Long gone are the days where students’ only option is to attend their assigned district school or an expensive private school!
That’s right, thanks to School Choice, the world of education has progressed from having only one or two models to now having countless school types and learning styles available! School choice opens a world of possibilities for families as they have more choices available to them and more power over their child’s education. But you may be wondering, what exactly is school choice, where is it available, and how do I find the right school? Don’t worry, we’ll get to all of your questions in this blog!
What is School Choice?
Put simply, school choice gives parents the power to select the educational path best suited for your children. In essence, it recognizes that one size does not fit all when it comes to education. Whether it means district, private, charter, magnet, homeschooling, or other alternatives, school choice ensures that every child has access to an education tailored to their unique needs and learning styles.
Where is School Choice Available?
2023 was a monumental year for school choice in which 20 states added or expanded their school choice programs, making choice even more accessible for families. Currently, all 50 states allow magnet schools, 45 states allow charter schools, and 32 states provide some kind of private school tuition assistance program. School choice has drastically expanded since 2020, and this momentum is expected to continue. Right now, school choice programs available to families vary from state to state, making school choice more accessible and accepted in some states than others. You can check out this resource to learn what school choice options are available in your state!
What Are The Benefits of School Choice?
The benefits of school choice stretch far and wide, offering a multitude of advantages for your child’s academic and personal growth. Let’s take a closer look:
Tailored Learning Experience
School choice gives you the power to find an educational institution that aligns with your child’s interests, abilities, and goals. In fact, this very reason is exactly why Schola was created! No child should feel lost in the crowd when they have the opportunity to flourish in an environment catered to their unique learning style.
Enhanced Quality of Education
While it may seem odd, school choice actually fosters a healthy competition among educational institutions, inspiring them to strive for the highest standards of teaching and educational programs. It’s a win-win situation where your child reaps the rewards of an enriched and dynamic learning experience.
Safety and Well-Being
Each child deserves to feel safe and comfortable in their learning environment. School choice allows parents to choose a school that ensures their child’s safety, promotes an inclusive and nurturing atmosphere, and aligns with their family’s values.
Stronger Parent Involvement
When you have the freedom to choose your child’s school, you become an active participant in their educational journey. School choice encourages parents to engage with teachers, administrators, and fellow parents, fostering a strong support system that nurtures your child’s development holistically.
How Can I Choose The Right School?
Now that you know a little bit more about school choice and its amazing benefits, you may be wondering how you can actually go about actually selecting the right school for your child.
That’s where Schola comes in! Schola is the online tool to help you find the perfect PK-12 school. On Schola.com you can get matched to schools in your area that align with your needs and interests and get personalized support from our team so you can make the right choice.
Here are some extra tips to help you navigate the path towards finding the perfect school:
Assess Your Child’s Needs
Take the time to understand your child’s learning style, interests, and any specific educational requirements. This self-reflection will act as a compass, guiding you towards schools that align with their needs and aspirations.
Research, Research, Research
Arm yourself with information about different schools in your area, and don’t forget, Schola is the perfect place to start! Taking your research even further, you can explore schools’ websites, social media, and news articles to gain insights into their mission, academics, extracurricular activities, and student achievements.
Visit and Observe
A school visit is the perfect opportunity to get a glimpse into a new school, so make sure to schedule visits to your top school choices. On your visit, try to immerse yourself within the school’s environment, observe the interactions between staff and students, and get a feel for the overall atmosphere. Check out our blog post to guide you, and remember to trust your instincts – you’ll know when you’ve found “the one.”
Seek Input and Guidance
Don’t hesitate to seek advice and recommendations from fellow parents, educational consultants (like Schola), or online forums dedicated to school choice. Their experiences and perspectives may shed light on factors you haven’t considered.
Engage with Staff and Administrators
Reach out to teachers, principals, and administrators to discuss any concerns or questions you may have. They will be happy to provide you with insights into their educational philosophy, support systems, and strategies for your child’s success.
As we celebrate school choice week, remember that you and your child are in the driver’s seat of their education! School choice is diverse and empowering, and learning to navigate all available options is so important for your child’s academic success. If you need assistance identifying, connecting, and even applying for the right schools in your area, Schola is here to help every step of the way. This week (and every week), let’s embrace the power of school choice, and together, let’s unlock the doors to the bright and exciting future your child deserves!