Four Keys to Accessing a Top Private School

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Do you live in a low-performing district? Is your child's classwork uninspiring? There are many reasons a family may choose private education over public. The following suggestion can help your child attend the best private school in town.

Research Galore

All private schools are not created equally. When looking for the right fit for your child, consider all the aspects of learning. Does your child excel at the arts? Is she a karate wiz? Children needing more structure may thrive in military programs while others may need programs employing the Socratic method. Evaluate the program offerings, teaching styles, and career paths of alumni for help reaching a decision.

Once you have a short list of possible matches, build a schedule to set up visits, open houses, games, performances, etc. Attending these various events will give you first-hand information about the learning community. You will want to know as much as possible about each program before you complete applications and send in down payments.

Summer Fun?

In some highly competitive cities like New York, toddlers go to tutoring in order to prepare for pre-K entrance exams. While some may see this as extreme, it is never too early, or the wrong time, to boost your child's academic performance. Many families neglect summer learning, which is an opportune time to get your child to the next level. The Internet is filled with courses on all subjects that you can use to plan out summer lessons. If you have access to a public library, there are usually classes available to help your child study chess, learn computer programming, or practice literacy skills.

In addition to academic pursuits, make sure your child has outside learning opportunities. Visit the zoo, botanical gardens, and concerts in the park. All of these experiences will help your child grow and become the well-rounded individual that most elite private schools hope to attract.

Know Thy Neighbors

Sometimes gaining access is about who you know. Tell your friends and neighbors with children attending private schools that you are interested in admissions. Having a close connection to a family who is already attending may give you a leg up over a complete stranger. If you are going to name-drop, however, be sincere. Build meaningful relationships with families so that, when the time comes to ask for a recommendation, you will have an authentic voice supporting you.

Finance Check

Affordability is a barrier that stops many families from even considering applying. If you think that you could never afford this extravagant expenditure, think again. Depending on where you live and the quality of the programs in your neighborhood, your child may be eligible for a publicly-funded scholarship, voucher, or private tuition assistance for families in need.

If you will be taking out a loan or using savings to pay tuition, be sure to get regular credit reports. Like a health check, credit reports help you keep track of any red flags that could affect your loans. The last thing you want is your child withdrawing for financial reasons.

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Source by Aaliyah Arthur

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