If you just moved in and the area is outstanding—but the school is not. It happens. You wouldn’t be the first to disapprove of a public school zoned for your family. Whether you’re looking into other options because the school has below-average ratings, doesn’t offer programs that meet your child’s needs, or lacks convenience, there are ways to work around it.
Here’s what you can do.
1. Explore Alternative Public Schools
Though it might feel this way, school zones aren’t unforgivably rigid. They're there to help ensure that district schools are balanced, but everyone knows there are cases when the system needs to bend. There are ways to get your child to another public school that meets your family's needs.
- Apply for a different public school. If you find another public school that meets your child's needs, you can apply for them to enroll at that location. The process typically requires a zone transfer request with the current school.
- Consider a magnet or charter school. Both magnets and charters are tuition-free and can make great alternatives to a less favorable traditional public school. Magnets can help your military child thrive in their niche, while charters offer more flexibility in the curriculum as they don't follow the same guidelines as those required in public schools.
- Look for School Choice Programs. Some states, like California, offer school choice programs that may grant your student enrollment in a school located outside their zone and district.
2. Consider a Private School
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Private schools can be a fantastic option for your student if the budget allows. The smaller class sizes, individualized attention, and diverse programs can offer unique opportunities that larger public schools can't.
Some private schools offer educational plans aligned with religious values, which can also benefit faith-based families.
Since private schools are tuition-based, they can be expensive. As you're playing with the budget, consider military discounts and scholarships that might apply to your household.
3. Research Homeschooling
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Homeschooling once had a negative reputation, especially among millennials. Today, it's gone. Homeschooling offers many benefits that a public school cannot.
- Flexibility. For military families PCSing every two to three years, homeschooling offers consistency and flexibility throughout the year. It bends to your service member's leave and grants vacation time during the off-season (fewer crowds) without jeopardizing your student's educational growth.
- Individualized curriculum. Homeschool curriculum is not one size fits all. You can research the varying plans and choose the one that best suits your family.
- It's affordable. While not free, like public school options, homeschooling is less expensive than private school tuition.
- Community. What you lack in a large school community, you gain in intimacy. There are homeschool groups all across the country. You'll find a mix of local groups and homeschooling military families that can offer advice, show you the ropes, and get you plugged into activities.
*Check with your state's homeschool regulations to ensure you're meeting all requirements.
4. Online Schooling
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Virtual school education offers a flexible and personalized learning environment that can be particularly beneficial for military families. But there are challenges. Before committing, consider the pros and cons of online school.
Pros of online school:
- Flexible schedule. Like homeschooling, your family can travel without risking unexcused absences or delayed learning.
- Continuity during relocations. Online schools provide consistency—which is especially helpful for military families who move frequently and sometimes in the middle of the school year.
- Personalized learning pace. Your child can work at their own pace, allowing them to spend more time on challenging subjects or accelerate through material they find easier.
- Wide range of courses. Many online schools offer a broad selection of courses, including advanced placement (AP), electives, and specialized programs that may not be available in traditional schools.
- Safe learning environment. Online education can provide a safer and more comfortable learning space free from bullying.
- Parental involvement. You gain opportunities to be involved in your child's education and monitor their progress.
Cons of online school:
- Limited social interaction. Online schools lack the face-to-face socialization that traditional schools offer, which can affect your child's development of social skills and friendships if not found elsewhere.
- Self-discipline required. Success in online education often requires a high level of self-motivation and discipline, which can be challenging for some students.
- Potential distractions. Your student might face more distractions at home, making it harder to focus on their work.
- Technology dependence. Reliable internet access and technology are essential for online schooling, which can be a barrier during a PCS move.
- Fewer extracurricular opportunities. Online schools may offer fewer opportunities for extracurricular activities like sports, arts, and clubs.
- Parental commitment. Online learning may require more supervision, which can be challenging for working parents.
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Knowing what's best for your child doesn't always come easy. Add a recent PCS into the equation, and you may find that you're completely out of your element. Unsure what to do? Connect with the base's School Liaison Officer (SLO).
The School Liaison Officer (SLO) helps military families navigate the educational system during relocations—acting as a bridge between families, local schools, and military commands. They assist with school enrollment, provide information about local education options, and ensure that military children receive the support they need during transitions.
Navigating educational challenges (that military life inevitably brings) sometimes requires exploring educational options beyond the nearby school. Considering alternatives like online schools and private schools, with the support of School Liaison Officers, can help you find the right fit for your family's unique needs.
Looking for some easy tips to help the family settle in after a PCS move? Download this free ebook, Bloom Where PCS Plants You.