“Intelligence plus character-that is the goal of education.”

-Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Your child’s education is about far more than learning their ABCs and 123s (cue The Jackson Five). While foundational academic skills are essential, a truly meaningful education goes well beyond memorization and test scores. For this reason, it is important for families to do their homework when considering where they want their child to attend elementary, middle, and high school.

Acquiring academic knowledge is one side of the proverbial educational coin. The other side—just as critical—is the development of character and emotional intelligence. In education, we often refer to this as fostering the “whole child.” While academics focus on building intellect, emotional intelligence focuses on helping children understand themselves and others so they can navigate life successfully.

Emotional intelligence includes skills such as self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, responsible decision-making, and relationship-building. These are not new ideas. School counselors and educators have long been teaching these skills, even if the technical terms were not always explicitly stated. The lessons have always been there—in how children learn to manage emotions, resolve conflicts, work collaboratively, and take accountability for their actions.

Ultimately, the true measure of learning lies in application. Whether academic or social-emotional, knowledge has value only when students can apply what they have learned in real-world situations. This ability to transfer learning—to think critically, act ethically, and respond thoughtfully—signals that both intelligence and character are being developed.

Most schools today provide families with valuable information through their websites, including mission and vision statements that outline their educational philosophy and priorities. These statements can offer insight into whether a school emphasizes academics alone or values whole-child development. Parents and caregivers should also feel empowered to request school tours, attend informational sessions, and ask questions before making enrollment decisions. In states that offer school choice, families may have additional options to explore beyond their local school.

Choosing the right school is much like choosing a place to live. You are not simply selecting a building; you are joining a community. The goal is to find a school environment that feels like home—one that aligns with your values and supports the balanced educational experience you want for your child.

When intelligence and character are nurtured together, education becomes transformative. It prepares children not only to succeed academically, but to contribute meaningfully to the world around them.