Questions to ask about school life

Questions to ask about school life

For Students:

1. Academic Experience:
   • What’s your favorite subject and why?
   • Which subject do you find the most challenging?
   • How do you prepare for exams or big projects?
   • Do you feel like you’re getting enough support from your teachers?
   • Are there any classes or topics you wish your school offered?
2. Social Life:
   • How do you make friends at school?
   • What’s your favorite part of the school day (e.g., lunch, recess, clubs)?
   • Have you ever experienced bullying or seen it happen? How was it handled?
   • Do you feel included and accepted by your peers?
3. Extracurriculars:
   • Are you involved in any clubs, sports, or activities?
   • How do you balance schoolwork with extracurriculars?
   • What’s the most fun or rewarding activity you’ve done at school?
4. School Environment:
   • What do you like most about your school?
   • Is there anything you’d change about your school?
   • Do you feel safe and supported at school?
   • How do you feel about the school rules? Are they fair?
5. Future Goals:
   • What do you want to do after high school?
   • Has school helped you figure out your career or life goals?
   • Are there any skills you wish school taught you for the future?

For Parents:

1. Academic Concerns:
   • How does the school communicate about my child’s progress?
   • Are there resources available for students who need extra help?
   • How does the school handle gifted or advanced learners?
2. Social and Emotional Well-being:
   • How does the school promote inclusivity and prevent bullying?
   • What support systems are in place for students’ mental health?
   • How can I help my child make friends or feel more connected?
3. School Policies:
   • What’s the school’s approach to homework and workload?
   • How does the school handle discipline and conflicts?
   • Are there opportunities for parents to get involved in school activities?
4. Extracurriculars and Enrichment:
   • What extracurricular activities are available for students?
   • Does the school offer field trips, guest speakers, or other enrichment opportunities?
   • How does the school encourage creativity and exploration?
5. Future Preparation:
   • How does the school prepare students for college or careers?
   • Are there programs to help students develop life skills (e.g., financial literacy, time management)?
   • What role do parents play in helping students plan for the future?

For Teachers or School Staff:

1. Teaching Experience:
   • What do you enjoy most about teaching?
   • How do you handle students with different learning styles or needs?
   • What’s the biggest challenge you face in the classroom?
2. School Culture:
   • How would you describe the school’s culture or community?
   • What’s your approach to building relationships with students?
   • How does the school support teachers’ professional growth?
3. Student Success:
   • How do you measure student success beyond grades?
   • What strategies do you use to engage students who seem disinterested?
   • How do you help students prepare for life after school?
4. Parent Involvement:
   • How can parents best support their child’s learning at home?
   • What role do parents play in the school community?
   • How do you communicate with parents about student progress?
5. School Improvements:
   • If you could change one thing about the school, what would it be?
   • What resources or tools do you wish the school had more of?
   • How does the school handle feedback from teachers, students, or parents?