FAQ on Parents Choice

1. As a parent, how do I know if the school that my child attends is good enough?

Please read the Annual Reports Card of the school. This is available with the district administration. The report card contains the details of English proficiency, migrant status and other relevant information.   You will get an overall idea about the performance of the entire school.  What’s more, local school districts are rule bound to inform you if the school your child attends is recognized as “needing improvement, corrective action or restructuring.”

2. What are the subjects will my child be tested on?

The No Child Left Behind law makes tests on English and Math’s compulsory. These will begin at various levels at grade 3 and continue until grade 8.  Tests are also compulsory once between the grades 10 to 12.

3. Will the testing methods help my child?

Testing is a normal method of evaluation that helps parents and teachers understand the progress of the child. You will receive the results of the assessments, and the records are kept private.

4. What if the school that my child attends is identified as “needing improvement”, can I change the school?

The school will receive Title 1 funds that support the work towards improvements.  A period is given for restructuring and taking corrective action. Your child can take the benefit of supplementary education as needed. You also have the choice of changing your child’s school and opting for a better school within the district. If there is no school in the district, you can always send your child to a school in the nearby district, these can be chartered or private schools.

5.  Are charter schools also accountable under the No Child Left Behind Law?

Yes, these schools must fulfill all the criterions of academics and safety.  Charter schools are law bound to provide a nurturing environment for all their students.

6. Who will bear transportation costs, if I have to send my child to a school in the nearby district?

The District Authorities and the school in question will bear the costs of transportation and transfer.

7. How does the school ensure improvements in the quality of teachers?

The qualifications of the teachers are clearly stated. It ensures that they are well qualified in the subjects they teach, methods of classroom instruction and child development. The reporting system and constant test evaluate teacher performance.

8. Will the school help my child read better and learn English, if the parent cannot help them at home?

The schools are implementing the project called “Reading First”. The project is aimed at helping every young child, in every state become a good reader. Attention is also paid to pre-reading skills in kindergarten so that the child may read better.

9. Does the law ensure better school safety?

Programs under the Title IV offers support programs that prevent violence in and around schools. This checks the unlawful use of alcohol, drug and tobacco and ensures a safe and enriched environment.  These programs are evaluated for their success. 

10. Can my child change the school if he or she has been a victim of violence?

The parent has the choice to change the school, if their child has been a victim of violence, or if the school is declared as a "persistently dangerous schools."