What parents should know about HS

Radio Commentary

        What do parents need to know about high school?
Beyond the school calendar and what classes your student will take, you should also be familiar with graduation requirements and the classes available to prepare students for life after high school.
Get clear on the school’s academic and social standards.

Find out about the California High School Exit Exam.

Here are some tips for staying informed:

• Obtain and read everything the school offers. Gather newsletters, handbooks, notices and course descriptions. Read it all.
• Get to know the staff. Know everyone from the principal and school secretary to the teachers. Make an appointment for face-to-face meetings. Plan your questions before you arrive.  
• Talk to other parents. Information about special programs, scholarships and good classes can all come from other parents. It is especially helpful to talk to parents who have older children.
• Ask questions. That’s your right. And the staff at local high schools are eager to answer all your questions.
• Finally, check homework. You can get a lot of information by spot-checking assignments.  

Looking at homework not only lets you know what your child is doing, it also tells him or her that you believe homework is important.