The educational landscape since COVID struck is unlike anything we’ve ever seen. As teachers, students, and parents have settled into their “new normal,” questions remain over what is best for kids. How far have children fallen behind? Are children receiving the social and emotional support they need? Are schools equipped to meet students “where they are” during this pivotal moment in time?

These are just some of the questions that parents across the nation have been wrestling with since the beginning of the pandemic. And while the harsh realities are clear enough, the solutions are less obvious. What is clear is that children can’t wait. 

We also know that “education as usual” is no longer acceptable. Parents are demanding more from their schools. They are considering all options. They are looking to schools for real solutions that address students’ needs right now and make it possible for children to continue learning, growing and thriving in the midst of present challenges.

Every parent’s desire is for the children to be in an environment where they can be successful, prepared for the next stage of their education, healthy — socially, emotionally, and physically, able to pursue their unique passions, and influenced by people with whom families have shared values.

So as you consider the school which best meets the needs of your children, use this list as a “plumb line.” Does it check the following box? If not, perhaps it’s a time to consider a move to Fairmont Schools, voted Orange County’s Best Private School for seven consecutive years:

• Empowered educators
  Does you school employ caring, passionate educators, who participate in thoughtful training and mandatory yearly evaluation? Fairmont’s private school teachers are credentialed practitioners of the art and science of education. They lead from the heart–connecting with students on a personal level and partnering with parents to create memorable educational experiences.
• Proven results
  Do students at your school perform in the top percentiles in math, science and critical thinking skills year after year? Fairmont’s private school curriculum prepares students to work, on average, a grade level ahead of peers in public school programs. Graduates routinely gain acceptance to the nation’s top colleges and universities.

• Balanced approach
  Does your current educational program combine time-honored fundamentals with innovative approaches to learning, balancing intellectual growth with social and emotional wellbeing? At Fairmont, from preschool through high school, students are challenged to strive for their best, understanding that care for self and others is fundamental to success in school and in life.

• Culture of excellence
  How high is the bar at your children’s school? Fairmont students are focused, prepared, and motivated. A spirit of teamwork, collegiality, and mutual respect brings us together and motivates students to make a difference. Our P-12 private school community thrives on a growth mindset. We believe in the rewards of working hard, taking risks, and never giving up.

• Specialized programs
  Does your school provide opportunities for your child to tap into his or her passions, or to explore multiple areas of new interests? Students at Fairmont Schools receive one-on-one guidance to help them discover unique strengths and talents through extensive academic, performing and visual arts, and athletics opportunities. Campuses feature unique program offerings designed to appeal to a wide range of student interests and talents–from elite athletics and performing arts school-day training programs; to the International Baccalaureate Programme; to pre-college programs in Engineering, Advanced Math, and International Business.

• Continuity of instruction How cohesive is your child’s education? Does it leverage an integrative, long-range plan for his/her success? As the most established private school group in Orange County, Fairmont Schools has been educating young minds and nurturing their hearts since 1953. With programs that begin in preschool and culminate with a high school diploma, students can experience a Fairmont private school education from start to finish.

• Care for community Is your school “others-minded”? Community service has been a hallmark of a Fairmont education since our founding and continues to drive our spirit of connectedness, compassion, and civic engagement. Students routinely lead service projects and philanthropic work in the local Orange County community and around the world.

Is it time for you to make a switch? If so, we are here to help, as you consider which school is the best fit for your child. There’s a reason Fairmont has been voted “Best Private School in Orange County” for many years running. Contact us to learn more.