- School performance (e.g., test scores, student growth, graduation rates)

- Course offerings (e.g. STEM, arts, extracurriculars and sports, after school programs, bilingual education, or advanced placement)

- Teacher quality and preparedness

- Leadership and service opportunities

- Special Education and English Learner programming, counseling and mental health supports

- Physical and emotional safety (bullying policies, emergency procedures)

- School climate and culture (discipline, values, respect, inclusivity)

- Class size and student-teacher ratio

- Diversity of student and staff (racial, cultural, socioeconomic, and linguistic diversity)

- School’s approach to equity and inclusion

- Alignment to your educational philosophy, faith, or cultural values

- Emphasis on character development, civic engagement, or social-emotional learning

- Location and commute time, transportation options

- Schedule and calendar (start times, afterschool options, holiday breaks)

- Cost (tuition for private schools; hidden costs like fundraising or uniforms)