The checklist before moving is a long one, but one of the most important things to do is ensure the quality of your child’s new school. If we learn anything from the pandemic, we can see how important school is. Vital social skills and the ability to be resilient are what children can learn in a nurturing school setting. Because of this, the school you send your kid could have lifelong effects.
The role of teachers in molding your child cannot be overstated, but you should also consider the school’s philosophy and administration when determining which school will set your child up for future success. Presented below by Davidson County Alive, here are some tips for making sure your kid is going to the right school before moving.
Ask People You Trust and Verify Their Recommendations
While you may ask your real estate agent about the reputations of local schools, seeing which schools your agent recommends and which schools to avoid, you need to check what the agent recommends. SmartMove.us suggests researching school statistics online; taking a tour of the school during school hours; knowing your different options (Are there charter schools in your area? Highly recommended private schools? Highly ranked public schools?); and asking people who live in town their recommendations.
If you already know families or friends in your new hometown, ask for their honest assessment of the local schools in order to gain more intel. While the school itself is of primary importance to your child’s success, the surrounding neighborhood is important to consider as well.
Do Your Research
Oftentimes, parents will not have the opportunity to visit potential schools in-person before they enroll their kid. For this reason, the ability to conduct research on potential schools online and over the phone is a must.
Another resource is the National Center for Education Statistics, which provides a comprehensive array of statistics that will assist you in determining the quality of a given school or district. Once a list of potential schools in your new hometown is compiled, take the time to scour each school’s website and call to inquire about programs offered.
While there are countless important questions to ask, there are some that are essential. What is the student-teacher ratio, what does the curriculum look like, and how is the safety of the school and neighborhood? While school officials may tend to paint rosier pictures of their institution, some may be more honest than expected. It is very important to find a school that fits your child.
Safety First
Let’s face it: some schools are not located in safe neighborhoods, and this can affect the safety of your child, especially if there are cases of drug use or criminal activity in the area.
A child who has recently moved is likely to experience feelings of loss and isolation due to the fact that they have left their network of friends and other familiar faces behind. Whether in an effort to fit in, or ease any emotional pain they may be experiencing, a child in a new environment may face increased risk of drug and alcohol use. While each child is different, ensuring the safety of a neighborhood and the reputation of a student body is important in deciding which school your child should attend.
Also, you might be moving because of a new job and better pay. This might be especially important to you if you have loved ones in other countries to support. The Conversation notes that people with family in places like Mexico are sending funds to loved ones in record numbers. Be sure to think the practicalities through, though, because the last thing you want is for your hard earned money to be intercepted by hackers. There are reliable and secure funds transfer services you can employ for the task. Also verify that the service you use offers a guarantee that the money will be delivered in a timely manner.
Parents can ease the stress of moving by simply talking to their child and being honest about their fears for them. In turn, a child may be more likely to open up about their own struggles with the move. Letting your child know what school you think is best and getting their input will help you choose the best school situation for them. While moving is never stress-free, finding the ideal school is the first step in establishing a smooth transition.