38 minute read
Building Bridges with Your Child’s Teacher
By Janeen Lewis
Do you feel intimidated when you think of talk- be a room parent. If volunteers are limited at your child’s ing with your child’s teacher? What if your school, you can still organize signups for supplies and child complains about problems with his or her send in prepackaged craft items and snacks for class teacher? What do you do then? parties or events. If your career is related to something And what if your child is a virtual learner this year? your child’s class is studying, offer to answer questions Communication between home and school could be even face-to-face or virtually. Many employers build in time more complicated than in years past. for employees to volunteer in schools so they don’t have
I’m a parent and a teacher, so I’ve been on both sides to take time off from work. of the teacher’s desk. I’ve also felt the challenges teach- Ask if you can cut out items the teacher has laminated ers and parents feel while navigating remote learning. or track down supplies for a lesson. Come to after-school Here are some tips to help you communicate and con- events, school productions and parent-teacher conferencnect with your child’s teacher even during unique times. es either face-to-face or virtually so that you are visible and can touch base with your child’s teacher. Even if your GET TO KNOW THE TEACHER school is learning remotely during the year, stay tuned in
Try to introduce yourself and talk to the teacher face- to what is going on so that you will be in the know. to-face or on a virtual call. If this is not possible, it’s never too late to send an introductory email and offer KEEP COMMUNICATIONS OPEN your support to the teacher. That way, if a challenge AND POSITIVE does present itself during the year, a teacher’s first en- Teachers welcome questions and concerns and are counter with you isn’t a call about behavior challenges proactive. As a teacher, I would much rather know about a or academic struggles. problem early so that I can deal with it in the best way for all concerned. Your child’s teacher should be open to your BE INVOLVED questions and suggestions, so don’t be too intimidated
One of the best ways to get to know your child’s teach- to ask. er is to be involved in what is going on in the classroom Keep up with written teacher notes, permission slips, and school. This can be difficult if your child is a remote report cards and any other written communications learner. Even so, find creative ways to volunteer. Ask if the teacher sends home. Sending a quick response to you can read to your child’s class via Zoom. Volunteer to
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the teacher’s requests makes the teacher’s job easier. Remember to keep communications positive. If you have concerns or think the teacher has dealt unfairly with your child, don’t dash off a negative note or email and send it first thing in the morning. For sensitive conversations, call and set up a time to meet after school.
Of course, encouraging notes brighten a teacher’s day!
TRY TO UNDERSTAND BOTH SIDES
Teachers have a lot to manage in their classrooms, and with twenty-five or more students to supervise, sometimes they make mistakes or don’t see every problem. Your child may think something happened in class that wasn’t fair, and it’s easy as parents to react emotionally and blame the teacher. But support the teacher as much as possible while you gather information about what happened. Try to help your child see the teacher’s point of view, and talk about how people can have differences and still work together to succeed.
ADVOCATE FOR YOUR CHILD
Don’t be afraid to speak up if a problem in your child’s class becomes pervasive. If your child’s grades start to slip, he or she is continually unhappy or you suspect
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MAKE A CHANGE AS A LAST RESORT
Sometimes children have personality conflicts with their teachers. This actually offers an opportunity for growth if teachers and students can work together in a respectful and productive manner. After all, this is what children will need to do when they grow up. But if problems persist, it may be time to request a change to another class. Discussing your options with a school counselor or administrator may help you navigate a tough year.
UNDERSTAND THAT TEACHERS ARE HUMAN
Most of the teachers I know are caring individuals who want to make a difference in the lives of the children they teach. Often, they are parents too, and although it is hard to imagine, at one time they were students who lived through awkward growth spurts, problems with peers, lost homework and braces. They understand what parents and kids are going through, and they strive to build a positive connection between school and home. Y
Janeen Lewis is a teacher, writer and mom to Andrew and Gracie. She has been published in several parenting publications across the country, and in Chicken Soup for the Soul: Teacher Tales.
One way to connect with your child’s teacher is to
help chaperone a field trip. Teachers really appreciate the help of parents when they venture outside school grounds with a group of students, and spending a day with your child’s class not only gives you time to get to know the teacher better, it will probably give you a better appreciation of what he or she does.
If you do volunteer to chaperone, show up on time so you can get information from the teacher and meet your group. If possible, take a picture of your group so that if someone becomes separated, you know what they are wearing and can show the picture to other helping adults. Learn the names of all the students in your group, and encourage them to pay attention, be on task and stay together. If a child is consistently ignoring the rules, alert the teacher. Take head counts often, especially after bathroom breaks and lunch. Keep your cell phone with you at all times. Get the teacher’s number and numbers of other parent chaperones so that you can stay in contact if you split up. And remember, you are there to help the teacher and students foremost. While you should model participation and have a positive attitude about the trip, don’t slip away to that new exhibit you’ve been dying to see and leave your group.
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Where Kids Matter Most!
ARLINGTON
Lesley Ellis School Preschool - TK Open House
October 26, 2021 @ 7:30 pm
Middle School Open House
October 27, 2021 @ 7:00 pm
Elementary School Open House
October 28, 2021 @ 7:00 pm
All School Open House
November 14, 2021 @ 1:00 pm 34 Winter St www.lesleyellis.org
BOSTON
Boston University Academy Open House
October 3, 2021 @ 12:30 pm November 30, 2021 @ 6:30 pm 1 University Rd www.buacademy.org
The Newman School Virtual Open House
October 12, 2021 @ 6:30 pm 247 Marlborough Street www.newmanboston.org
Torit Montessori School Virtual Open House Events
October 2, 2021 @ 11:00 am October 13, 2021 @ 6:00 pm October 30, 2021 @ 11:00 am November 10, 2021 @ 6:00 pm 300 Cambridge St www.toritschool.org
BRAINTREE
Thayer Academy Middle School Open House
October 23, 2021 @ 9:00 am
Upper School Open House
October 30, 2021 @ 9:00 am 745 Washington St www.thayer.org
BROOKLINE
Dexter Southfield School Virtual Open House
October 21, 2021 @ 7:00 pm 20 Newton St www.dextersouthfield.org
CAMBRIDGE
Cambridge Friends School Open House
October 16, 2021 @ 10:00 am 5 Cadbury Road www.cambridgefriendsschool.org
Cambridge Montessori School Open House
October 23, 2021 @ 1:00 pm 161 Garden St www.cambridgemontessori.org
Fayerweather Street School All School Fall Open House
October 23, 2021 765 Concord Ave www.fayerweather.org
Open House Events
More Events Online at www.BostonParentsPaper.com
The International School of Boston (ISB) Elementary School Virtual Open House
October 26, 2021 @ 1:00 pm
Elementary School Virtual Open House
October 28, 2021 @ 7:00 pm
All School Open House
October 30, 2021 @ 10:00 am
Secondary School Virtual Open House
November 2, 2021 @ 1:00 pm
Secondary School Virtual Open House
November 4, 2021 @ 7:00 pm 45 Matignon Rd www.isbos.org
CHESTNUT HILL
Brimmer and May School Open House Event Series
October 20-23, 2021 starting @ 7:30 pm 69 Middlesex Rd www.brimmer.org
CONCORD
Tremont School Open House
October 14, 2021 @ 5:00 pm
Virtual Open House
October 26, 2021 @ 7:00 pm
Open House
November 9, 2021 @ 7:00 pm 575 Concord Road www.tremontschool.org
DEDHAM
Noble and Greenough School Open House
October 16, 2021 @ 8:30 am 10 Campus Dr www.nobles.edu
GREAT BARRINGTON
Bard Academy Open House
November 6, 2021 @ 10:00 am Blodgett House 84 Alford Rd www.simons-rock.edu
GREENFIELD
Stoneleigh-Burhnam School Open House
October 11, 2021 @ 9:00 am 74 Bernardston Rd www.sbcschool.org
LEXINGTON
Lexington Christian Academy Open House
October 30, 2021 @ 10:00 am 48 Bartlett Ave www.lca.edu
Waldorf School of Lexington Virtual Information Sessions
October 5, 2021 @ 9:00 am October 19, 2021 @ 9:30 am November 2, 2021 @ 9:30 am 739 Massachusetts Ave www.thewaldorfschool.org
MEDFIELD
Montrose School Open House
October 24, 2021 @ 11:00 am
Curriculum Night: Visit Our Campus
November 18, 2021 @ 6:30 pm 29 North Street www.montroseschool.org
NEWTON
Jackson Walnut Park School Outdoor Take a Tour Tuesdays
October 12, 2021 @ 9:00 am October 26, 2021 @ 9:00 am
Open House (In-Person)
October 16, 2021 @ 11:30 am
Open House (Virtual)
October 19, 2021 @ 6:00 pm 200 Jackson Rd www.jwpschools.org
Newton Country Day School Open House
November 7, 2021 @ 1:00 pm 785 Centre St www.newtoncountryday.org
NEWTON CENTRE
Wellan Montessori School Middle School Virtual Info Session
November 2, 2021 @ 9:00 am
Open House (by appointment)
November 7, 2021 @ 2:00 pm
Beginner (15 mos - 3 yrs) Virtual Info Session
November 9, 2021 @ 10:00 am
Lower Elementary Virtual Info Session
November 16, 2021 @ 9:00 am
Kindergarten Virtual Info Session
December 2, 2021 @ 10:30 am 80 Crescent Ave www.wellan.org
SOUTHBOROUGH
Fay School Virtual Open House
November 7, 2021 @ 1:00 pm 23 Middle Rd www.fayschool.org
READING
Austin Preparatory School Middle and Upper School Fall Open House
October 24, 2021 @ 11:00 am 101 Willow Street www.austinprep.org
WATERTON
Ecole Francaise Greater Boston Open House
October 6, 2021 @ 10:30 am October 30, 2021 @ 10:30 am 2 Rosary Drive www.efgboston.org
WELLESLEY
Dana Hall School Upper School Open House
October 23, 2021 @ 9:00 am
Middle School Open House
October 23, 2021 @ 1:00 pm Shipley Center 45 Dana Rd www.danahall.org
WEST ROXBURY
The Roxbury Latin School Open House
October 16, 2021 @ 10:00 am November 7, 2021 @ 12:30 pm 101 St Theresa Ave www.roxburylatin.org
WESTON
The Rivers School Open House
October 3, 2021 @ 12:00 pm October 30, 2021 @ 9:00 am 333 Winter St www.rivers.org
WINCHESTER
Acera School Open House
November 6, 2021 @ 10:00 am 5 Lowell Ave www.aceraschool.org
WORCESTER
Bancroft School
Fall Open House October 3, 2021 @ 1:30 pm 110 Shore Dr www.bancroftschool.org
Check out bostonparentspaper. com/open-housecalendar.html for more School Open House events
Looking to add your school?
You can do so at bostonparentspaper.com/ open-house-submission. html
Private Schools
THE PUBLISHERS OF BOSTON PARENTS MAGAZINE TAKE THE GUESSWORK OUT OF FINDING THE RIGHT PRIVATE SCHOOL FOR YOUR CHILD, FROM START TO FINISH. The following are excerpts from the 2021/22 Annual Private School Guide, covering “Why Consider a Private School” and the “Private School Search Timeline” from the award-winning guide. The complete 2021/22 Annual Private School Guide leads parents chronologically along the schoolselection path, beginning with the value of private education and how to start the process of selecting a school with an emphasis on the all-important application process, including interviewing, testing, and essay writing as well as the ins-andouts of financial assistance. Also included are school profiles and a comprehensive list of regional private schools, listed by city. Your road to the ideal school just got simpler! Download your copy today of this free resource at BostonParentsPaper.com/ourmagazine.html
Why Consider a Private School?
Many parents feel that their children will thrive better in what they believe is a smaller, safer environment with more room for personal attention. While public schools must follow a curriculum heavily influenced by state standards, private schools have more freedom to customize lessons to students’ individual ways of learning.
PRIVATE SCHOOLS can point to low student-teacher ratios, freedom from state standards and testing, and lots of extras like music, foreign languages, travel opportunities and art that can be underfunded in public schools. Private schools are often wellequipped with current educational technology to facilitate in class and virtual instruction. Rest assured, promise school experts, there is a school out there to suit every child.
There are two primary categories of private schools— independent schools and parochial schools.
INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS
are defined as nonprofit private schools with their own governing board of trustees. While most people commonly refer to independent schools as private, lumping them in with parochial and for-profit schools, they are distinct because they are nonprofit and self-governing.
Arlington Arlington
Arlington Catholic High School
16 Medford St Arlington • (781) 646-7770 www.achssas.org 9-12 Co-Ed 18:1 435 Catholic Spanish, French, Italian, Latin $13750.00 FA Available NEASC
Lesley Ellis School
34 Winter St. Arlington • (781) 641-1346 www.lesleyellis.org PS - 8 Co-Ed 8:1 211 NonDenominational Spanish $10,000 - $36,000 FA Available NAIS AISNE
Belmont
Belmont Hill School
350 Prospect Street Belmont • (617) 993-5220 www.belmonthill.org 7-12 Boys Only 7:1 460 NonDenominational Boys Only French, Latin, Spanish $52,000 FA Available
Beverly
The Saints Academy
111 New Balch Street Beverly • (978) 922-0048 www.saintsacademy.org PK - 8 Co-Ed 9:1 180 Catholic Spanish $7,990 FA Available NEASC
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BRITISH INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF BOSTON
A NORD ANGLIA EDUCATION SCHOOL
416 Pond Street Boston, MA 02130 617.522.2261 www.bisboston.org Join us for a VIRTUAL Open House to learn how your child can create their future at BISB: • October 5 & 20 • November 4 & 14 • December 7 • January 11 For registration and details: admissions@bisboston.org Toddlers through High School
Boston
Boston Trinity Academy
17 Hale Street Boston • (617) 364-3700 www.bostontrinity.org 6-12 Co-Ed 7:1 240 NonDenominational Latin,French, Spanish $20,700 - $32-500 FA Available NEASC NAIS AISNE
British International School of Boston
416 Pond Street Boston • (617) 522-2261 www.bisboston.org
German International School Boston
57 Holton Street Boston • (617) 783-2600 www.gisbos.org PS-12 Co-Ed 5:1 280 German Schools Abroad German, English, French, Spanish $22,385 - $25,485 FA Available AISNE, DAS, MINT
Kingsley Montessori School
30 Fairfield Street 26 Exeter Street Boston • (617) 226-4927 www.kingsley.org Toddler-Grade 6 Co-Ed 7:1 300 Non Denominational Spanish $26,730–$36,700 FA Available AMS AISNE
Mission Grammar School
94 St Alphonsus Street Boston • (617) 442-2660 www.missiongrammar.org Infants - Grade 6 Co-Ed 15:1 300 Catholic $6,000 - $7,000 NEASC, NCEA
Park Street School
67 Brimmer Street Boston • (617) 523-7577 www.parkstreetschool.org Toddler - Grade 6 Co-Ed EL:10:1/PS:5/1 250 Christian Spanish $10,300 - $30,700 AISNE, NAIS
Transportation Children’s Center
10 Park Plaza, Suite 3330 Boston • (617) 973-8200 http://www.transchildrencenter.org/ Infant-PreK Co-Ed Varies 17 NonDenominational Varies NAEYC Accredited
Braintree
Thayer Academy
745 Washington Street Braintree • (781) 843-3580 www.thayer.org 5-12 Co-Ed 6:1 706 Latin, Spanish, French, and Mandarin Chinese $51,800 - $53,780 FA Available NAIS, NEASC, AISNE, ISL
Brookline
Maimonides School
34 Philbrick Road Brookline • (617) 232-4452 www.maimonides.org PS, K-12 Co-Ed Varies 550 Modern Orthodox Jewish Schoool Hebrew - ; PS-12 Spanish - 8-12 $22,280 - 33,383 FA Available
St. Mary of the Assumption School
67 Harvard Street Brookline • (617) 566-7184 www.stmarys-brookline.org PreK-12 Co-Ed Varies 550 Catholic Spanish, Mandarin (Afterschool Club) $7,500-$10,530 FA Available NEASC
Burlington
Mount Hope Christian School
3 McGinnis Drive Burlington • (781) 272-1014 www.mounthopeschool.org 15 months - Grade 5 Co-Ed Varies 305 Non Denominational Varies FA Available ACSI, EEC
Cambridge
Cambridge-Ellis School
80 Trowbridge Street Cambridge • (617) 354-0014 www.cambridge-ellis.org
Cambridge Friends School
5 Cadbury Road Cambridge • (617) 354-3880 www.cambridgefriendsschool.org PK-12 Co-Ed
475 NonDenominational French, Spanish $19,800 - $39,900 FA Available NAEYC CIS
Preschool Co-Ed 7:1 86
PreK-8 Co-Ed 6.5:1 150
English, French, Mandarin, Spanish
Spanish $14,500 - $46,000 FA Available EEC, NAEYC
$28,212 - $37,271 FA Available AISNE
Cambridge Montessori School
161 Garden Street Cambridge • (617) 492-3410 www.cambridgemontessori.org PreK-8 Co-Ed 4:1 Toddler 10:1 Primary 185 Non Denominational Spanish $24,000 - $35,700 FA Available AMS, AISNE, MSM, NAIS
Fayerweather Street School
765 Concord Avenue Cambridge •(617) 876-4746 www.fayerweather.org PreK-8 Co-Ed 5:1 206 Non Denominational English, Spanish $22,500 - $36,820 FA Available
International School of Boston
45 Matignon Road Cambridge • (617) 499-1451 www.isbos.org PS-12 Co-Ed 6:1 550 Non Denominational French, English, Spanish and German $22,260-$39,165 FA Available Ministère de l’éducation nationale, CIS, NEASC, IBO, AEFE, AFSA, MLF, AISNE and NAIS
Chestnut Hill
Brimmer and May School
69 Middlesex Road Chestnut Hill • (617) 566-7462 www.brimmer.org
The Chestnut Hill School
428 Hammond Street Cambridge • (617) 566-4394 www.tchs.org Age 3 - Grade 6 Co-Ed 5:1 255 Non Denominational Spanish Varies FA Available AISNE, NAIS
Concord
Tremont School
575 Concord Road Concord • (781) 235-4805 www.tremontschool.org 5-12 Co-Ed 6:1 50 Non Denominational Spanish, Comparative Linguistics $37,750 - $41,750 AISNE, NEASC
Dedham
Noble and Greenough School
10 Campus Drive Dedham • (781) 326-3700 www.nobles.edu
Deerfield
The Bement School
94 Old Main Street Deerfield • (443) 850-4035 www.bement.org K-9 Co-Ed 12:1 220 NonDenominational French, Spanish, Chinese, Latin $18,600-$64,900 FA Available AISNE, TABS, TEMA, JBSA, NAIS
Dorchester
Epiphany School
154 Centre Street Dorchester • (857) 225-2367 www.epiphanyschool.com 5-8 Co-Ed 3:1 20 French, Spanish, Chinese, Latin CAll for Info. AISNE
Saint Brendan School
29 Rita Rd Dorchester • (617) 282-3388 www.stbrendanschool.org PK-6th grade Co-Ed 14:1 210 Catholic $5,600 - $8,000 FA Available NCEA, NEASC
Foxboro
The Sage School
171 Mechanic Street Foxboro • (508) 543-9619 www.sageschool.org
Hingham
SELA: The International Private School
75 Sgt William B Terry Drive Hingham • (781) 741-5454 www.suescuela.com Infant -6th Grade Co-Ed Varies 250 NonDenominational Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, English Varies FA Available
PK-12 Co-Ed 6:1 400
7-12 Co-Ed 6:1 630
PS-8th Co-Ed 6:1 163 AISNE, NAIS
Non Denominational French, Spanish, and Mandarin $36,750 - $56,000 FA Available AISNE, EMA, AISAP, CASE, NEASC, NEPSAC
NonDenominational Spanish $52,300-58,100 AISNE, ISL
Spanish, Latin $30,000 FA Available AISNE, NAIS
PAROCHIAL SCHOOLS, where tuition is typically one-third that of independent schools, offer traditional instruction and have solid reputations. Families who are “in-parish,” that is, who live within the schools’ official parish boundaries or volunteer and participate regularly in the parish, get first priority. Otherwise, the application procedures are similar to independent schools.
When considering private school education, think about these benefits:
High academic standards. Private schools nurture intellectual curiosity, stimulate personal growth, and encourage critical thinking. A larger percentage of students at private schools are enrolled in advanced courses than in public.
Small classes and individual attention. Private schools have low student-teacher ratios that encourage close connections with students. The median ratio in schools that are members of the National Association of Independent Schools in 2019/20 was 8.5 students to 1 teacher.
Excellent teachers. Educators usually teach in their areas of expertise and are passionate about what they do. With more autonomy within the classroom, teachers are able to develop a full understanding of how each student learns and what motivates and inspires each child.
Greater likelihood of a student completing a
bachelor’s degree or graduate degree. Independent schools nurture not just students’ intellectual ability and curiosity but also their personal and social growth and civic conscience. Opportunities extend well beyond the classroom to athletic competitions, artistic pursuits, and school leadership experiences.
Education for the whole child. Private schools nurture not just students’ intellectual curiosity but also their personal, social growth and civic purpose. Opportunities extend well beyond the classroom to athletic competitions, artistic pursuits and school leadership offerings.
Inclusiveness. Schools maintain diverse and vibrant student communities and welcome and respect each family. In 2019/20, students of color were 33 percent of total independent school enrollment nationally.
A community of parents who actively participate in
their children’s education. Private schools promote regular communication among students, parents, and teachers to ensure everyone is working toward the same goals for the student.
The opportunity to choose a school with a mission.
You can select a school whose philosophy, values, and teaching approach is right for your child. Y
Thayer
Thayer is a unique experience because of the teachers. They care about their students, want them all to succeed, and will do anything to help them.
Additionally, the community is very supportive and encouraging, and there are many opportunities to explore, no matter what you’re interested in.“
GABRIELLA MONTEIRO
Thayer Class of 2026
RESULTS THAT COUNT
Here, Gabriella recites a memorized passage about Women’s Rights during the Middle School’s Declamation Finals.
Middle School (5-8) Open House: October 23 | Upper School (9-12) Open House: October 30
Excellence in Autism Education
D A Y A N D R E S I D E N T I A L P R O G R A M S T H R E E A C A D E M I C P R O G R A M S B A S E D O N E A C H C H I L D ' S A G E A N D A B I L I T Y O N - C A M P U S A N D C O M M U N I T Y B A S E D V O C A T I O N A L T R A I N I N G O P P O R T U N I T I E S A N E D U C A T I O N A L F R A M E W O R K B A S E D O N S C E R T S M O D E L
To Learn More Contact
Lynne Goyuk, Admissions Coordinator 508-850-3900 lgoyuk@leagueschool.com
Jamaica Plain
Meridian Academy
54 Brookside Avenue Jamaica Plain • (617) 277-1118 www.meridianacademy.org 6-12 Co-Ed 5:1 75 NonDenominational Spanish, French $50 - $32,000 FA Available
Lexington
Cotting School
453 Concord Avenue Lexington • (781) 862-7323 www.cotting.org Ages 3-22 Co-Ed 8:1 120 NonDenominational English, Spanish $78,500 - $85, 000 DESE
Lexington Christian Academy
48 Bartlett Avenue Lexington • (781) 862-7850 www.lca.edu 6-12 Co-Ed 10:1 300 NonDenominational French, Spanish 28,750 - 32,950 (plus Boarding) NEASC, NAIS, AISNE, ACSI
Waldorf School of Lexington
739 Massachusetts Avenue Lexington • (781) 863-1062 www.thewaldorfschool.org PS - 8th Co-Ed Varies 150 NonDenominational Spanish, Mandarin Chinese $7,000–$28,000 FA Available NEASC, AWSNA, AISNE, NAIS
Littleton
Oak Meadow School
2 Old Pickard Lane Littleton • (978) 486-9874 www.oakmeadow.org Toddlers - Grade 8 Co-Ed 4:1 172 Montessori Spanish $15,000 - $24,000 FA Available AMS, AISNE, NAIS
Austin PrePArAtory school
Middle & Upper School OPEN HOUSE
Sunday, October 24th n 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
An independent, Augustinian Catholic school serving young men & women in grades 6 through 12.
@AUSTINPREP @AUSTINPREP @AUSTINPREPSCHOOL
READING, MA | 781.944.4900 | AUSTINPREP.ORG
Explore Wellan for Toddler–Grade 8
• In-person Tours • Virtual Info Sessions
Register Today: wellan.org
DISCOVER A SCHOOL AS UNIQUE AS YOUR CHILD
the Wolf School
Private K-8 Special Education School | Open House October 25th | thewolfschool.org
Define Your Ideal School
Every school provides a unique educational experience, so how do you decide which schools will be a good fit for your child? Think about:
School Type
Do you want a day school or boarding school? Coeducational or single-sex? Parochial or independent?
Grade Range
Do you want a school that focuses on your child’s age range, or one that can serve your child through elementary, middle, and high school?
Location
Convenience matters, especially if you want your child to take part in school activities. Time the commute before and after school just to be sure.
Student Body
Consider both average class size and total enrollment. A smaller population may mean fewer social opportunities, but more chances for your student to shine. Also consider the diversity of the student body.
Educational Philosophy
Most schools fall along a continuum between traditional and progressive, but what does that mean? How are classes taught? How are expectations conveyed? How are students tested? Ask to sit in on a few classes to see how the philosophy plays out.
Curriculum
What courses are offered? Which are required and which are elective? In what order are math, science, and humanities courses taught? Is there an interdisciplinary emphasis, so that what students study in English meshes with what they’re learning in history? Does the curriculum fit your student’s learning needs?
Faculty
Examine the faculty list (online or in recruitment materials). Where did teachers go to college? How long have they been teaching? Do their degrees match with what they teach? Is there much turnover? In primary grades, how many teachers are in the classroom? Watch a class to see how teachers interact with students and engage them in the learning process.
Facilities
In addition to the overall condition of the school, look at the facilities your child may use. Is the art department well-stocked? Are sports facilities well-equipped? Are computers up to date? How extensive is the library/language lab?
Special Programs and Extracurriculars
Does the school provide programs that fit your student’s needs and interests? Consider academic support, language programs, arts, athletics, leadership opportunities service programs and travel experiences. Is the school a place where your child can blossom? Y
Applying to Private Schools
How to Start the Search and What to Expect
Your first step is to research and visit schools, ideally starting the search at least a year before you plan to submit the application for your child. It takes time to determine which school is the best fit for your child. Navigating the application process can be overwhelming, but it can also be exciting. Here are tips on how to get you and your child into the right school.
After creating your short list of schools, contact the school’s admissions office to find out about open house events, school tours, private visits, or other events that will allow you to get to know the school as best as possible.
The school’s admissions office will also tell you about application requirements, including deadlines and costs. While each school has its own criteria for admitting students, the typical application package involves: • A completed application form, usually available from the school’s website, and application fee. • Parent or guardian statements. • A transcript of your child’s grades from her current school. • Results from standardized tests or a school-administered test. For middle school grades and above, the most common tests are: The Independent School Entrance Examination, or the ISEE; the Secondary School Aptitude Test, or the SSAT; the High School Placement Test, or HSPT, for
Catholic schools.
Depending on the grade to which you are applying, some schools might also ask for:
• A formal interview, though for elementary school students, the interview more often consists of a teacher observation or individual or group-administered diagnostic tests.
School admissions officers are there to help you complete your applications in a timely manner. They also want to make sure that the process is a positive experience for you and your child and that there is a good match between your child and the school.
Try to avoid:
• While admissions officers want to be helpful, don’t call too often, overload them with additional information about your child, or try to impress them with your business or social contacts. • Don’t jump on the bandwagon of applying to a school just because your child’s peers are applying. Similarly, don’t just apply to a school because it is one of the “top” schools in the area and boasts of its graduates who go to the Ivies.
Be realistic about your child’s strengths, interests, and personality. Apply to schools which are a good fit for your child. • Don’t shy away from disclosing vital information about your child or family—notably about any special academic needs your child has or about your family’s financial need for tuition help.
While most private schools cannot afford to meet the academic and financial needs of all students they would like to admit, you won’t increase your child’s chances of acceptance by failing to be upfront about certain information.
And if the school turns your child down for any special issues, it’s likely the school was not a good fit. • Don’t miss application deadlines. But if you do, some schools have rolling admissions and admit students throughout the school year. Y
Medfield
Montrose School
29 North Street Medfield • (508) 359-2423 www.montroseschool.org/ 6-12 Girls Only 8:1 205 Catholic Latin, Spanish, French $31,386 FA Available National School of Character NEASC, NAIS AISNE
Needham
St. Sebastian’s School
1191 Greendale Avenue Needham • (781) 449-5200 www.stsebs.org 7-12 Boys Only 7:1 375 Independent School League English, Spanish, Latin $50,570 FA Available AISNE, ISL, IBSC, NAIS, RCAB, SSATB,
Newton
Solomon Schechter Day School
60 Stein Circle Newton • (617) 964-7765 www.ssdsboston.org Toddler-8th Co-Ed 15:1 400 Jewish English, Hebrew, Spanish $20,000-$30,000 FA Available AISNE
Newton Centre
Wellan Montessori School
80 Crescent Avenue Newton Centre • (617) 969-4488 www.wellan.org See pages 19, 40 Toddler-8th Co-Ed Varies 315 NonDenominational Spanish $27,900 – $32,600 FA Available AISNE, AMS
Preschool - Grade 8
Upcoming Events
These events are open to the public and may or may not be in person. If you have questions, please contact Tricia Moran. Join us and invite a friend or neighbor, too!
Little Learners Series
First Friday of Every Month
For parents and young children, ages 2 - 5 years. Join Lesley Ellis teachers as they read stories, sing songs, and explore a variety of fun, educational activities.
Learn more about these events at lesleyellis.org Open Houses
Early Childhood
(Preschool, Prekindergarten, Transitonal Kindergarten) Tuesday, October 28 7:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Middle School (Grades 5 - 8) Wednesday, October 27, 7:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Elementary School (Kindergarten - Grade 4) Wednesday, October 27, 7:00 - 8:00 p.m.
All School Open House (Preschool - Grade 8) Sunday, November 14, 1:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Tricia Moran, Director of Admission 781.641.1346 tmoran@lesleyellis.org 34 Winter St. | Arlington, MA 02474 | lesleyellis.org
Reading
Austin Preparatory School
101 Willow Street Reading • (781) 944-4900 www.austinprep.org See pages 13, 39 6-12 Co-Ed 10:1 775 Catholic Latin, French, Mandarin and Spanish $25,000 FA Available NEASC
Roslindale
Village PreSchool
25 Cummins Highway Roslindale • (617) 323-5141 www.vpsroslindale.com See pages 21, 42 PS Co-Ed 10:1 80 NonDenominational Spanish, Mandarin, Latin $14,300 - $22,100 FA Available
Southborough
Fay School
48 Main Street Southborough • (508) 490-8201 www.fayschool.org K-9 Co-Ed 6:1 475 NonDenominational $26,200 - $44,630 FA Available AISNE
Walpole
League School of Boston
300 Boston Providence Highway Walpole • (508) 850-3900 www.leagueschool.org See pages 7, 39 3-22 Years Co-Ed 4:1 105 NonDenominational Call for Info. DESE, DEEC, MAAPS, NAPSEC
Living the Gospel, On the Road to College
Beginning at 3 months!
Call & schedule a tour today! (617) 442-2660
www.missiongrammar.org Offering your child, from toddlers through 8th grade, an individualized educational journey.
Contact us for open house and virtual information session details.
oakmeadow.org
Littleton, MA 978-486-9874 x 226
SPARK WONDER
Toddler - Grade 8 21 months to Grade 8
Join us for a Join us for our fall in-person Montessori OPEN HOUSE OCTOBER 23 1:00-3:00 PM Info Session (rain date October 24th) or Online Montessori Info Sessions
(register for all events via our website)
Discover the wonder of a Montessori eduction.
15 Hall Avenue Watertown • (617) 923-4848 www.fourseasonspreschool.com
Jewish Community Day School
57 Stanley Ave Watertown • (617) 972-1733 www.jcdsboston.org K-8 Co-Ed 6:1 160 Jewish English and Hebrew $30,000-$35,000 FA Available AISNE, NAIS
Wellesley
Dana Hall School
45 Dana Road Wellesley • (781) 235-3010 www.danahall.org 5-12 Girls Only 6:1 461 NonDenominational Spanish, French, Mandarin, Latin $51,500 FA Available NEASC, NCGS, NAIS, AISNE, TABS
West Roxbury
Holy Name Parish School
535 West Roxbury Parkway West Roxbury • (617) 325-9338 www.holynameparishschool.org PS-6th Co-Ed 15:1 285 Catholic Spanish $10,600 for Nursery - Grade level tuition $7,895 NEASC, ABCSA
Weymouth
First Baptist Christian School
40 West Street Weymouth • (781) 335-6232 www.fbcsweymouth.org
Winchester
Acera: The Massachusetts School of Science, Creativity and Leadership
5 Lowell Avenue Winchester • (781) 729-3489 www.aceraschool.org See pages 23, 40 K-10 Co-Ed 6:1 140 NonDenominational $28,900 - $30,900 FA Available
Worcester
Notre Dame Academy
425 Salisbury Street Worcester • (508) 757-6200 www.nda-worc.org 7-12 Girls Only 12:1 300 Catholic French, Spanish, Latin $11,360-$15,150 FA Available NEASC, NCEA
Infant-K Co-Ed Varies 50
PK4-8 Co-Ed 12:1 120 Christian $4,750 - $6,180 FA Available ACSI
Our mission is to create an early childhood program that fulfills the cognitive, emotional, social and physical needs of what is known to be the most significant period of human development. Friends Childcare offers an exciting, creative curriculum, as well as fun and stimulating learning activities for all age groups. Tailor-made schedule 7AM-6PM, 5 days a week. Regular in-house enrichment programs such as nature exploration, music, gross motor program, and baby massage are included in the tuition.
• Infants
(Birth to 15 Months) • Toddlers
(15 Months to 33 Months) • Preschool/ Pre-Kindergarten
(33 Months to 5 Years)
Basic Timeline
for Applying to a Private School
While each school follows its own schedule, here is a typical admissions timeline. Many schools are now offering both in-person and virtual admission events.
AUGUST
(Of the year before you want your child to attend) • Define your ideal school • Find schools that match your child’s and family’s needs • Research and ask questions of schools on your preliminary list
SEPTEMBER
• Browse schools’ websites and look books to learn more about their programs and philosophies • Request admissions and financial assistance material by phone or online • Review admissions materials to determine which schools to visit • Create a calendar of pertinent admission and financial assistance deadlines for the schools to which you are considering applying • Ask elementary schools about their test schedules and make appointments • Register for any standardized tests required for admission • Review the test websites to learn about procedures and test dates, see sample questions, and purchase test-preparation books • Contact schools to schedule individual tours, class visits, interviews, and “shadow days” if available
OCTOBER
• Continue scheduling tours, interviews, class visits, and standardized or school-based tests • Visit schools, virtually if necessary, during open house events, attend information sessions, and take tours • Finalize the list of schools to which you will apply • Take required standardized admission tests
NOVEMBER
• Continue scheduling tours, interviews, class visits, and preparing and taking standardized or school-based tests • Watch for open house events you may want to attend • Request teacher recommendations from your child’s current school • Start working on applications, tuition assistance forms, student questionnaires, and essays
DECEMBER
• Watch for any open house or school events of interest • Request transcripts at the end of your child’s first semester • Complete any remaining applications, questionnaires, etc. Some application materials are due as early as December.
JANUARY
• Pay attention to deadlines: Most applications are due in
January or February, along with test scores, references, transcripts, and financial assistance forms
FEBRUARY
• For schools with February admissions deadline turn in applications. • Visit schools applied to again or have your child participate in a student shadow day if you haven’t already
MARCH
• Watch for school decisions starting in mid-March • Watch for financial assistance decisions • If your student is accepted by multiple schools, decide which school your child will attend and let the school know
APRIL
• Sign and return enrollment contracts and send deposits
MAY TO SEPTEMBER
• Attend events and activities for new parents and students • Get to know other families in the school • Sign up for fall sports and clubs
Why An Independent School? Small Classes • Commitment to Diversity • Performing Arts Programs • Sense of Community Afternoon Programs • Athletics • Dedicated Teachers • Individual Attention • Travel Programs High Academic Standards • Visual Arts Programs • Experiential Learning
A group of Greater Boston independent schools invites you to attend Open House Programs
SCHOOL NAME CITY/TOWN AGES AND GRADES OPEN HOUSE DATE(S) : TIME(S)
PHONE WEB ADDRESS •The Fessenden School West Newton 4-15 years (boys PK-9) October 2, 1-3 p.m. 617-630-2300 fessenden.org •Boston University Academy Boston 13-18 years (9-12) October 3, 12:30-2:30 p.m. and November 30, 6:30-8:30 p.m.617-358-2493 buacademy.org •The Rivers School Weston 11-18 years (6-12) October 3, 12-2 p.m. and October 30, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. 781-235-9300 rivers.org •Commonwealth School Boston 14-18 years (9-12) October 5, 6:30-9 p.m. and November 14, 2:30-5 p.m.(Both VIRTUAL)617-266-7525 commschool.org •The Learning Project Boston 5-12 years (K-6) October 7, 4-6 p.m. and October 23, 10-12 p.m. 617-266-8427 learningproject.org •St. Sebastian’s School Needham 12-18 years (boys 7-12) October 7, 5:30 p.m. and December 2, 6 p.m. 781-449-5200 stsebs.org •Atrium School Watertown 4-14 years (PK-8) October 14, 9-10 a.m. (VIRTUAL) & Oct. 24, 10-12 p.m. (IN PERSON) 617-923-4156 atrium.org •Dedham Country Day School Dedham 4-14 years (PK-8) October 14 and November 5, 8:30 - 10:30 a.m. 781-329-0850 dedha.m.countryday.org •Waring School Beverly 11-18 years (6-12) October 16, 9-11:30 a.m. 978-927-8793 waringschool.org •Cambridge Friends School Cambridge 4-14 years (PK-8) October 16, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. and Oct. 20, 6-7:30 p.m. (VIRTIUAL) 617-354-3880 cambridgefriendsschool.org •The Roxbury Latin School West Roxbury 12-18 years (boys 7-12) October 16, 10 a.m-1:30 p.m and November 7, 12:30-4 p.m.617-477-6317 roxburylatin.org •Boston Trinity Academy Boston 11-18 years (6-12) October 16, 10 a.m12 p.m. and November,16, 6-8 p.m. 617-364-3700 bostontrinity.org •Noble and Greenough School Dedham 11-18 years (7-12) October 16, 8:30 a.m.-12 p.m. December 7, 6 - 8:30 p.m. 781-320-7100 nobles.edu •Charles River School Dover 4-14 years (PK-8) October 16, 1-3 p.m. and November 4, 6:30- 8 p.m. 508-785-8213 charlesriverschoolorg •Jackson Walnut Park Schools Newton 18 mo -12 years (T-6) October 16, 11:30-1:30 p.m. & November 11, 9:30-11 a.m. 617-202-9772 jwpschools.org •Belmont Day School Belmont 4-14 years (PK-8) October 17, 10-11:30 a.m, and Nov 20, 10-11:30 a.m. (VIRTUAL) 617-484-3078 belmontday.org •The Newman School Boston 12-19 years (7-12) October 17, 10-11:30 a.m. November 16, 6:30-7:30 p.m. (VIRTUAL) 617-267-4530 newmanboston.org •Brimmer and May School Chestnut Hill 4-18 years (PK-12) October 18-23 Open House Event Series 617-738-8695 brimmer.org •Park Street School Boston 2-12 (Toddler-6) October 19, 9 a.m. (VIRTUAL) & November 1, 6 p.m. (IN PERSON) 617-523-7577 parkstreetschool.org •Dexter Southfield School Brookline 4-18 years (PK-12) October 21 (VIRTUAL) and November 16 (VIRTUAL) 7:00 p.m. 617-454-2721 dextersouthfield.org •Dana Hall School Wellesley 10-18 years (girls 5-12) October 23, 9-11 a.m. (GR.9-12) and October 23, 1-3 p.m. (GR.5-8) 781-489-1331 danahall.org •Falmouth Academy Falmouth 12-18 years (7-12) October 23, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. and January 22, 9:30-11 a.m. 508-457-9696 falmouthacademy.org •Thayer Academy Braintree 10-18 years (5-12) October 23 (MS) and October 30 (US): 9 a.m.-12 p.m. 781-664-2221 thayer.org •Cambridge Montessori School Cambridge 21 mos. to 14 years (T-8) October 23, 1-3 p.m. and November 18, 10-11:30 a.m. 617-492-3410 cambridgemontessori.org •Falmouth Academy Falmouth 12-18 years (7-12) October 23, 10 a.m. -12 p.m and January 22, 9:30-11 a.m. 508-457-9696 falmouthacademy.org •Pingree School South Hamilton 14-18 years (9-12) October 23, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and December 9, 6 p.m. 978-468-4415 pingree.org •Fayerweather Street School Cambridge 3-14 years (PK-8) October 23, 10 a.m. -2 p.m. 617-876-4746 fayerweather.org •The Cambridge School of Weston Weston 14-18 years (9-PG) Oct. 23, 9 a.m.-12 p.m (IN PERSON) and Nov. 10, 7-8:30 p.m. (VIRTUAL) 781-642-8650 csw.org •The Woodward School Quincy 11-18 years (6-12) October 23, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. and November 14, 1-3 p.m. 617-773-5610 thewoodwardschool.org •Montrose School Medfield 11-18 years (girls 6-12) October 24, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. and November 18, 6:30-8 p.m. 508-359-2423 montroseschool.org •Chapel Hill-Chauncy Hall School Waltham 14-18 years (9-PG) October 24 and November 7, 1 p.m. (In person) 781-314-0800 chch.org •The Park School Brookline 4-14 years (PK-8) October 24 (Grades 5-8) and November 7 (PreK-4) Times: TBA 617-277-2456 parkschool.org •Waldorf High School of Mass Bay Belmont 14-18 years (9-12) October 24, 1-3 p.m. 617-489-6600 waldorfhighschool.org •Shady Hill School Cambridge 4-14 years (PK- 8) Oct. 24 (PreK-8) 1-5 p.m. (VIRTUAL) and Dec. 11 (PreK-8) 1-2:30 p.m. 617-520-5200 shs.org •Meridian Academy Boston 11-18 years (6-12) October 25, 6:50 p.m. and December 1 6:50 p.m.` 617-277-1118 meridianacademy.org •International School of Boston Cambridge 2-18 years (PS-12) October 26, 1 p.m. (VIRTUAL) and Oct., 30 10 a.m., (IN PERSON) 617-499-1451 isbos.org •The Advent School Boston 4-12 years (PK-6) Oct. 27, 8:45 a.m. and Nov. 10, (ECC Preview) 8:45 a.m. (VIRTUAL) 617-742-0520 adventschool.org •Riverbend School S. Natick 15 mo-14 years (T-8) October 30, 11a.m. 508-655-7333 riverbendschool.org •Concord Academy Concord 14-18 years (9-12) October 30, 9 a.m. -12 p.m. and 1- 4 p.m. 978-402-2250 concordacademy.org •Fay School Southborough 5-15 years (K-9) November 3, 10-11 a.m. and November 7, 1-2:30 p.m. 508-490-8201 fayschool.org •Newton Country Day School Newton 10-18 years (girls 5-12) November 7, Contact school for details 617-244-4246 newtoncountryday.org •Wellan Montessori School Newton 15mo-14 years (T-8) November 7, 2-4 p.m. 617-969-4488 wellan.org •Tenacre Country Day School Wellesley 4-12 years (PK-6) November 7, 11 a.m. -1 p.m. and Nov. 18, 7-8:15 p.m. (VIRTUAL) 781-235-2282 tenacrecds.org •The Chestnut Hill School Chestnut Hill 3-12 years (Beginners-6) November 7, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. and November 16, 6-7 p.m. 617-566-4394 tchs.org •The Winsor School Boston 10-18 years (girls 5-12) November 10, 6:45 - 8:45 p.m. 617-735-9503 winsor.edu •Lesley Ellis School Arlington 2.9-14 years (PS-8) November 14, 1-3 p.m. 781-641-1346 lesleyellis.org •Beaver Country Day School Chestnut Hill 11-18 years (6-12) November 18, 6:30p.m. (VIRTUAL), December 9, 6:30 p.m. (IN PERSON)617-738-2725 bcdschool.org •The Fenn School Concord 9-15 years (boys 4-9) November 21: 1-3 p.m. 978-369-5800 whereboysthrive.org •The Rashi School Dedham 5-14 years (K-8) Contact school for information about visits 781-355-7318 rashi.org •Meadowbrook School Weston 4-14 years (Jr.K-8) Contact school for information about visits 781-894-1193 meadowbrook-ma.org •The Sage School Foxboro 3 -14 years (PK-8) Contact school for information about visits 508-543-9619 sageschool.org •Milton Academy Lower and Middle School Milton 5 -14 years (K-8) Contact school for more information about visits 617-898-2509 milton.edu •Thacher Montessori School Milton 18 mos. to 14 years (T-8) Contact school for information about visits 617-361-2522 thacherschool.org
