If you have school-age children…or younger kids you can’t wait to send off to the old schoolhouse (no shame in thinking it, Boca moms- we all could use a break!), then you’re probably aware that it’s peak admission season. I’ve seen parents all over town fretting about different education options for their kids, frantically booking a Boca school tour here and there, east and west to see which is the best fit for their little snowflake.
I was in that boat not too long ago when looking for a private preschool for #dailybocaavery. And, I want to share what I learned about the search process and making the most of your Boca school tour.
My resource? The Director of Admission & Marketing at Grandview Preparatory School, Stephanie Wood.
It’s admission season! If a local parent is considering enrolling their child in a new school this fall, what are the first steps they should take?
- Step 1. Do some research and make the calls! Speaking to admission representatives over the phone will allow you to narrow down your initial school options.
- Step 2. Pick the top contenders and schedule campus visits. You won’t know which school meets your family’s needs until you step on campus and experience the environment for yourself.
- Step 3. Apply early! Each school’s admission process will be slightly different, but being ahead of the game is always a good way to go. Spots are limited at private schools and they tend to fill up quickly.
Once a family has booked a Boca school tour, what questions should they plan to ask the admission counselor or dean?
These are always my go-to suggestions:
- Ask about the class size and dynamic. Is it lecture style or collaborative in nature? Will your child be 1 of 15 or 1 of 30? These are big factors in the overall student experience.
- What makes this school different from others?
- Does your student need additional resources? If so, be sure the school is able to make the necessary accommodations.
- How much time will my student spend sitting at a desk versus participating in the arts and physical fitness?
- What kind of and how much homework should my child expect each evening?
- Are there online learning options offered?
Aren’t some of these questions specific to certain age groups?
Of course! Your questions will certainly vary by age, desired academic outcomes and personal views on education. Before you visit, be sure to make a list of what matters most to you and your family in regard to your child’s academic experience. Make certain the school you choose hits your non-negotiables.
How can a local parent maximize their child’s chances of getting into the school they want?
- Apply EARLY!
- Visit the campus and be clear with the Office of Admission what you are looking for.
- Have a couple of go-to teachers ready and willing to write glowing recommendations.
What makes a school like Grandview stand out among private schools in Boca Raton?
Grandview is truly a community that supports and enriches the lives of its students and their family. Our small class sizes allow our teachers to connect with and understand the individual needs of each student. At Grandview, we work to ensure growth is not just an academic endeavor, but a personal one as well. Character development is embedded throughout our curriculum with the intent of teaching not just future scholars, but responsible and effective leaders.
For more information about Admission to Grandview Preparatory School, visit www.grandviewprep.net.
Sponsored: This making the most of your Boca school tour blog post was sponsored by Grandview Preparatory School. All opinions expressed in this blog post are my own and not influenced in any way by the sponsor. Any statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with provider and refer to this site’s Disclosure for more information. I have been compensated, but that does not impact my views or opinions.
