Some families know exactly which school they want for their children, while others begin an intense research process after a positive pregnancy test. My first thought would be that the perfect school doesn't exist. Just like perfect parents and the perfect job don't exist. There will always be something that feels off, and you'll have to define your true red lines. I do think it's very important to consider different educational options and visit more than one school, whether at open houses or by having a personal interview. Let's be honest, if we go to different dealerships to buy a car, this infinitely more important task requires our time and a clear understanding of the school where we'll pre-enroll.

I remember the anxiety of the first time I pre-enrolled my eldest son in school. Like most parents, we wanted to choose the best option, so we considered proximity to home and the facilities, without forgetting the importance of the human and academic factors. We looked at quite a few schools, both public and private. The truth is, I felt more comfortable with the public ones. I've always believed in the need for good public schools, although I would never have sent my children to some of the high schools where I've worked. The environment, the families, and my children's classmates are key elements for me. However, we got a place at the school we wanted—ironically, after a month we had to change because we moved and it was too far away.