How to Involve Your High Schooler in Finding a New School

One of the adjustments that many expat families have to make when moving to Singapore is selecting a new school for their children. Given the abundance of world-class academic institutions in the city-state, it won’t be difficult to find a Singapore American school here that caters not only to expats from the United States but also to a truly international community. The real challenge lies in narrowing down your options to a school where your child can thrive. Especially if one or more of your children are already in high school and setting their sights on furthering their education or kickstarting a career.

Fortunately, many teenagers are eager to let their voices be heard, and it’s to your advantage as a parent to listen. You can choose to involve your high schooler in deciding which school to go to in Singapore. Doing so ensures that the school aligns with their preferences, needs, and aspirations. At the same time, actively involving high school-aged students in this pivotal decision empowers them to take ownership of their education. It also fosters a sense of confidence and independence that will serve them well in their academic journey.

Things to Consider When Choosing a School

Here are just some of the topics that you and your high schooler should explore together concerning their selection of schools. 

1. Academic Offerings

When talking about potential schools, it’s crucial to delve into the academic offerings that each option has. Encourage your child to identify their academic interests, goals, and aspirations for the future. Then, go over your initial selection of schools and retain the ones that can help your child work towards their academic objectives. Discuss the importance of selecting a school that offers a curriculum aligned with their interests and provides opportunities for academic growth and enrichment.

2. Extracurricular Activities

Ask your child to recall or explore their interests outside of the classroom and consider how potential schools can support their extracurricular pursuits. Bring up the benefits of participating in clubs, sports teams, and other activities. For instance, explore how one’s membership to a sports club can impact personal growth and skill development and build a sense of belonging to a community. It’s a good idea to attend school events or extracurricular fairs together to explore the range of activities each potential high school offers.

3. School Culture and Environment

The school’s culture and environment can significantly impact a student’s overall experience and well-being. Ask your child if they have preferences regarding school size, diversity, and campus atmosphere. Explore factors such as class sizes, teacher-student relationships, and peer interactions to gauge the overall school environment. Arranging campus visits or open house events can give your child the chance to experience the school’s culture firsthand and ask questions about the student community.

4. Support Services

Support services are essential for ensuring that students receive the assistance and resources they need to thrive academically and personally. As part of your selection process, talk with your child about the importance of having access to counseling, tutoring, and other support services and how these can be key to navigating academic and personal challenges. If applicable, determine as well whether potential schools can provide accommodations for students with special needs or learning differences.

5. Location and Commute

The school’s address and the ease of transportation options are practical considerations that can impact your child’s daily routine and overall experience. Talk with your child about their preferences regarding commuting distance and transportation methods. Explore factors such as proximity to home, public transport accessibility, and the surrounding neighborhood amenities. As much as possible, take a trial commute to potential schools to assess the travel time and transportation options available to your child.

How to Discuss the Subject of Choosing a New School

On top of ensuring that your child has a good grasp of the factors that should be considered when assessing new schools with you, it’s also important to foster open communication. This way, you can stay on the same page when discussing your options. Here’s a list of the guidelines that will help you do just that.

1. Create a Safe and Open Environment

Let your child express their thoughts and feelings about the school selection process. Listen actively to their perspective, validate their emotions, and show empathy and understanding towards their concerns. Every now and then, have a one-on-one conversation with your child to discuss their thoughts and feelings about potential schools and encourage them to ask questions or share any concerns they may have.

2. Be Transparent and Honest

Be transparent about the decision-making process and involve your child from the beginning to the end. Share information about potential schools, including their strengths, weaknesses, and any practical considerations that need to be taken into account. It’s also a good idea to keep your child informed about upcoming school visits, meetings, or events related to the school selection process. Keeping them in the loop will encourage them to participate actively in each stage of the decision-making process.

3. Empower the Student

Soliciting your child’s input and involving them in researching and evaluating potential schools will empower them to form their own opinions and express their own perspectives. Encourage them to ask questions, voice their concerns, and express their preferences regarding what they’re looking for in a school.

4. Provide Guidance and Support

Offer guidance and support throughout the decision-making process by providing resources and sharing your own insights and experiences. Help your child weigh the pros and cons of different options and make informed decisions based on their priorities and goals.

5. Respect Their Decision

Ultimately, respect your child’s decision, even if it differs from your own preferences or expectations. Acknowledge that the decision affects their education and future, and trust that they have thoughtfully considered their options and chosen what they believe is best for them.

Involving high-school-aged students in the process of selecting their new school in Singapore can be immensely beneficial for both parents and children. This not only ensures that the chosen school meets your child’s needs and preferences but also strengthens your relationship while setting the foundation for success in their academic journey.