schools may provide bus or shuttle services, while others may have arrangements with local transportation providers. Understanding transportation options helps parents assess the practicality of enrolling their child.
Question 17: What Is the School’s Approach to Technology and its Integration into the Curriculum?
Answer:
K-12 private schools recognize the transformative power of technology in education. Talk about how the school integrates technology into the curriculum to enhance student learning, promote critical thinking, and develop digital literacy skills. Explain how the teachers utilize learning management systems to facilitate seamless communication, assignment submissions, and academic progress tracking.
Question 18: What is Communication with Parents Regarding Student Progress and Events?
Answer:
Elaborate on how the private school prioritizes open and effective communication with parents. Does it employ various channels such as websites, social media platforms, and mobile applications to inform parents about their child’s progress and upcoming events? Then talk about it. Does the school have regular parent-teacher conferences, newsletters, and email correspondence further strengthen the partnership between it and parents, ensuring a holistic understanding of the child’s educational journey? Then state that clearly on the website and in your communications.
Question 19: What Opportunities for Students to Participate in Community Service or Volunteering?
Answer:
Does the K-12 private school recognize the importance of fostering a sense of civic responsibility and community engagement? If so, expand on how it provides students with meaningful opportunities to participate in community service and volunteering activities.
Question 20: How Does the School Promote Diversity and Inclusion?
Answer:
Inclusive education is at the heart of many private schools. Say that if the school strives to create a welcoming and supportive environment that celebrates diversity in all its forms. Elaborate on the school’s implementation of inclusive curriculum practices, organization of cultural events, and establishing affinity groups or diversity committees to address critical issues and promote dialogue. These initiatives cultivate a sense of belonging, empowering students to become compassionate global citizens who appreciate and understand the richness of human diversity.
Question 21: What Is the School’s Homework and Standardized Testing Policy?
Answer:
K-12 private schools approach homework and standardized testing with careful consideration, aiming to strike a balance between academic rigor and holistic development. Homework is designed to reinforce classroom learning and foster independent thinking skills, ensuring students have opportunities to practice and apply what they have learned.
Regarding standardized testing, elaborate on the school’s policy and practices of adhering to state or national requirements if it does so. Also, emphasize how a comprehensive education goes beyond test preparation. Talk about how the school focuses on individual growth, character development, and a holistic assessment of student capabilities.
Conclusion
Obviously, there may be more, or a private school may not need to answer all these questions. The above list is simply a baseline for K-12 private schools to start thinking about answering on the school’s website.
If your school isn’t implementing the above, then start today! If you need help implementing it, then reach out to me. Myself and everyone at Cube Creative Design is experienced in helping K-12 private schools grow.
