Schools reevaluated their practices in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, with many moving to remote learning. But now that the pandemic seems to be subsiding, there has been discussion of returning to classrooms. If you’re searching for a private school for your child, consider the pandemic's effects on their learning. Since schools may not operate as they typically would, here are three tips to help you make the right choice.

How to Select Private School During a Pandemic

1. Ask About Their Strategy

Because pandemic guidelines change over time, learn about the precautions and rules a school has implemented to ensure a safe environment for students and staff. You want to be sure your child's welfare is prioritized as much as their education with safeguards like mask mandates, frequent hand-washing, and sanitation stations. Private schools typically have small classes, making it simpler for students to maintain physical distance from one another. 

2. Request a Virtual Tour

To ensure the safety of everyone involved, many educators now offer virtual campus tours and open houses. You’ll have the chance to walk the grounds of the school with a tour guide, who will also answer your questions about student life, academics, the campus, and extracurricular activities. You may also meet the school’s headmaster along with the admission and academic teams. Sometimes, parents of current students may be present to share their experiences and answer questions you may have about the school's handling of the pandemic.

3. Make a Comparison List

If you’ve narrowed down your choices to a few schools, write down essential details about each so you can compare them. Consider practical information, like the distance from your home to the school, classroom size, student retention rate, and the school’s reputation. Then think about activities your child may enjoy that the school provides, such as sports, drama, or the yearbook committee. 

It's best to include your child in the conversation too. After months of remote learning, they'll be excited to learn about the opportunities that await them when they finally return to the classroom.
 

When considering private school options for your child, look at Hawaii Baptist Academy in Honolulu. Proudly serving the community for over 70 years, the Christian school provides a high-quality education for children K–12. Visit their website to find out more about opportunities to connect during the pandemic, including scheduling a virtual tour, and browse their campus reopening plan. You can also call (808) 536-6830 for the K–6 program or (808) 595-7585 to learn more about the middle or high school program.