Q: When we go to the open house at our daughter’s new school, what questions should we ask to get a good idea of the school? What tone should we take with the teachers to get the most honest information and not put them off, while letting them know that we are really serious and interested in the school?
A:Great question. Teachers can be very sensitive to too much questioning because we put so much of heart and personality into our jobs every day. So, knowing that, this is how I would approach an open house.
Personally, I love questions. But as you said, I don’t want to be attacked by them. However, I do want them to know that you are both an interested and supportive parent, which is the type of parent I love to work with.
Start off by asking a few questions about things that you see in the classroom that you like. For example, “I love the science area in the classroom. What are you doing there? It looks great – it made me want to come back to school.” All teachers love to hear that. It makes us feel good. Compliment them. Then, move on (Yes, it’s known as buttering them up, but be genuine about something you like that they are doing and you will be rewarded with a genuine answer.)
Most of the time at a school tour or open house you will be speaking to an administrator or a parent representative. That being said, these are a few of the questions I would ask:
· What type of literacy program do you use?
· What type of math program?
· Is there a social studies program?
· Do all classes on each grade teach the same thing or are teachers allowed to teach what they want but still follow grade level standards?
· Is science taught in the classroom or is there a science teacher?
· Is there a music program?
· Is there P.E. every week?
· Is there art?
· Do you test kids and in what grade do you begin to do so?
· What is the parent visitation policy?
· What types of support services do you offer kids who might be struggling, either academically or emotionally?
· Does the school have any relationships with local agencies, businesses or universities?
· Do student teachers work in the school?
· Is there a school cafeteria and what is the food like that is served there?
There are so many questions to ask, but I think this list would give you a fair amount of information to begin to know if this school is right for your child.
March 31st, 2009
