Choosing an Independent School
by Mari Farthing
You’ve discussed the pros and cons, thought about it and decided that an independent school could be right for your child. Although the school year has begun, research and the application process take time. Some schools have early deadlines — as early as November for the next school year — and even waiting lists. So it’s important to get the ball rolling.
With more than 150 private schools in the Delaware Valley, how do you select a school that best fits your child’s needs?
Most projects begin with research. Finding a school is no exception. With so many options, you’ll need to narrow your choices to a few schools. Here are some tools.
Our Survey
You can use the MetroKids Independent School Survey to identify key factors such as location, tuition, grades offered, size, financial aid data, religious affiliation, class size, whether the school is coed or single-sex, and for secondary schools, additional info such as SAT scores. You can view the Independent School Survey by clicking here.
Once you’ve selected a few schools that best fit your child and your family, it’s time to contact admissions officers. Here are some questions to ask them.
General Information:
• What is the school’s philosophy and religious affiliation? Do the school’s values align with your family’s?
• Is transportation provided? If not, is there an organized carpool?
• Are there before- or after-school programs to accommodate working parents? What are the costs?
• Is a summer program or camp offered? What is the cost?
• In what ways are parents encouraged to participate?
• What is the school’s disciplinary policy? Is there zero tolerance for bullying and hazing? What are the policies on substance abuse, violence and cheating?
Admissions Information:
• Ask how visits are arranged. Visiting schools with your child is crucial. Pay attention to your child’s impressions.
• What is the application deadline? Is there a waiting list?
• What is involved in the admission process? Is an interview or letter of reference required? Is there an entrance exam?
Cost Factors:
• In addition to tuition, what other fees are charged? Does tuition increase at higher grade levels? What about additional costs, such as uniforms, activity fees or class trips?
• What are the school’s payment options? Is tuition assistance available? What is the process and timeframe to apply for it?
• Are discounts offered if you have more than one child enrolled?
Considerations:
• What style of curriculum is used?
• What is the homework philosophy?
• Are there programs for your child’s particular interests or needs, such as offerings for kids who excel in academics, sports or the arts?
• What teacher qualifications are required? What per-cent of teachers have advanced degrees? What’s the average tenure?
• Is tutoring or extra help available if it is needed?
• For secondary schools, what percentage of last year’s seniors went to top colleges?
• Are programs available for children with special needs?
As you research your options, be sure to involve your child. Private school is a big investment, and you want to be sure your child is invested in the decision.
Websites can also help narrow your choices. A few places to start:
About.com carries several helpful articles, as well as links to many private school websites, some organized by types of school (Catholic, Jewish, Montessori). http://privateschool.about.com
Private School Review offers easy-to-search listings of schools with contact information, location, curriculum, and student body facts. This site also contains helpful articles. www.privateschoolreview.com
The National Center for Education Statistics offers information about specific schools, including demographics and performance rankings. However, statistics on this site can be several years old. www.nces.ed.gov
Networking
Sometimes you can gain insights by networking — talking to people. Start with family, friends, colleagues and acquaintances. Realtors often discuss schools with their clients. While such information might consist of anecdotes and opinions, this input can sometimes raise important questions or highlight school strengths.
Marie Farthing is a freelance writer.