Choosing the right school for your child
At some point, every parent faces the same high-stakes decision: which school is best for my child? Parents who have a child with special needs approach that process in a way that’s fundamentally different from parents of mainstream kids. If you have both, you’ve probably experienced that difference.
For mainstream schools, the most important selling points include academic achievement, often measured by test scores; what extracurricular activities are available for students to excel in; and, in the upper grades, the track record for admission to high-ranking colleges and universities.
For school aiding those with special needs, the criteria for comparison include more granular considerations. The search criteria is generally more about the process of education and less about the results after the child graduates.
And in 2020, there’s an all-new factor to evaluate: the coronavirus pandemic. For many parents today, a school’s strategies for managing coronavirus risk top the list of priorities. Questions surrounding it might include: What metrics guide the school’s decision to open or close? What safety measures are deployed—and at what frequency—to protect students, teachers and staff? How well and reliably does the school communicate with parents and students on health issues? What protocols are followed when a student or school employee tests positive?
Beyond that, there’s a list of considerations when shopping for a school that’s right for your child. Though you’ll want to give each feature its own weight, reflecting your child’s needs, consider factoring these topics into your decision:
Vibe: Engage your instincts on your first visit. What’s your reaction when you approach the building? Does it look/feel inviting? Is it well-tended? Once inside, are the facilities properly maintained? Do the people you encounter seem friendly, helpful, welcoming? Similarly, what vibe do you get when you observe the students? The teachers? Do they seem engaged and focused?
Staff responsiveness: How hard is it to reach a decision-maker when you call with a question or concern? What’s their attitude when you made a reasonable request? How much of a priority do they place on addressing parents’ issues?
Decision-makers: Do you have reasonable access to the top administrators? Do they seem like a coordinated team, eager to work with you to resolve any issues involving your child? Do they give you their full attention?
Food: Would your child be eating meals in a cafeteria setting? In a classroom? Does it feel welcoming?
Healthcare: Is there a nurse or other medical professional on-site? Are they fully trained in pediatric care? What does the medical office look like? What are their contingency plans if a student needs to visit a hospital or urgent care center?
Assistive technology: If your child requires it, what equipment is available? Is it properly maintained? What equipment would your child be bringing to school?
Therapy: If your child requires speech/language, occupational, physical or other therapy, does the school provide access to appropriate professionals? Are they fully licensed? Would your child feel comfortable working with them? Would you have access to them if you had questions or concerns?
Discovery School at Hope Haven is open to children between the ages of 3 and 8, with scholarships and afterschool programs available. If you’re considering educational resources for a child, we invite you to come for a tour. To learn more or schedule your visit, call 904.346.5100.