We hope it's been a wonderful first month of school for your child. It may seem early, but if you are considering a different school for next year, now is a great time to begin the search. Attending a school fair or open house can be a great opportunity to learn more about a school or to confirm that the current school your child attends is the best fit for him/her. We are here to support you in the process. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask!
-Leigh Ann, Cathy, Mary, Catherine, and Lena
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SSAT Flex Tests
Small Group Testing
Columbus Day, Oct. 9th
Monday, October 30th
Tuesday, November 7th
Monday, November 20th
Wednesday, November 29th
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6:00-8:00 pm
October 5, 2017
Norwood School
8821 River Road
Bethesda, MD 20817
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9:00-11:00
October 14, 2017
Norbeck Country Club
17200 Cashell Road
Rockville, MD 20853
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School Fair: MOMS Club of Alexandria-Preschool Fair
8:30 am - 12:00 pm
Thursday, October 26, 2017
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8:30 am - 12:45 pm
October 28, 2017
Commonwealth Academy
1321 Leslie Ave
Alexandria, VA 22301
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So, you've started to think about an independent school for your child.
This is the perfect time to begin your school search and this newsletter will provide you with information you need to understand and help with the process.
What is the difference between a school fair and an open house? Can I bring my child? When is the application due?
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Step 1: Attend a School Fair
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- School Fairs are a great opportunity to meet with different school representatives to learn more about the school.
- They are free and open to anyone to attend so you may bring your child.
- The event can be a bit overwhelming so pack your patience and your walking shoes!
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Step 2: Look at School's Websites
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- After attending the school fair, take a look at the schools' websites.
- Do you agree with the school's mission and philosophy?
- Is the location of the school convenient for your family?
- Review the academic, arts and athletic options and consider if they fit your child's learning wants and needs.
- If there are blogs or newsletters offered, read them to get a better feel for the daily life of the school!
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Step 3: Attend an Open House or Parent Tour
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After reviewing the websites of the schools narrow down which schools to visit. It's VERY important to visit each campus to fully experience the school "in action." We recommend visiting three to five schools (October-December) so you can compare the different options available for your child.
Don't forget to bring your questions that were not answered on the school's websites.
Open House:
- Similar to a real estate open house, anyone is welcome to attend and visit the school
- Typically, an open house begins with an information session with several school staff speakers and is followed by a tour of the school
- Schools have 2-3 open houses a year
- For a list of open houses, click here
Parent Tour:
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Some schools offer tours on a specific day and others offer tours by appointment
- It might be one parent or a small group of parents on the tour
- Tours might include students so be sure to check before bringing your child!
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General Admissions Timeline
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- If your child is applying for MS or US, register for the SSAT or ISEE (October-January)
- Apply to schools (look for school application and financial aid deadlines)
- Visit schools or have your child participate in a student shadow day (December-February)
- Look for financial aid and school decisions (mid-March)
- Sign enrollment contracts for the school of choice (April)
- Attend events and activities for new students (May-September)
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Enjoy the Experience...
Next Steps and Tips in our November Newsletter! |
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