An Overview of Educational Options for Your Child

The No Child Left Behind Act sounded good rolling off the tongues of politicians. No doubt, the political spin helped elect some folks to public office. As often the case, however, political rhetoric and platform ideologies don't play out on the practical stage as promised in sound bites.

Most educators agree, No Child Left Behind is a dismal failure: It leaves out the students on both ends of the learning curve, ignores social-economic and ethnic factors, lumps all students into one category and severely restricts a well-rounded education: Teachers must spend their time teaching to the test, largely ignoring the individual needs and abilities of the student. Is it any wonder parents are scrambling for educational alternatives?

If you're serious about providing the best opportunities for your child, you have to do some tedious homework. That can be a little challenging for it begins with your ability to be objective.

YOU HAVE CHOICES
Step back from being the idolizing parent and look at your child objectively. Naturally, you think he is the perfect human specimen, but the truth is, your little darling is the perfect imperfection of humanism, complete with individual flaws and strengths. Choose an education tailored to his needs, talents and personality, not one based on your expectations of him or on biased parental affection.

A good place to begin is with a visit to a child psychologist who specializes in school psychology. He can help define your child's individual needs and evaluate his learning ability.

INVESTIGATE THE LAWS
Each state has specific laws governing education. Visit or write to your state education agency and ask for a copy of the laws governing education. Know your rights: Learn the law.