Self Assessment

A Student's Self-Assessment Questionnaire

You Know Best

Self-assessment is a way for students to learn more about themselves – what they like, what they dislike, what they need and where they excel. Knowing these things will help students determine what they want from a high school. The best school for a student might not necessarily be the best school for their neighbor,  best friend, sister, or brother. The self-assessment questionnaire is a tool that will help students take a closer look at themselves and consider things they may otherwise overlook.

Interpreting Your Results

Every item gauges feelings about vital aspects of picking a school.

Taken together, responses may help create a blueprint that may assist in searching for a high school. Students should concentrate on their most intense responses: the 5s and the 1s will indicate factors that are most significant when making a decision. Using factors that matter most students can create a list of school qualities and begin searching for a school.

Questions 1-2

Private or Public

You can get a great education at public, private and Catholic schools here in New Orleans. However, certain amenities, like a religious focus or single gendered education may only be available at non-public schools.

Questions 3-4

Size

Schools with low student-teacher ratios are generally able to offer more one-on-one time with faculty, although it is still a good idea to look at student-teacher ratios of all schools. High student-teacher ratio schools can sometimes offer students more options.

Questions 5-6

Discipline

Schools use many different discipline models. There are schools that are very strict and others are very liberal. You may thrive in either environment. Know what works best for you.

Questions 7-10

Location

The location of your school matters a lot. You will need to consider how you will get to and from school, especially if you are planning to participate in after school activities.

Questions 11-12

College Prep

Some schools focus on college readiness and offer classes that will help guarantee admission as well as funding for college. Other schools that offer career pathways and do not call themselves college prep may offer the same services. Ask about the school's individual programs and if it offers college prep. Ask what this entails.

Questions 13-14

Job Readiness

Some schools offer curriculum that focus on certain careers or that encourage students to accumulate workplace experience.

Questions 15-17

Classroom Set-up

Do you work best individually or in groups? Do you thrive on competition? Use these questions to help you determine what you want your classroom to look like. Schools will offer many different choices from independent study to internet classes to project based learning and beyond.

Questions 18-19

Extra Help

Consider what services you already use at school. Do you go to a tutor? Do you have a lot of extra study opportunities? Think about where you may want help in the future even if you do not need it right now.

Questions 20-26

Variety of Activities

If there is one particular activity in which you are very interested, such as football or drama, inquire about these opportunities when applying.

Questions 27-28

The Outside World

Some schools may offer opportunities to engage with the community and participate in activities outside of the school. If you want an opportunity to serve and get involved with your community, look for schools that offer you that freedom. Many schools require a certain amount of service hours before you are eligible to graduate.

Keep an open mind.

Students should keep an open mind about options and apply to as many schools that fit their general criteria. After visiting schools their opinion may change  but when it finally comes time to make a decision, students should have several schools to choose from.

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