Schools

School Ratings Don't Tell the Whole Story

As REALTORS®, there are limits to the advice we can give about schools, so we always encourage our clients to do their own research and visit schools that interest them. Speaking personally as a mom - and as someone who spent years volunteering as a certified therapy dog handler in a local public school's reading program - I've learned that online school ratings often tell you as much about a school's demographics and standardized test data as they do about the actual experience your child will have in the classroom. They don't measure whether your child will have an inspiring teacher, a supportive principal, a welcoming community, or friendships that help them thrive. That's why I encourage every family to look beyond the number.

One of the best pieces of advice I've heard is the "Two-Tour Pledge." Before crossing a school off your list because of an online rating, visit at least two local schools in person. Walk the campus, meet the principal, observe the classrooms, and trust your own impressions. If someone tells you a particular school isn't good, ask whether they've actually toured the school or have children who attend it. I've heard plenty of opinions about schools from people who had never set foot on campus, only to hear a completely different perspective from parents whose children were happily enrolled there.

One resource we've found especially helpful is Go Mama Guide. We attended two of their seminars and loved their practical, no-nonsense approach to navigating Los Angeles schools. Their guidance encourages families to look beyond ratings and find the school that's the best fit for their child- not simply the one with the highest score.

Overview of the issue on my Instagram highlights

In Los Angeles, we thankfully have so many different school options - opening up neighborhoods that you may have not been looking in!

Articles:

The problem with "Great Schools" article

Why you should pay zero attention to Great Schools ratings

Are Great Schools making school segregation worse?

How Great Schools ratings nudge families towards schools with fewer Black and Hispanic students