Guide to Spotting Red Flags in School Selection

Last updated: August 2, 2025

As a parent of a child with education, you know the struggle of finding the right school all too well. You have the power to make a difference by being aware of red flags, like schools that prioritize belief over evidence-based practices, especially in crucial subjects like reading and spelling. Look for institutions that embrace explicit, direct teaching methods, as these have proven to be more effective. Be cautious of overused tropes, such as a vague emphasis on a “love of reading,” and instead, seek out schools that provide clear details on their teaching strategies. You are your child’s greatest advocate, and with these insights, you can confidently navigate the education landscape to secure the best possible future for your child.

“Choose Schools with Evidence-Based Methods”
In a discussion about education, a key insight was shared regarding the selection of schools for children. The speaker cautioned parents to be wary of schools that prioritize belief-based statements over evidence-based practices, particularly in the teaching of reading and spelling. They emphasized that rigorous educational science, such as the science of reading, does not rely on what educators believe but rather on solid research. Parents were encouraged to act as detective parents, carefully reading between the lines of what schools claim during the selection process. This insight means that when choosing a school, parents should look for institutions that can justify their teaching methods with evidence-based research, ensuring their children receive a high-quality, scientifically supported education.

Choose schools wisely: look for evidence-based literacy programs, structured phonics, and early intervention to support your child's unique learning needs. Tweet Now Follow Learning Success

Choose Explicit Teaching for Better Results
In a discussion about education, it was shared that explicit, direct teaching methods are more effective than inquiry-based learning, particularly in subjects like reading and mathematics. The transcript specifically mentioned that when it comes to teaching reading and math, inquiry-based methods have a low effect size compared to more explicit forms of instruction. This insight suggests that inquiry-based learning may be driven more by ideology than by educational efficacy. For parents, this means seeking out schools that employ explicit teaching methods could lead to better educational outcomes for their children in key subjects like reading and math. This approach has been shown to have a higher impact on student learning and achievement.

Author Quote "

Science of reading or any kind of rigorous science of anything doesn’t give two hoots what you believe… the only defensible way to justify our practice is based on some good research.

“Schools’ Overused Reading Promotion Claim”
In the realm of education, it was shared that the phrase “we promote a love of reading” is an overused trope that schools frequently employ. According to the transcript, this statement has been heard so often that it serves as a “get-out-of-jail-free card” for schools. The concern is that while schools may claim to foster a love of reading, they often fail to provide specific details on the methods they use to teach reading. This lack of transparency can be misleading for parents seeking concrete information about their child’s education. For readers, this insight underscores the importance of looking beyond promotional language and seeking detailed explanations of the educational strategies employed by schools.

Key Takeaways:

Red Flags to Watch For: Parents should be cautious of certain phrases and practices when choosing a school for their child with learning challenges. Key red flags include schools that emphasize "we believe" statements over evidence-based practices, promote a "love of reading" without clear strategies, and claim that different teachers teach reading and spelling differently. These indicators suggest a lack of structured, evidence-based approaches that are crucial for children with learning difficulties.

Effective School Practices: Look for schools that implement structured and evidence-based literacy programs. Effective schools screen students early for literacy skills, provide tiered interventions based on need, and use a tight scope and sequence in teaching structured synthetic phonics. They also focus on phonological awareness and ensure that their best-trained teachers are involved in interventions, demonstrating a commitment to literacy development.

Parental Advocacy and Questions: Parents need to be proactive and ask specific questions during school tours and meetings. Inquire about the school's approach to teaching reading and spelling, the use of decodable texts, and the structure of their intervention programs. Understanding terms like phonological awareness, orthographic mapping, and response to intervention can help parents gauge the school's commitment to evidence-based practices. If options are limited, parents should advocate for better practices or seek out alternative solutions, such as specialized programs or support.

Implement Daily Educational Routines at Home
For parents looking to integrate effective education strategies into their child’s daily life, starting the day with a structured morning routine can set a positive tone for learning. Encouraging activities like reading a short story or practicing math problems during breakfast can help reinforce skills in a relaxed setting, which is particularly beneficial for children with Dyslexia. Additionally, setting aside dedicated time after school for homework and study, perhaps using tools like flashcards or educational apps, can make learning more interactive and engaging. It’s also beneficial to create a quiet, organized space at home designated for studying, which helps children focus better. Lastly, parents can foster a love for learning by discussing interesting facts or news with their child during family dinners, turning everyday conversations into educational opportunities.

Author Quote "

Inquiry is basically ideological… it’s got a really low effect size when compared with other really explicit direct forms of teaching things.

“Embrace Positive Education for Child’s Growth”
For parents of children with learning difficulties, such as Dyscalculia, embracing positive Education approaches can lead to significant long-term benefits and growth. These methods foster resilience, self-confidence, and a love for learning that can carry into adulthood, helping your child navigate both academic and personal challenges successfully. While progress may vary, celebrating small victories and maintaining a supportive environment can make a big difference. It’s important to set realistic expectations and understand that every child’s journey is unique. Encouraging your child and working closely with educators can unlock their potential and pave the way for a fulfilling future. Trust in the process, and remember, you’re not alone on this journey.

Empower your child’s learning journey by exploring the Brain Bloom System, designed to support children with learning challenges through evidence-based, structured teaching methods. Discover more at https://learningsuccess.ai/brain-bloom/.