5 Questions You Should Ask on a School Tour (From a Former Teacher)
Touring elementary schools? Learn the 5 most important questions to ask, from class size to discipline and technology, so you can confidently choose the best school for your child. Written by a former teacher with real insider tips for parents.
20 Questions to Ask On Elementary School Tours
Wondering what questions to ask on a school tour? This guide helps parents prepare for elementary school visits, ask the right questions, and confidently choose the best fit—plus get a free downloadable checklist.
Elementary School FAQ: What You Should Know About Montessori for Grades 1-6
Montessori elementary school explained for parents: learn how academics, curriculum, and assessment work, how it compares to traditional school, and whether student choice and mixed-age classrooms support real learning. Decide if Montessori is right for your child.
Understanding 11 Year Olds: Big Feelings, Growing Independence
Is your 11 year old tween suddenly more sensitive, independent, or challenging? Here’s what’s normal at this age and how to support your child through the middle school years.
CMS Magnet School Changes Coming
CMS is looking to improve / streamline the magnet program starting int he 2027-28 school year. What are the proposed changes for elementary schools in Charlotte, NC and how will they impact your family?
The Early Reader Books I Recommend for First Grade
Looking for the best early reader books for first grade? A former teacher shares her top picks to help your child build confidence and strong reading skills at home.
First Grade Expectations: How to Prepare Your Child for a Successful Year
First grade is a major transition year. Academic expectations increase, independence grows, and children shift from learning how to be in school to learning how to be students. How to prepare for first grade, what skills your child needs, what first grade expectations really look like
Valentine’s Day Teacher Gift Guide: Thoughtful, Useful Gifts (Not Random Ones!)
Valentine’s Day teacher gift guide with thoughtful, useful, and budget-friendly gift ideas teachers love. Plus tips for choosing the right gift!
The School Choice Call
Did you child get accepted to a few elementary schools? How to Choose the Right School for Your Child. You’ve done the research. You went on tours and applied. Now comes the hardest part: choosing which elementary school your child will attend in Charlotte, NC.
School Trends Report 2026
Language Programs, AI in elementary schools, Parent Volunteers and more- Natalie from Primary Focus predicts trends for elementary schools in 2026.
2025 Teacher Gift Guide: Thoughtful, Easy Gifts Teachers Truly Love
Discover the best 2025 teacher gift ideas for Christmas to show appreciation. Find easy individual gifts, thoughtful DIY crafts, personalized teacher gifts, and group gift ideas for room parents. Perfect for teachers, teacher assistants, and school staff.
Let's Talk Schools in Charlotte!
How to decide between elementary schools in Charlotte, NC