Frequently Asked Questions
How can an educational consultant help us with the independent school search process?
For some families, the process of finding an appropriate independent school placement for their child can be daunting. As consultants, we spend a lot of our time visiting schools and have a very thorough and current understanding of what different schools have to offer. By understanding the needs of our clients, we are able to suggest schools that we feel are the right match. At each stage of the search and application process we are in contact with our clients, answering questions, assisting with interview preparation, giving suggestions on application completion, and serving as a liaison between the family and the school. Our foremost goal is to make this process as successful and rewarding as it can be.
When should we start this process?
While there is no specific time to start the school search and application process, beginning in September of the year before your child plans to enroll at a new school is advisable. To be done well, this process takes time, thought, and energy. Allowing enough time relieves some of the pressure that families might feel and provides enough time for good decisions to be made.
What if my child is reluctant to go to an independent school?
It is not uncommon for children to be anxious about changing schools. It often means leaving friends, teachers, and routines that they enjoy. However, visiting a few schools and discussing with your child the new opportunities these schools offer is a good place to start.
What assessment tools do you use to tailor your services to my child's unique strengths and character?
To understand each child’s unique profile, we carefully read through transcripts, teacher evaluations, and any educational or psychological testing that has been done. If necessary, and with the family’s permission, we will contact the student’s teachers, tutors, and/or therapists to gain a fuller understanding of the student. If deemed appropriate, we will recommend that a child have further evaluations.
Is it true that good connections can get your child into a selective school?
This is a very common misconception. While rumors abound, rarely have we found that a good connection is what gained a child admission to a selective school. Above all, schools enroll students who will thrive academically, socially, and emotionally in their program and it is the strength of the child’s application on which admission decisions are made.
What qualifications and professional memberships do your consultants hold?
We are members of the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA), a national organization of consultants that holds us to very high ethical and professional standards. We are also members of various independent school and higher education associations.
Can we have a preliminary conversation before we decide whether or not to engage your services?
Of course! We encourage everyone who is interested in learning more about our services to call. During that conversation we will answer any questions you may have, describe the range of services that we offer, and learn a bit about your child. If you prefer, we welcome you to meet with us in person.