I need the best education for him that there is, and the public school system has made it clear that he would have to wait for the next school year. I really don't want him to wait to get into school. Please can you help me with this issue. I'm also a student, and work part-time.

I find Schoolmatters.com very helpful in choosing the right school for my kids to attend. Schoolmatter tells you everything you need to know. You can compare the schools of your choice. You can look at API, CST, how many kids attending the school, kids nationality,the location, school websites and so much more.

tasi

I agree in everything with ad7706, the ratings and the API results of a school tells you a lot about how the kids are doing and performing in that kind of school.

Following are the steps I took when moving, and my child is at an absolutely PHENOMENAL [public] school that I wouldn't trade for the world.

Step 1: check the schools in the area u plan to live using the greatschools rating system. I simply found a zip code in this city, and searched for all middle schools within 20 miles. I then organize the scores from highest to lowest. Once the scores are up, I only further consider schools that are 9's and 10's.

Step 2: Review school information and parent reviews on GS. This tells you A LOT. Student info breaks down diversity, student/teacher ratio, number of students etc. Parent reviews give you an "insider's view" of what's actually happening in these schools.

Step 3: Check out the websites of the schools to determine school programs, extra curriculars, gifted/talented programs etc. Activities I look for include Project Lead The Way [engineering classes], MathCounts, Equestrian team/activities etc.

Step 4: Visit the schools [with child] to get a feel for the schools.

I suggest you check every school in the area, and find out your choices. There is the issue of zoning, but there are exceptions. If you can, read my other posts here for more info on this subject, you may find there is good reason to be concerned about not just the school, but with each principle and teacher...try to tour each school available to you, and a few that would require you get a zone exception.

Your daughter is so worth the time it will take, i'll be checking perhaps six schools this coming week...if they will fit me in, & trying to get my daughter more help & care, she has some behavioral issues, has had some counseling from a Child Psycologist in the area, who recognized the issue.... & will be tested for these issues as soon as possible.
I will request an IEP as soon as I finish looking here, into school ratings in the area, and reading all comments on the schools she has available to her.

Best Wishes!
T.K.

I would say that if you find she gets a teacher who you dont find to be acceptable, then be open to changing the situation asap, that in hindsight (and if I had only known you could make such a request) I'd have pulled my daughter very swiftly from her kindergarten teachers room and placed her with someone else.

Her personality was hardly acceptable, she was very grouchy and robotic, she never seemed to be open to ideas I had about my daughters issues, and was perhaps menopausal...and not doing much to curb her emoting, it was obvious she was a very unhappy woman, and I felt sad that kindergarden children, just beginning in (public) school...had to put up with her daily grouchfest.
Had I known you could request another teacher I would have done so before the day she left my daughter outside while she took every other child inside and let the door slam....and when my daughter could not open the door she was scared and cried a bit before the door was answered....and the teacher told me as if that was acceptable behavior on her part, after school that afternoon, i was actually appalled and there was no excuse for her horrid behavior. my daughter was told to be not listening and not keeping up with class....thus she got the door slammed on her!
Just know that if your instincts say look into a different teacher for a school year, maybe you should check into that.

A lot of time there may be more choice than one thinks. I was told by my School District office today, that although applications were suspended in March for placing your child in a school outside the zone where you live, that I could still approach the school of my choice (of which there are maybe six, in comfortable driving range) and ask them to give me a "zone exception". And that I may get that...of course I may also be denied, but it is woth a shot!
Also, if the school is not up to par...you are given more choice (which I am given with Lancaster CA districts Lincoln Elementary) My daughter has a unique situation and I think that Lincoln is not understanding the problem with her, because her behavioral problems, are not easily identifyable. She is a very capable girl....but does things very slowly...she creeps along, and can be caught "day-dreaming" a bit. Otherwise she is above average, in her work, I feel...and reads above average, and is very neat...that is her particular problem right now...she writes so neatly and finds that important, and cant seem to catch up on the work. I am trying to change schools now...because she has slight developmental problems, and Lincoln Elementary does not seem open to recognizing these. She will not fall thru these cracks if I can advocate and get her academic excellance recognized, and her problems with behavior treated.
She should be in gifted classes, but her behavioral problems actually place her as troublesome or careless on teachers personal list, and leads them to have a different agenda , it seems, and to not recognize the behavioral problem...perhaps because she is really quite smart,
But for her to be treated badly, because they think she isnt TRYING...(but trying them) is very hard for me and her third teacher has now scolded me that she isnt keeping up with class. I am done with that school at this point.
I tell you all this because I will let you know how it goes as i try to get her into a more quality school, so she wont be lost in the gap...and she will have her academic excellance recognized while, her future teachers also come to grips that she has behavioral issues that need medical or theraputic intervention.
I will be searching out principles who seem to understand, and seeking out their assistance in finding my girl the perfect teacher this year...who will be open to getting her tested...and take on the challange of helping her through the changes she will face for many years to come, while she learns to adapt, and comphensate for her challanges, along with me.

My daughter is 2 1/2. '
Was not sure if we could live in Franklin park , NJ and send her to private school or move to Piscataway NJ for a public school.
How good are schools in Franklin Park ? This is all because we were planning to buy a house.
Any anyone guide me what is the procedure to take an admission in a public or private school? Can my daughter go to any public school in the residing city?

I need to find a great school for my three year old in Brooklyn, NY. I would prefer something in Canarsie but if the school is great I will travel. I would love a low student teacher ratio. My child is still very much attached to me and I want to make the transition as easy as possible. It took a few weeks for him not to cry when I drop him off where he is now. I want him to go somewhere where his success is encouraged and faciliated.

Here in NY I really don't think we have a choice. What ever our school district is that is where they send us. There are 3 schools for this street alone but I'm only allowed to go to one. I wanted to look into a private school but I can't afford it. I am not looking to see if charter schools are any better, i'm still unsure how they are different. But I need them to bus to my daycare as I work past the school dismissal time, and I receive assistance for daycare and it is a whole process to change and both my kids would have to be at the same daycare/after school program. I really feel limited. (two daughters 5 and 3)

My daughter is in K and I have had her in private schools for four years. (yes like throwing money out the window here in MARYLAND)I am looking to put her in public for first grade. Any suggestions on where to start?

My daughter and I are moving from WV to MO. My daughter has ADHD and she seems to be a slow learner. I just want to find the best school in Columia, MO for her.

My son will be in 8th grade by August this year, but we have to move from Cleveland Ohio to Detroit Michigan because of a job. We would like a Catholic school in Troy Michigan. It seems very hard to allocate the such school with high test results in Troy Michigan. If you know any please let me know. Thanks

I was raised in ATL and would be happy to give advice. I am now faced with the same dilema - moving to Asheville, NC. We will be on the west side and REALLY need some advice on Elem. schools.

This is my biggest problem moving from upstate N.Y to Atlanta it's hard to find out which school area will be best for my children coming from a very good school I don't want them to not be challenged mentally like the person previously stated I've got my work cut out for me as if looking for a house isn't enough!

I'm trying very hard for me to find the right school for my granddaugther in her application there 15 chioces
but out those I only see 2 that are good my question is how do I know if the one I pick for her will she be accepts it.Help

I did look into she district before i moved, I found that they rated close to 6 so I was okay with it. I thought I could choose from at least two differant schools, but from what I found I can't. Not with out an evaluation from the school princaple.

Well, for me, what I will do first, is to check the ratings of the schools in the area and depending on that, I will make my move. I am telling you this, because I already had a very bad experience by moving without checking first the schools, you don't have any idea how much I am regreting this. My kids are not challenged enough at their schools and they are not happy at all, at the school where they were going before this ones, was so challenging and best rated on the area, they were so happy and were learning a lot, which I can see the results, they still get good grades but the thing is that they are not challenged enough. I probably be moving out of this area and look for better schools for them.

My Son will start school in September 09 and I want to get her into the right school, but how do I choose.

Wow, that was really informatave. You really made it easier for me. There are alot of kids in our neighborhood who already attend the school that my kids are zoned for. There are a few that are very far behind others. I know this because they try to write us notes asking if they can do yard work for money. It makes me sad because I wonder if there parents are aware of this. There are six of them and they are all educationally challanged. My husband says it is the parents fault not the schools. That my be, but it makes me wonder if the school had tried to contact them. I know that I want a good education for my girls. I to prefure to have them in the school that has lower class sizes. Our city is fairly new and the schools are all very new. If I wanted to try to get my girls into a school other then the one they are zoned for, what whould I need to do? When should I start?

Choosing the right school for my children is usually on the TOP of my priorities. My children are all in their tender ages 5 and 7. I read a book that says 60% of the character and personality of the person is shaped from the memories and experiences he had during his formative years. While the other 40% of his personality will come from his being an adult. For these reasons, I always wanted to choose the right school for my children. At present they are attending a progressive school.

I was able to research on the difference among PROGRESSIVE SCHOOLS, A MONTESSORRI SCHOOL, AND A TRADITIONAL SCHOOL. I was also informed of the importance of Learning by means of Doing for children and the concept of SINGAPORE MATH, known to as the number 1 , most effective mathematics method in the world at present.

Then I realized that it is not sufficient to enroll your child in a good reputable school. You must follow up, if your child is enjoying school.

It is important that he is happy in going to school. His peers must enjoy reading books. You see going to school must be a FUN filled experience to our children. If they see that the environment they are to join in, has a fun, encouraging and loving environment, they will go to school passionately.

Definitely, They will enjoy every minute of it. And if they enjoy learning in school, we have the assurance of securing their future through education.

What I first did to gain answer from this, before enrolling them, was, I observed the children enrolled in the school. I also checked on their manners and way of treating other classmates. I also checked on the educational backgrouds and achievements of their would be teachers.

Then I checked the population. I would rather enroll my children in a "not too crowded" population. In fact, I would always assure that the population per class would not exceed 20. Or if it exceeds, teacher aides must also be provided apart from the head teacher.

Then, I looked on the FIRE EXITS of the school?
Its accessibility from home.
and last but not the least, I asked for a copy of their school manual.

After doing the following, I finally enrolled by children to the same school. The reason why I joined greatschools parent community is because, by next year, our children are to enroll in LA. At present they are studying in a private school in Manila. Although, they were able to enroll in an international school in the Philippines, it is still my conviction that I would want to know the environment that they are to live with for the next 10 years of their lives.

At present, I am also searching for a right school near our place.

My daughter will start school in September 09 and I want to get her into the right school, but how do I choose.

I am a Soldier in the Army and stationed in Iraq. On my return in March of 09, I will be moving to Fort Drum, NY with my two boys, one 14 and the other 15 and was hoping to find out about the better schools in that area. My boys will be entering the 10th and 11th grade

safety is defenetly one but the inforcements in the education system should always be a criteria!!

Starting here with this forum is very helpful to find schools in your area. It is very important to try to visit any school you are interested in, especially if you can observe the school in session and see a class related to your child's age/grade in progress. My son is considering going to a local Catholic High School. They offered a few "shadow" days (which were an open house format) last year and when school opens for the new year, he is planning to "shadow" a student for an entire "typical" day to really see if the school will be where he wants to attend.

It is also helpful to try to talk to people who have had experience with the school you are considering. It is really hard to get a "feel" for something that you have only read about.

Hi dgell71,

Looks like you'll have to wait until next year. Most charter schools hold the application process in the spring and award the spots in late spring.

The process for HAAS is available here: www.hollywoodcharter.org/enrollment/default.html

I am just moving in and like to know how can my 1st grader son applied for Hollywood Academy of Arts and Science charter school. Please help me!

i started with academics what i should of start with was how smart is the principle. She gave a person acting as another person information over the phone. And now i have to move again. So its area, academics, and how gelable is the principle.

When I went to look for a private school for my 4th grader I began by going on day visits to the schools where I could get a feel for the kids and teachers, styles of learning, etc...

Thanks MagnetMom!!! Very helpful link...got a lot of info already!!

Hi rasmily,

Here's the Great Schools page for San Jose. It includes some of the biggest districts and the best schools to start your search. www.greatschools.net/city/San_Jose/CA

Good luck and let us know how the move goes!

did you figure it out which was better for your child

We're moving to the Bay Area, my kids are little but i want to be prepared for the future. Can someone tell me where i can find info on top ranking school districts in the San jose area.

Does anyone have any information on the top pre schools in Nevada . My family and I are moving to the Henderson area in the summer and I could really use some information . Thanks

Hello there, I am a stay at home mom and was currently struggling with this question...that and the fact that we just moved to the area, I was really lost.

I wanted to get my daughter into the 4K program and started calling the Unified School District in October 2007 even though she would not be attending until the Fall of 2008. I was told that not all the schools have the 4K program and that she would not need it anyway..because it is usually recommended for the lower income families.

Well, I really did want to get her into the 4K program because she is in gymnastics and other activities and she really does want to go to school now. Also we have school choice here but it does not apply to 4K, you have to register in the 'home school' [in your district] even though our 'home school' does not have the 4K program. My daughter would then be placed in a 4K program at another school. The school choice, I found out, only applies to 5K and up. I am very disappointed with the public school system and do want her to go to a charter school. I would like to get her into a private school, but that will taking some persuading on my part and I think a part-time job to fund, but is definitely an option I am considering when she is in school full-time.

So anyway this is getting long, but hey this is what I did...I did take her to the 'home school' [which by the way has a so-so rating] to register for the 4K. A few weeks after that, I tried getting in touch with someone at the Unified School District [which is another feat to accomplish] to find out which elementary she would be placed. I think it is between two schools near to us [besides our 'home school'] and am hoping for the better one. In the meantime I decided to look into Montessori and decided that was a no-go considering the cost. As I said before, that will be for the future when she is in school full-time. Finally I get a reply after calling Unified again and then was told she would be placed at the elementary school that I did not want...?!

By the way, important observation here...I registered her for the 4K on March 5th, called Easter week to find out what was what, and then just found out on April 25th. Just another example of how the a small part of the public school system works...one month to get back to me! You know, I'm busy too people! And then I find out she will be going somewhere I do not want her to go. Well, after telling Unified that I do not want my daughter to go to that school and that transportation is not an issue what can I possibly do? Without saying, sorry honey, you are just not going to school next year? Well, finally I am told that Unified has an agreement with some of the day-care's in the area and they do offer a 4K for kids that want to go to it but cannot get into a school...

So now I am happy to say I did get her enrolled on April 29th in a nearby daycare that does offer the 4K...and let me tell you it was only after a lot of phone calls and actually going to three different places to get it done...whew.

Needless to say [once again] I had a disappointing experience with our Unified School system. I don't know what I will do for next year. What is going on? Also, the ratings for some of the school out by us are so-so and I expected a lot better from this area.

I am torn. I am not happy with the public schools. They are strong academically but lack in areas that strengthen independent thinking and individuality. No warm fuzzies there! The community is made up of professors and grad students who see there children's academic status as a personal achievement (my husband and I believe differently) There is a Charter school in the area that does not have much popularity on this side of town so it is hard to get a true picture. I want my children to love learning and be able to solve problems on their own (not just memorization)but I don't want them to fall too behind academically because they will have to attend the city school in 8th grade and need to be equipped. Do I choose cognitive thinking and social skills over academics. Is there a good way to monitor their progress as the year progresses (if sent to charter school) Maybe need to supplement at home? Need some resources!!!!

MagnetMom,

You are welcome. I will try to keep everyone posted on how well she does with Imagine Schools.

Thanks so much for sharing. Let us know how your daughter is thriving once she starts school!

Update:

My husband, daughter, and I visited Imagine Schools on Broadway this past Tuesday and have agreed that this is where our daughter will be attending. They are still currently under construction but already have on school located here. The school is planned to be done July 15th. They are going to have a day where students and parents can come in and tour the school once construction is completed.

What I like about this school is (1) they are tuition free, (2) hire only state board certified teachers, (3) will have a licensed nurse on staff at all times, (4) will consist of 21 classrooms; k-5, (5) require a uniform dress code; all students must wear the same type clothing, (6) have strict polices in how students are released from school and after school activities (7) require each parent to volunteer 20 hours per school year at or for the school (I'm really looking forward to this aspect).

Anyway, I just wanted to give everyone an update.

My daughter will be attending school this fall. The default school she is to attend leaves a lot to be desired. I've been doing a lot of searching and comparing public schools and am not that all satisfied that she will be getting a good education. The school district as a whole is not rated very highly here. I can atest to that as well since I graduated from this same school district. I can't afford to send her to private school and was hoping to move before she started but unforuntately this is not going to happen.

I did recieve a postcard about a chater school in my area and so far from what I have researched seems to be a really good school. Has anyone heard of or had any experience with Imagine Schools? The one we are considering is Imagine Schools on Broadway.

Welcome Juz,

How sad a 4 year old gets a rejection letter for anything!

GreatSchools is a nationwide community of parents, but the website offers a great research and compare feature. From the top of the web page, click on "Research & Compare" and then type in your zip code. You'll be able to find information on plenty of schools in your area.

Good luck, and let us know it goes.

My son who is 4 1/2 years old just received his first rejection from a private school that I really wanted him to attend. The public schools in my neighborhood are very good but its by lottery. Now, I don't know where to send my son.

Any suggestions from Pacifica, CA residents or neighboring cities?

Thank you!

Neither of my children were tested before entering kindergarten. They both attended public schools. Most of the testing I hear about is geared toward private kindergartens, but there may be some districts that do test before starting kindergarten.

DOES EVERY CHILD NEED TO BE TESTED FOR KINDERGARTEN?

I definitely start with word of mouth. Sure, I keep it in perspective, but I always want to know what other parents are saying. I'll Google the schools and see what comes up, check the school district website for demographics, websites, and anything else I can get info from.

I go on tours and speak to parents. I suggest checking the school in the morning, at dismissal, and possibly sitting in on a PTA meeting or a Family Fun Night (remember, you will be hanging out with these families for the next few years).

In the end, I go with gut feeling. If I feel good with the choice, then I don't really worry if it's the school other parents are raving about. I only have two kids, so while 1000 might be clamoring to get into boutique school "A," I am only concerned with my two.

If the kids are old enough (junior high at my house), get them in on the action. If you have "buy-in" from a high schooler, it will be a lot easier to get them up in the morning than it will be if they're miserable from day 1.

One major thing to keep in mind with school choice is "reasonable" distance. While it's easy as a parent to say he or she will drive 5-10-20 miles to a school, the law of school choice and Murphy's law will dictate that every group project partner your child is assigned to and every close friend your child bonds with will live an equal or greater distance away from the school in the opposite direction away.

My son is going into Kindergarten. First of all, I am thankful that it looks like I will have choices. The default public school for our neighborhood is rated fairly highly, but the classroom sizes are over 30 students which seem a little too high in my opinion. He tested well for a nearby public charter school for gifted and talented which is very highly rated, but we don't know yet if he will be offered a seat. His younger brother is 3 years away from starting Kindergarten, but he of course would also have to qualify before being put on the sibling priority list. I'd really prefer that they attend the same school, but I'm not sure what I'd do if our youngest doesn't qualify. (One of the testers said that siblings usually test very similarly). I'm not really a big fan of pulling my older son out of school at 2nd or 3rd grade, especially if he enjoys the school and has great teachers and friends, and if he truly is "gifted and talented" then I feel confident that the school would probably do a better job of keeping him challenged and motivated than other schools would.

I toured the Catholic school. The obvious drawbacks are the distance -- about a 20 minute drive compared to a 10-minute walk for the local public school or charter school -- and the tuition -- currently about $4500 per year per kid. The obvious advantage for us is that he doesn't get into the habit of segmenting his faith from his school work and daily life. Also, there is probably more of a chance that situations will arise with teachers or other students that conflict with the beliefs we are trying to instill. They also have some activities they do with a "buddy" from an older grade, which I think creates a great family-like atmosphere.

So, those are some of the factors we're considering. Not sure how it's going to play out yet.