Scoring the school

School cultureIs the school run privately or independently? Private schools are generally owned by an individual or group and are run as for-profit ventures. Independent schools are not-for-profit and overseen by a volunteer board of governors to whom the principal reports. What is the school’s philosophy, vision and mission? How is it unique? Does the school have defined ideals — are these enlivened in everything they do? Is the school safe? Does it have a bullying policy? What happens if there are behaviour issues in the classroom? What beliefs and values does the school support, whether this be a specific religion (Christian, Islamic, Hinduism) or philosophy (Montessori, Waldorf)? Faculty What is the turnover in teachers and staff? How long have the school’s administrators been at the school? What are the qualifications and relevant experience of the teachers? Does the school offer career advancement and professional development opportunities for all staff? What is the maximum class size? What is the student-to-teacher ratio? Co-curricular and extra programs Does the school have sports teams? Whom do they play against? What other type of clubs, activities and extra-curricular programs does the school offer? What facilities are offered? Is there a gymnasium, computer lab, playground, lunchroom, library, and music or art space? Are there after-school programmes available? Does the school offer a Parents' Association and class parents? Is transportation and/or a hot lunch included? As important as asking the right questions, is how you feel when you visit the school. “Don't ignore your gut. Trust the ‘smell test.’ Can you see your child here? Can you see the child you hope your child will become? Do the children in the school seem happy?” says Stephen Beatty, head of school at Montcrest School. “And don’t be afraid to ask to meet the principal, even just to say hi on a tour. Schools are said to be a reflection of the head.” Dollars and sense To establish your financial commitment you need to know: 1. What are the tuition fees? 2. Are there any additional costs? 3. How and when do the fees have to be paid? 4. Does the school offer scholarships, bursaries or financial aid? If so, what are the requirements? 5. Is there a sibling discount? 6. Are there charitable donation expectations? Our expert panel Stephen Beatty, headmaster, Montcrest School; montcrest.on.ca Jeff Bavington, vice-principal & director, Hudson College; hudsoncollege.ca Dalia Elsen, director, Crestwood School; crestwoodschool.com Terry Gorrie, business administrator, Bannockburn School; bannockburn.ca Ann Harvey, director of marketing and communications, Toronto Montessori Schools; torontomontessori.ca