What to look for in a kindergarten?

[TeriK]

There is a public school close to our home which we're told is quite good. They have a kindergarten my son could attend next fall. I'm wondering what I should be looking for when I check it out. We have another option and that's to send him to a school in another city. Many of his friends from preschool will be going there. I'd really rather send him in our own neighborhood so he can meet friends closeby, but if the other school turns out to be better, I'd consider it.
Any advice or insight you can provide would be appreciated.
Thanks.

[lisalee]

I would advise you to go in and watch the class for awhile. Look to see what kind of activities are done and if there is a variety of experiences for the students. What academic skills are they working on? Watch to see how the teacher does her classroom management and thinl about if that is a good fit for your son. Talk to other parents who have had children in the school and in this class in particular.

Lisa

[lindrusso]

Would he be going to this school just for kindergarten? I guess I'm confused at why you are looking at only the kindergarten and not the entire school? Our public schools have elementary schools that run K-5, but I know some systems do it differently.

Alysha :)

[TeriK]

Alysha, you're right. I should really be considering the whole school. I guess because kindergarten comes up first, that was the main thing on my mind. Thanks for the ideas about sitting in on the class, etc. I will do that. I will also look at the WHOLE school.
Thanks! I appreciate your thoughts--and any others anyone wants to add.