What to look for in a school/pre-k?

[mamax2]

My oldest will be 4 this summer and starting pre-k next fall. Ideally, I'd like her to attend pre-k and elementary at the same school. It's just... which school?

In my area, the local public elementary is a Blue Ribbon school, 99% for reading and math scores, brand new facility. Everything about it *seems* right, except I've heard some negative parent reviews about it being 'militant' and 'teaching to the tests'. We hadn't really considered any other options because we just assumed we'd send our DDs to this public school, but I'm obviously concerned about the comments.

Our other options: Catholic school, tuition is very reasonable for the lower grades. There's also an excellent prep school, but we can't afford that.

I have registration appts at both the public and Catholic schools later this month. What should I be looking for, not just in the pre-k but in the whole elementary program? What questions should I ask to know what the school is like beyond test scores? Are there tell-tale signs I can spot?

I'd love to hear from parents, teachers or school administrators.

[mommydearest]

As a middle school teacher, I have a slightly different view of the tests. They are not the be-all, end-all comparison factor. But, generally, 99% passing means you have an INCREDIBLE school. And, in our state, the catholic students take the same tests.

I would suggest asking if you can visit the Blue Ribbon school. That is a HUGE honor for a school to receive and has to do with a lot more than test scores. Other factors for blue ribbon status that are considered--teacher turnover rate, ratio of teachers to students, student and teacher attendance, professional development for the teachers, and awards in other areas besides test scores.

Plus, you can bet that if the test scores are that good, the overall teaching is very good and the parent involvement is also very good. You don't get scores in or above the 80s without great parents and a big emphasis on reading.

I would ask for a general discription of their reading program
How do they differentiate for student ability levels?
How are the classes determined--random, ability based?
How often do students visit the library?
What gifted programs do they offer?
How are special education students identified?
What ways are parents encouraged to volunteer?
What is the classroom visitation policy?
How much of an emphasis is placed on homework?
How do teachers communicate with parents?

Good luck with your decision!

[mamax2]

mommydearest ~ Thank you so much for the input, especially the list of questions. I have no doubt the public school is excellent in terms of academics, I'm just concerned that may be all they care about, kwim? I'm visiting next Tuesday and I have Open Houses at 2 private schools two days before that.

Anyone have ideas of what to look for specifically in the pre-k program?

[cari2]

My kids aren't in school yet but I recently went to a luncheon where the speaker was the superintendent of schools. It was very interesting and he mentioned a lot of the points posted above. He suggested a question to ask of teachers is where do you expect my child to be in xx time and how will you help him/her get there? What do you see as the parents role? What is the role of homework?

He stressed that how the teachers communicate with you is so important and that children who do well in school have parents and teachers that work together. When you visit, look at the children and their behavior. Are they smiling and having fun? Do you see their artwork proudly displayed?

Good luck!