Reply to The case for "low rigor" at highly competitive private lower schools?

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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]OP here, pushing the thread off in a bit of a different direction.

How do the private schools establish curricular standards? I assume in the public system there is a committee of government-appointed bureaucrats which dictates textbooks/lesson plans/topics (though presumably schools vary in how they implement this).

At the private schools, I think there are visiting committees of teachers from other private schools who review curriculum. But, is parental feedback sought in a meaningful way? Can I ask someone in the lower school for a copy of the most recent report on the curriculum review for topics (without labeling myself a PITA)?

Clearly we could have researched all this last year before applying, but we only decided to apply in December so focused mainly on answering the essay questions.
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I'm certainly no expert about this part, but I believe most independents develop and review their curriculum within the school - with the teachers and administrators working together. They develop the broad goals and then teacher teams will work to determine the details. They will also determine the textbooks and resources that are needed to reach those goals. In addition, each school is required to renew it's membership in the various school associations to which they are accredited. Most schools belong to several different accrediting organizations. I believe this is the process you are describing where other teachers come to the school and review. These take place on a regular calendar basis (often every 5 years). Before this review the school needs to go through a very lengthy process of self-review. Recommendations and suggestions are then made on the part of the accrediting body.

As for parental feedback, you can certainly give your opinion (at least at my kids' school you can…not sure about other places). However, I believe that parents need to remember that they have chosen the school for a reason and trusted that the professionals at this school are knowledgeable about the best practices. You do not indicate whether you are in the education field, but to be blunt, unless you are a teacher/administrator it is wise to listen to the professionals. I get frustrated when parents who are not in the education field at all start demanding changes developed by professionals - it comes across as a bit of slap in the face to the people who do this for a living. This doesn't mean that you shouldn't feel like you can voice your opinions/concerns, but you cannot go into expecting to get your way. You need to listen and work with the teacher/administrator to get the best outcome for your child (or all the children if it is a larger issue). Of course, if there are issues with your child personally then you should always feel like you can reach out to the teachers and administration for guidance, etc. Also, hopefully the school you chose has a good PTA which has a good and healthy relationship with the administration. Working together for the common goal of our kids always makes things run smoother.

Also, most schools have their full curriculum on their website and you can easily review it. You may need to search the website a bit to find it, but I bet it's there. If you cannot find then I would reach out to the Admissions Office since you are still new.

It sounds like your decision to move to private was made a bit quickly since it seems that you did not fully research the school you have chosen and are now questioning the decision. I certainly understand the anxiety that comes with any new change - especially where our kids are concerned. But, if you chose a good, well-known school then you should be fine. Also, remember that if it doesn't turn out to be the best fit for your child and your family - you can always change your mind after next year. Don't view it as a prison and don't stay if it's not right - there are always other options.[/quote]

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