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Frequently Asked Questions
Prospective Independent School Clients
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 about 20% 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 client, we are able to suggest schools that we feel are the right match, thus streamlining the process for our clients. At every 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 and 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 how they might be better suited for a different school 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 and psychological testing that has been done. Sometimes, if further information is needed, we will recommend that a family have further testing or evaluations done.
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 more than 500 consultants that holds us to high ethical and professional standards. We are also members of various school associations including the Small Boarding School Association (SBSA) have several college and university 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 and talk to one of us. During that conversation we will answer any questions you may have, describe the range of services that we offer and learn a little about your child. At that point, interested families are invited to set up an initial meeting with us during which we will conduct an in-depth interview with the parents and the child.