Here’s What You Should Know Before Transferring Your Child To A New School

There may be many reasons why parents may decide to transfer their child to a new American school. However, the process of transfer can be a difficult task. Hence, it is essential to research and find the right school for your child. Before making this decision, be sure to take into account the following factors:

1. Observe the classroom and class size 

One crucial factor is observing a potential new school’s classroom and class size. Class size can significantly impact your child’s education. In general, smaller classes allow for more individualized attention from teachers, which can be especially beneficial for students who need extra help. Conversely, if your child is thriving in a large classroom setting, transferring them to a smaller school could lead to feelings of isolation and low self-esteem.

It’s important to remember that every child is unique and will respond differently to different classroom settings.   

2. Assess the quality of the teaching staff  

There are many ways to determine the quality of a teacher in IB schools. One way is to look at their qualifications. Teachers should have a degree in the subject they are teaching. They should also have certification from the state in which they are teaching. 

Another way to determine the quality of a teacher is by looking at their teaching experience. Teachers who have been teaching for a long time have more experience and knowledge than those who have just begun teaching. Considering a teacher’s ability to interact with their students is crucial. 

3. Define parent-teacher relationships

Some schools have a very active Parent Teacher Association (PTA) that organizes events and fundraisers throughout the year. Other schools may have a hands-off approach, where parents are only contacted if there is a problem.

If you’re interested in actively participating in your child’s education, transferring to a school with a strong PTA may be the best choice. However, if you would instead not want to deal with additional obligations, moving to a school with less parental involvement may be more appropriate. By verifying the school’s participation before making your decision, you can ensure that your child gets the best education possible.

4. Level of academic rigor at the school?

It is essential to understand that not all IB schools are created equal. Some schools have more rigorous curriculums than others. Hence, it’s imperative to do your research and find out how challenging the classes at the new school will be. 

Second, you must ask yourself whether your child is ready for a more competitive academic environment. However, if your child struggles in their current school, transferring them to a more rigorous one may only aggravate the problem.

5. Visit and observe schools  

One way to determine if a school is a good fit is to observe and visit it before transferring your child. When you visit a school, you want to ask questions and note what you see. Are the students engaged in learning? Is the staff friendly? Are the classrooms and facilities clean and organized?  

Watch how the students behave with one another and with the teachers. Are they following directions and working quietly, or are they running around and talking out of turn?

It’s also beneficial to keep your child’s personality in mind so you can choose an environment where your child can flourish. For example, some schools may be more academically oriented, while others may focus on creativity and art.

Conclusion

Transferring your child to a different American school can be a daunting decision to make. It is essential to ask the right questions and research to help make this process easier. Considering the factors mentioned in this article, you can make an informed decision that is best for your child.