Boarding School
Making the choice to attend a boarding school is a big decision for a student and his/her family. Attending boarding school is a decision that should be made with caution and after gathering information. Below are some suggestions for things to consider in selecting a boarding a school.
Reputation
Think about what you have heard about the school consider both the positive and negative information. If possible, ask other families and students about their experiences with the school and its faculty, curriculum and administration.
Accreditation
Investigate the credentials of the school and be sure it is appropriately accredited. You may even want to ask the administration if the school is involved in a peer review process of its programs and curriculum. If the school is part of a peer review process, you may want to ask to see a copy of the last review. A call to the state department of education may also be helpful in determining if the school has any educational issues which should be of concern.
Curriculum
If possible, sit in on classes or ask for copies of course syllabuses. Carefully, consider if the curriculum is appropriate for you or your student and meets the academic needs of the child. Also, think about if the subjects taught and the manner of teaching fit with you and your familys personal and moral beliefs.
Instructors
Inquire about the instructors who teach at the school. You might want to know the level of education the teachers have along with the number of years they have been teaching. You should also ask if the school conducts background checks on its faculty and other staff who interact with students.
Financing
Paying for boarding school can be expensive. Financial arrangements should be discussed up front in a straightforward and realistic manner. If cost is a concern, ask about scholarships and other ways to supplement tuition costs. It will be helpful if you bring a copy of your financial records with you when you visit the school. |
