Start by reviewing school performance data from the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction, which provides report cards showing test scores, academic growth, graduation rates, and achievement gaps. Supplement this with ratings and parent reviews on reputable platforms such as GreatSchools and Niche, but treat these as one input among many. Examine course offerings, advanced placement or honors options, arts and music programs, and student support services. Finally, contact schools directly to ask about their instructional approach, teacher qualifications, and family engagement, and whenever possible visit in person to observe classrooms and school culture.

Begin with the specific school attendance boundaries for each neighborhood to confirm which elementary, middle, and high schools your child would attend. Evaluate academic performance, program availability, and school size for each of those schools. Consider commute times to school and work, availability of bus transportation, and before- or after-school care options. Assess neighborhood safety, access to libraries, parks, and community centers, and the stability of the local housing market. It is also helpful to speak with current families in the area to gain insight into school culture, communication, and overall satisfaction.

First, clarify your priorities, such as class size, academic rigor, special education services, language immersion, or specific pedagogical philosophies. For public schools, review district and state accountability data; for private and charter schools, ask for accreditation details, standardized test results, graduation and college matriculation rates, and sample curricula. Compare tuition and fees with any available scholarships or vouchers, and factor in transportation and incidental costs. Visit each school to observe teaching methods, student engagement, facilities, and support services, and ask detailed questions about discipline policies, communication with families, and how the school supports diverse learners.

Madison offers a variety of specialized options, including schools or programs focused on STEM, the arts, language immersion, Montessori methods, and project-based learning. Some schools provide enhanced services for advanced learners, as well as robust special education and support programs. To identify these, review the Madison Metropolitan School District’s program listings, and then contact individual schools for details on application processes, eligibility criteria, and available seats. Confirm whether enrollment is based on attendance area, lottery, or additional requirements, and ask how the specialized focus is integrated into daily instruction across grade levels.

Begin by scheduling tours or open house visits with each school, ideally during regular class hours so you can see typical instruction and student behavior. Observe how teachers interact with students, how students engage with lessons, and how staff manage transitions and common areas. Ask about class sizes, support for new students, extracurricular activities, and communication channels with families. Review sample homework, course outlines, and behavior expectations. After your visit, compare notes across schools, consider how well each environment aligns with your child’s needs and learning style, and follow up with principals or counselors if you need clarification before making a decision.