What makes a good school district Vs a bad school district?

Do you base it all on tests cores? Just curious.

Re: What makes a good school district Vs a bad school district?

Personally...I do look at test scores, but not solely. I think that what may make a good district to me may not necessarily be one to someone else. I think it depends on what you are looking for. For me, I look at many different things. Some include, ethnic backgrounds of students (for me, I prefer a diverse population rather than just one sided), teacher/student ratio, programs they use (up to date vs. old school), median income,% of transient population, special programs (not just special ed/esl). So to answer your question, I do not just look at test scores.

Re: What makes a good school district Vs a bad school district?

I'm not saying this applies to everyone, but honestly "good" often is just code for "white", especially on LI where the neighborhoods and districts are SO segregated.

Also "good" is such a relative term. If a district is considered "good" due to awesome test scores, it might not be the best fit for your kid if they have special needs or just need extra academic help. Resources will be funneled into keeping those test scores high, rather than going toward programs that would benefit YOUR kid and his/her individual needs.

Re: What makes a good school district Vs a bad school district?

IMO resources and $ spent/child

Re: What makes a good school district Vs a bad school district?

Yes, test scores are important.

But it really depends what you are looking for.

Some "smaller" SD may be better for extra curriculum activities, Special needs, etc..

My SD is not on people's "best list" but it's great for special needs.

Re: What makes a good school district Vs a bad school district?

Varied and quality programs being offered whether it be educational in nature or things such as sports and music programs. Of course test scores matter because it's usually a decent indicator of the level of the students in the school and the quality of education that is being offered. High graduation rates and attendance at colleges are also important. There are so many things to consider. DH wanted to make sure that whatever district we chose would offer our children a great education and lots of activities and programs to help make them well rounded students.

When DH and I bought our house we just made sure to buy in as good of a school district as we could afford on the island. Our DD will be in the Three Village School District and I'm so happy we spent a little more to be in the district we're in. It's a bigger district than either of us graduated from (we both were in Plainedge schools) but we're happy nonetheless and we think she will get a quality education where we are.

Re: What makes a good school district Vs a bad school district?

Re: What makes a good school district Vs a bad school district?

Re: What makes a good school district Vs a bad school district?

Re: What makes a good school district Vs a bad school district?

It was important to me (and what made a "good" SD to me) that my kids be raised in a non-wealthy SD, with a good mix of everyone as far as class structures.....and of different races, too.

I grew up in white $$$$$ suburbia , with 1 black student in our graduating class. No diversity = boring... and many of my peers were small-minded due to it.

Of course, I want a good school with good resources available, but I purposely avoided certain districts people flock too....but that's me. Diversity is just as important to me as sports teams and test scores.

Message edited 2/24/2011 9:29:03 PM.

Re: What makes a good school district Vs a bad school district?

I judge a district based upon the type of curriculum they use, class size, $ spent per pupil, test scores, AP/honors classes taught, percentage of kids going on to 4 year colleges, types of colleges they go to, parent involvement, special ed services provided, etc. So much goes into whether or not a district is good.