---
title: 'Checklist: What to look for on a grade school visit'
description: Use this elementary school checklist as you consider which grade school is right for your child with learning and thinking differences.
slug: checklist-what-to-look-for-on-a-grade-school-visit
author: Geri Coleman Tucker
reviewer: Ginny Osewalt
published: '2019-10-16T11:43:33.256Z'
thumbnail: https://cdn-images.understood.org/p0qf7j048i0q/CDB96D71A1264A249901061F79107B5C/e659676015e1aa61851683916c750ba3/UPP001250.jpg
source_url: https://www.understood.org/en/articles/checklist-what-to-look-for-on-a-grade-school-visit
lang: en
---

# Checklist: What to look for on a grade school visit

Choices abound when it comes to picking the right elementary school for a child with learning and thinking differences. This list might help you narrow things down.

> Looking for a school that’ll be just right for your child? Check out [GreatSchools.org](https://www.greatschools.org/), where you can search for schools in your area and find out which ones will serve your child best.

## How is the school environment?

- The student-teacher ratio is reasonable.
- I know and agree with the school’s policy on handling behavior problems.
- The school actively works to prevent and deal with bullying.
- The school is safe and clean.
- Very few students are expelled or suspended; violence is rare.
- The school has a good policy for dealing with sick children.
- The school won’t let anyone take my child out of school without my permission.
- Afterschool childcare and afterschool sports, clubs, and programs are available.
- The school grounds are secure and the neighborhood is safe.
- The school has a gym, a playground, and a playing field for physical activities.

## What is the staff like?

- The school has a psychologist, a speech therapist, and an occupational therapist on staff.
- Teachers and specialists are trained to recognize and work well with children who have learning and thinking differences.
- They know how to deal with discipline and behavior issues and have a written policy.
- There’s not a lot of staff turnover.
- Teachers seem knowledgeable and pleasant.

## Does it feel right for my child?

- The school offers a supportive environment and has the proper resources.
- The school can serve my child’s special learning needs.
- The method of teaching at the school works well with my child’s learning strengths.
- General education and special education teachers work together.

## Does it work for me?

- The school is near my home, or it’s convenient for my child to get to.
- The school hours fit my schedule.
- I like the policy for watching my child’s progress and keeping me informed.
- There are parent-teacher conferences as needed.
- I’m welcome or encouraged to be involved at the school and volunteer.

## What are the academics like?

- A reasonable amount of homework is given.
- The school has high expectations for all students.
- Assistive technology is available for learning needs.
- The school scores well on standardized tests.
- The school has a library, a music and arts program, and a computer lab.
- Children do well in middle school after they leave this school.

---

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