That's it, your children have grown up. They will soon finish primary school and soon discover the hectic world of secondary school. They are excited. Very excited. But how will you choose THE right school?
First, take a deep breath. Exhale. No need to stress yourself out! We are fortunate to be able to count on a formidable public education network that includes hundreds of dedicated teachers who have only one idea: motivate your children and get them to exceed. There is therefore no doubt that you will find something to suit you there.
Interest above all else
The first thing to consider when choosing a school, and probably the most important, is your child's personality. Is he studious, athletic, music lover, artist? Does he prefer a smaller or bigger school? Does he have any special needs? After all, it is his physical and mental well-being that will guarantee his academic success. So take the time to sit down with your teen and discuss these issues together. And above all, listen carefully to his answers.
It's not because you dreamed of being part of asport-studies program in your youth than this is necessarily the case for your child. And just because you dream of him becoming a doctor doesn't mean that's what really makes him tick. And believe me, there is no point in imposing your own ambitions on your offspring. Having attended the McMasterville School of International Education (by personal choice, because I have always loved the school), I can tell you that I have seen my share of unhappy children forced by their parents to attend all optional courses in chemistry, physics and advanced mathematics when they had no interest in these subjects. Result: hyper-stressed and overworked 15-year-olds who fall into depression. In short, let your children pursue their true passion; they will thank you for it!
A wide variety of programs
Speaking of passion, take the time to educate yourself on the many possibilities available to you. For example, for the greater Montreal area, did you know that Édouard-Montpetit high school offers a circus program? That the Pierre-Laporte and Joseph-François-Perreault schools offer the most prestigious music programs? That the André-Laurendeau school is the only one in Quebec to offer a jazz-pop music-studies component? That École Pierre-Dupuy offers a concentration focused on information and communication technologies? That sports-studies programs are no longer limited to basketball, hockey and dance, but also include boxing, rock climbing, fencing, water polo and so on.pass?
And what about extracurricular activities like robotics, photo club, pottery, yoga, cooking workshops, improv league, film club and student radio? Yes, the options are almost endless! Who says going to school can't be fun?
The practical side
Another aspect to consider: the trips to be made. While some establishments offer school transportation, this is not the case for all. We must then ask ourselves if it is feasible for us (without adding an hour of traffic and frustration to our day) to drive our children every morning on the way to work or if the school is accessible by public transport.. The best way to find out is to take the test!
Getting into the bath
Finally, nothing beats a good old-fashioned visit during the open house (which usually takes place in the fall) to get a better idea of the whole thing. You will meet professors, see classrooms, be able to walk in the corridors, sit in the cafeteria, explore the outdoor grounds, in short, you will truly be able to take the pulse of the place.
And do not hesitate to visit several schools; after all, we visit many houses before finding the one that really makes us feel at home!
With that, enjoy exploring!
