Guide to Private Education | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 1 | 1
Private school
Private school
guide
guide
PUBLISHER
DIANE TYLER diane.tyler@pilotonline.com EDITOR
JENNIFER O’DONNELL 222-3902 jenny.odonnell@pilotonline.com BUSINESS AND MARKETING DIRECTOR TAMMY LINDQUIST 222-3905
tammy.lindquist@pilotonline.com ART DIRECTOR
SHERRI HOLLAND sherri.holland@pilotonline.com DESIGNER
COLLEEN KIRSTEN colleen.kirsten@pilotonline.com
contents
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
ALISON JOHNSON, MARY ELLEN CARRIER, RICK EPSTEIN, SHARON ZOUMBARIS, SUSAN SMIGIEISKI ACKER, BONITA BILLINGSLEY, PATRICK EVANSHYLTON, KRISTEN KIRK ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
AMERICA WILSON 222-3944 america.wilson@pilotonline.com KATHERINE BYRD 222-3945, katherine.byrd@pilotonline.com
04 WHEN PRIVATE SCHOOL MAKES SENSE
21 THE LUNCHBOX MAKEOVER
BY KIRSTEN DE DEYN KIRK
BY PATRICK EVANS-HYLTON
BUSINESS MANAGER
Sometimes private school is the answer to your child’s educational challenges. Reasons why you may want to consider private education.
Turn boring brown bag lunches into something your child will want to eat. Here’s how.
MICHELLE NORMAN 222-5380 michelle.norman@pilotonline.com
08 PRIVATE EDUCATION: MAKING THE CHOICE
BY SUSAN SMIGIELSKI ACKER
BY DENISE YEARIAN
Tips on finding the right school, and what to look for.
24 “I HATE SCHOOL!” Area educators advise parents on what to do when enthusiasm for school takes a nosedive.
13 THE HOMEWORK WARS
29 HOW TO AFFORD PRIVATE SCHOOL
BY DENISE YEARIAN
BY ALISON JOHNSON
Homework can make life difficult for the entire family. Here’s how to streamline the work, and get through it easily.
How to afford private school without breaking the family budget.
17 NEED A TUTOR? BY DENISE YEARIAN
32 TESTS MADE EASY BY JENNIFER O’DONNELL
Help your child make the most of test taking with these handy tips.
When a tutor makes sense. 2 | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 1 | Guide to Private Education
JAMES WRIGHT 222-3994, james.wright@pilotonline.com
TIDEWATER PARENT
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private vs. public
PICK THE BEST FIT W When a private sschool makes sense: The answer might T ssurprise you BY KRISTEN DE DEYN KIRK
D
ENISE NORMAN is used to the question, “Why did you chose a pr ivate school? ”
Fr Friends are often surprised she did so fo for her first-grade son because her loca cal public school has a great reputatio tion. And, of course, that public school is free. (If you set aside the house taxes she pays every year!) 4 | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 1 | Guide to Private Education
So...why?! here as a pre“He started there schooler,” she says, “and we were happy.” In other words,, the school was a good match for her and her son. And the price is not as much as people would guess. Norman thinkss that ate” the fact that “private” on, can be the best option, ood even when a free, good vailpublic school is available, is something more people should add to their list of knowledge. Richard dmissions Plank, director of admissions llegiate in at Cape Henry Collegiate uld agree. Virginia Beach, would eople to keep He likes to tell people their minds open. urself or your “Don’t limit yourself child,” he says. What is “best” depends on the child, he notes. It might be your public school, it might bee a private school. If you automatically think it’s one or the other, you’ll limitt your search - and maybe your child’ss future opportunities. Every child is different - and every family has differentt goals for their child. n academics, others “Some focus on extracurriculars orr athletics,” he says. f l for f each h school.” h l” “You have to get a feel Tracey Braham, director of admissions at The Williams School in Norfolk, feels an extensive search is a good idea as well. She says you have to see the environment and the school day as it unfolds to get a real feel for what happens on campus. One person’s ideal setting may not be another’s cup of tea. There is not one “perfect” for everyone, except maybe when it comes to being singled out - in a good way. “One thing a private school can often offer that a public one can’t always provide is individual attention,” says
Braham. To determine that, though, you have to ask the right questions. Plank and Braham advise not just asking “what is the student/teacher ratio?” Parents should ask about the class size and how many teachers are in each class. It can vary by the subject and by the grade. If “individual attention” is your primary motivation in choosing a school, make sure you’re getting it by gathering all the facts. Also ask how a many stu-
dents will be accepted into each grade - and know how many are currently enrolled by grade. Other questions that Plank and Braham recommend include: 1. What advanced placement classes and sports are offered? “Some people focus on ‘how many,’” says Plank, “but it’s more important to know if what the parent and student value is offered.” 2. What is your “why?” “The school should know why they are open
Guide to Private Education | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 1 | 5
If “individual attention” is your primary motivation in choosing a school, make sure you’re getting it by gathering all the facts. and how they are different,” says Pl Plank. “One school’s answer isn’t neces essarily better than another; you want to find out what their focus is. It’s impo portant that the school remains true to wh who they are, and not just say what the pa parent wants to hear.” 3. What questions do you have for m me? “The school should be interested in you,” says Plank. “What is important to you and what are you looking for?” 4. What financial assistance is availab able? Need- and merit-based scholarsh ships are available in many cases. 5. What sort of character-developm ment classes are offered? “Many paren ents understand the need for a focus on social and emotional development,” sa says Braham. 6. When are students applying and no notified of acceptance? Braham notes th that it’s best to start a whole school year ah ahead of time and ask how many openin ings in your grade are expected. The bottom line: A private school co could make sense for your youngster, ev even if you think your public school is just fine and a private school could “n “never” fit your budget. Think hard ab about what would benefit your child an n then knock on all of the doors you and ccan find for the match. ca The stakes, after all, are high: “Kids get to go to school once,” says Pl Plank. “They don’t get to go back and do it again.” 6 | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 1 | Guide to Private Education
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Montessori is a scientific method of education utilizing hands on materials to teach small group and individual students. Montessori classrooms are characterized by multi age grouping, student chosen individualized work, (which is guided and directed by a teacher) and student mentors in a collaborative, peaceful environment. Scientific studies indicate that Montessori education leads to students with better academic and social skills. The Montessori Academy absolutely makes this innovative philosophy possible in our community, with their well trained certified faculty and administration.
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Guide to Private Education | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 1 | 7
choosing the school
Your kid here. Private Education: A Choice Decision BY DENISE MORRISON YEARIAN
FOR THE PAST EIGHT YEARS, Josh Baker attended public schools. Up to this point, his parents were pleased with the kind of education he had been receiving. But as their son hedged toward high school, Mom and Dad felt a need to give him a more tailored education—one that would better prepare him for college. So when September rolled around, Josh began attending a nearby private college prep school. For the Grants, the issue was never in question. Even before their children were born, Brian and Lisa had decided their kids would attend Christian schools, just as they had.
8 | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 1 | Guide to Private Education
Every year, scores of parents look into the option of sending their children to private schools. But because no two schools are alike, finding the right fit can be a daunting task. So where do you begin? In his book, The Parents’ Guide to Alternatives in Education, Ronald Koetzsch, Ph.D., states that rather than looking for a “perfect school,” parents should look for one that meets their child’s needs. “There’s no such thing as a perfect school,” he says. One school can be right for one child and wrong for another. Kenneth Weinig, private school headmaster, agrees. “When it comes to children’s educational needs, there is no one-size-fitsall,” he says. “Even within the same family, kids’ educational needs can differ.” For this reason, parents should look at their child’s academic needs, taking into account his strengths, weaknesses, interests and talents. Also consider what sort of learning environment the child would be most comfortable in. A self-motivated learner, for example, may do well in a program where he gets to direct and carry out his own learning. But a child in need of constant direction might be more suited to a structured environment. Certain schools are right for certain children, says Koetzsch. It’s just a matter of finding what fits. Weinig agrees and points out that, “Each school has a method of teaching, (which is normally found in the mission or statement of purpose) that can have a profound impact on a child’s educational experience.” As you evaluate your child’s needs, make a list of what you want in a school. Consider your own preferences, as well as your child’s personality, gifts and talents. “Be specific about ambiance, class size, teaching style, curriculum, the role of art and music, homework, where parents fit into the running of the school, and so on,” says Koetzsch. But remember, he advises, you are not constructing an absolute educational ideal, just one that is appropriate for your child. Next make a list of all the schools in your area that are potential candidates. Call and ask them to send information about their school. Once the information has arrived, look at each one’s program, mission,
Arrange to visit those schools that appeal to you. While visiting, sit in on the classes and observe the teachers and students. Be sure to record your reaction. Did you feel comfortable and relaxed, or uptight and anxious?
Guide to Private Education | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 1 | 9
services, faculty and administration. What makes the school unique? What is its teaching philosophy? Is there a vision for the future? Is there anything the school does particularly well? What about the curriculum? Will it cater to your child’s talents and interests? While cost and commuting distance are factors, both Koetzsch and Weinig agree, these are hurdles that can be overcome. “Parents should not be deterred by the cost of school fees,” says Weinig, “Some of the most expensive schools also have the largest amount of financial aid available.” And as far as the commute goes, there may just be someone in your community who would welcome ride sharing. After reviewing the materials, arrange to visit those schools that appeal to you. Still, Koetzsch says be open minded. Consider visiting a school even if it’s not one of your top selections. “There is tremendous variety even among schools that share a common
educational philosophy and practice,” he says. “The school you expected to love may disappoint you, and you may find a gem where you didn’t expect one.” While visiting, sit in on the classes and observe the teachers and students. And don’t forget your notebook either. According to Koetzsch, it’s a good idea to keep a written record of every visit. “Note the obvious facts: school size, class size, ambiance of the school as a whole and of individual classrooms, absence or presence of a dress code, and general demeanor of the students and teachers.” Also be sure to record your reaction. Did you feel comfortable and relaxed, or uptight and anxious? When you visit, spend a few minutes talking with the principal or school administrator. Ask specific questions and record these answers. Don’t feel embarrassed about asking questions, says Koetzsch. “The answers will give you a sense of the philosophy behind the school and
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10 | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 1 | Guide to Private Education
how that philosophy manifests in the life of the school.” If possible, talk with a teacher, preferably the one who would have your child in class. Ask how she got into teaching, how long she’s been doing it, and what she does and doesn’t like about her job. As you get a feel for her personality, consider how your child will interact with her. Remember, says Koetzsch, “In the end, education is something that happens primarily between an individual child and his teacher, so it’s important that you like and trust your child’s teacher.” Next get the names of several parents whose children attend the school and would be willing to talk with you. Ask them what they do and don’t like about the school. Also try to obtain a few names of parents who were not happy there and enrolled their children elsewhere. As Koetzsch points out, all schools have success stories, but no school works for every child. “Find
QUESTIONS TO ASK WHEN CONSIDERING A PRIVATE SCHOOL „
What is the school’s philosophy on teaching reading?
„
What kinds of books are the children expected to read? Who chooses them?
„
How and when is writing and composition taught? Is there time for creative writing?
„
Is the curriculum established or does it emerge from the students’ interests?
„
How often do the children use textbooks? Workbooks? Worksheets?
„
When do children start getting homework? How much at what grades?
„
How are the children assessed?
„
When does computer education start? How much exposure per week do they get?
„
How much time is spent on art, music and crafts?
„
Are there many opportunities for cooperative learning?
„
How is discipline for improper behavior carried out?
„
What kind of qualifications do the teachers have?
„
Who makes decisions about the school?
„
What level of parental participation is allowed?
out about a child who did not thrive at the school,� he says. Once you have visited several schools, narrow your selection to those that might work for you. Plan to return, this time with your child. Have him meet the teacher, and if possible, spend time in the classroom with the other students. What was his reaction? Did he seem comfortable with the school? The teacher? Other students? Most important follow your intuition. As a parent you know your child better than anyone else. If you’ve done your homework, you’ll know if it’s the right school or not. And while it may not fit your specifications exactly, it more than likely will be an environment where your child can grow and flourish—intellectually, emotionally, physically, and in some cases, spiritually, too. Denise Yearian is the former editor of two parenting magazines and the mother of three children.
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homework
ENDING HOMEWORK HASSLES Don’t let homework control your child’s – or your – life. Avoid the headaches with these helpful hints.
H
omework is an important component of a child’s educational experience. For many kids, it’s a given—they just do it without complaining. But for others, it’s a battleground, a place where war ensues every weekday evening.
Even in well-functioning families, homework can be one of the hottest parent-child crisis buttons. So how can you, as a parent, keep the battle to a minimum and make homework a positive experience? A child’s ability to be successful with homework begins with the value par-
ents place upon learning. Success in this department requires helping your child develop essential homework skills, creating a working alliance with your child and his teachers, and learning to deal with common homework problems. Following are a few tips to help get homework done—without the battles.
BY DENISE YEARIAN Guide to Private Education | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 1 | 13
HAND OVER THE REIGNS
While asking about homework and helping out is an important part of guiding your child through his assignments, excessive involvement may stifle his ability to learn to work independently. Be available for assistance and feedback, but do not jump in too quickly to correct homework, or wait until the eleventh hour when, out of frustration, you end up completing his homework for him. Remember, the more responsibility you assume, the less responsibility your child will take. Hand over the reigns. This will give your child responsibility and ownership for his homework.
ELIMINATE EXCUSES
From time to time, kids will make excuses to avoid doing homework. While there may be times the excuse is valid, at other times it could be just a ploy to avoid the unpleasant. For this reason, parents should familiarize themselves with their child’s abilities. Then they’ll know if Junior is really struggling or just wanting to take the easy way out.
ESTABLISH RULES AND ROUTINES
One way to avoid homework hassles (and help your child become an independent learner) is to establish rules and routines. This should include a
14 | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 1 | Guide to Private Education
regular place and time for doing homework, as well as guidelines regarding TV and telephone usage. Try to create a pleasant homework environment. For example, if you decide to work at the kitchen table, make sure it’s clean and that you have ample supplies within reach. You might even include a healthy snack or drink. Some children work better with quiet music playing or a window open for fresh air. Others are easily distracted and need absolute quite. Try to figure out what works best for your child and stick with it. Guidelines regarding TV and telephone usage should be established
from the very start. This avoids the potential of getting trapped into lengthy discussions and arguments when the phone rings or a TV special is on. While establishing these rules, remember that there may be a circumstance in which your child needs to call a classmate to double check an assignment. If this is the case, set a time limit on the call—five minutes or so. This should be ample time to write down any information needed. From time to time, a TV special may rouse your child’s interest. If the special comes on during homework time, give your child the option of doing his work early, or offer to videotape the program so he can watch it at his leisure. Above all, be consistent with rules and routines. This avoids procrastination and lets your child know his boundary lines and your expectations.
ASSIST IN PLANNING
From time to time, children feel overwhelmed if they have to complete a longterm assignment, such as a report or special project. As a parent, you can alleviate some of the stress by helping your child divide the work into bitesize chunks. For example, if your child has to do a book report and it’s due by the end of the month, set a date when he should have the book read, another date when the rough draft should be done, and another date when the final report should be completed. Do not nag, but follow up when the allotted dates arrive.
ELIMINATE CARELESS MISTAKES
A lot of kids rush through their homework to get it over and done with. In general, this is not a problem if the work thorough and complete. But if your child is rushing through his homework and,
A child’s ability to be successful with homework begins with the value parents place upon learning. Success in this department requires helping your child develop essential homework skills.
INCREASE SELF-CONFIDENCE
If your child lacks the confidence to work independently, he may perceive himself as destined to fail and see others as having all the answers. If this is the case, spend time encouraging him, not only in the area of homework, but with other school-related activities. Emphasize your child’s strengths rather than his weaknesses. When you do review homework, start with what has been completed correctly before focusing on the revisions.
EASING THE OVERLOAD
as a result, makes careless errors, has sloppy handwriting or fails to pay attention to directions, it’s time to intervene. Explain to your child that you want him to do his best work, not his fastest. Suggest that he underline or highlight important words or phrases in the assignment directions so he will remember what needs to be done. Also, encourage him to look over his work for accuracy. Each night before the homework gets put into the backpack, review his assignments. Check for neatness and accuracy, as well as for interesting ideas and good organization. Encourage, but do not demand that all the mistakes be corrected. Remember, the goal of some assignments is creativity and original ideas, in which case spelling and grammar can be worked on at a later time. If you suspect your child has made mistakes due to poor understanding, provide assistance. If you continue to see the same type problems cropping up, talk with the teacher or consider hiring a tutor.
If you suspect your child is receiving more homework than he can handle, talk with his teacher. Find out how much time the assignments should take. Based on what you learn, set a specific amount of time for homework to be done. If finishing the homework continues to be a problem, return to the teacher and explain the situation. Perhaps it’s more than your child can handle. Teachers are often willing to make adjustments in quantity of homework assigned when they understand a problem exists. Above all, remember the importance of down time. Like adults, children need time to wind down from a busy school day, to think or simply rest. In conclusion, as parents we want our children to get the best education possible. To achieve that goal, we must show them how to be independent, responsible learners. If we do the job right, education will continue long after their school days are over. Denise Yearian is the former editor of two parenting magazines and the mother of three children.
Guide to Private Education | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 1 | 15
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CHOOSING A
T U T O R BY DENISE YEARIAN
E
ver since Natalie Hagy was 3-years old, she has struggled with developmental delay issues. So her parents were not surprised to find she needed academic help when she started first grade. // “It got to the point where Natalie didn’t want to go to school,” reports her fa-
ther Doug. “We would see her falling asleep at the dinner table at 5:30 p.m. The school work was so hard and we were getting nowhere.”
There are a number of signs that a child needs a tutor. These include difficulty doing homework, poor test grades, multiple wrong answers, unfinished assignments and, of course, frustration, tears and decreased self confidence. Before finding a tutor, sit down and discuss the need with your child, says Beverly Stewart, president and director of Back-to-Basics Learning Dynamics. “Make the conversation as positive as possible. You are trying to get the child to buy in—’You know how reading is kind of hard sometimes? Well, we’re going to meet with someone who can help you.’ Most kids are okay with that because they don’t want to struggle with schoolwork.” This is what the Hagy’s did. “Natalie loved to pick up books and make up her own stories, but she couldn’t read,” recalls Doug. “We told her, ‘These are going to be people who
WHERE TO LOOK FOR A TUTOR Start with the school—the child’s teacher, principal, or guidance counselor Ask family, friends, co-workers Check with Better Business Bureau Go online Look in the Yellow Pages Locate ads in local newspapers and magazines
can help you.’” Even though the Hagys took a positive approach, Natalie was still a bit apprehensive. “I think she was
concerned it was going to be like school, which she didn’t like,” Doug continues. But once she got there, she learned about the reward system. “It was a quick lesson for Natalie: ‘If I do my work right, I can get some tokens.’” The Hagy’s chose a tutoring center over a private teacher for their daughter. “When our oldest child Mackenzie was in first grade, we had a bad experience with a private tutor,” he says. “It definitely had its positive points— it was more convenient because the tutor came to our house, and it didn’t cost as much as the center.” But there were downfalls too. “The big reason private tutoring didn’t work was because of Mackenzie’s attitude. The tutor happened to be a friend of ours, and so Mackenzie saw it as playtime.” Hagy knew someone from a local tutoring center and switched his daughter to that program. “We were so pleased with the results we used it for our son Patrick and now for Natalie. It has been the best option for all of our children.” “There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to tutoring,” says Stewart. “It depends on the student and the goals. If there is a lot of remedial work to be done, the child really should have a professional to work with.” Once you have talked it over with
Guide to Private Education | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 1 | 17
SIGNS A CHILD NEEDS A TUTOR
Doesn’t want to go to school
Difficulty doing homework
Gaps in learning
Poor test grades
Hiding test scores from parents
Teacher reports missing assignments
Unable to keep up
Multiple wrong answers
n Unfinished assignments Frustration and possibly tears
Decreased self confidence
Parents are frustrated and don’t know how to help
your child, try to get recommendations. Talk with your child’s teacher, principal, or guidance counselor, check with the Better Business Bureau, look in the Yellow Pages, or go online. Other parents are a good resource too. Is there someone they have had success with? Next check credentials to find the most qualified person and best fit for the job. Look not only at degrees, but the experience and teaching style too. When the search has been narrowed down to a few names, call or make an appointment to speak with the tutor. Consider her personality and attitude. Is she upbeat and positive? Does she take the child’s learning style into account when tutoring? Is she available at a time that works for your child? With kids’ extra curricular activities and parents’ work schedules dominating the clock, finding the right time for tutoring sessions is always a struggle. “There needs to be a lot of flexibility so the sessions are held at a good time for the child and the family,” says Liz Holter, executive director of a Sylvan Learning Center, And that means a time when the child learns best Some children, Holter says, do best right after school. Others need a break before tackling
academics again. While interviewing the tutor, ask who sets the academic goals. “I recommend every player—teacher, parents, child, and tutor,” advises Stewart. “I encourage our tutors to talk with the teacher so they are on the same page.” Holter agrees. “We are in the business and know what the appropriate goals should be. But parents know their child best, so they should be involved in the goal-setting process too.” “Natalie’s goals were plain and simple as to what she needed to do to be where her peers were,” says Doug. “The first part of the year it would take weeks to get through a section; now she can do a section or so a week.” He pauses then adds, “She’s making progress.” And progress is what it is all about. “Our center does periodic progress reports,” says Holter. “We check off goals and redefine them, if necessary. This lets parents know what is happening. They have a monetary investment in this and deserve to know what is being accomplished.” Stewart’s organization gives parents updates too. “Ours are informal. When we see the parent, we discuss what progress has been made. It’s continual communication. We will give a written report if a parent asks for one. But most times, the proof is just there. I hear parents say, ‘My son is pulling books off the bookshelf and he never liked reading before! What a change!’” Change is what the Hagy’s have seen in Natalie. “Before she started tutoring she had such low selfesteem,” recalls Doug. “Now she is incredibly self-confident. We’re not expecting her to be Einstein. We just want to give her what she needs to succeed.” Denise Yearian is the former editor of two parenting magazines and the mother of three children.
18 | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 1 | Guide to Private Education
? QUESTIONS TO ASK WHEN CHOOSING A TUTOR
What age do you tutor?
Is it for remedial work only? Or do you do enrichment and maintenance too?
What subjects do you offer?
Do you have summer programs?
Can my child go during school hours?
Do you offer diagnostic testing? Is it required?
Do you teach in small group sessions or one-on one?
Where does tutoring take place?
What qualifications do you/your teachers have?
What if my child has a personal problem with the tutor, can I get another one?
How often is the child required to go?
Can you work sessions around my family’s schedule?
How often will I receive progress reports? Will they be written for verbal?
What is the duration of the contract?
How much do you charge?
Are there any hidden fees?
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lunch
BROWN BAGGING CAN BE FUN, EASY AND ECONOMICAL
thinking inside the
LUNCHBOX BY PATRICK EVANS-HYLTON
P
ACKING A LUNCH isn’t just for picky eaters any more; with ever-increasing awareness of food allergies and obesity problems, sending the loved ones off with a carefully-planned brown bag midday meal is increasingly the thing to do. Brown bagging can also be more economical, and there is also a cool factor involved.
There are, however, several things to keep in mind, from selecting the right lunchbox to the right lunch. Forego the concept of packing lunches in a classic brown bag and instead choose soft-sided, insulated, closable and easy-to-clean lunch boxes.
Names can easily be written on the outside of these containers with a permanent marker. Using a lunchbox like this not only cuts down on the waste of disposing of a paper bag daily, but also gives some protection from the elements and the dropsies to the contents inside.
Guide to Private Education | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 1 | 21
recipe
PUFFY PIZZA POCKETS Likewise, a washable, durable, insulated beverage container is good for bringing water or fruit juices and keeping them cool until lunchtime with a few ice cubes added to the contents before sealing. Think inside the box: sometimes lunch consists of just 15 or 20 minutes to eat, so anything packed needs to be ready-toeat, or at least have a very minimal fuss factor. Think of healthy choices as a foil to the often highly caloric, fat-laden, sodium-packed meals sold in the cafeteria. And keep in mind food safety; there probably isn’t any way to keep the meal ice box-cold until lunchtime, and even insulated offerings often have limited results, so pack items that don’t spoil easily, or at all. Here are some suggestions:
THE LUNCHBOX
Generally, a soft-sided lunchbag is easier to pack, carry and keep up with than a traditional hard lunchbox; these are insulated, and are easy to clean Look for lunchbags with external pockets for small items and a clip to attach to a backpack Lunchbags should close easily, and stay closed Lunchbags should be easy to open, as well as easy to pack and unpack Lunch bags should be spill resistant Read information provided by insulated lunchbag manufacturer to see how long safe temperatures will be maintained - the longer, the better - even so, you will most likely want to use frozen gel packs If using a soft-sided lunchbag, pack items inside in sturdy containers to prevent squishing; consider hard plastic reusable containers that can be washed out at home over ziptop bags
THE LUNCH
Plan lunches ahead, and then give yourself an additional 10 minutes in the morning to prep lunches to avoid being rushed; let kids help in the planning and preparation Perishable items can be prepared
This recipe keeps well in a lunchbox and tastes great at room temperature. Flaky biscuit dough combines with classic pizza flavors for a delicious lunch entrée. Turkey pepperoni keeps the pizza lower fat; substitute with chopped vegetables like broccoli and eggplant if you wish.
Ingredients 1 can refrigerated biscuit dough 1/4 cup tomato sauce 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese 1/4 cup turkey pepperoni 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning blend
Method Preheat oven to 350F. Press each biscuit flat approximately into a fiveinch round. Spread on a little tomato sauce, sprinkle on some cheese, place on top some pepperoni and add a couple of dashes of spices. Be careful not to overfill the pockets or contents will leak out. Fold the biscuits over into a half-moon shape, crimp closed and place, evenly spaced, on an aluminum foillined baking sheet. Bake until golden, about 20 and 25 minutes, remove and cool. Yields six pockets.
the night before; just store in your home refrigerator until packing the next day Avoid foods that require a lot of fuss or end up being very messy Lunches should have a minimum number of perishable items Look for good sources of protein, like hard cheese, hard-boiled egg, hummus,
22 | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 1 | Guide to Private Education
turkey, tuna or - if allowed at the school - peanut butter Pack warmed up, leftover noodles and sauce, soup, and the like in an insulated bottled Make a smoothie and send in an insulated bottle Whole grain muffins feed a sweet tooth more healthfully than a candy bar
SUPER SIDES
Here are some ideas for super side dishes to toss in the lunch box:
Toasted whole-wheat raisin bread cut into “fingers”
Small tangerines, apples, bananas and other fruit
Melon cubes
Baby carrots or carrot sticks
Sugar snap peas
Cucumber coins
A few cubes of a hard cheese, like cheddar
Box of raisins
Individual applesauce container
Whole grain chips and salsa
Cereal bar
Peanut butter and crackers
Air-popped pop corn
THE LUNCH, PACKED
Pack condiments and wet items separate from bread and items that can become soggy for quick assembly at lunch Pack items in sturdy, reusable containers A frozen gel pack should be packed with perishable items to help keep those cold until lunchtime Hot foods and cold foods can be kept in an insulated bottle Prep insulated bottles by running very hot or very cold water in them, then drain, before putting hot or cold food If refrigeration is not available, lunchboxes should be stored in a cool, dark place - away from sunlight and heat sources Perishable leftovers should be discarded after lunch
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let’s talk
My son is in the fourth grade and no longer likes his school, teachers or curriculum. He has attended the school since first grade. We really cannot pinpoint a problem other than he just does not like it. He has asked to change schools. Should we do it? It Depends
The answer is maybe and maybe not. Many children experience a new level of anxiety at the fourth grade level which seems to be “for no good reason”. However, an examination of your current school’s curriculum and classroom procedures may explain it. Typically students in fourth grade are expected to exhibit more individual responsibility in regards to homework, behavior and general school life. The academic material covered is certainly more challenging but so are the other pulls on a student. This
is often the time when students may become involved in many extracurricular activities such as school sports, student council, forensics, various clubs etc. The pressure to participate can sometimes be overwhelming. You should arrange a meeting with your child’s “team” at the school which would include the teacher, principal and counselor to make sure everyone is aware of your child’s anxieties and to develop strategies to help him through this transitional period. Obviously, a number of causes should be examined and eliminat-
24 | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 1 | Guide to Private Education
ed including any potential bullying or negative influences from within the classroom setting. Reassure your child that his team is behind him every step of the way and that fourth grade is indeed the beginning of a new adventure. If you encounter any resistance from the school to adopt this team approach to helping your child, it may be time for Plan B. Amy Butler Kallenbach Director of Development and Marketing Christ the King Catholic School Norfolk
Don’t Overreact
Stay the course. You can’t pinpoint the problem because there may not be one. Fourth grade is a big transitional year for students. The workload increases and the tests become more complex. All of this is enough to make a kid feel like this isn’t for him. The first time school starts to feel a little hard, many students tend to recoil. Self-esteem drops and the thought of making your first “C” causes anxiety. I have seen some of the best students I have ever taught go through this. The good news is, if you stick with it, the joy of school comes back. After having taught 4th grade for two years, I am now teaching 5th grade. I looped up with my students from last year. Many of those students have improved their grades from 4th grade to 5th. I’d love to say the progress is a result of excellent teaching, but these students weathered the storm. They battled the trials
Fourth grade is a big transitional year for students. The workload increases and the tests become more complex. of 4th grade and became better students because they didn’t get too down or give up. Private schools teach the whole student and not just academics. A good private school will guide your child through the bumps in the road. Consider that you may not have a private school problem, but a 4th grade
temporary state of uncertainty. As we like to say in Catholic schools, “This too shall pass.” Frank Blacklocke Fifth Grade Teacher Christ the King Catholic School Norfolk
A HIGHER EDUCATION SHOULD BEGIN IN THE EARLY YEARS! Ivy League Academy is a nondenominational Christian preschool and early elementary school. The school incorporates etiquette, Christian character, and high academic standards to produce outstanding elementary students.
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www.ivyleagueacademy.net Guide to Private Education | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 1 | 25
Have a Talk
The first thing you would want to do is talk calmly with your child, at a time when he is not upset, about why he wants to go to another school. You should also talk with his classroom teacher for insight. Your child might be fearful of something or have a conflict with another student. The parent should ask his/her son: What would be different at another school? What is different this year from last year? Fourth grade is a transitional year. Children go from “learning to read� to “reading to learn.� Demands on them increase and knowledge acquired in previous years is built upon, so gaps in skills could be causing an issue. Also, because academically the curriculum does get more difficult in the fourth grade, a child who might not have needed to put forth much effort into making good grades in the past, might now find things more challenging, and mistakenly believe there is something wrong
Fourth grade is a transitional year. Children go from “learning to read� to “reading to learn.� with either himself, the teacher or the school. If there doesn’t appear to be any academic reasons for your son’s request to change schools, you might look at the friendship dynamics that may have changed from previous years. Fourth
grade is a year where children do more “group� playing and sometimes this is difficult for a child who doesn’t know how to interact with different personality styles. In meeting with the classroom teacher, the parent should also ask about how the child is during recess/lunch time. Does the classroom teacher have any concerns? In addition to the classroom teacher, another good parent resource in the school is the guidance counselor. This person is trained to help both students and parents navigate the changing academic and social waters of childhood. Often just having someone listen to your concerns can help you see the issues more clearly and determine the strategy that you, the parent, are comfortable in taking. Randy Pike Mrs. Debbie White Director of Guidance Lower School Guidance Counselor Cape Henry Collegiate School Virginia Beach
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TRINITY LUTHERAN SCHOOL pre K - 5th grade 6001 Granby St. Norfolk, VA (757) 489-2732
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CALL TODAY! 683-4987 28 | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 1 | Guide to Private Education
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YOU CAN AFFORD PRIVATE SCHOOL HERE’S HOW BY ALISON JOHNSON SAY THE WORDS “PRIVATE SCHOOL” and two more words spring to many people’s minds: “rich kids.” // But in reality, students come from a wide range of socioeconomic groups, school administrators say. Parents also have more options than they might think to make tuition affordable, including flexible payment plans and a need-based financial aid system that considers a family’s entire economic picture rather than income alone.
Guide to Private Education | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 1 | 29
ls have d o o h c s y n Ma lly booste a i t n a t s b u s cial aid their finarnecently in budgetse to the country’s respons ic downturn. econom
“Don’t just assume you’ll never be able to afford a school,” says Rebecca Bresee, Director of Admissions at Hampton Roads Academy in Newport News, where about 18 percent of ageeligible students receive some form of financial assistance. “Come take a look and ask questions. We are committed to diversity, and that includes socioeconomic diversity. We don’t want finances to get in the way of a student who we feel would be a great fit for our school.” Nationwide, close to a quarter of private school students received some level of need-based aid last year, according to the National Association of Independent Schools, or NAIS. Grants - which come out of each school’s budget and don’t need to be repaid - totaled more than $1.5 billion, with an average award of $12,292. Many schools have substantially boosted their financial aid budgets recently in response to the country’s economic downturn. Schools often rely on a standardized financial aid form provided by NAIS (www.sss.nais.org) to calculate grants for admitted students. In addition to annual income, the form covers a wide range of expenses such as
30 | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 1 | Guide to Private Education
mortgage and car payments, tuition for other children, medical costs and even the age of a child’s parents, which can affect their retirement savings needs. That means everyone from extremely low-income families to those earning more than $100,000 a year may receive some level of assistance, whether it’s a few hundred dollars a year or full tuition. “Many types of families qualify, even those that might seem well-off but are still under significant financial pressures,” says Myra McGovern, senior director of public information for NAIS. “If you’re concerned about your ability to pay, it’s worth applying because you never know.” Completing financial aid forms early in the application process is an advantage, as schools have a limited pool of money. Independent schools aren’t cheap: during the last year, the median tuition for NAIS-member day schools ranged from $16,915 for first grade to $21,695 for 12th. To help, many schools offer interest-free monthly payment plans that allow families to avoid one or two big financial hits a year. At Norfolk Academy, for example,
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Test-taking tips
HOW YOU CAN PREPARE YOUR CHILD, WITHOUT STRESSING HIM OUT
Have a happy test. BY JENNIFER C. O’DONNELL
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HOWING UP TO SCHOOL ON TIME and finishing homework as-
signments will only get a student but so far. Successful scholars know that the key to school success lies in how well a student tests. Unfortunately, test grades don’t always measure how well a child knows
a subject. Even highly intelligent children can choke on exams, mid-terms, and even on pop quizzes. Nerves certainly play a role. But there are other factors that can result in a miserable test taking experience.
32 | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 1 | Guide to Private Education
You can help your child prepare for and execute tests successfully, and you can do it without stressing him out. To help your child show all he knows, consider the tips below.
REVIEW HOMEWORK ASSIGNMENTS You can tell how well your child is doing in a particular class just by reviewing his homework assignments once or twice a week. If your student is struggling with a subject, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important to react quickly, before he falls further behind. Tutoring him for a half hour or so may be all thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s needed to clear up any questions he might have. Or, if you think youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not prepared to teach him yourself, consider asking his teacher about after school help or additional tutoring options.
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REVIEW OLD TESTS AND QUIZZES One of the best ways to prepare for a test is to review previous homework assignments or quizzes. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a good idea to keep them on hand until your child has moved on to another study unit.
BE FIRM ON BEDTIME Sometimes students fail to thrive in the classroom because theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re sleep deprived. Be firm about your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bedtime, limiting computer access, television, and cell phone distractions a good half hour before bed. Make sure your child spends a few minutes
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â&#x20AC;&#x153;Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it.â&#x20AC;? ~ Proverbs 22:6 Guide to Private Education | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 1 | 35
to get him to memorize the material.
OFFER A HEALTHY BREAKFAST Be sure your child doesn’t leave the house without a healthy breakfast. It can be hard to get a child to eat in the morning, but a glass of juice and a granola bar can help your student make the most of the school day.
BE POSITIVE winding down before bed, so that falling asleep doesn’t become a chore.
LIMIT DISTRACTIONS WHEN STUDYING It’s hard to concentrate when phones are ringing, the door bell is ringing, the microwave is going off and younger siblings are doing their best to annoy. Be sure your student has a quiet place to study that’s free from distractions,
noise and even from younger siblings. It’s always a good idea to set up a work station in your child’s room, or in the family office where your student can go to study without interruption.
MAKE FLASH CARDS Flash cards are a proven way to reinforce what’s been taught in the classroom. Help your child make flashcards, and then work together
Some children worry so much about grades and tests that they panic when it’s time to perform. Be sure you’re positive about your child’s studies, and let him know that you think he’s prepared and will do well. Try not to put too much stress on a child that’s already stress prone. You can even suggest your child try breathing exercises right before the test to calm down and reduce any anxiety he might be experiencing.
Close Your Eyes... Now... Imagine a High School where the Lockers have No Locks – A High School in which 100% of Graduating Seniors were Accepted into their First Choice College
Now... Imagine a Middle School without Bullying – A Middle School in which More than 90% of Students Pursue After School Athletics or Academic Sports
Now... Imagine an Elementary School where Students are Taught According to their Abilities and Interests – not According to a Calendar
Now... Open Your Eyes and Come Visit Virginia Beach Friends School Preschool through 12th Grade • Accredited by VAIS 1537 Laskin Road at Hilltop, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
(757) 428-7534 • www.friends-school.org 34 | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 1 | Guide to Private Education
36 | D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 1 | Guide to Private Education
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Please Join Us: Lower School Open House (Grades K-5) Saturday, January 21 at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 24 at 10 a.m. Middle & Upper School Open Houses (Grades 6-12) Saturday, January 21 at 1 p.m. Saturday, March 24 at 1 p.m. Lower School Parent Preview Days (Grades K-5) Wednesday, February 1 at 9 a.m. Middle & Upper School Parent Preview Days (Grades 6-12) Wednesday, January 25 at 9 a.m.
For more information and to pre-register call (757) 480-1495 or visit NorfolkCollegiate.org
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