A school does more than teach reading, writing, and math — it shapes your child’s experiences, influences their social development, and plays a crucial role in their future success. But with so many options, from public to private, charter to magnet, microschools to homeschooling, and everything in between, choosing a school can feel overwhelming.

This guide will walk you through the key considerations when evaluating schools, from understanding your child’s unique needs to assessing a school’s curriculum, culture, and resources.

Whether you’re planning for preschool, looking for an elementary school, navigating the middle school years, or preparing for high school, these insights will help you make an informed choice that aligns with your family’s priorities and values.

With careful thought and a clear plan, you can find a school that fosters your child’s growth, encourages their passions, and sets them on a path to thrive academically, socially, emotionally, and throughout life.

Key considerations when choosing a school

Choosing the right school for your child begins with thinking about your hopes and dreams for your child. If your child is entering high school, consider your child’s hopes and dreams for themselves, too. What are your family’s educational priorities? What does your child love to do? What special needs do they have?

Every family approaches their school search differently. Here, we give you a few different entry points so you can choose the right path for your child.

Choosing a school: an overview is a great starting point to learn about your options.

For those who already know a lot about what’s available, check out Define your ideal school, where you can scan through quick, organized lists of key considerations.

For those who like to manifest their best outcomes, try the exercise outlined in Imagining your ideal school. Conjuring up what you want your child’s experience to be can help you keep those goals top of mind as you sift through school profile pages on ߣÓŃż´Ć¬.

7 steps to choosing a school

1. Identify what you want for your child academically.

Are you looking for opportunities for advanced academics? A gifted program? Maybe hands-on learning opportunities or even a school where project-based learning is part of the curriculum? Or perhaps mastery-based learning would suit your child’s tendency to work ahead in certain subjects but need extra support in others? Maybe you’re interested in sending your child to a language immersion school. Does your child have learning differences that you would like the school to support? Your future doctor or scientist may benefit from a STEM program, while your musician may thrive at a school where there are a lot of opportunities to learn and play music.

Some parents know exactly what is out there and what they want. Others may need to explore what’s possible. GreatSchools has two sections of our website devoted to what’s possible to help you determine what sounds good to you.

Check out our School choice section, where you’ll see dozens of articles and videos showing what different exemplary schools around the country are doing. In our Science of learning section, you’ll see articles, videos, podcasts, and worksheets profiling educational practices that work.

This exploration will really help you start to identify practices and programs that will benefit your child. Then, you can look for schools on ߣÓŃż´Ć¬ and find schools that meet your wants and needs.

2. Determine what you want for your child socially and emotionally.

A school’s culture makes a huge difference in your child’s daily life. Some schools have social-emotional learning programs, which can have a positive impact. Other schools emphasize kindness, teamwork, and cooperation in different ways. You can learn a lot about a school’s emphasis on its website and specifically by reading the school’s mission statement.

Two things to consider a bit more deeply are school size and class size.

For example, at a smaller school or a school with smaller class sizes, there may be a better chance of your child feeling known and having a trusted adult on campus. These two factors are proven to make a positive difference in a student’s success. But some larger schools really emphasize making sure students feel seen and known, too, and may, for example, accomplish this through an advisory class. What’s more, a larger school may be able to offer your child more opportunities in terms of the variety of class offerings, sports teams, extracurricular activities, clubs, etc.

Similarly, while smaller class sizes are often desirable, knowing how to make the most of larger class sizes can open up additional opportunities. Likewise, understanding how to make your school district work for you can uncover resources or enrollment options that meet your needs.

3. Think about your child’s individual needs.

Where will your child thrive? If your child is shy and does better with more one-on-one attention, consider what different schools are doing to make that possible. Does your child have special talents (e.g. drama, performance arts) or interests (e.g. science, robotics, foreign language) that you want to see nurtured at the school?

These considerations may feel vague at first, and that’s okay. It’s just a good idea to get these thoughts top-of-mind as you step into the research phases of your search.

4. Research schools and save schools to your list.

Now is the time to hop over to the school search side of ߣÓŃż´Ć¬ and look at schools in your area. At first, expand your search criteria so that you’re looking at as many options as possible. For some families, finding the right fit means crossing the bridge and going that extra mile with a longer commute or a school outside their district. When you see something interesting, click the heart icon to save the school to your list. You’ll naturally find ways to limit your list as you go.

Look at the school’s performance data:

Read the school reviews to get a glimpse into what the school is like, including what is going well and what the school may need to improve on. (On a school profile page, in the navigation menu on the left, click on Reviews.)

Read what the school leaders have written about their school. Typically, that is key information that they want prospective families to know. (On a school profile page, in the navigation menu on the left, click on About the School.)

Visit the schools’ websites, where you may be able to read the school mission statement, messages from the principal or other school leaders, and see what kinds of community-building events the school hosts throughout the year.

5. Refine your list.

Look at all the options on your list and review them one by one. Consider how well each school will meet your list of academic requirements and nurture your child socially and emotionally. See if any schools seem like a particularly great fit for your child.

Look at the schools practically, too. Consider:

  • How will your child get to school? Is transportation provided? If so, how early will your child need to wake up each morning, and how late will they get home?
  • How does the school handle lunch, snacks, and even breakfast? Is there a free lunch (and snacks/breakfast) program? If not, how much does it cost?
  • Is there morning and after-school care on site? Is there room for all children, or is it limited to a first-come, first-served basis? What does it cost?
  • Is the school safe? Is there a school nurse? What do they do in the case of emergencies or when your child is sick?
  • For more, see Factors to consider when choosing a school, below.

6. Visit schools and/or participate in information sessions.

Participate in online or in-person information sessions about the school. You can learn so much that way. School tours and information sessions provide valuable insights into a school’s environment, teaching methods, and overall fit for your child.

Whenever you have the chance, visit the schools in person. Here’s what to look for and what to ask when you visit a school, with special questions and key pointers for elementary, middle, and high school. To stay organized, use our printable school visit checklist to note key details during your tour.

When visiting schools, it’s important to observe both the tangible and intangible aspects of the environment. How to spot a world-class education highlights key indicators, such as engaged teachers, innovative classrooms, and evidence of student growth.

Finally, keep in mind that some important details may not be obvious, such as disciplinary policies or teacher retention rates. Read more in Factors to consider when choosing a school, below.

7. Choose the right school for your child.

Evaluate each school against the academic, social-emotional, and individual criteria you want for your child. For each school, ask yourself if this is somewhere you can see your child learning and succeeding. Ask yourself if you agree with the school’s values and approach, and if you like the culture.

Realistically, it’s also a good idea to have a backup plan — a solid second choice. Our article walks you through key things to understand, like waitlists. Right now, while you’re in the thick of it and all the research you’re doing is fresh in your mind, it’s the best time to settle on a second (and even third) choice.

Learn the School enrollment requirements for your first, second, and third choice schools. Schools generally require a lot of documentation, so it’s good to have the list on your radar.

Ultimately, the school needs to be the right fit for your child and your family, no one else.

By focusing on these key considerations, you can transform a complex process into a rewarding journey. With the right approach, finding the best educational environment for your child is not only possible — it’s achievable.

Now let’s get into some information that will help you get through these seven steps feeling smart and empowered.

Understanding different school types

Navigating school options can be challenging, with choices including public, private, charter, and magnet schools — as well as non-traditional options, such as microschools, online schools, and homeschooling.

The search process can feel overwhelming, often referred to as “the dreaded school search.” However, understanding school choice terminology and edu-babble can help you navigate the variety of options available.

Public, private, and charter schools (and more!)

Choosing between public, private, charter, magnet, and parochial schools — as well as microschools, online schools, and homeschooling — requires understanding their unique features.

  • Public schools are free, funded by local taxes, and often reflect their community’s diversity.
  • Private schools offer specialized curricula but come with tuition costs, raising the question: Should I send my child to a private school?
  • Charter schools are free, funded by local taxes. They operate outside of the school district, which allows them more flexibility in educational approaches. Students may have to apply or enter a lottery to be admitted.
  • Some schools are designed specifically for boys or girls. Single-sex education might align with your goals but you should certainly weigh the pros and cons.
  • Magnet schools are free public schools, funded by local taxes. They typically have a special focus, like STEM or the arts. Students may have to apply or enter a lottery to be admitted.
  • Parochial schools are private schools run by or affiliated with a church or schools that have a religious focus. Families pay tuition for students to attend. When parochial schools are affiliated with a particular church, the tuition is often lower because it is subsidized by the church.
  • Online schools can be public, public charter, private, magnet, or parochial schools. Students complete most or all of their learning online. Online schools can take advantage of certain things, such as shorter or flexible schedules, mastery-based learning, and more. If the online school is private or parochial, families pay tuition for students to attend.
  • Microschools are small learning environments where families must pay tuition for students to attend. They are often located in nontraditional settings, like homes, malls, meeting halls, etc.
  • Homeschooling is where parents opt to teach their children at home or in groups of families. However, there are many ways parents set up home learning. Most states and districts have homeschooling rules; some also offer free homeschooling curricula. Many homeschooling parents pay for a homeschooling curriculum.

Each option has strengths and challenges. Working to understand the similarities and differences will help as you strive to make the best decision for your child.

Choosing a preschool

Selecting a preschool is an important step in your child’s early education. To make the best choice, start by exploring different preschool philosophies, such as Montessori, Reggio Emilia, or play-based programs, and consider which aligns with your child’s personality, temperament, and learning style.

Play is central to early childhood education. When exploring preschools, look for signs of quality, such as play-based learning, engaged teachers, engaged children, and a nurturing environment. Understanding how important play is in preschool can help you decide if a program emphasizes creativity, play, and social growth enough. In fact, one of the Pitfalls of picking a preschool to be aware of is picking a preschool that stresses traditional academics too much.

Asking essential questions during preschool visits can provide insight into teaching philosophies, class sizes, teacher qualifications, daily routines, and hours and costs. Consider how structured the program should be by reflecting on how academic a preschool should be for your child’s development and future success.

Finally, the ABCs of picking a preschool can guide you through key factors to consider, such as location, cost, and curriculum, ensuring you select a program that sets your family up for success.

Choosing an elementary school

Finding the right elementary school sets the foundation for your child’s academic journey. Start by considering factors such as:

Our Crash course in choosing an elementary school highlights what to look for and how to evaluate your options effectively.

When visiting potential schools, check out these Insider tricks for assessing elementary schools and be prepared with key questions to ask about curriculum, teacher qualifications, parent involvement, and support for diverse learning needs.

One thing to note about choosing an elementary school — as noted in The 3 biggest pitfalls of picking an elementary school — is that your child is likely enrolling in kindergarten. There are so many emotions around your child starting kindergarten, it can be easy to focus just on your child’s first class in the new school. But be sure to choose your child’s elementary school based on the entire K-5 (or K-8) experience, not just kindergarten.

On that note, many parents wonder when children should start kindergarten. The answer varies based on your child’s birthdate, maturity, development, and sometimes gender. Your child’s preschool teacher can offer great insights as to whether your child is ready for kindergarten or not.

In addition, one parent took the time to write the article Crucial information you may not get on a school tour when she realized the regular questions were not telling her enough about the teachers at a school.

Last but not least, learning to read is one of the most important hurdles in elementary school. Ask the school about the reading curriculum and how children are taught to read. Are they using practices based on the science of reading? In this article, an expert shares how parents can learn more about a school’s approach to reading instruction.

These insights will help you identify a school where your child can thrive academically and socially.

Choosing a middle school

Middle school is a pivotal time for academic and personal growth, making it crucial to select the right environment. Our Crash course in choosing a middle school offers guidance on evaluating programs, extracurriculars, and support systems to find a school where your child will thrive.

Check out these <em>Insider tricks for assessing middle schools and read How to choose a middle school (and how not to). Both of these articles can help you avoid common pitfalls, such as focusing solely on test scores or overlooking school culture.

Dig into these 10 key questions to ask when choosing a middle school. (You can find the answers to some of these questions using ߣÓŃż´Ć¬ school profiles.)

One key thing to think about when choosing a middle school is how students are placed in classes and if the classes are tracked, as mentioned in this video. Your child’s classes in middle school can affect their class placements in high school, which in turn can affect how well they’re prepared for college and beyond.

Choosing a high school

Finding the right high school means balancing your child’s academic, social, and personal needs. Start by evaluating key factors that influence long-term success. For instance:

• A school’s culture can make a significant difference. Look for environments that foster collaboration and critical thinking, as outlined in what to consider before choosing a high school.

• 10 key questions for high schools is a great place to start. You can find the answers to many of these questions using ߣÓŃż´Ć¬ school profiles.

• How are graduates doing and are they prepared for college and/or a fulfilling career? Find out if graduates are going to college, if they need to take remedial classes when they first arrive, and if they are persisting to graduation. Also, does the school have CTE classes that prepare students for a rewarding career right after high school?

• Find out if all students get access to advanced classes. As mentioned in this video, it’s important to understand how students are tracked and placed in classes — and if they’re on a track toward college.

• Academic performance isn’t everything — understanding whether a high school is doing its job means considering student engagement, counseling resources, college and career preparation, access to CTE programs, access to advanced academics, extracurricular activities, and more.

Experts have shared valuable inside tips with us that all parents should know. For example:

• Avoid common pitfalls when assessing high schools:

• Reputation alone isn’t enough — sometimes, being “the best” high school backfires, especially if it’s not a fit for your child’s learning style or personality.

• Recognize potential warning signs by reviewing the top reasons to avoid certain high schools, like high teacher turnover rates or lack of extracurricular options.

• Finally, stay practical:

By focusing on what truly matters, you can select a high school that supports your child’s growth and long-term success.

Considering homeschooling

Homeschooling can offer a tailored education for families seeking more flexibility or specific learning environments. Start by exploring whether it’s the right choice for your family through questions like Should I consider homeschooling my child?, which weighs the benefits and challenges of this path. Every state (and many districts) has rules about homeschooling — and some may offer support, and even a full homeschooling curriculum — so it’s a good idea to look up your district and .

In certain situations, emergency homeschooling may arise as a short-term solution, requiring quick adjustments to ensure continuity in your child’s education. For families of children with ADHD or learning differences, Homeschooling kids with ADHD or LD: pros and cons offers up key questions — and answers — to consider, such as what skills and training parents may need and how homeschooling can affect family dynamics.

Virtual schools are an option when you’re considering homeschooling. If you’re trying to remove your child from the school environment for their safety or well-being (e.g. if they’re not being protected from bullying, if the school doesn’t feel safe for your child, etc.), then a virtual or online school that offers a structured curriculum that your child can complete from the safety of your home may be the right fit. Understanding the reality of virtual schools, including their strengths and limitations, can help you decide if online education meets your child’s needs.

Homeschooling, whether traditional or virtual, requires careful planning and commitment but can be a rewarding alternative for many families.

Factors to consider when choosing a school

Choosing the right school involves balancing academics, extracurriculars, and values that align with your family’s priorities. Consider factors like teaching methods, class sizes, school culture, diversity, and location.

Evaluate the school’s culture and resources to ensure it supports your child’s unique needs. Proximity, safety, and long-term goals also play a role. By weighing these elements, you can make an informed decision that fosters your child’s growth and sets them up for success.

Your child’s unique needs

Every child has unique strengths, challenges, and preferences, making it essential to choose a school that aligns with their needs. Consider factors like how your child learns, social development, and individual interests when evaluating options.

Choosing a school: considering your child’s needs suggests that you find a school that fosters your child’s natural talents, supports areas where they need growth, and provides opportunities to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Specifically, the article discusses four “Fit Factors” and offers signs that your child’s school is — and isn’t — a good fit for your child.

In addition, for families of color seeking inclusive and supportive environments, read 5 things for Black families to consider when choosing school.

The school’s academic performance

Academic performance is a key indicator of a school’s effectiveness, but it’s important to look beyond surface-level numbers. State standardized test scores provide a snapshot of achievement, but understanding the facts and fiction about these scores can help you interpret them accurately.

Growth metrics are equally important. Growth can show how well a school helps students progress academically over time. Aside from standardized test scores, what do the academics look like at the school? Do they embrace project-based learning? As mentioned in this video, are there samples of student work up on the walls that you can see?

Additionally, consider whether the school is addressing systemic disparities, such as the achievement gap, to ensure all students are supported in reaching their full potential.

The school culture

A school’s culture plays a crucial role in shaping your child’s sense of belonging and growth. Look beyond surface-level statements to understand what the school truly values. For example, researching the school’s mission statement can reveal whether the school’s goals align with your family’s priorities.

Consider the value of cultural diversity at school. Students who attend schools with a diverse population can develop an understanding of the perspectives of children from different backgrounds and learn to function in a multicultural, multiethnic environment.

Additionally, consider how the school fosters inclusion and equity. Determine if the school has unbiased policies in place in the classroom and within its disciplinary procedures.

This can help you identify whether the environment actively supports diversity and ensures all students feel respected and empowered. A strong, positive culture ensures a well-rounded experience for your child.

School size and class size

School size can significantly impact your child’s educational experience. Smaller schools often provide close-knit communities, while larger schools may offer more resources and extracurricular activities.

Class size also plays a key role. While smaller classes allow for more individual attention, making the most of larger class sizes is possible when teachers are skilled and resources are robust. Understanding class size issues will help you assess whether a school can meet your child’s academic and social needs effectively.

The school’s curriculum

A school’s curriculum shapes what and how your child learns, making it a critical factor in your decision. Understanding why you should care (a lot) about a school’s curriculum helps you evaluate its alignment with your child’s learning goals and future aspirations.

Ask what learning standards the curriculum is aligned with. For example, does the school’s science curriculum align with the ? For reading instruction, is the school using a curriculum based on the science of reading? Any school should be able to easily answer these questions about their math, English language arts, social studies, and science curricula.

Consider whether the curriculum promotes equity and inclusion. Ask yourself if your school’s curriculum reflects diverse perspectives. Schools that focus on making high school reading more inclusive can foster critical thinking and cultural awareness, creating a richer educational experience for students.

School safety

School safety is a top priority for parents, encompassing both physical security and emotional well-being. Start by searching for security, looking at measures like secure entrances, emergency procedures, and anti-bullying programs.

Creating a safe and supportive environment requires schools to foster trust and inclusivity. Learn about making your child’s school safe and supportive by evaluating policies, staff training, and communication with families.

Additionally, understanding broader issues like state requirements in reporting school violence and measures meant to stop school shootings can provide insight into proactive strategies that schools should adopt to prevent violence. A truly safe school prioritizes both prevention and care, creating an environment where students can focus on learning and growth.

School discipline

A school’s approach to discipline has a profound impact on the learning environment and your child’s well-being. Start by getting to the bottom of discipline to understand how the school handles behavioral issues, including policies and their consistency.

Progressive strategies like restorative justice focus on conflict resolution and accountability, fostering a more positive school culture. However, practices like corporal punishment in schools, while certainly controversial, remain legal in many states, and in those states, a school’s policy and practices should be carefully evaluated.

For families of color, advocating for fair treatment is vital. Learn how families of color can fight for fair discipline to ensure equitable practices. Additionally, students with IEPs or 504 plans have specific protections — understand their rights to advocate effectively.

Positive approaches, such as functional assessments, address the root causes of misbehavior to create lasting change. By changing children’s behavior in school, schools can cultivate environments where every student thrives.

Choosing a school for a child with learning disabilities or special needs

Finding the right school for a child with learning disabilities or special needs means prioritizing environments that provide understanding, support, and tailored resources. GreatSchools parents contributed to a list of key attributes for an ideal school for a child with learning differences in our article, What makes an LD dream school?

As you start looking for schools designed for kids with LD, look for programs with strong support systems, experienced staff, and supports for Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) or 504 plans.

If you’re considering private schools, it’s important to ask about their experience working with students with learning differences. Key questions outlined in What to ask private schools if your child has an LD include inquiries about teacher training, available accommodations, and how the school adapts curriculum to meet individual needs — and if they do so at all. It’s important to note that some private schools will not accommodate special education needs. The federal IDEA law requires public schools to meet certain learning needs, but private schools are largely exempt. Some private schools do make accommodations, so it’s worth asking.

That said, not all public schools are great about following the requirements of the IDEA law. Why is our public school trying to get rid of my child? is written by a parent who encountered some issues trying to get her daughter’s needs met at her neighborhood public school. Many parents find they need to advocate to get their child’s needs met. You can read more in the section of our website dedicated to IEPs and 504 Plans.

By focusing on programs that truly understand and support your child, you can ensure they have the tools to thrive academically and personally.

Supporting students with special needs

Supporting a child with special needs begins with understanding their unique challenges and leveraging the right tools. Securing a 504 plan or IEP is essential to ensuring they receive appropriate accommodations. Knowing how to get the right plan can help you navigate this process effectively.

Preparation is crucial for IEP meetings. Steps to begin effectively include documenting your child’s strengths and setting clear goals. During meetings, successful advocacy involves asking specific questions and staying focused on solutions.

Transitions, such as moving between grades or preparing for adulthood, require early planning. Transition planning for students with IEPs includes setting measurable goals and identifying support systems. Understanding federal transition guidelines ensures families can access the full range of available resources.

For parents new to special education, consider using a practical primer on special education or researching some tips for a successful IEP meeting.

If specialized schools or programs are necessary, a primer on special needs schools can help identify the right fit. To deepen your understanding, our video Crash course on special education explains services and strategies for supporting students effectively.

Additionally, the Special education FAQ addresses common questions parents may have. And our video Quick guide to special education can help parents navigate key resources.

By using these resources and focusing on preparation, collaboration, and targeted support, you can create an environment where your child thrives.

Moving and choosing a school

Relocating can make choosing a school more challenging, but with the right strategies, you can find a great fit for your child even from a distance.

When relocation is necessary, consider these practical tips from choosing a school when relocating:

  • Research online tools: Use state and district websites — as well as Greatschools.org — to compare schools, and check school ratings to create a shortlist. These can be invaluable tools for families forced to choose a school from a distance.
  • Connect with locals: Reach out to parents in your new area for firsthand advice about schools and the community.
  • Plan visits if possible: Schedule school tours or open houses during trips to your new location to get a feel for the environment.

Making necessary moves often involves balancing family, work, and educational needs. By starting your research early and using these actionable tips, you can ensure a smooth transition for your child’s education during a move.

Transitioning to a new school

Moving to a new school can be a significant adjustment for both students and families. Understanding school enrollment requirements ensures a smooth registration process, helping you avoid delays and unexpected obstacles. Gather all necessary documents, including proof of residency and vaccination records, well in advance of deadlines.

Adjusting to a new school environment takes time, but there are ways to make the transition easier. Practical strategies from 11 tips for adjusting to a new school include meeting teachers early, encouraging your child to participate in activities, and maintaining a positive attitude about the change. These steps can help your child feel more comfortable and build confidence in their new environment.

In some cases, transitions may be the result of unexpected circumstances, like the closure of a neighborhood school. If this happens, understanding why schools close and how to respond can help you advocate for your child and find a suitable alternative. Staying proactive and informed ensures your child continues to receive a quality education during periods of change.

Parent stories about choosing a school

Hearing from other parents offers valuable insights into the challenges of choosing a school.

In Tales from the trenches: a San Francisco mom’s story, a parent shares her experience requesting a different middle school for her daughter after the deadline had passed. “If I had listened to the naysayers, I would never have appealed,” she writes.

Speaking of school choice, the parent who wrote Working the system to get the school of your choice found that reading — and following — the rules closely helps parents get the right schools for their children.

Even with the best efforts and intentions, not all choices turn out as expected. In They learned their lessons, three parents who chose the wrong school share their stories of what happened, highlighting the risks of overlooking red flags, such as inconsistent discipline or poor communication.

When deciding whether to Switch schools or stay, one parent found that unaddressed bullying made transferring the best option for their child’s well-being.

In How I chose a school for my Black children, a parent emphasizes the importance of diversity and equity, sharing how a school’s inclusive culture and representation impacted their decision.

The parent who wrote Selecting a school for our son with LD shares how she assessed her own child’s strengths and challenges. Then, she shares how she and her son together landed on a small, independent school — despite the school not having a special education program.

In Bright ideas: Evaluating afterschool programs, 10 families share what they like (and didn’t like) and what to expect from a high-quality afterschool program.

For some families, the right school may require sacrifices, like a commute. In The long ride to a good education, the mother shares her search story — which results in driving her 13-year-old an hour each way to school.

The right school, not the perfect school

Selecting a school requires careful thought about your child’s needs, family values, and the opportunities each school provides. By researching thoroughly, asking key questions, and evaluating all factors, you can make a huge impact on your child’s success and well-being.