5 minute read
How to Choose a School
from FC 2018
by Forsyth Mags
How to Choose a School BY LISA S.T. DOSS
We often choose locations because of the beauty in the surroundings, friendly citizens and access to our needs. In the search for good schools, parents may not realize they can go beyond their zone to find the perfect philosophy and teachers to meet their children’s needs. How fortunate parents are to arrive in a location which offers diverse schools that specialize in teaching the arts, math and sciences, engineering, private or Christian based and college preparatory education. Parents will not have to look far. The right school can be found within Forsyth County.
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A LIST OF REQUIREMENTS
Whether you are shopping for a house, car or piece of furniture, specific requirements are always in mind. Choosing a school must have a similar expectation. The search begins with a list. With your child at your side, openly discuss his or her gifts, strengths and weaknesses, and goals. Take time to define the class size, type of instruction and extracurricular activities. For instance, you may want your child to take part in specialized classes, agree to a school uniform or seek a class no larger than 20. Similar to any attempt at shopping, not all requirements will make the cut; therefore, also consider what is realistic and important.
PHILOSOPHY
A philosophy is what the school believes and the community follows. It combines the school’s purpose with a means to inspire each person who attends. Philosophies aren’t necessarily for independent, private or religious affiliated schools. Public schools also have a belief structure that unites the student body as a community. As you begin the process of contacting schools, it is important to ask about the school’s philosophy.
SCHOOL CHOICE
It is true the options for education open wide when children leave elementary and go to middle school. The doors become even wider when pre-teens enter high school. In Forsyth County, parents should never feel limited by educational options. When philosophy is a factor to suit a child’s needs, parents can focus on the philosophy and advantages of school first.
CHARTER SCHOOL
Independently operated and tuition free, charter schools are not bound by the mandates and rules of a public school; yet, money is allocated through taxpayer dollars. While a charter school can create its own curriculum, it is required to participate in the end-of-grade and end-of-course tests to provide data for the NC School Report. The appeal stems from small, intimate class sizes, innovative approaches in teaching and high academic standards. It is advised to call a charter school directly and inquire whether openings are available. It is recommended to begin the application process in early January.
PRIVATE EDUCATION
There are 25 private schools in Winston-Salem, and 64% are religiously affiliated. While tuition is a financial decision, your child will be given an opportunity to participate in learning at an all-girl or Montessori school, a progressive or a religiously affiliated school. Private schools emphasize the complete child by teaching the values of character, citizenship and community.
Small class sizes and a philosophy-influenced curriculum may foster the individual growth your child needs. Enrollment occurs throughout the year; yet, the admissions process begins in February. Interviews, school tours and sometimes aptitude tests are given before the decision of acceptance. A child with special academic gifts may thrive in a magnet school. Since funding is focused on four key areas – students, teachers, supplies and programs – the curriculum may emphasize science and technology, the performing or visual arts, or an international baccalaureate program. Students under each program form a quick bond with classmates in having similar interests.
Despite its connection to the public school system, student attendance is not decided upon zoning boundaries. In fact, students must apply in early January.
HOME SCHOOLING
The option to home school has become easier for both parents and students in the last decade. No longer are parents expected to create lesson plans and teach. In fact, online classes can be scheduled into your child’s time, providing necessary blocks for your child to pursue interests and goals without feeling stressed. Home school allows children the freedom to attend afternoon and evening classes that would otherwise occupy homework responsibilities. Most home school students are well balanced and educationally advanced.
The right “choice” for your child and family is within reach!
CLEMMONS
A Child’s World Learning Center
2005 Lewisville Clemmons Rd. Clemmons, NC 27012 (336) 766-8222 Preschool / Daycare Serving Infants – PreKindergarten, including Before and After School Care for up to 12 years old
Apple Tree Academies
Clemmons Elementary School
Clemmons Moravian Child Care
3560 Spangenberg Avenue Clemmons, NC 27012 (336) 766-6979 Preschool / Daycare Serving Infants – PreKindergarten, including Before and After School Care for students through 5th grade
Clemmons United Methodist
Highway 158 / Stratford Road Clemmons, NC 27012 (336) 766-9593 Preschool / After School & Summer Care
Immanuel Baptist Church
1505 Lewisville Clemmons Rd Clemmons, NC 27012 (336) 766-4226 Preschool / Daycare Serving Infants – PreKindergarten, including Before and After School Care for up to 12 years old
Montessori School
6050 Holder Road Clemmons, NC 27012 (336) 766-5550 Private School Serving Toddler - Elementary Enrolling Adolescent Program for Fall 2018
Morgan Elementary School
New Horizons Childcare Inc
6395 Cephis Drive Clemmons, NC 27012 (336) 766-7079 Preschool / Daycare Serving Infants – Pre-Kindergarten
Southwest Elementary School
West Forsyth High School
LEWISVILLE
Child Care Network
5038 Styers Ferry Road Lewisville, NC 27023 (336) 766-3233 Preschool / Daycare Serving Infants – PreKindergarten, including Before and After School Care for students through 5th grade
Forsyth Country Day School
5501 Shallowford Road Lewisville, NC 27023 (336) 945-3151 Private School Age 2 – 12th grade
Lewisville Elementary School
Lewisville United Methodist Church
6290 Shallowford Road Lewisville, NC 27023 (336) 945-3204 Preschool / Mothers Morning Out
Sunrise United Methodist Church
West Forsyth Christian Preschool
1200 Lewisville Clemmons Rd. Lewisville, NC 27023 (336) 712-2424 Preschool / Daycare Serving 2 – 4 years
