Top 5 Mistakes Parents Make When Choosing a School

Today’s hectic schedules sometimes prevent parents from making the best decisions. When it comes to education, the Diocese of Orlando is highlighting the following errors parents should avoid when choosing one of our Catholic schools in Polk County.Visiting a School Only Once Before Making a DecisionFirst impressions are important, but to know a school better, visit more frequently and at different times of the day. Sometimes teachers or administrators have an off day, and if you plan a tour on one of those days, you may see the school negatively when in all likelihood it is an excellent school. The culture of a school is also a tremendous factor; see how your child reacts to the school when you visitJudging by BeautyA new school is eye catching with the latest gadgets and shiny new paint. However, an older, well-maintained school retains its history and the teachers are more likely to be long-standing experts in education.Asking Too Few QuestionsBy nature, people are generally polite. They tend to take in information rather than ask for it. Break out of the mold and bring a list of questions you want answered. Look online as well, checking the school’s rating, and read information other parents have left about the school. Their insight may be a deciding factor, especially if their child’s needs are similar to the needs of your child.Not Considering LocationIf your school of choice is an hour away, it will be difficult for you to pop by and deliver a forgotten homework assignment or pick up your child if he or she has an illness. While choosing a school simply because it is close is generally not the best choice, keep in mind the distance and traffic patterns when looking at schools farther from home or work.Academic FocusSome students thrive on stringent academics, and a school that highlights its academics over all other aspects may be exactly what they need. Other students focus more on extracurricular activities and may wish to enroll in a school more tailored for their tastes. Students with special needs may require a school to meet their learning styles. Therefore, choose a school with an academic focus that matches your child’s abilities; a good match between student and school is far better than choosing the school with the highest academic standards.The teachers and staff at Catholic schools in Polk County will ensure all these mistakes are not part of your school experience when you decide which of our schools is best suited for your child. Call the Diocese of Orlando at 407-246-4800 to learn about our schools. Our blogs highlight many of these schools along with our mission to educate the entire child: mind, body, and soul.