Navigating School Choice

North Lakes Academy Superintendent - Cecelia Dodge

Parents have a lot to think about when it comes to choosing a school for their child. What kind of school is best for their child and their family? What are the different approaches to education found in schools? What are the other considerations? And finally, what are the enrollment rules, timelines, and processes?

Kinds of schools

In the Forest Lake area parents can find public and private schools. Within public school choices, there are traditional school districts, like FLAS, and there are charter school districts, like NLA, LILA, and others. There are also private schools in the area, both religious and secular. Public schools are free and must admit all students. Private schools charge tuition and sometimes have enrollment criteria. Here are some other differences:

All Public Schools:	All Private Schools:
Free, Including Transportation* Receive State and Federal Funding Required to follow education laws Licensed teachers  Must take all students** Provide special education Traditional - can levy taxpayers for $$$ Charter - strong teacher voice	Charge tuition Not required to follow all education laws Receive limited state and federal funds Not required to provide special education Can have entrance requirements & turn students away

Approaches to Education

Many schools, but not all, specify a specific approach to education. Some common approaches include International Baccalaureate (IB) which is global education to develop well-rounded, knowledgeable students motivated to make a difference. Montessori focuses on each child's development and activity, emphasizing hands-on, independent learning using real life skills. Project-based focuses on group work to solve a problem or answer a question.This approach values creativity, the real world, and inquiry to approach learning.

Other Considerations

Parents should be aware of other things to consider when selecting a school for their child. Quality, cost, and convenience are some of the big ones. Quality considerations include reputation; achievement/performance; culture, family engagement; overall impression; communication; do things work?; do things look good? Cost considerations include additional costs, like transportation, before/after school care and uniforms. Convenience factors include the school location in relation to your home or work. Where siblings and neighborhood friends attend school, the school calendar, and school start and end times. 

Parents and guardians can learn more about the quality of a school. It’s best to visit the school. Request a tour, a meeting with the Principal. Word of mouth is important. Speak with others who are familiar with the school. Online, look at 

MDE Report Card

School Website

Niche or GreatSchools

Enrollment Rules

Learn about these: Enrollment period; Lottery; Waiting List; Sibling preference; Staff preference; School district boundaries; Open Enrollment