When choosing a summer school class, several factors need to be taken into consideration to ensure that you get the best possible education over the summer. These factors include need, class availability, and program reputation. Choosing the wrong class can result in a massive waste of money and time, so it is important to make your decision carefully when choosing a summer school class.
The first thing is to make a list of the summer classes you need to take, either because you need to make up for a failing grade during the school year, or even because you just need some extra help in a subject before school resumes in the fall. List these courses in the order of necessity. For example, if you failed a class and need to attend summer school so that you don't have to repeat it the following year, this subject should go at the top of your list. Courses you want to take simply to help improve your performance in a subject are less important, and should be ranked lower on your list.
In order to choose the best summer school class, you will also need to consider how important it is that you take a course this summer. For example, sometimes course availability is limited to the summer semester. Another reason you might have to take the course this summer is because you have to complete the credits before you can continue on to the next level when the new school year starts in the fall. An example of this might be a math class: If you fail math, you can't progress to the next class in the fall, and would have to repeat the entire year if you do not take the summer school class.
Before enrolling, be sure to do some research on the specific summer school class you are considering. Talk to the instructor or adviser about the curriculum, and ask any questions you might have to give you a better idea of the program. Also, be sure to check class times, and ask about the amount of homework to expect, to ensure you do not overload your summer schedule.
Finally, do not underestimate the value of peer reviews and word-of-mouth recommendations. Some schools offer student reviews to help you make a decision by allowing past students to share their experiences in the program. You may even want to ask your guidance counselor or teachers for recommendations on which summer school class you should take.
