How to evaluate a school district (without getting lost)

• Start with the district (boundaries matter).
• Check official report cards and graduation rates.
• Look at program fit: ESL support, gifted programs, special education, sports/arts.
• Ask about enrollment requirements (proof of address, immunization records).

Official report card starting points

• Georgia: Georgia Governor’s Office of Student Achievement
• Florida: Florida Department of Education
• Texas: Texas Education Agency

These sites change over time—use them for the most current accountability reports.

Enrollment checklist (bring these)

• Proof of address (lease + utility bill if possible)
• Parent/guardian ID
• Birth certificate + passport
• Prior transcripts/report cards
• Immunization records (state-specific requirements)

Questions to ask a school (great ones)

• How do you support students new to the U.S. school system?
• What’s class size like in the grades we need?
• What are the transportation options?
• How do you handle bullying and student support?

Don’t forget the “life logistics”

• Commute time (school run affects everything).
• Childcare before/after school.
• Activities and weekend routines.