Choosing a school
What to ask on a visit, compiled with NAPSEC. Take these with you.
Compiled with NAPSEC, VAISEF’s national affiliate association. Take these with you on a visit. A good school will welcome every one of them.
Academics
- Visit the school and assess its atmosphere, inside and outside the classroom. Would it appeal to your child?
- Take note of what students are doing. Does everyone appear to be participating in age-appropriate activities?
- Is your child’s functioning level similar to the other students you see?
- How much of your child’s day will be spent in the classroom? What courses are available? What is the student-to-teacher ratio?
- For students of high school age, are degrees available on completion, and if so what type?
Transition and vocational
- Will your child have opportunities for vocational training?
- Does the school contract with local businesses for work placement?
Communication
- How often are parent and staff conferences held?
- How will you hear about a hard day, and from whom?
Staff
- What are the qualifications of teachers and related-service staff?
- What is staff turnover like?
[EXPAND FROM SOURCE] — the current page carries roughly 1,300 words across more categories, including therapeutic services, health and safety, and residential-specific questions. Migrate in full before launch.