What metrics are parents using to find what the "good" schools are? The Good school districts, private, public, charter?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:We found out a lot by actually visiting potential schools.

Overall, it is very hard to tell if the school is teaching effectively or if the school looks good primarily because so many parents are supplementing outside school (at home, with online things like Beast Academy, or at a tutoring center.).

Several pyramids in MCPS (“W”) and in NoVa look good mainly because of supplementing outside school.

College admissions to private colleges are distorted by things like Legacy status or various other kinds of “hooks”. Nearly impossible to figure out how an unhooked child would fare in college admissions.

How do you arrange for a tour of a public elementary school? It there a website or something?

Can you meet the teachers?

Call and ask the school secretary. They will know the rules. My public schools will allow you to be shown around the school building by the principal. You are not allowed to meet with teachers or watch classrooms.

You can ask about open house nights. In my town those are open to the community. Also PTA meetings. The school secretary should know when those happen. Those are open access although you may have to get information on how to get into the building.

Some schools are open when they are being rented for sports, etc.

In many places, around this time of year, there is a special open house for parents of prospective kindergarteners. Often called a "Welcome Night".

Teachers and administrators are on hand for Welcome Nights and Open Houses. You may find them at school social events like carnivals and book fairs.