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Finding the Perfect Fit

iven the scores of private school options available in the greater Washington area, it’s little wonder that the G prospect of choosing the right institution for your child can seem daunting. Still, while it is hardly as simple as A-B-C, most of the area’s top experts in the private school arena seem to agree on strategies for parents suff ering from the paradox of choice. ADVERTISEMENT private schools

The decision of where a child goes to school is one of most important ones a parent must make. So, the experts advise parents to take their time, research comprehensively, and visit as many schools as possible. But before hitting the books, so to speak, the fi rst thing to do is to study your child. Knowing what motivates him, knowing her learning style, understanding his personality type — all will help in the eff ort to find the perfect match. Ron Goldblatt, executive director of the Association of Independent Maryland & D.C. Schools (AIMS), suggests taking an inventory of your child. “If they are younger, can they sit still? Do they need higher levels of supervision? How confi dent are they? What is their temperament? Is behavior altered through adherence to rules or by having meaningful conversation?” The second part of the analysis is deciding which traits you want to nurture in your child. If community service is important, look for a school that requires volunteer work. If a child is highly creative, look for a program that teaches outside the box. If your child has a particular talent (music, math), look for schools that focus on that subject or area. There’s also the matter of family values and belief systems. For example, if religion is a primary factor in your family, you may opt for a school affi liated with your creed. Consider also the type of environment that is best for your child. Some thrive in a structured environment, while others do better in a free-form setting. Would the child fl ourish in a co-ed or a single gender environment? The National Association of Independent Schools represents more than 1,400 independent, private and not-for- profi t schools in the United States. According to Myra A. McGovern, Interim Vice President for Media Communications, “Before starting the decision-making process, think about what the child needs. For instance, if you have a child who requires more one-on-one attention — a smaller ADVERTISEMENT private schools

Families tend to look at the school’s reputation. But just because a school is hard to get into and has a great reputation doesn’t mean it’s the right fit for your child.

– Ann Dolin, an educational consultant and author of a Guide to Private Schools classroom might be a better ﬁ t. On the other end of the spectrum, if a child is socially-driven, you may want to ﬁ nd a school with more activities and a larger social network.” The biggest mistake parents can make at the beginning, according to education professionals, is selecting a school solely on reputation. affi liates representing about 80 emphasizes that “just because a The Council for American Private percent of private school enrollment school is highly-rated or sends X Education (CAPE) is a coalition of nationwide. Joe McTighe, the percentage of its students to Ivy national organizations and state organization’s executive director, League schools doesn’t mean it’s the ADVERTISEMENT private schools

What Parents Need to Ask Parents should have a lengthy list of questions of their own. According to the experts consulted for this article, among the topics parents should address during an interview are:

1. What is the school culture? 7. What type of extracurricular Does the school have a specifi c activities are available? approach to education? Are students expected to 2. Is the curriculum rigorous participate? and/or innovative? How much 8. What kind of facilities does the homework is there? school have? Do the facilities 3. How do schools nurture a accommodate the types of student’s strengths and address activities in which your child is weaknesses? interested? 4. Does the school have a 9. How diverse is the student body particular curricular focus? Does and faculty? it off er STEM classes, creative 10. How involved are teachers with arts, foreign languages? At what students beyond the classroom? ages are children exposed to Do they advise clubs and attend those programs? school events? Are they readily 5. How does the school feel about available to parents via email or parental participation? What roles phone? do parents play at the school? 11. How do students do on 6. What kind of support, both standardized tests like the SAT? academic and personal, is off ered How many get into the college to students? Does the school off er of their choice? counseling and tutoring services? 12. Is fi nancial aid available? ADVERTISEMENT private schools right fi t for your off spring.” Ann Dolin, an educational consultant and author of a Guide to Private Schools, points out that “families tend to look at the school’s reputation. But just because a school is hard to get into and has a great reputation doesn’t mean it’s the right fi t for your child.”

Surfing for Schools So, how do you ﬁ nd the right ﬁ t? You can learn a great deal from the school’s website. Start by looking at the pictures and reading between the lines. What do images project? Are students shown with their friends wearing colorful garb, or do images show formally-dressed students interacting one-on-one with teachers? Are the pictures showcasing academic settings, or are there images featuring extracurricular activities? All of these visuals can provide insight into the zeitgeist of a school. Most private school websites also include a mission statement. That

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statement should provide a sense of what a school is all about. While mission statements can be somewhat lofty, there are keywords that can clue Check to see if facilities one into a school’s true educational are well-maintained. Does the philosophy. Is the school described as school have science labs, an progressive or traditional; nurturing auditorium, ample areas for or rigorous; child-centered or self- motivating; competitive or creative? athletics, and a well-stocked (OL]DEHWK 6HWRQ Also look to the website to library. +LJK 6FKRRO answer the basic questions. Where is the school located? Does it off er – Joe McTighe, CAPE Executive Director transportation? Does the schedule (OL]DEHWK 6HWRQ +LJK 6FKRRO and calendar sync up to schools your HGXFDWHV \RXQJ ZRPHQ E\ other children may be attending? HQJDJLQJ WKHP LQ D FKDOOHQJLQJ What does it cost? Does the school Taking a Tour FROOHJH SUHSDUDWRU\ FXUULFXOXP off er ﬁ nancial aid? Is the school There is no substitute for seeing WKH WHDFKLQJV RI WKH &DWKROLF accredited? Accreditation can be a for yourself what a school is like. &KXUFK DQG VHUYLFH WR RWKHUV stamp of approval that a school is That’s why visiting the campus is :H IRVWHU DQ LQFOXVLYH GLYHUVH DQG VDIH FRPPXQLW\ WKDW meeting its mission and is ﬁ nancially so important. Most schools off er HQFRXUDJHV DFDGHPLF DWKOHWLF solvent. Of course, websites will open houses and tours, especially DUWLVWLF DQG VSLULWXDO JURZWK also touch upon the curriculum, the during the October to January time pedagogy, and statistics like class size period. According to Randy Hollister, and student-teacher ratio. headmaster at Loudoun Country If you like what you see, look over Day School, tours allow “people who 23(1 +286( the admissions materials and visit are savvy to walk in, spend time and 6XQGD\ 1RYHPEHU the school. leave with a good feel for how things DPSP

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(PHUVRQ 6WUHHW %ODGHQVEXUJ 0' ZZZVHWRQKVRUJZS ADVERTISEMENT private schools are running.” Plus, you can observe the mission statement in action. Hollister continues, “How does the school translate its mission into a lived experience? During a visit, you need to drill into — what is the daily experience?” While on a tour, study the classrooms. Dolin says it’s important to observe class sizes, teaching styles and classroom interaction. Are teachers mainly lecturing or are they leading discussions? Are students encouraged to participate? Whether in class or in the hallways, are students engaged and upbeat? How do they interact with their peers? Are they orderly? CAPE’s McTighe recommends looking at the physical plant as well. “Check to see if facilities are well-maintained. Does the school have science labs, an auditorium, ample areas for athletics, and a well-stocked library?” After touring, parents will be able to narrow down the options

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signifi cantly. The next step is likely scheduling an interview with the admissions offi cer. Private schools do not accept everyone, even if a child has an off -the-charts IQ or the musical talent of Bach. According to Marcia Miller, Director of Admissions at the Nora School in Silver Spring. “We are looking for fi t on our side as well. We look for personality traits that defi ne how kids will get along with others. Are they intellectual? Are they conversant? Are they aff able? Are they easy to get along with? What leadership qualities do they have? What do they bring to the school?” According to McGovern of NAIS, “We want to build a cohesive student body where students complement and stimulate one another.” As a result, admissions directors may be trying to develop a student body with gender balance, ethnic diversity, and diversity of perspectives and economic backgrounds.

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Private schools are increasingly open to all rungs of the socioeconomic ladder. We have a gigantic commitment to equity and justice, and finding great kids wherever they come from.

– Ron Goldblatt, AIMS Executive Director

Financial Aid and Making the Grade ƉƉůǇ EŽǁ ĨŽƌ &Ăůů ϮϬϭϱ The last two questions are crucial. 'ƌĂĚĞƐ :<Ͳϱ͗ ;ϳϬϯͿ ϮϭϮͲϮϳϬϱ Even if you think you may not 'ƌĂĚĞƐ ϲͲϭϮ͗ ;ϳϬϯͿ ϮϭϮͲϮϳϬϲ have the means to aff ord private ǁǁǁ͘^^^^͘ŽƌŐ education, don’t dismiss the possibilities out of hand. Almost every private school off ers ﬁ nancial 'ŽŽĚŶĞƐƐ ĂƐ ǁĞůů ĂƐ <ŶŽǁůĞĚŐĞ aid or scholarships. In fact, according :<ͲϭϮ Y ŽĞĚ Y ƉŝƐĐŽƉĂů Y DŽƌŶŝŶŐ ĂŶĚ ŌĞƌͲ^ĐŚŽŽů WƌŽŐƌĂŵƐ Y dƌĂŶƐƉŽƌƚĂƟŽŶ to Dolin, it’s typical that schools ϯ ĂŵƉƵƐĞƐ ŝŶ ůĞǆĂŶĚƌŝĂ͕ sŝƌŐŝŶŝĂ provide at least 25 percent of the student body with some type of aid. That’s why, according to AIMS Ron Goldblatt, “Parents shouldn’t $ &52 72

assume you can’t go just because you

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tremendous amount of ﬁ nancial aid $ 6 2& "+ for families who need help. Private schools are increasingly open to all rungs of the socioeconomic ladder. We have a gigantic commitment to equity and justice, and ﬁ nding great kids wherever they come from.” Loudoun Country Day School’s Randy Hollister concurs. “We value

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! breadth of experience at the school,” &RQQHFWLFXW $YH 1: :DVKLQJWRQ '& 9Ζ6Ζ7 86 $7 285 23(1 +286( says Hollister. “We want racial, ethnic, cultural and economic diversity. ZZZEXUNHVFKRRORUJ 6$785'$< '(&(0%(5 DGPLVVLRQV#EXUNHVFKRRORUJ That’s part of the reason our fi nancial 30 assistance budget has doubled during the past fi ve years.” Of course, the academic track record of a school is also key, & particularly at the high school level. " ' %! ' Ask about average SAT or ACT ! #( scores and the number of advanced placement or college level off erings. ' $ See if the school has honors classes s or an International Baccalaureate ' ! s program. Is there a talented and !! ! gifted program? Ask about the s colleges graduates attend. Scores and statistics, while .ORTH "ETHESDA -$ s revealing, don’t provide the full picture, though. McTighe says it’s also important to ask how the school “develops the whole child — aesthetically, athletically, and, of course, academically….plus perhaps, culturally, spiritually and morally as well.” Remember that kids are likely to be quite concerned with the social aspects of the school community. As Dolin, emphasizes, they are going to want to be in a place where they feel they fi t in. Many schools off er shadow days for applicants, when prospective students can follow around their peers to get a glimpse into a school’s ADVERTISEMENT private schools

tenor. It will also give them a sense of a typical day in the life of a school.

Decision Time You’ve done your research. You’ve taken the tour. You’ve fi lled out applications. After all of the physical and mental legwork, it’s time to get down to brass tacks. Before making the ultimate decision, Goldblatt would “advise parents to have a meaningful conversation with their children about the choices. Don’t go into that conversation with an infl exible mindset.” As Dolin points out, “parents have to sit down and listen and not just pass judgment. In fact, let your child voice his opinions before stating yours. If kids off er a good reason why a school is attractive to them, pay attention.” Miller of the Nora School adds, “Don’t make your kids go somewhere they don’t want to go to — they may be less likely to be engaged. Remember, a student needs to be happy in order to thrive.” With all of the choices out there, there’s no reason why a parent can’t fi nd the perfect fi t. ■

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$** ) # %**! ((( &' ADVERTISEMENT private schools D.C. area provides " # ! quality school ! # options for students otomac Crescent Waldorf School ȔƬ¿ʀƬ ȍȶǺȩ ʴʀ Pin Arlington prides itself on its ì«iìÌ “Little House on the Prairie” look and i>ÀiÀÃ ǎȶɵ ¿ȩ qɒƬȩ GȶʴʀƬ low-tech approach, while Flint Hill jȶ˜ƬȢřƬɵ ɇɇ School in Oakton puts iPads in the "ƬŮƬȢřƬɵ Ȯ hands of grade-schoolers. Z¿ȩʴ¿ɵˠ Ȯ Silver Spring’s Siena School vviVÌÛi ÕV>ÌÀÃ Z¿ȩʴ¿ɵˠ ɇʣ confi nes the homework chaos °ǺʀǺʙ ˝˝˝ɚ¿ŮƋʀȩƬʙɚȶɵǜ to campus and out of the home, ǎȶɵ ʙǺȢƬʀ ¿ȩƋ ƋƬʙ¿ǺȔʀ with daily study halls and longer ȶɵ Ů¿ȔȔ ʙȶ ʀŮǲƬƋʴȔƬ ¿ Friday sessions. At St. Timothy’s in ʙȶʴɵ ʋ˪ʣɚƵʣʋɚɇʣ˪ʣ Stevenson, students call the campus ÕÌÞ ì` >>Vi` home during the school term. The ʯǗ˪˪ ʴʀʀƬȔȔ ȶ¿Ƌ n Vi` ÃiVÌ>À> boarding school focuses on girls’ ȔƬ˞¿ȩƋɵǺ¿Ƅ ° ʯʯʣ˪ɇ social and personal development as well as the stringent academics of an International Baccalaureate program. No matter your preference — Montessori or Global Studies — or your faith — Catholic, Jewish, Episcopal or others — there are a range of high- quality private schools in the area. Siena Director of Admissions Bekah Atkinson says that variety is one of the great things about living in Metro D.C. ! “There are a lot of quality schools here, and every school is diff erent. But that’s where we live. We have so many options, and people are free to

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There are a lot of quality schools here, and every school is different. But that’s where we live. We have so many options, and people are free to choose.

– Bekah Atkinson, Director of Admissions at Siena School

Private and independent schools remain a force in metro D.C., though. In some neighborhoods, such as Georgetown and Spring Valley, more than half the students are educated other than in public schools, according to data from the Urban Institute. Atkinson says the area is known for the quality of its private schools. She’ll hear from parents who are determined to move to the region so their children can beneﬁ t from the off erings. Their reasons vary, but many private school administrators these days are hearing that many parents want a change because of dissatisfaction with test and performance pressure in public schools. Both Atkinson and Potomac Crescent Enrollment Director Jenna Martin speciﬁ cally mentioned parents concerned about #- kids coming home from school and crying out of frustration. “We’ll see people who come here for preschool and never expect to stay, but they do to avoid the pitfalls of public school,” Martin said. One big pitfall: The notion that all children learn at the same pace. “Reading in kindergarten does not mean a child will be a better reader in fourth grade,” Martin said. At Potomac Crescent, kindergarten (/,%(!%),#, ...%$"+" '"" %"& ADVERTISEMENT

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(" !#( - 111&1 )&/*1 )1#(11&1 )&/*1 )1#( is like parents remember from a generation ago. There are no ved academics, no drills and no one ﬂ unks, Martin said. “They don’t decode. They are free to go out on ) ' ' the playground and count the sticks and rocks if they want,” she said. Even the older grades have a distinctly old school feel, with wooden desks and chalkboards — yes, actual chalkboards — in the classrooms, Martin said. “Our classrooms almost look like ‘Little House on the Prairie.’ ” There are no electronics in the school, which enrolls students from pre-kindergarten through ﬁ fth grade. “There is plenty of time for that in middle school,” Martin said. Flint Hill, where students can attend from preschool through 12th grade, takes a diff erent tack, one that focuses on “thoughtful integration” of computers and digital citizenship. The key, Dean of Faculty Emily Sanderson said, is “creation, not consumption.” Flint Hill fourth-graders, for example, have studied history ADVERTISEMENT private schools 06 35(9,(: '$<6 by creating a movie trailer. They research the topic, develop storyboards, create narration then 6,*1 83 pull the package together in iMovies, 72'$< she said. “They’re doing all the research and then some,” she said. “They just don’t realize it.” The school’s Global Day of Play uses a similar method. Through 6&,(1&( this project, the school’s lower- 7(&+12/2*< (1*,1((5,1* grade students designed and built $576 a playground, using cardboard and 0$7+(0$7,&6 duct tape. An actual, functioning ([SHULHQFH WKH ([KLODUDWLRQ RI ([FHOOHQFH playground, not a scale model, Sanderson said. High school students have built a working roller coaster. “They’re learning physics. Not complex formulas, but how to do it. What does force and pressure mean to solids? They make calculations and measurements,” she said. The result is “authentic” learning. “A playground is a relevant project to that age group. They walk away with a feeling that they created something, that they accomplished something,” she said. FKDUDFWHU %1/' #0& 5'' (14;1745'.( )GPGTCN #FOKUUKQPU 1RGP *QWUGU 6WGUFC[ 0QXGODGT CO 5CVWTFC[ &GEGODGT CO 6WGUFC[ ,CPWCT[ CO %CNN VQ UEJGFWNG C XKUKV VQFC[ :$6+,1*721 (3,6&23$/ 6&+22/ $Q LQGHSHQGHQW FRHGXFDWLRQDO VFKRRO IRU 1XUVHU\ ² *UDGH xÈää ÌÌi >Ã *>ÀÜ>Þ] iÌ iÃ`>] Óän£È N ÜÜÜ°ÜiÃ°À} /RFDWHG DERXW D PLOH IURP WKH '& OLQH DQG PLQXWHV IURP QRUWKHUQ 9LUJLQLD RII 5LYHU 5RDG

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JOUFSOBUJPOBM DPVOUSJFT “experiential learning.” The school r 4BGF HFOUMF NVMUJTFOTPSZ # has a college prep program for MFBSOJOH FOWJSPONFOUT ! students with mild to moderate r 'PDVT PO QFSTPOBM SFMBUJPOTIJQT language-based learning challenges, " & ! such as dyslexia. $$$ % These students can succeed in public schools, but with two dozen or more students in a single classroom, the numbers are against them. Siena %& %#( classrooms have 10 students. “The ' & % English teacher can go around to each &% # student and make sure they’re getting it,” Atkinson said. The students are super bright but learn and perform in diff erent ways. Methods such as multisensory teaching and presentations instead of paper tests help bring their talents %# % to the surface, Atkinson said. $!$ #% # “Our kids are the ‘what if?’ kids of the world,” she said. “They want to know how something happens, why ) # $))$ $)$ $))) ' something happens. Sometimes it looks like they’re not paying attention, but they are. They’ve just already leaped 10 steps ahead of you.” %85*81'< *5$'8$7(6 Atkinson estimates that there are 30 or more schools in the area /29( 72 /($51 that serve students with a variety of " ) '!'* %! "!" % (" "%'%" special needs. Parents can see the full ! %!' % ! )% 23(1 +286(6 range of off erings at the Exceptional '!! '' '! ! ' %" %% ! * % + Schools Fair on Nov. 16 from 11 a.m. % "% " " % ! '" * ( to 1 p.m. at the Katzen Arts Center on )!" % " '(!"%" %) %'! * # & the American University Campus. ' * & “Stop driving the Beltway, people,” %XUJXQG\ )DUP &RXQWU\ 'D\ 6FKRRO Atkinson said. “We’re all going to be %XUJXQG\ 5RDG $OH[DQGULD 9$ here in one location.” ■ ZZZEXUJXQG\IDUPRUJ

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ADVERTISEMENT private schools Private Schools FACTS

NAIS member schools within about 30 miles of D.C. about 50 Ì&&)1 /- .) #(.,)/ 3)/ .) #,- '# *,)!,'- ( -"))& )''/(#.3 . )/, && )* ( ")/- | . . " ,-} .% '*/- .)/,} 30.8% ( 2* ,# ( ." '!# ) #,| of all enrolled students were 1* 5Ď +2!)!. Ā ē øď÷÷ ,) students of color and 3 percent ), '), #( ),'.#)( && xqtvvwysxt ), !#( 3)/, $)/,( 3 . were international | students +3 +ô!.%*# 0.*/,+.00%+* ".+) ččĎ (!4* .%Ď * 5/+*/ !0.+č

$ 28,975 Ǧ The median day school ͜͡ tuition (all grades) among NAIS member schools

22.7% of students in the above schools received need-based ﬁ nancial aid ǡ Ǥ ǯ ǫ $48,825 ǣ The median boarding school ͟ ͠ǡ ͥǣ͜͜Ǧ͝͝ǣ͜͜ tuition (all grades) among 0HUULWW ͟͝ǡ ͜͝ǣ͜͜Ǧ͝͞ǣ͜͜ NAIS member schools $FDGHP\ $ 1DWLRQDO 6FKRRO RI &KDUDFWHU ǣ ͣ͜͟Ǧͣ͟͞Ǧͤ͜͜͜ Source: 2013 Facts at A Glance, Association of Independent Schools of Greater Washington. For more information on the data listed above, Ǥ Ǥ visit The National Association of Independent Schools at nais.org. ADVERTISEMENT private schools Strategies for Getting In

& #!# - In a town that is fi lled with high "")# )"")))) achievers, what makes a private school applicant5 stand out? + " )&-&- “You don’t need to have & "# connections to get in, and we don’t & &" && want everyone to be the same. We want people to be themselves,” said Margaret Hartigan, director " "& -# of admissions and fi nancial aid at , & Beauvoir School in Northwest D.C. You also wouldn’t want every school )# ) - *" ( & ' to be the same. As admission offi cers " # $( ." )# +++ # & ## " often tell parents, the key is to fi nd the right fi t between child and school. Even then, admission can be highly competitive. What can you do to help enhance your child’s chances of getting into a school? We consulted The School Counseling Group, based in Washington, D.C., to come up with fi ve key strategies:

1. Do the research.

“When parents have clearly done their homework about our school and know what we are off ering and why that applies to them, then we are able to have real conversations about what that means to them and to us,” said Mimi Mulligan, director # of admission at Norwood School in # % $ % # # ' % %% # # # # & #%# % % % % !

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" % & & $ " $ $ " " " "$ ' " " "% $' " # ( " % " " %" % # " & $ &" $ Bethesda, Md. “Knowing that a family #& $ " " " "$' has invested time to learn about the ''' "$ " $ school prior to visiting indicates a ' " " " " & level of interest in the school.” " In addition to reading a school’s information and talking with parents who have children there, you might want to attend an event such as an open house for prospective applicants, a theater performance, or a sporting event. “Whatever you do, look closely at the school’s mission statement,” suggests Hartigan. “Ask yourself, ‘Does this resonate with me?’ It’s so lovely for the school, the child, and the family when everyone is pretty much on the same page.”

2. Understand your child.

In what areas does your child seem to need more challenge? What " activities seem to be too diffi cult? 7KH /DQJOH\ 6FKRRO How much academic rigor would # be suitable? How much structure or freedom would suit your child? ,QIRUPDWLRQ 6HVVLRQV The more deeply you understand ( 3 !0( " ) 3 ( "4 , 44 && your child’s needs, the better you can identify appropriate schools and 2#( 3') !0 ,0 #(!( (), /( )# #(!())0 explain why a particular school would ,!/( 1 1 ),!# , 3 ! ,! ) ,(!/!/, !/( #/)& be a good match. “Seek honest feedback from trusted !!! # professionals who work closely with your child,” suggests Peter Sturtevant, director of The School Counseling """ ) ! 111& 3)!!&!( $*4-% .*. ADVERTISEMENT

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OPEN HOUSE November 12 December 4 January 14

301.365.1100 www.TheHarborSchool.org 7701 Bradley Blvd. • Bethesda, MD 20817

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Group, based in Washington, D.C. concerns that aren’t damning.” For “Schools really appreciate this example, a parent may worry that information, and it can also help a child puts too much pressure on you in getting to know your child,” herself or himself, or that the child he noted. The feedback could come seems too shy. from a teacher, tutor, coach, school ,PPHUVLRQ /DQJXDJH counselor, employer, camp director, 3. Share stories. +RPH 'D\ &DUH DQG 3UHVFKRRO therapist, church youth group leader, or scout leader, for example. “I enjoy a conversation when a Identifying areas for potential parent shares stories with us as growth in a child can help, rather opposed to giving us an answer they than hinder, a child’s admission think we want to hear,” said Mulligan. To advertise in the next prospects. “Every school recognizes “There is no right or wrong answer. Private Schools issue, please contact that nobody’s perfect. It’s useful It’s personal.” Diane DuBois at 202.224.5224 or to provide some balance and not Sharing anecdotes can help reveal Sherri Greeves at 202.334.5226 just gloat over your child,” said your child’s personality, show how Sturtevant. “There are ways to share he or she approaches problems, and says Sturtevant. engaged intheir child’s education,” who are respectfully andeagerly to micromanage, they value parents that you canbesupportive. home, it is helpful to identify ways just spendtime withyour childat on campus,manageafundraiser, or interests. Whether you canvolunteer diff erent schedules, needs, and Schools realize thatparent have involved intheschoolcommunity. admission policy is“need-blind.” should feel comfortable aschool’s without regard to fi typically make admission decisions schools intheWashington, D.C. area demonstratedindependent need, 100 percent ofevery applicant’s full While schoolscan’talways meet parents to feel comfortable asking. about financial aid,andschoolswant what isimportantto parents.” love answering, andIlearnalotabout asking questions,” saidHartigan.“I to learnmore abouttheschool. members wholisten andshow adesire a child,butthey alsoappreciate family fascinating, andhumbling.” to know thefamilies. It’s exciting, directors really do enjoy getting dreams,” saidHartigan.“Admission about theirchildandhopes parents’ stories, theircompassion and openness. “I’moften taken by CounselingGroup. consultant withThe School said Lindsay White, aneducational deeper understanding ofthechild,” but Ithinkschoolsare lookingfor a point outachild’s accomplishments, successful andwhy. highlight where your childismost 5. Showsupport. 4. Listenandlearn. private schools “While schoolsdon’twant parents When visiting, askhow parents get Many families have questions “I want parents to feel comfortable Admission offi cerslike tohearabout appreciateSchools honesty “Parents are often soquickto ■ nancial need. Youneed. nancial .- +!#2. #+ ! ! #- 2. #! + . FPFBE"US$S "HFT r $BSF "GUFS BOE #FGPSF Öaß ± ¤å]|y?r¤]åå¬ ^ !Ü± .Öa?ß^ V Í jÄ ?jÍ0ÖÁ +?ÁjÍ F .jÄÄ wÁ?Í Áaß ?± o]|y?r¤¤]åå? ^ ?± Áa?ß^ V .jÁa?.W±Á~ ÁaÄoV8Ä~^ 8?Ä~Í^ V ro Á?ajÄ ÔåÔ±ÏÉÔ±Èåå ÁW Äa ? ÄWjaÖj Í W? #Á " ! " " ! ADVERTISEMENT ! ! &") "" "'"((," (' " """ &") 2( ",/) "(!", ( 2," $""" "" /,$" $( ," ,$ ,/",( *% 0 ( ($ ,) ("" (0 2"( (" 2"( ( 0$&!", (,( '% '. 3%3' ' #-3%%-3 .% ' %% ' 111'()$$ 2'$( ! (0), $( ADVERTISEMENT private schools Directory DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA St. Anselm’s Abbey School Grades 6–12 Concord Hill School Aidan Montessori School St. Anselm’s Abbey School helps bright Age 3–Grade 3 Ages 18 months–6th grade boys become exceptional men. Serving Early childhood; small classes with two Aidan is a nurturing independent school 255 students, the school off ers a balanced teachers; emphasizing academic, social and that off ers an authentic Montessori and challenging academic program, developmental growth; call to schedule a education, where children develop a lifetime personal attention for every student, myriad parent visit. love and motivation for learning. leadership opportunities, and a spiritual concordhill.org aidanschool.org foundation rooted in the 1,500–year–old Tel: 301–654–2626 Tel: 202–387–2700 Benedictine tradition. saintanselms.org Connelly School of the Beauvoir, the National Tel: 202–269–2379 Holy Child Cathedral Elementary School Grades 6–12 PreK–Grade 3 Washington International “Experience the Exhilaration of Excellence”–A Founded in 1933, as a primary school School Catholic, independent college preparatory dedicated to educating a diverse student PreK (Age 4)–Grade 12 school for young women, featuring a course body in a caring and creative environment. Culminating in the International of study grounded in a challenging, creative, beauvoirschool.org Baccalaureate Diploma Program, WIS is and experiential curriculum. Academic Tel: 202–537–6493 multilingual and multicultural in both belief excellence, personal spiritual growth, and and practice and educates students to be active social responsibility are valued and British School of Washington responsible and eff ective world citizens. expected; individual attention is our hallmark. At British School of Washington, your wis.edu holychild.org family will be part of a diverse international Tel: 202–243–1815 Tel: 301–365–0955 community representing more than sixty countries. Your child will learn from teachers Elizabeth Seton High School with international experience and expertise. MARYLAND Grades 9-12, young women With International Baccalaureate scores Elizabeth Seton High School educates young consistently above the world average, Barrie School women by engaging them in a challenging, our students are accepted into leading Age 2–Grade 12 college preparatory curriculum, the teachings universities around the world. Founded in 1932, Barrie School is a of the Catholic Church, and service to others. britishschoolofwashington.org coeducational independent school just We foster an inclusive, diverse, and safe Tel: 202-829-3700 north of Glenmont Station in Silver Spring. community that encourages academic, The 45–acre campus supports a Montessori athletic, artistic and spiritual growth. Edmund Burke School lower school and a hands–on, project–based setonhs.org Grades 6 –12 middle and upper school. Tel: 301-864-4532 Challenging academics, world–class arts, barrie.org Fax: 301-864-8946 championship sports, and a commitment to Tel: 301–576–2800 leadership and service in an inclusive and German School Washington D.C. diverse co–ed college prep school. Charles E. Smith Jewish Coeducational, age 2–Grade 12 burkeschool.org Day School The best of U.S. and German academic Tel: 202–362–888 Grades K–12 education in a truly international environment. Fax: 202–362–1914 An independent day school with emphasis Students graduate with High School Diploma on academic success in an environment and German International Abitur. Knowledge Lowell School that nurtures a strong Jewish identity. of German not required for admission to pre–K Pre–Primary–Middle School At CESJDS, connections are a part of and Kindergarten. Bus service to D.C., MD, VA. A diverse and inclusive community of the complete educational experience. Extended care until 5:00pm. Open House Nov. lifelong learners; an active, challenging and Connections to Judaism, community, 7, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. integrated curriculum; an education that history and ideas help our students connect [email protected] promotes personal voice, choice and action. to success. dswashington.org lowellschool.org cesjds.org Tel: 301.767.3815 Tel: 202–577–2000 Tel: 301–692–4870 Grace Episcopal Day School Sheridan School Chelsea School Age 3–Grade 5 Grades K–8 Grades 5–12 Founded in 1960, Grace is a coeducational, Progressive, student centered, nurturing Chelsea School is an MSDE & OSSE Episcopal School in Kensington, MD, that and challenging, concept based curriculum approved non–public school serving provides every student the opportunity for viewed through a multi–cultural lens. students with specifi c language–based academic excellence in a caring, nurturing, sheridanschool.org learning diff erences and ADD/ADHD in a moral environment that embraces diversity Tel: 202–362–7900 rigorous, college preparatory environment and promotes creativity, self–confi dence, and with completer pathways in advanced service to others. technology, a 4:1 teacher–student ratio, and www.geds.org a multi–sensory approach to learning. Tel: 301–949–5860 chelseaschool.edu Tel: 240–467–2100 X. 303 ADVERTISEMENT private schools

Green Acres School The Nora School Washington Episcopal School North Bethesda Grades 9–12, coed Nursery (Age 3)–Grade 8 Age 3–Grade 8 Small classes make a big diff erence, Coeducational day; strong academics Green Acres challenges and inspires students especially in high school. The Nora School is balanced with arts, sports, foreign language to live and learn with intellect, curiosity, a deliberately small, independent college– (from pre–K), technology, and a spirit of determination, joy, and compassion. preparatory high school that works to bring community. Foreign study trips included in Progressive. Coed. Transportation available. out the best in students with a variety tuition; excellent graduate outplacement Half–day Pre–K option. of learning styles. Celebrating our 50th for students who are kind, confi dent and greenacres.org anniversary. Think Diff erently. prepared. nora–school.org w–e–s.org The Harbor School Tel: 301–495–6672 Tel: 301–652–7878 Preschool through Second Grade Fax: 301–495–7829 Developing the mind and the creative spirit. Washington Waldorf School Our belief that all children are brilliant and Oneness–Family School The Washington Waldorf School blends arts delightfully unique compels us to fi nd, Founded in 1988, Oneness–Family School with stellar academics in a developmentally nurture and sustain the passion that allows is an independent international Montessori appropriate curriculum unique in the D.C. each child to shine. Accredited by AIMS and school for children age 2 to 8th grade. area. Our distinctive approach develops focused exclusively on early childhood. onenessfamily.org students fully, so that they are prepared theharborschool.org Tel: 301–652–7751 to engage the world creatively and with Tel: 301–365–1100 determination. Our students enjoy school, [email protected] Sandy Spring Friends School and our alumni thrive at great colleges and Grades Pre–K–12 varied careers all over the world. PreK–12. Holton–Arms School Coed, college preparatory, outstanding washingtonwaldorf.org Grades 3–12 academics, arts, athletics; Quaker values; 140 Tel: 301–229–6107 Since 1901, Holton–Arms has prepared acre wooded campus. Optional boarding 9–12. young women to lead lives of positive Summer camps. International/ESL programs. infl uence in an ever–changing world, ssfs.org VIRGINIA embrace intellectual curiosity, embolden Tel: 301–774–7455 creative thinking, and develop tenacity of Fax: 301–924–1115 Alexandria Country Day School purpose in all that they do. Holton students Grades K–8 embody the school motto:“ I will fi nd a way The Siena School ACDS is a K–8, coed, nonsectarian or make one.” Grades 4–12 independent school located in the Del Ray holton–arms.edu Co–ed college preparatory school serving section of Alexandria, Va. In small classes Tel: 301–365–5300 bright students with language–based of 13 on average our students are taught learning diff erences and average to above to be independent learners, eff ective Norwood School intelligence. communicators, balanced and community Grades K–8 thesienaschool.org minded. Learn more by scheduling a visit Norwood uses the proven power of a Tel: 301–244–3600 today! K–8 education in a diverse, inclusive, and Fax: 301–244–3601 acdsnet.org connected community to inspire joy in Tel: 703–548–4804 learning and engage the whole child in St. Timothy’s School a challenging and dynamic academic Grades 9–12 Aquinas Montessori & program. Norwood’s motto is: How you lead Leading college–preparatory boarding & Old Town Montessori Schools your life matters. day secondary school for girls off ering the Ages 3–12 norwoodschool.org IB Diploma. New, state–of–the–art academic Association Montessori Internationale Tel.: 301–841–2130 facility and Dining Commons; exceptional accredited program since 1965. Montessori Fax: 301–841–4636 opportunities in academics, athletics, and the philosophy and methods provide joy arts; all iPad environment. in learning, opportunity for choice and McLean School of Maryland stt.org academic and personal growth. Grades K–12 Email: [email protected] aquinasmontessorischool.com McLean is a college preparatory school Tel: 703–780–8484 serving students with diff erent LEARNING Stone Ridge School of the Fax: 703–360– 2875 STYLES and diff erent LEARNING NEEDS. Sacred Heart Old Town 703–684–7323 We make learning accessible and we identify, PreK–Grade 12 support and provide strategies for each child A Catholic, independent, college Brooksfield School through a STUDENT LEARNING PROFILE. preparatory school for girls, Grades 1–12, Preschool–Grade 4 McLean off ers a TRADITIONAL CURRICULUM; with a coeducational Preschool, Pre– A Montessori program dedicated to the arts what sets us apart is HOW our teachers Kindergarten, Kindergarten, and Early and outdoors, with extended day available deliver that curriculum in the classroom. Childhood Program, located in Bethesda, from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. mcleanschool.org MD. Empowering leaders to serve with faith, brooksfi eldschool.org Tel: 240–395–0698 intellect, and confi dence. Member of the Tel: 703–356–5437 Fax: 301–299–1639 Network of Sacred Heart Schools. Fax: 703–356–6620 stoneridgeschool.org Email: brksfi [email protected] ADVERTISEMENT private schools

Burgundy Farm Metzger Academy Randolph Macon Academy Country Day School Metzger Academy is a fully licensed Grades 6–12, PG Grades JK–8 Chinese and Spanish immersion language Our mission is to develop students Inclusive, nurturing environment engages the preschool and home daycare. Our classes of academic achievement, integrity, whole child. Innovative, hands–on approach and activities are for children from 2 leadership, and responsible citizenship, cultivates independent thinking, academic months to 5 years. With lots of love and prepared for success in life. We off er 5–day excellence, respect and responsibility. positive encouragement, the children gain boarding for grades 6–8, and and 7–day burgundyfarm.org exposure to art, culture and science as well boarding for grades 6–12. Our graduating Tel: 703–960–3431 as develop good manners, social interaction classes have a 100% college acceptance and politeness. We are located in Vienna, rate and average $6.7 million in college The Congressional VA 22181. Look us up at metzgeracademy. scholarships each year. Schools of Virginia com or call us at 703-281–2378! rma.edu Infant–Grade 8 Tel: 800–272–1172 Co–ed day school on 40 wooded acres. Potomac Crescent Waldorf School Our innovative and accelerated curriculum Potomac Crescent Waldorf School seeks to St. Stephen’s & prepares children for the opportunities they educate the whole child: head, heart, and St. Agnes School will face as global citizens. hands. The child is at the center of all we Grades JK–12 congressionalschools.org do. The faculty work to allow the Waldorf Independent, coed, college–preparatory 703–533–9711 approach to provide each child with a Episcopal school located on three future–oriented education, where lasting beautiful campuses in Alexandria. Our Flint Hill School capacities and skills serve the student for life. students receive challenging academics Transitional Kindergarten–12th grade potomaccrescentschool.org within a supportive community and are An Apple Distinguished School, Flint Hill Tel: 703–486–1309 consistently admitted to top–tier colleges. off ers a challenging college preparatory Our students pursue goodness as well curriculum that includes a 1:1 technology The Potomac School as knowledge, while developing 21st program; 24 AP off erings; language courses Kindergarten–Grade 12 century skills and global perspectives. in Mandarin, Spanish, French, Latin and An independent, co–ed college preparatory Morning–care, after–school programs, and Greek; and extensive exposure to art, day school, founded in 1904. 3 miles from transportation offered. drama, music, dance and athletics. D.C.. Guided by the foundational principles sssas.org fl inthill.org of academic excellence and personal Tel: 703–212–2705 Tel: 703–584–2310 character, Potomac prepares students to lead exemplary lives. Extensive bus transportation Our Savior Lutheran School Grace Episcopal School system; beautiful 90–acre campus; small PreK–Grade 8 (Alexandria) classes; richly varied curriculum. Providing Christian education in the heart Preschool– Grade 5 potomacschool.org of Arlington for over 60 years. Rigorous For more than half a century, we’ve fostered Tel: 703–749–6313 academics, Saxon math, small classes. an enthusiasm for learning through our Diverse student body, aff ordable tuition, program of academic excellence in a Madeira School extended daycare optional. Close to nurturing environment. Students receive Grades 9–12, boarding and day. Madeira’s Pentagon. individual attention in small classes, and are 376–acre campus is located 15 minutes osva.org inspired to learn and develop — intellectually, from Washington, D.C. in McLean, Virginia. Tel: 703–892–4846 physically, and spiritually. Off ering a rigorous academic program email: offi [email protected] graceschoolalex.org and the unprecedented opportunity for Tel: 703–549–5067 juniors to intern on Capitol Hill as part of the EDUCATIONAL award–winning Co–Curriculum program. CONSULTANTS The Langley School Madeira’s mission is “Launching women Preschool–Grade 8 who change the world.” madeira.org The School Counseling Group The Langley School is an independent coed Tel: 703–556–8273 Day Schools, Boarding Schools, College, day school educating nearly 500 students. Therapeutic Programs. The School Langley off ers a well–rounded program of Counseling Group utilizes a collaborative rigorous academics, fi ne arts, athletics, and Merritt Academy and compassionate approach to guide service learning with a 7:1 student/teacher Infants–Grade 6 and support families through the process ratio. Bus service and extended day programs We believe that there is more to an of fi nding the best educational and are available. education than knowing the right answer; therapeutic placements for children, langleyschool.org it’s about knowing what’s right. Every adolescents, and young adults. Tel: 703–356–1920 Merritt student (Infant–6th grade) receives schoolcounseling.com Fax: 703–790–9712 an engaging academic experience with [email protected] emphasis on character development. Tel: 202–333–3530 Loudoun Country Day School Elementary students develop leadership PreK–Grade 8 and critical thinking skills in small classes Pre–K– 8th grade award winning school led by innovative and experienced teachers. This special advertising section was produced featuring low student–teacher ratio. Curriculum MerrittAcademy.org by The Washington Post Custom Content includes art, technology, languages, athletics, Tel: 703–273–8000 Department and did not involve The Washington Post news or editorial staff . These articles were vocal & string instruments. BYOT (Bring Your written by Nancy Henderson, Laura Powell Own Technology) program in middle school. and other freelance writers hired by the The Emphasis on critical and creative thinking. Washington Post Custom Content Department. Outstanding fi eld trips. For more information, contact Diane DuBois at 202-334-5224 or Sherri Greeves at 202-334-5226. LCDS.org Tel: 703–777–3841