Navigating School Choice: Selecting the Right High School

When it comes to your child’s education, making the right ‘school choice’ can be a pivotal decision. We have been alongside our students’ learning journeys from Pre-K and now to 8th grade where we must say goodbye as they graduate on to high school, but we still care about where they go from here! For many of our Central Indiana parents of 7th and 8th-grade students, the process of selecting a high school can be overwhelming. There are several public, charter, innovation, and private school options and various factors to consider. This AYS guide aims to simplify your journey, offering seven key pieces of advice to assist you in making an informed school choice.

1. Foster Open Communication

Making a successful school choice starts with open communication between you and your child. Engage them in discussions about their preferences, fears, and aspirations. Understanding what they value – be it academics, extracurricular activities, or a specific school culture – is vital in making a choice that aligns with their expectations and goals.

2. Research Together

Join forces to make it a fun research project as a family. Explore websites, attend open houses, and check out each school’s offerings. This collaborative approach not only empowers your child but also ensures that the school choice reflects a mutual understanding of what’s best for their educational and personal growth.

3. Align with Academic and Personal Needs

Evaluate how each school caters to your child’s academic strengths and personal interests. A school that supports their unique talents can significantly enhance their educational experience and pave the way for future success.

4. Consider School Size and Environment

The size and environment of a school play important roles in shaping a student’s experience. Reflect on your child’s responses to their current school and out-of-school time program environments to determine whether a larger, dynamic setting or a smaller, community-focused school is the right choice.

5. Assess Logistics

Practical aspects such as location, transportation, cost, and schedule need to be considered during the school choice process. Ensuring that the school is logistically feasible is essential for maintaining a balanced daily life.

6. Empower with Independence

Empowering your child to be part of the decision-making process instills confidence and a sense of ownership in their education. This involvement can be instrumental in fostering their commitment and enthusiasm for their chosen school.

7. Utilize External Guidance

Seek advice from educational professionals, counselors, and other parents. Their insights can provide invaluable perspectives, aiding in a more informed and rounded school choice.

Choosing the right high school is a significant decision in your child’s educational journey. By prioritizing open communication, thorough research, and considering both academic and logistical factors, you can make a school choice that best suits your child’s needs and aspirations. If there are two takeaways we’d like you to remember, it’s 1) this decision extends beyond the next four years and 2) though they won’t be one of our afterschool students anymore, they are ALWAYS welcome at AYS.

4701 N Keystone Ave
Suite 475
Indianapolis, IN 46205

(317) 283-3817

info@ayskids.org

Office Hours
8:00am – 5:00pm