THE FINAL STRETCH: The Private School Application Process

I know that we're not alone as we prepare for the final stages of the admission process for independent schools for the 2012-13 academic year.  The recruitment events, open houses and informational sessions have ended.  The applications have been/are being submitted.  Parent interviews are being conducted. Student visits scheduled and entrance exams are being administered.  It can be a daunting and demanding process but it's one of the journeys many parents take on their quest for academic excellence for their children. 

With the admissions deadlines quickly approaching, I reached out to our friend, Gina Parker Collins, Founder of RIISE- Resources in Independent School Education to get some last minute words of wisdom for parents in the final stretch.


Indeed, we are approaching the holiday season wrought with festivities, pageantry, gift wrapping, and gift giving. It is a race to the finish struggling to be mindful of the value of family and the time we spend together.


Some families have a competing race at this time of year, the private school application process. Some have crossed the finish line and completed the process, while others are still looking and hoping for opportunities to find the right school that's still looking for great candidates.

Here are a few things to keep top of mind:

* If you've completed the process then take a breather and enjoy the holidays. But, if you have not sent a thank you note send one, then take a breather!

*The interview. What should you expect?  What does the admissions team want to know? What are they looking for? Remember you are in the driver's seat too, so ask thoughtful questions. The Admission team wants to like you. They also want to know that your family will contribute your time, talents or both. As for your child, let them know they have the stage, the spotlight, the chance to share what they know and love.

*Search out current families in your close and distant circles for insight on the culture of the school community to make sure that what you love about school really exists.

*Make sure your first choice school knows they are number one. Beware!  Be honest about your first choice.  There can only be one!

*Work on a Plan B. It is very important to have a strategy for attending the best possible school if your child doesn't get accepted to any of your choices. There are good charters and public schools out there but you have to do the research. Let’s Talk Schools http://letstalkschools.com/  is a great online community to check out.

*Be prepared financially. Financial aid or not, tuition is a fiscal responsibility, for a long time. Think of it, K-12...you do the math.  If you have applied for support pray you get what you need (you’ll know when you get acceptance letter). If you don't, please don’t give up, I have seen success in the appeal process.

*Lastly, if you are not accepting the offer of placement please notify the school immediately with a thank you note so they can offer the space and financial support to another family.

Perhaps you are a family just starting to consider private independent schools, it is never too early to start looking. Ask around and visit school websites. Begin to think about your values and personalities as a family and match them up with schools mission. Think about what your families return on investment should, or can be. The spring is a great time to begin to make appointments to casually tour campuses. Organizations like Prep for Prep http://prepforprep.org/, Oliver Scholars http://www.theoliverprogram.org/ , and Reach http://reachprep.org/ are great prep programs for the older kids, and Early Steps http://www.earlysteps.org/ for the younger. Make sure to visit us often at RIISE, http://www.4riise.org/ and check out Family Voices blogs, RIISE spotlights, Workshops & Events, from a parent of color’s perspective on independent schools.


Happy Holidays & Phenomenal New Year Chocolate Chip!

Gina Parker Collins

RIISE