Affluent doesn't mean better

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Affluent doesn't mean better
By Ruth

There is something to be said about an "affluent" school district - they aren't always better.
Yes, everything you said about attendance, parent involvement, etc. is correct. But behind the scenes it can be different,
too.
Why are the parents sooooo involved? They care about their child's school - that's true - but they want to be IN CONTROL of everything. How the principal and teachers work - they want to control. It becomes very stiffling (sp?) after a while. I am speaking from experience.
A master teacher once told me: Don't look for a school, look for a principal you can work with. Remember, when

interviewing YOU get to say yes or no, not just the principal. If you do not like the principal, you could say "no thank you".
If possible, sub in the area for a while and perhaps do a long-term position so you get to know the teachers/principals, parents, etc.

Be sure to pay attention to the atmosphere in the teachers' lounge. How are people talking? What is the body language of the staff? How does the secretary greet and treat you? This can tell you a lot about a school and its environment.

Good luck in your future decisions.