Selecting the right elementary school for your child is one of the most significant decisions you'll make as a parent. This choice sets the foundation for your child's educational journey and can profoundly influence their academic growth, social development, and spiritual formation. While the process might seem overwhelming, asking the right questions can help you navigate this important decision with confidence.
1. Academic Considerations
The academic program forms the core of your child's school experience. Consider asking these questions to understand a school's academic approach:
Curriculum and Teaching Methods
- What curriculum does the school follow? Is it state-standard based, classical, Montessori, or another framework?
- How does the school approach core subjects like reading, writing, and mathematics?
- What teaching methodologies are used (project-based, traditional, experiential)?
- How does the school accommodate different learning styles and abilities?
- What is the homework policy, and how much time should students expect to spend on assignments outside school hours?
Class Structure
- What is the average class size?
- What is the student-to-teacher ratio?
- Are classes self-contained or do students rotate between teachers for different subjects?
- How are students grouped (by ability, age, or mixed groupings)?
- Is there team teaching or collaboration between classrooms?
Academic Performance and Assessment
- How does the school measure student growth and achievement?
- What standardized tests (if any) do students take?
- How does the school communicate student progress to parents?
- What support is available for students who are struggling academically?
- What enrichment is available for students who need additional challenges?
2. Faith Integration and Spiritual Development
For many families, faith is an essential component of education. These questions can help you understand how a school integrates faith into its program:
Religious Education and Practices
- Is the school affiliated with a specific denomination or religious tradition?
- How is faith instruction incorporated into the daily schedule and curriculum?
- Are religious studies taught as a separate subject or integrated across all areas?
- What religious observances, prayers, or worship services are part of the school routine?
- How does the school approach scripture study and Bible literacy?
Faith-Based Community and Values
- How does the school's mission statement reflect its religious identity?
- What values does the school emphasize, and how are these communicated to students?
- How are faith principles applied to discipline and character development?
- What is the religious background of the teaching staff?
- How does the school support families from different faith backgrounds or denominations?
Service and Outreach
- Does the school incorporate service learning or community outreach?
- How are students encouraged to put their faith into action?
- What missions or charitable projects does the school support?
- How does the school teach students about caring for others and social responsibility?
- Are there opportunities for students to develop leadership in faith contexts?
3. School Environment and Culture
The atmosphere of a school significantly impacts your child's daily experience:
School Values and Philosophy
- What is the school's mission statement?
- What are the core values that guide the school community?
- How would the school describe its overall educational philosophy?
- What makes this school unique or different from others in the area?
Discipline and Behavior Management
- What is the school's approach to discipline?
- How are behavioral expectations communicated to students?
- What consequences exist for misbehavior?
- How does the school handle bullying or social conflicts?
- What character development programs are in place?
Safety and Security
- What safety procedures and protocols are in place?
- How are visitors managed during school hours?
- What emergency preparedness plans exist?
- How does the school handle health concerns or medical emergencies?
- What background checks are required for staff and volunteers?
Community Atmosphere
- What is the overall "feel" when you walk through the halls?
- How do teachers and students interact?
- Is there evidence of student work and accomplishments on display?
- Do students seem engaged and happy?
- How does the school celebrate diversity and promote inclusion?
4. Staff and Administration
The people who shape your child's educational experience deserve careful consideration:
Teacher Qualifications
- What credentials and certifications do teachers hold?
- What is the average teaching experience at the school?
- What ongoing professional development do teachers receive?
- How are teachers evaluated or held accountable for effective teaching?
- What is the teacher retention rate?
Administrative Leadership
- How long has the principal or head of school been in place?
- What is the administrative team's educational philosophy?
- How accessible are administrators to parents?
- What is the decision-making process for school policies and changes?
- How does the administration support teachers and staff?
5. Extracurricular and Enrichment Opportunities
Education extends beyond core academics to develop the whole child:
Arts and Physical Education
- What visual art, music, and performing arts programs are offered?
- How frequently do students participate in PE or physical activities?
- Are these programs taught by specialists or classroom teachers?
- What facilities support these programs (gymnasiums, art rooms, music spaces)?
- Are there opportunities for advanced training or performances?
Technology and 21st Century Skills
- How is technology integrated into the learning environment?
- What access do students have to computers, tablets, or other digital tools?
- How does the school teach digital citizenship and online safety?
- What coding, robotics, or other technology-focused learning is available?
- How does the school balance technology use with traditional learning methods?
Additional Enrichment
- What field trips or experiential learning opportunities exist?
- Are there clubs, teams, or after-school activities?
- What languages or cultural studies are included?
- Are there science fairs, spelling bees, or academic competitions?
- What makes the school's extracurricular program distinctive?
6. Family Involvement and Communication
Strong school-home partnerships enhance your child's educational experience:
Parent-Teacher Communication
- How do teachers communicate with parents (email, apps, newsletters)?
- How frequently can parents expect updates on student progress?
- What is the protocol for addressing parent concerns?
- How accessible are teachers for meetings or conversations?
- Are there regular parent-teacher conferences?
Family Engagement
- What opportunities exist for parent volunteering?
- Is there an active parent organization?
- What family events or community-building activities are held?
- How does the school partner with parents in supporting student learning?
- What parent education or support is offered?
7. Logistics and Practical Considerations
Practical aspects can significantly impact your family's day-to-day experience:
Location and Transportation
- How far is the school from your home or workplace?
- What transportation options are available (bus service, carpools)?
- What is the drop-off and pick-up procedure?
- How does inclement weather affect school operations?
- What is the surrounding neighborhood like?
Schedule and Calendar
- What are the daily school hours?
- Does the school offer before or after-school care?
- How does the annual calendar align with your family's needs?
- What holidays or breaks are observed?
- How are early dismissals or special schedules handled?
Facilities and Resources
- What is the condition of the school building and grounds?
- What specialized learning spaces exist (library, science lab, makerspace)?
- How are outdoor spaces designed and utilized?
- What technology resources are available?
- Are facilities accessible for all students?
Financial Considerations
- What is the tuition or are there any fees associated with attendance?
- Are there financial aid or scholarship opportunities?
- What additional costs might arise during the school year?
- What is included in the basic tuition/fees and what costs extra?
- Are there multi-child discounts or payment plans available?
8. Making the Final Decision
After gathering information, the decision-making process includes these important steps:
School Visits and Observations
- Schedule tours during regular school hours to observe authentic activity
- If possible, arrange for your child to visit or participate in a class
- Pay attention to both facts and your intuitive sense of the environment
- Observe interactions between students, teachers, and staff
- Notice classroom organization, resources, and evidence of learning
Involve Your Child
- Discuss what's important to your child about school
- Consider their learning style and personality when evaluating options
- Talk about any concerns or excitements they express about potential schools
- Help them understand what might be different about a new school
- Validate their feelings while providing perspective on the bigger picture
Trust Your Research and Instincts
- Create a simple pros and cons list for each school option
- Prioritize which factors matter most for your family's unique situation
- Consider both short-term fit and long-term educational goals
- Recognize that no school will be perfect in every category
- Trust your parental intuition about where your child will thrive
Conclusion
Finding the right elementary school requires thoughtful research and personal reflection. By asking thorough questions about academics, faith integration, school culture, staff qualifications, enrichment opportunities, family involvement, and practical logistics, you'll gain valuable insights to guide your decision.
Remember that the best school for your child is one that aligns with your family's values, supports your child's unique learning needs, and creates an environment where they can develop academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually. With careful consideration and the right questions, you can find a school partnership that nurtures your child's growth and learning for years to come.
The elementary school years form a critical foundation for lifelong learning and character development. By taking time to find the right educational home for your child, you're investing in their future success and well-being.
Experience the St. Peter School Difference
At St. Peter School, we're dedicated to developing students into Scholars, Servants, and Saints to the glory of God! Our new 24,000 square foot education facility opens for the 2026-27 school year, expanding our existing Preschool and establishing our K-5 elementary program with small class sizes, experienced teachers, and Christ-centered education.
We invite you to experience firsthand how St. Peter School answers these important questions. Contact us today to schedule a personal tour, learn more about our programs, or join our K-5 interest list for the 2026-27 school year.
Contact us:
St. Peter Church & School
15701 Cleveland Gibbs Rd
Northlake, TX 76262
(817) 491-2010
stpeterfwschool.org