With the arrival of spring and the school year winding down, you might start asking yourself some important questions. Is your child happy and doing well at their current school? Are their social and academic needs being met? Could their interests and talents be better supported elsewhere? Is it time to consider other options, or a possible change now or in the future?
Choosing a new school can feel like a big task, with a lot to consider. Start by thinking about why you want to make a change. What does your child need right now? What kind of environment will help them grow and feel challenged? For more tips, check out our previous CSFB blog linked on our website.
With a clear “why,” your school tour becomes a real chance to see how schools align with your priorities. Use this focused, parent-friendly checklist during K–8 tours, along with a helpful note for high school families.
Want to bring this sheet and take notes? Download the printable K–8 School Tour Questions checklist (PDF) here.
K–8 School tour questions to ask
1) Classroom experience & teaching approach
- How do teachers support different levels and ways of learning in the same classroom (i.e., small groups, intervention, enrichment)?
- How is student progress measured and shared (e.g., assessments, report cards, conferences)?
- What are the homework expectations by grade? What if a child struggles?
2) Student support & well-being
- What supports are available if my child needs extra academic help?
- How do you identify concerns early and respond to them? (For example, is there an assigned teacher, mentor, or staff member who looks out for students? How and when are families contacted, and what might a support plan look like?)
- How do you support students’ social-emotional well-being day to day (i.e., counseling, conflict resolution, classroom practices)?
3) Community, belonging & school culture
- How do you help new students feel welcomed and connected to their schools and peers from day one?
- Can you describe the school’s culture? What’s the atmosphere really like for students and families—not just what’s written on the website? Are there any traditions, routines, or moments that really capture what it feels like to be part of this community?
- How does the school address bullying, ongoing conflicts, or incidents of harm between students? At what point—and in what ways—are families informed or included in the process?
4) Enrichment (arts, STEM, athletics, clubs)
- What enrichment activities are guaranteed during the school day
- (art/music/STEM/PE/library)?
- What enrichment opportunities are available to students outside of regular school hours? Are there additional costs, limited spots, transportation challenges, or other barriers families should be aware of (i.e., cost, transportation, limited spots)?
- How do you identify and nurture a child’s strengths and interests over their time at the school?
5) Practical details + cost + “day in the life”
- What do daily logistics really look like (i.e., arrival and dismissal protocols, before/after care, transportation, meals, family communication)?
- What is the true total cost beyond tuition, and what financial aid/scholarship support is available (i.e., fees, uniforms, devices, trips)?
- Can my child experience a real day — not just a tour — before we decide whether to attend? (i.e., class observation, shadow day, speaking with current families/students)?
What to consider when touring high schools
When visiting high schools, take time to investigate the school’s academic focuses or specialties, such as STEM programs, the arts, technology, or other specialized tracks, to see how well they align with a student’s interests and goals. You should also ask about course levels, the academic support available if a student needs extra help, and the typical workload. It can be helpful to learn how teachers, advisors, or counselors check in on student progress.
In addition, ask how the school prepares students for life after graduation—whether that means college, careers, or other pathways. Find out if they offer college counseling, financial aid guidance, internships, leadership opportunities, or other programs that help students plan for their future.
CSFB is here to help
Every child should have the opportunity to pursue a learning environment that helps them do their best. This belief drives the heart of CSFB’s mission: helping Baltimore City families access the educational options that best serve their students’ individual needs. The goal is to find a place where your child can grow, belong, and get the support they need to thrive.
As you compare schools, start with your “why.” Bring the checklist of questions, take notes, and ask for real examples of support. In the end, choose what matches your child’s needs and your family’s goals—not just what looks good on paper.You do not have to navigate this process alone. Visit our website for resources designed for families, students, and schools. CSFB is here to support you.