Choosing the Right School

Every child is unique, even within the same family. Look for a school where the mission and values align with yours, and consider your child’s temperament, interests, ambition, and personality.
 

The 12 Most Important Questions to Ask During Your Search


Is the school accredited by CAIS?

2

What is the curriculum approach (e.g., AP, IB, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf, Montessori) and will the learning environment support my child?

3

What are the advantages of single-sex versus co-educational?

4

What are the options for boarding?

5

Beyond tuition, what additional costs should I expect for the options I’m seeking?

6

What is the size of the school and the student-teacher ratio?

7

What co-curricular and leadership opportunities are available?

8

What is the school’s philosophy or vision, and what are its values?

9

What is unique about the faculty and what are their qualifications?

10

What is the campus like and what facilities are available?

11

How is technology used to support learning?

12

Does the school culture fit my child (i.e., competitive, nurturing, sporty, academic, progressive, traditional)?

Why CAIS Accreditation Matters
  • National standards set by Canadian independent school leaders.
  • Continuous improvement through regular review and follow-up.
  • Peer evaluation focused on student learning and well-being.