It’s never too early to start preparing your child for college. The education students receive in elementary, middle and high school builds a foundation on which they will continue to learn throughout their lives.
As parents, you want to do all you can to maximize your child’s chances of getting into a great college or university, and eventually building a strong career. Here are a few ways you can prepare your child for secondary education beginning at a young age.
1. Encourage your child to enroll in dual-credit courses
Some schools offer dual-credit course, which provide the student with the opportunity to earn both high school and college credit simultaneously. Not only does this prepare students for the type of material they can expect in a college setting, but it also puts them one step ahead when they start college.
First Baptist School of Charleston, for example, offers students the chance to earn college credits through Trident Technical College and Charleston Southern University. Some First Baptist students have graduated with over 40 hours of college credit, which allowed them to complete college in three years.
2. Look for schools with small classroom sizes
Generally, smaller classroom sizes are more conducive to learning and understanding the material being taught. In a small setting, students are often more comfortable participating in discussion. First Baptist maintains class sizes at 20 to 22 students to enhance a positive learning experience.
3. Choose a school with a history of student success
Look for a school that has high graduation and college transition rates. At First Baptist, 100 percent of graduates attend college. By choosing a college preparatory school, you know that the student will receive an education that prepares them for college and other advanced studies.
4. Choose a curriculum that emphasizes the importance of college
As you begin to explore schools for your child, ask to see a sample of the curriculum. Make sure the required classes and concepts are designed specifically for college preparation. You want to be sure the curriculum will provide the foundation your child needs to pursue a higher education.
First Baptist School of Charleston is a co-educational, college preparatory school for grades K2-12. With dual-credit and advanced placement offerings, average classroom sizes of 20 students, a history of student success and a college-bound curriculum, it’s a great choice for any child.
At First Baptist, students are challenged in a nurturing environment by a talented and caring faculty whose priority is to develop each child’s mind, body, and spirit. To learn more, visit fbschool.org or call (843) 722-6646 to set up a tour.