Admissions FAQs for New England Private Schools
. Posted in Private School Admission
Selecting a private school for your child is a big decision, and while the admissions team is there to help and provide you with information about enrollment and more, it can be hard to know what to ask. Here are some of the most commonly asked questions of admissions officers from schools around New England to give you an idea of where to start. You’ll also find some advice from Boston Magazine on these questions and how to explore options with your family.
How do I find the right school for my child?
There are many ways to get a feel for a school. It is important to recognize what you and your child are looking for in a school and look for a school that will match. After you have a list of potential schools, do some research by examining websites. You can tell a lot about a school by what they put out for the world to see. Once you are ready to schedule tours, contact the school directly. Upon arriving on campus, be observant and take inventory of how you and your child feel. It is important that the school community is a place that will both welcome and make your child feel safe while challenging them to do more than they thought capable. The sense of a good “fit” will be a significant determining factor in defining your child’s experience.
Do private schools offer fewer extracurricular activities than public schools?
No. A virtue of an independent school is that the curriculum, learning method, and programs are likely to be significantly different than the local public school options. Arts, drama, music, science, nature, and debate are celebrated at many private schools, and may actually have larger budgets to operate these programs than public schools. If sports are an important part of your child’s education, you will be happy to see the expansive offerings in the New England region. Many schools in this part of the U.S. have large, beautiful campuses that can take advantage of each season. You may be surprised to know how many Division I athletes come from independent schools. Additionally, New England boasts many ski academies and semesters-at-sea, unique learning models that focus on team building and physical engagement that you are unlikely to find in the public sector.
How do I know if a school is high quality if it is not subject to government oversight?
Start by asking about a school’s accreditation with an independent organization. Many national, regional, and statewide education associations offer accreditation, including the Association of Independent Schools in New England (AISNE). Accreditation means a school has met a series of peer-reviewed quality standards and has a long-term plan to continuously maintain or exceed those standards. Also, do not be shy about asking how schools are actively supporting and investing in their teachers’ ongoing professional growth and excellence.
What are schools looking for in an applicant?
Admission requirements vary from school to school, but you can count on a combination of several items. Schools will likely require an interview of both you and your child, in addition to a student essay and any previous school transcripts. While many parents focus on standardized test requirements, schools may be more likely to be swayed by teacher recommendation letters.
When and how should I apply?
Each school runs on a slightly different timeline. In general, September and October are good months to contact candidate schools and schedule a visit or attend an Open House event to learn more and meet with an admissions counselor. Throughout November and December, you will likely be preparing your application for a January or February deadline.