Can Families Find Your School on Google?

Unlike the neighborhood district school, which often feels like the “default” option, charter schools depend on families actively searching for a good fit. Our recent research confirms that many parents are already overwhelmed by school choices, and confusion about charters adds another barrier. That makes online visibility mission-critical: if your school doesn’t appear clearly in a Google search, families may never learn about the opportunities you offer.

The good news? A few simple steps can make sure your school shows up in the places families are already looking.

1. Claim Your Google Business Profile

Google automatically creates profiles for most schools, but unless you “claim” and manage it, the information may be wrong, or worse, empty.
Claiming your profile allows you to:

• Update your address, phone number, and website link.
• Add photos of your campus and classrooms.
• Post updates about enrollment, events, and open houses.

This is often the very first impression families get of your school. Make it accurate, welcoming, and up to date.

2. Encourage Parent Reviews

Families trust other families. When parents share positive experiences about how your school supports their child, it builds credibility and counters misinformation.

• Ask families to leave reviews after school events or during enrollment season.
• Share the review link in newsletters or at family nights.
• Respond to reviews, both positive and critical, with gratitude and professionalism.

3. Keep Your Website Optimized

Google prioritizes clear, active websites. Make sure your site:

• Loads quickly on phones.
• Has simple, parent-friendly navigation (“Enroll Now,” “Visit Us,” “Academics”).
• Uses plain language that reinforces key truths: charter schools are public, free, and open to all.

4. Post Regularly on Google and Social Media

Google lets you post short updates directly to your profile. Share photos from student projects, reminders about application deadlines, or celebrations of student success. These small touches show that your school is vibrant and engaged.

5. Think Like a Parent

When a family searches “best schools near me” or “STEM middle school Indianapolis,” will your school show up? Use those parent-centered phrases on your website and in your Google profile. Remember: families aren’t choosing “charter vs. district.” They’re simply trying to find a school where their child feels known, challenged, and supported.

Why This Matters

For Indiana charters, visibility equals viability. Parents already face misinformation and decision fatigue. Showing up clearly on Google makes it easier for families to see your school as a real, trustworthy option, one that could be the right fit for their child.

Take the first step: If you haven’t already, take 15 minutes this week to claim your Google Business Profile. It’s one of the simplest, highest-impact steps you can take to help families find, and choose, your school.

‍