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HomeFind a SchoolDefining Your Ideal School

Define your ideal school

Decide what is important to you and your family when choosing a school for your child. Consider practical matters, the academic program and the school's culture.

By GreatSchools Staff

What qualities are you looking for in a school? Think about what matters most to you by answering each question below.

The practical

It's important to consider practical matters to help narrow your school search. These include your family's child care needs during nonschool hours, daily and yearly schedule, transportation, school location, coordination of your other children's school schedules and your financial constraints.

1. Which types of schools are you interested in?

  • public
  • private
  • charter
  • magnet
  • homeschooling
  • religious

2. How far from home are you willing to travel, and what transportation needs do you have?

  • walking distance
  • driving distance — 1 mile, 5 miles, 10 miles
  • need bus transportation

3. Does your child have any needs that require special attention?

  • learning disabilities
  • bilingual education
  • physical disabilities
  • other

4. Do you need child care before or after school?

  • before school
  • after school
  • half day (kindergarten)

5. Which school facilities are important to you?

  • modern building
  • safe/large playground
  • wireless and laptops
  • computer lab
  • playing fields and sports facilities

6. Would your child perform better in a small or a large school?

  • under 100 students
  • under 200 students
  • under 500 students
  • any size
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