Public schools are quite the commodity in real estate these days. Scroll down on any Zillow listing and you will find the GreatSchools rankings for elementary through high school in a given area. Those numbers matter to people in a society driven by five star systems, grades, lists, and all of the other ways complex information is broken down into digestible chunks for the consumer. But, can we really rely on this data to know if our children will receive the love, care, and learning we all want for them?

This recent article form Parents.com is one of the better breakdowns I have seen about the complications of creating a school hierarchy. Yes, there is enough data with test scores, suspensions, demographics, etc to give a school a number. But, the big question is how much do those items truly affect the individual experience?

After 12 years as a teacher, dean of students, and assistant principal around the state I can definitively tell you that none of it is definite 😁. One good teacher can change a students life. One bad experience with bullying or public embrassment can feel like the end of the world. And now, more than ever, schools are under pressure to be childcare centers, counselors, parents, mentors, healthcare systems, food disrtibutors, and learning institutions all wrapped up into one. The task is monumental. And the disparity in funding exacerbates all of this depending on the income level of any given neighborhood. 

So, Andrew, what the heck are we supposed to do!? First of all, do your own research beyond the rankings. The article suggests that “Parents should also get out and see a school for themselves. Both Wallin and Dr. Schneider recommend visiting the school to see how it actually operates on a day-to-day basis. How engaged are the students in the curriculum, and how supported are they in their individual interests? Is there artwork hanging on the walls? Do the teachers seem happy, or is there a high staff turnover? How diverse is the student body? How caring and compassionate are the student-to-student and teacher-to-student relationships?”

I will add that you can also look for dynamic partnerships with the school that go beyond the classroom.  Anacortes High School is a great example with its marine tech program that students can participate in. The curriculum  allows students to explore an interesting trade while doing hands on works outside of the classroom. Core school activities are important, but many schools are working hard to enrich students beyond just history and math now. 

Overall, public schools are not perfect and there is no ranking system that will ensure a positive experience for your child. Try to talk with local families and connect with teachers, admin, or counselors at the school to see if your students needs will be supported. It all comes down to the individual. 

I can attest to the fact that the large majority of people working in public schools are there for the right reasons. Just like any industry, there can be bad apples, but most will do what they can to help a student grow and learn.  

It is also worth it to check out alternative schooling in the area including online schools, home school programs, and other opportunities. There are more options than ever with today’s technology and flexible school environments. 

If you want to connect directly with me about my experience with schools in Washington State I am happy to chat. 

And for what it’s worth, here is the article ChatGPT wrote for me when I prompted it with “Blog post about public school ranking sites like GreatSchools.” I am not sure if GreatSchools is a sponsor but they certainly came from a positive angle with it!