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| language
and math instruction |
| teacher/student
ratios |
| test
scores (TAAS, SAT) to the national & state averages |
| atmosphere
and activities of the school |
| size
of the classes |
| diversity
of music, computer and arts programs |
| academic
standards (honor programs, merit scholars) |
| sports
programs |
| percentage
of high school graduates & college advancement |
| overall
philosophy and values of the school |
There are many good resources
for this information. Usually, the best first step is to begin evaluating broad,
overall information. You can access School District
reports right from the RPS web site, utilizing the link at the bottom
of this page. Once you've profiled the school districts of interest, you can contact
each one and request that they send you a full, detailed package. Other good sources
of information are:
Your Realtor, for whom providing area and school information is
a part of their service. additionally, he or she has the advantage of being a
citizen of the community and may well have children in the schools.
The local newspapers, especially the metropolitan sections
which normally run stories and reports on activities of local schools.
The local library has many resources, including a comprehensive
annual guide to private independent schools. call (203) 269-3333 for more
information.
The National Committee for Citizens in Education, at
1-800-NET-WORK. they offer excellent low-cost brochures such as "Parent
Involvement," "Parent/Teacher Conference," "Access to School
Records," "How Parents Can Evaluate Their School," and "Your School,
How Well is it Working?"
US Department of Education,
from whom you can receive a booklet called "Choosing a School for your Child" by
sending 50˘ to Choosing A School, Consumer Information Center, Pueblo, CO 81009.
The Association of Christian Schools
International provides information on Christian schools across the US and the
world. Write to them at P.O. Box 4097, Whittier, CA 90607.
 
If you have needs for daycare, preschool, nannies or other child
care options,
we also have a Child Care Finder
available. Also, see the Checklist
for Selecting Child Care.
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