Reply to "Good" Schools

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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]I've always been one to say "the less than top, top schools are fine."  But, this thread has me wondering -- what exactly are the "extras" that the "Better" schools have?

Could you identify the school and give examples of things that they have that you think other schools don't.  I'm genuinely curious what my kids might miss out on if we stay in our current school (which isn't a dump, but would typically be considered low-end in FFX).[/quote]

OK, I'll bite, given that you said that you're genuinely curious.  I recognize that the school you suggested might be labeled "low-end" may indeed have many of these:

- class trips (domestic/abroad) for students in selected AP/IB classes during school year/breaks
- teams that excel in math, science, robotics and/or cybersecurity competitions
- strong student publications (newspaper, yearbook, literary magazine) w/trips to conventions
- strong band/orchestra/music programs w/trips to regional and national competitions
- strong theatre programs 
- DECA programs for students interested in business/marketing
- service organizations such as Best Buddies 
- enough interest to field boys and girls freshmen/JV/varsity sports teams in all team sports
- club sports (crew, ice hockey, rugby)
- strong PTAs/booster clubs that raise money for capital projects (turf fields, other facilities)
- well-organized and attended teacher/staff appreciation days
- sense of obvious pride in the school among teachers, students, parents 
- ability of student groups to raise funds in surrounding community
- limits on number of SOL practice tests (i.e., comfort that school will meet NCLB goals)
- limited cancellations of IB/AP classes due to inadequate interest 
- cadre of experienced teachers with limited turnover
- counselors who assist properly with IEPs, 504s, course selection, college applications (identification of safeties/targets/reaches, essays, transcripts, scholarship opportunities, etc.)
- school/student directories available to families

In my opinion, when a school has most of these features, there's a greater likelihood that kids will find their niche, feel invested in the school, and want to do well.   [/quote]

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