Q: My first child is going to kindergarten this fall. I am trying to decide whether to send her to the local school district or to a private or charter school. I am very confused on what I should be asking and doing. Please help!

A: The most important thing you can do is to learn all you can about each option. We recommend starting with the state Department of Education Web site to read about each type of school (public, private and charter): www.pde.state.pa.us. If you don't have a computer at home, use one at your public library.

Then go to the Web sites of all the schools you're considering and read about their programs.

The next step is to call each school and make an appointment for a visit, which should include a meeting with the principal (or enrollment coordinator) and a tour.

Here's what you'll want to ask during your visit (some of this you'll know from your Web site visits, but get confirmation and any clarification you need):

• What is their philosophy about how kindergarten children learn and play?

• What curriculum does the school use, and why?

• How is a child's progress assessed?

• How big are the kindergarten classes?

• What is the size of the staff in each classroom and what are the staff's credentials?

• What is the learning environment like?

• What are the school's policies about issues including homework, discipline and intervention?

• What does the school see as the role of the parent in the child's education?

Be sure to take good notes so you won't forget what you've learned and can compare answers from school to school.

Every school is rated by the state on test scores collected starting with the third grade. Test results can give you a good idea of the overall caliber of the schools. You can find results on the Department of Education Web site. You can also find out how schools are doing compared to federal and state standards at www.paayp.com.

Finally, talk to other parents who've sent their kids to the schools you're considering. Ask what they liked and disliked about the experience. The information-gathering process involves work, but will give you what you need to make the best decision for your child.

Nationally accredited, 4 Kids Early Learning Network serves children and families throughout the Mon Valley. E-mail questions to: questions@4kidsearlyed.org, or mail to: 4 Kids Questions, 445 Fourth St., Braddock, PA 15104.