Let's Talk Schools in Charlotte!

Charlotte, NC has a problem- we have too many school choices!

Both a blessing and a curse, this city has a ton of options that are free (public, magnet, charter) and cost tuition (private).

Here lies the problem:

1. Navigating the application process for all these schools. If you want anything besides your assigned public school, you'll have to work for it!
2. Deciding which specialty program is the right fit for your child. Montessori? Language Immersion? STEM? Academically Advanced?

This process can be incredibly overwhelming and time consuming

Lucky for you- I actually LOVE nerding out about schools in Charlotte. I taught at a wide variety of schools in my career. Charlotte has amazing schools (yes including CMS!) and I want you to feel confident as you make your choice.

So if you need some guidance on where to start- check out dates for the next Kindergarten School Talk Workshop

Let's make a plan for kindergarten!

Upcoming Workshop Dates

The 5 Types of School

1. Public School: This is your neighborhood school that is assigned based on your address. It's free, it's standardized education, and you can enroll anytime. Students in both public and magnet schools can receive special education, gifted education, and English language learning support free of charge.
2. Magnet School: This is still a free public school...but it's not open to everyone. These schools are limited to the number of seats in the program. In Charlotte you have to apply to a lottery to win a seat. You typically enter the lottery in Mid Nov to Mid December. Then seats are assigned in February-ish.
3. Charter School: A charter school is free to students, but it is not a public school. Instead they use public funding to create a specialty school. Some charter schools look / feel like a standard school, while others run special programming or serve a specific population. Research them like you would a private school, enter the lottery, and enjoy free tuition. In Charlotte many begin their lottery process in the fall, while others wait until the winter/spring.
4. Private School: Private schools have the most freedom in their curriculum and operations. Do your research, because they can feel really different than your standard idea of school. This also means they can offer really unique programming and opportunities. Private schools do not have to provide special education, gifted education, or English language learning support. Most private schools in Charlotte start applications in November and share admissions results in February / March.
5. Homeschool: Homeschool is the most flexible option, but also provides the least support. Though technically free, it can be expensive to buy curriculum, get involved in cohorts, and pay for activities / tutoring. Homeschooling has become more popular in the last 5 years so people can cater to their child's individual needs / interests and be flexible. You need to register with the state with homeschool.

Looking for support as you determine the right kind of school? I can support your in 3 ways:

1. Check-in Call: In this personalized 45 minute session you can get your specific questions answered.
2. Attend a workshop: I offer workshops throughout the year in Charlotte, NC and virtually- Check out dates here.
3. Host a Workshop: Let's do it on your own time- host a private workshop for friends or your workplace. contact: Hello@PrimaryFocus.tv