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Kari,

I think it is terrific that you are interested in learning more about a school than the test scores!  Visiting a school and asking questions are very important ways to learn more about what is a good fit for your child and your family.  The more information you have, the more informed decision you can make.  Starting to think "outside the box" of test scores may help...for instance, how structured of an environment does your child need? How close to home do you want the school to be?

Education.com has many articles that will help with a school visit, like what to look for when visiting schools, the right questions to ask, etc.  Check out the "Types of Schools" section: http://www.education.com/reference/typesofschools/

Usually it is close to impossible to "choose" your child's teachers, however one thing to look for or ask a school is how long the teachers have worked there.  Teachers who come and stay often enjoy the school and the school enjoys them (or the kids and parents do!).

Hope this helps, what a great question!
Kelly

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Check out this site!  It is a wonderful resource to evaluate schools!

http://www.greatschools.net/

You can also visit schools by calling up your local board of education and scheduling an appointment to visit the school your child may attend.  You may also meet some teachers on your tour.  Depending on the school district, you may or may not have input on what teacher your child can get, but you can definitely call in a request.  Principals try to do their best to satisfy all of the students' needs!

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