Private education enrollment is increasing nationwide. Private schools are safer and often feature smaller class sizes while maintaining competitive athletic and extracurricular programs. If you are considering private education for your child, it is important to ask the right questions when you visit a campus.
In this article, we are discussing twenty-one key questions to ask when you visit a private school.
Twenty-One Questions To Ask A Potential Private School
1) What Is Your Institution’s Mission?
Hearing faculty and administrators recount their institution’s mission will help you determine their philosophy of education. Haywood Christian Academy’s mission is to develop students into Christian leaders by providing an excellent educational experience on a foundation of Biblical truth. Everything we do is rooted in this mission.
2) What Education Is Required Of Your Faculty?
North Carolina private school teachers are not required by law to obtain the state licensure; however, most institutions require valid and appropriate levels of education. At HCA, 100% of our full-time faculty hold a bachelor’s degree and 12.5% of our faculty members hold a master’s degree or other advanced certification.
3) Is Your Faculty Required To Pass Background Checks?
Our teachers, administrators, and support staff are required to submit to regular background checks and extensive vetting throughout the application and interview process.
4) How Large Are Your Class Sizes?
In general, private school classrooms are smaller than public schools. We average eight to twelve students per class; our elementary classrooms don’t exceed twelve students, and our middle and high school classes don’t exceed sixteen students. Our class sizes are smaller than those of Haywood County public schools, allowing us to focus more attention on individual students.
5) What Curriculum Do You Use?
As a Christian private school, our philosophy of education is based on a Christ-centered worldview. Whether it's history or arithmetic, our students see how God’s truth shapes every subject. HCA acknowledges and references the N.C. common core standards and McRel when creating course standards and objectives.
Teachers have the flexibility to utilize Christian and secular curricula and resources when teaching objectives. A Biblical worldview is interwoven into all academic disciplines.
6) Are Your Athletic Programs Competitive?
You may be tempted to assume that your child’s athletic experience may suffer in a small private school setting. We take athletics seriously at Haywood Christian Academy. Our athletic program instills positive, Christ-like character that is expressed openly through competition. We strive for excellence in all things, including sports. Our students are driven to win with grace and sportsmanship.
7) What Extracurricular Activities Do You Offer?
Activities in which students participate outside the classroom are important for growing character, instilling work ethic, and standing out on college applications. Many private schools like HCA offer a full complement of academic clubs, athletics, and fine arts extracurricular activities.
8) Do You Offer College Preparation?
Preparing for college can be difficult, emotional, and confusing. In addition to equipping students for college through rigorous academic preparation and building Christian character, we offer a variety of college assistance services, including:
- FAFSA Assistance
- "Common App": one application submitted to many colleges
- CFNC Workshops
- College Fairs
- Admissions Assistance Through to Acceptance
- College Campus Visits
- Financial Aid Counseling
- College Entrance Exam Preparation
- Scholarship Research
- College Credit Transfer Assistance
- College Application Week for NC participants: HCA participates in this program, which allows students to apply for college with all application fees waived. *This special week is open to homeschool families in the area.
9) Do Your Students Engage In Community Outreach?
Community engagement is vital to your child’s education. Each year, HCA students participate in community outreach projects to share the love of Christ with Waynesville and Haywood County. Many of our recent projects are listed on our website.
10) Do You Offer Any Programs To Help Students With Language-Based Learning Challenges?
If your child needs support for a learning challenge like dyslexia, The Bridge Learning Center, a program at Haywood Christian Academy, is perfect for you. The Bridge provides support by customizing multi-sensory instruction for students with language-based learning differences.
11) Do Your Students Appreciate Their Experience At Your Institution?
Alumni support and involvement is often an indication of the effectiveness of an institution. Haywood Christian Academy students often speak highly of their time at our private school. In a recent article, we collected some of their testimonies.
12) Does Your Private School Offer Tuition Assistance?
If private Christian education is right for your child, there may indeed be scholarship and tuition assistance available through the institution or other community resources. At Haywood Christian Academy, we encourage parents to visit the ASK section on our website and mention tuition assistance.
13) What Measures Are In Place For Student Safety And Security?
Safety and security are paramount in any educational setting. When visiting a private school, it's important to ask about their safety protocols, including measures against potential threats, emergency preparedness plans, and daily security procedures. This not only includes physical safety measures but also policies to protect students online and during school-sponsored events.
- Physical Safety Measures: Ask about the presence of security personnel, access control measures, and surveillance systems.
- Emergency Preparedness: Inquire about the school's plans for natural disasters, lockdown procedures, and communication strategies during emergencies.
14) How Does Your School Support Students' Mental Health?
The mental health of students is as crucial as their physical health. Inquire about the availability of school counselors, mental health programs, and initiatives to promote a supportive and inclusive environment. It's beneficial to know how the school handles issues like bullying, stress, and anxiety and what resources are available to students who may need them.
- Counseling Services: Availability of professional counseling staff and their qualifications.
- Mental Health Programs: Specific programs or initiatives aimed at supporting student mental health and wellness.
15) What Advanced Placement (AP) Or International Baccalaureate (IB) Programs Are Available?
AP and IB programs offer rigorous academic challenges and prepare students for college-level coursework. Understanding the range and focus of these programs can provide insight into the academic rigor of the school and how it prepares students for higher education. Also, inquire about the success rate of students in these programs, including exam pass rates and college credits earned.
16) How Does The School Incorporate Technology And Digital Learning In The Classroom?
In an increasingly digital world, the use of technology in education enhances learning and prepares students for the future. Ask about the types of technology used in the classroom, the school's policy on digital literacy, and how teachers are trained to integrate technology into their lessons. It's also worthwhile to explore how the school ensures that students use technology safely and responsibly.
17) Can You Describe Your School’s Approach To Discipline And How Behavioral Issues Are Handled?
Understanding a school's approach to discipline can reveal much about its values and environment. Inquire about the disciplinary policies, the process for addressing behavioral issues, and how the school promotes a positive and respectful community. This question can also lead to discussions about the school's philosophy on student development and character education.
18) What Opportunities Are There For Parental Involvement?
Parental involvement can significantly impact a child's educational experience. Ask about opportunities for parents to engage with the school community, whether through volunteering, parent-teacher associations, or special events. Understanding the level of involvement expected and encouraged can help you gauge how well the school fosters a collaborative environment between families and educators.
- Volunteering Opportunities: Specific areas where parents can contribute their time and skills.
- Communication Channels: How the school communicates with parents and keeps them informed about their child's progress and school events.
19) How Does Your School Address Different Learning Styles And Accommodate Students With Unique Needs?
Every student learns differently, and a school's ability to accommodate diverse learning styles speaks volumes about its inclusivity and teaching philosophy. Explore how the school personalizes learning experiences, the support available for students with special educational needs, and the resources dedicated to helping every student succeed.
20) What Is Your School's Graduation Rate And College Acceptance Rate?
These statistics are critical indicators of a school's academic success and the effectiveness of its college preparatory programs. A high graduation rate and a strong record of college acceptances can demonstrate the school's commitment to academic excellence and its ability to prepare students for the next steps in their educational journeys.
21) Do You Accept Funding From The North Carolina Opportunity Scholarship?
“The 2023 Appropriations Act expanded the Opportunity Scholarship Program in North Carolina, making all students in kindergarten through 12th grade eligible for the scholarship, regardless of income.”
The expansion of this program has opened up potential funding to more families, which is a great step forward for students in North Carolina. This will help alleviate some of the financial burdens that many families face when trying to provide for their children's education.
This program provides funding of up to $6,492 per year for eligible students who choose to attend a participating nonpublic school. Qualifying families seeking financial assistance are required to apply for the NC Opportunity Scholarship prior to seeking assistance through the FACTS Grant & Aid.
Reach Out To Haywood Christian Academy With Your Questions About Private School
When you are considering enrolling your child in a private school, it is important to ask the right questions during your visit to the school. These questions can help you gain a comprehensive understanding of the school's capabilities, values, and overall educational experience.
You can ask about the school's curriculum, teaching methods, extracurricular activities, student-teacher ratio, class size, safety measures, and other important aspects that can impact your child's learning and development. By asking these questions, you can make an informed decision about whether the private school is the right fit for your child and can provide the education and support they need to succeed.
If you would like to ask these or other questions about Haywood Christian Academy, schedule a tour or contact us for more information.