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This is how I researched my school district when time came to send my children-
Look into socio-economic breakdown of student body and THEN look at test scores. Children that have the benefit of a stay at home mom, 2-3 years of preschool and enrichment as well as support from parents will always score better on tests. These scores do not always reflect the quality of the teachers as much as the parents. Schools with a diverse population of race and wealth ratios that perform above state average are generally good schools with good teachers. Never discount the value of having parents that are committed and involved in their kids education.
Ask about the percentage of special ed students. 30- 40 special needs children can skew the test scores-especially in a small school.
Visit the school and tour it with the building administrator. Look at class size, engagement of students, cleanliness and pride in the environment.
Look at the attire of the staff and the bulletin board postings.
Talk to PTA parents. They are one of the best sources of information and will provide insight into the culture of the school. Ask about the success of their fundraising efforts.
Look for diversity. Our children will be competing in a fierce global market and it is our responsibility to prepare them for this! Respect for differences is not something you pick up at 20 year old.
Ask at the middle school level about gang related incidents and don't take an adminstrators word for it. Call the local police dept.
It's important to know that test scores are a small part of what goes into creating a great educational environment for your children. Your support as a parent is equally important and most teachers will agree.
Do not listen to parents that don't use the schools or realtors that can't back up the information.
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HOw I researched my school district - 
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