Whether you're just beginning your search or narrowing down your final options, knowing what to ask — and what answers to listen for — will help you make an informed decision that aligns with your family's values and your child's unique needs. In this guide, we'll explore essential questions across several key areas that every parent should consider when evaluating private elementary schools.
1. Academic Program Questions
When it comes to your child's education, understanding the school's academic approach should be at the top of your priority list. Here are crucial questions to ask about the curriculum and teaching methods:
1.1. What curriculum standards does the school follow?
Private schools have the freedom to choose their curriculum frameworks. Some follow state standards while others may use nationally recognized programs or develop their own custom curriculum. Understanding the framework provides insight into what your child will learn and how it compares to other schools.
At St. Paul Lutheran School in Royal Oak, our curriculum meets all requirements of the State of Michigan while integrating Christian values throughout. This approach ensures students receive a quality education that prepares them for future academic success while nurturing their spiritual development.
1.2. What is your average class size and student-teacher ratio?
Smaller class sizes often allow for more individualized attention and instruction tailored to each student's needs. Ask not only about the average number of students per classroom but also whether teaching assistants or specialists regularly work with students.
The smaller classes at St. Paul ensure that every student receives the help and encouragement they need to achieve their full potential. Our intimate learning environment allows teachers to truly know each child's strengths and areas for growth.
1.3. How do you approach teaching core subjects like reading, writing, and mathematics?
Understanding the teaching philosophy for fundamental skills can help you determine if it aligns with how your child learns best. Does the school use phonics-based reading instruction? Is their math program traditional or more conceptual? Do they emphasize handwriting?
1.4. How do you assess student progress throughout the year?
Beyond standardized testing, inquire about how teachers evaluate learning on an ongoing basis. Do they use portfolios, project-based assessments, or traditional tests? How often will you receive updates about your child's progress?
1.5. How do you challenge advanced students and support those who need extra help?
Every child learns differently and at their own pace. A quality elementary program should have strategies for both extending learning for quick learners and providing additional support when needed.
2. Faculty and Staff Questions
The teachers who will be working with your child have an enormous impact on their educational experience. These questions will help you understand the quality and stability of the school's faculty:
2.1. What qualifications and credentials do your teachers have?
Ask about educational requirements, certifications, and typical experience levels of faculty members. In many private schools, teachers may have specialized training beyond standard teaching credentials.
St. Paul's dedicated teachers bring exceptional credentials and experience to the classroom. Many hold advanced degrees in education and have completed additional professional development in their areas of expertise. Our teachers are also trained in integrating faith principles across all subject areas.
2.2. What professional development opportunities do teachers receive?
Schools that invest in continuous learning for their teachers often demonstrate a commitment to educational excellence. Ask how teachers stay current with best practices and new teaching methods.
2.3. What is your teacher retention rate?
High turnover can disrupt educational continuity, while long-term faculty often indicates a positive school culture and satisfied teachers. Teachers who feel valued and supported generally create better learning environments for students.
Many of St. Paul's faculty members have been with our school for years, creating a stable, supportive environment where students benefit from experienced educators who understand our community's values and expectations.
2.4. How do teachers communicate with parents?
Regular, clear communication between home and school is essential for student success. Ask about formal conferences, progress reports, and informal communication channels.
2.5. What support staff are available to students?
Beyond classroom teachers, inquire about specialists like reading coaches, counselors, nurses, or resource teachers who provide additional student support.
3. School Culture and Values Questions
The environment in which your child learns shapes not only what they learn but who they become:
3.1. What is the school's mission, and how is it implemented daily?
Every school has a mission statement, but the important question is how that mission comes to life in classrooms and hallways. Ask for specific examples of how values are taught and reinforced.
St. Paul Lutheran School equips children for a life of service with a foundation of academic, physical, spiritual, and social maturity centered around Jesus Christ. This mission influences everything from our curriculum design to our approach to student discipline and character development.
3.2. How does the school handle discipline and behavioral expectations?
Understanding the discipline philosophy will help you determine if it aligns with your parenting approach. Ask about classroom management strategies and how conflicts between students are addressed.
3.3. How do you develop character and citizenship in students?
Look for schools that intentionally foster qualities like integrity, responsibility, and respect for others. Ask about specific programs or practices that develop these traits.
At St. Paul, we believe in nurturing the whole child. Our environment promotes motivation, self-discipline, and respect for others. Students learn not only academic subjects but also how to live out their faith through service and compassion toward others.
3.4. For faith-based schools: How is religious education integrated into the program?
If you're considering a religious school, understand how faith is incorporated into both curriculum and daily activities. Ask about religious requirements, observances, and how diverse perspectives are handled.
As a Lutheran school, our Christian faith permeates all aspects of education at St. Paul. Students participate in religion classes, worship experiences, and service opportunities, learning to see the world through the lens of faith while respecting those with different backgrounds.
4. Student Support Questions
Every child has unique needs, strengths, and challenges. These questions help ensure the school can support your specific child:
4.1. What resources are available for students with learning differences?
Even if your child doesn't currently need additional support, understanding available resources is important. Ask about identification processes, intervention programs, and accommodation policies.
4.2. How do you support the social and emotional development of students?
Elementary years are crucial for developing interpersonal skills and emotional regulation. Inquire about how the school fosters friendships, resolves conflicts, and supports children's emotional well-being.
St. Paul's nurturing environment addresses the whole child – spiritually, emotionally, socially, and academically. Our teachers are trained to recognize and respond to students' emotional needs, creating classrooms where children feel safe, valued, and supported.
4.3. How do you accommodate different learning styles?
Children absorb information in different ways. Ask how teachers incorporate visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learning opportunities into their instruction.
4.4. Do you provide individualized learning paths for students?
While most elementary programs follow a standard grade-level curriculum, ask how instruction might be tailored to meet individual student needs, interests, and abilities.
The smaller class sizes at St. Paul allow our teachers to truly know each student and adjust instruction to meet individual learning needs. This personalized approach helps each child develop confidence and achieve their full potential.
5. Extracurricular and Enrichment Questions
A well-rounded education extends beyond core academics:
5.1. What arts, music, and physical education programs are offered?
These programs are often reduced in public schools but are vital for well-rounded development. Ask about frequency, facilities, and whether these are taught by specialists.
St. Paul offers an exceptional music program under the direction of our Minister of Music. Students study general music and have opportunities to join band, handbell choir, and select choir as they progress through the grades. Our physical education program focuses on both individual and team skills.
5.2. What technologies are integrated into the learning experience?
Understanding how technology is used can help you evaluate the school's approach to 21st-century skills. Ask about availability, usage policies, and digital citizenship education.
5.3. What field trips and special learning opportunities are available?
Experiential learning outside the classroom reinforces concepts and broadens perspectives. Ask about typical field trips, guest speakers, and special programs.
5.4. Do you offer any unique programs that differentiate your school?
Many private schools have signature programs that make them unique. These might include language immersion, advanced science labs, environmental initiatives, or community partnerships.
6. Practical and Logistical Questions
Practical considerations matter greatly in daily school life:
6.1. What are the complete costs of attendance?
Beyond base tuition, ask about fees, books, uniforms, field trips, and other expenses. Also inquire about payment plans, financial aid, scholarships, and tuition increases.
St. Paul Lutheran School strives to make quality Christian education accessible to families. We offer multiple payment options and financial assistance programs to help make private education affordable for qualifying families.
6.2. What is the school schedule and annual calendar?
Understanding the daily schedule, start/end times, and yearly calendar helps you plan for work and family commitments. Ask about half days, holidays, and vacations.
6.3. What transportation options are available?
Ask about bus service, carpooling programs, drop-off procedures, and parking accommodations for parents.
6.4. Do you offer before and after-school care?
For working parents, extended care programs can be essential. Ask about availability, hours, activities offered, and additional costs.
St. Paul offers Extended Care programs before and after school to accommodate working parents' schedules. Our program provides a safe, structured environment where children can complete homework, engage in supervised play, and participate in enrichment activities.
6.5. What are the facilities like, and how is student safety ensured?
Ask about classrooms, playgrounds, gathering spaces, and security measures. A tour can answer many of these questions visually.
7. Community and Parent Involvement Questions
The school community extends beyond your child's classroom:
7.1. What opportunities exist for parent involvement?
Schools with strong parent communities often have better student outcomes. Ask about volunteer opportunities, parent associations, and how family involvement is encouraged.
At St. Paul, we view education as a partnership between home and school. Parents are welcomed as valuable members of our community with various opportunities to participate in classroom activities, school events, and volunteer programs.
7.2. How does the school communicate with families?
Regular communication keeps parents connected to their child's education. Ask about newsletters, email updates, parent portals, and social media presence.
7.3. What community partnerships enrich the student experience?
Many schools collaborate with local organizations to extend learning. These might include museums, businesses, environmental organizations, or service agencies.
7.4. What is the parent community like?
Understanding the parent community can help you gauge if your family will feel at home. Ask about parent events, typical involvement levels, and the overall culture.
8. Making Your Decision
After gathering answers to these questions, reflect on which aspects are most important for your family. While no school is perfect, finding the right fit means identifying the program that best aligns with your educational priorities and your child's unique needs.
At St. Paul Lutheran School in Royal Oak, we've been providing quality education for over 100 years to both church families and non-members. Our commitment to academic excellence combined with spiritual formation creates an educational experience that develops the whole child – mind, body, and spirit.
We invite you to schedule a tour of our school online or by calling 248-546-6555. We would be happy to answer these questions in person and show you firsthand what makes our community special. Your child's educational journey is important, and we're here to partner with you every step of the way.
When you visit, come prepared with these questions and any others specific to your child's needs. The right elementary school creates not just a foundation for academic success but also nurtures character, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning. We look forward to meeting your family and sharing how St. Paul might be the perfect fit for your elementary student's educational journey.
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