Free Event Helps Families Navigate Through School Choice Options

Stressed about choosing the right school for your child? A free event in Winston-Salem tomorrow can help Forsyth County families learn more about their school choice options.

IMPRINTS will host its second annual “School Connections” program on Thursday. Representatives from Winston-Salem/Forsyth County public/magnet schools, and local private and charter schools will be on hand to answer questions for participants.

“We felt bringing everybody together gives families at least that first pass. Meeting somebody in person is so important. The school is able to really drill down on the benefits of what they offer,” said Melissa Payton, the business development director for IMPRINTS.  

The organization is collaborating with local businesses and other non-profits for the education event.

“We are bringing in community resources and other partners, such as Salem Gymnastics, The Children's Museum of Winston-Salem; a lot of different folks that are also there to help families with the additional supplemental resources they'll need,” said Payton.

Payton said last year, more than 200 people attended the “School Connections Event”. This week's program will also feature keynote speakers from the community.

“We have the new superintendent, Dr. Beverly Emory. We also have Dr. Bill Satterwhite, a well-known pediatrician in town, but also a parenting expert. Dr. Linton from Wake Forest Baptist Health Pediatrics is coming. She is one of our bilingual experts and she is there to help us with the families in our Hispanic community,” Payton stated.

Organizers for “School Connections” said the program is timely, as deadlines approach for the 2014/2015 school year. Magnet school applications are due by January 24 and N.C. school voucher applications begin on February 1.

IMPRINTS  is a non-profit organization that provides various education services and support programs for Forsyth County residents. The organization started over 40 years ago and helps families year-round. Their services include home visits with certified educators from pregnancy to preschool, summer enrichment programs, and scholarships. The organization also provides before and after school programs for elementary and middle school students.

The “School Connections” event will be held Thursday, January 16 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the Old Salem Visitor Center. Attendees are encouraged to pre-register.