Four Tips on Researching a School

by Betsy Van Dorn

Whether you're moving to a new area or just want to take a second look at your local school system, these tips will make you an expert sleuth.

Visit the school you are considering for your child and talk to the principal. Ask how the school compares with other schools in the state.
Find out if the school has a parent-teacher organization and contact the president. Ask for her opinion on the quality of the school.
Newspapers and local television stations often do stories on the public schools that compare schools within the state. You can call a newspaper or T.V. station to request copies of stories they have done, or you can look for them at your local library.
Many relocation services and realtors include as part of their services information about the schools in the area. Even if you are not using their services, some companies may provide you with this information because it's a smart public relations move.