How to Choose the Right High School

As someone who has gone through the high school application process quite recently, I’m excited to share what I've learned about choosing the right school. Hopefully, this helps you a bit in finding your best fit.

Academic Programs

First, consider the academic programs offered by the schools. Look for programs that align with your interests and career goals, such as gifted programs, Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), STEM, arts, sports, or apprenticeship programs. If your chosen school doesn't offer programs that match your interests, your high school years could be disappointing. For example, if you are an aspiring engineer, you will benefit much more from a school with a strong STEM program than one with limited science related courses or activities.

Extracurricular Activities

Next, evaluate the extracurricular activities available. Sports teams, clubs, volunteer opportunities, and student organizations add fun to your school days and help you meet peers with the interests. Extracurricular activities are also important for college applications, as they show your passions and commitments outside academics. Even if you’re undecided about college, extracurriculars help you develop skills, explore interests, and make new friends. What not to love?

School Location

Consider the school's location and your daily commute. A long commute can be exhausting and it reduces the time left for studies, activities, and rest. It's better to ensure that your future high school is reasonably accessible and that you can manage the travel time relatively easily.

College Preparation and Support

Research the school’s track record in preparing students for college. Look at their resources like college counseling and opportunities for college-level coursework. Some schools highlight their college acceptance rates and notable alumni on their websites. This could give you some sense of their success in this area.

School Size and Environment

Ask yourself: do I prefer a larger or smaller school? Larger schools offer diverse opportunities and resources, while smaller schools provide a tight-knit community and more attention from teachers. Go to open houses to get a feel of the school environment and observe how students and school staff interact with one another. The vibes matter. After all, you'll be spending four years in high school!

Supports for Special Needs

If you have special needs, ensure the school has the resources and programs to support you. Check out their websites to see what supports they offer. Also, reach out for more information if needed. No worries - schools are usually helpful in responding to questions from prospective students.

Private Schools as an Option

Private schools are not just for rich kids. If you are considering private schools, remember that many offer financial aid and scholarships. But do remember that private school application usually includes exams, interviews, and other requirements. So, you should find out about the timelines and prepare well.

Start Early

Begin your research early, ideally during the summer after grade 7. Attend high school open houses from October to December based on your research. Often, different school have open house on the same nights, so starting in grade 7 gives you the advantage of being able to cover different schools, because you'll also have chance in grade 8.

Also, get input from your teachers and family while considering your options, as they know you well and can provide valuable advice and insights.

Good luck! ^-^