A Lifer's Experience

We are so fortunate to have many wonderful public, independent and parochial school options in this area. This blessing does not come without challenges. You are left to wonder...

What is the right match for my child? 

What would it be like for my child to attend an independent school? 

When is the right time to apply? Should we wait until Middle School or Upper School? 

Here are some tips:

• Think about your child's current learning environment. What setting does your child thrive in? What is the class size in their current setting? Does your child have a passion for science, music and art? Does your child need challenge? How independent is your child? Answering these questions will get you closer to finding the right fit for your child. 

• Talk to your admission director. Ask questions about what school would look like for your child next year. How many children would be in their class? What would the range of ability be in their class? What would it be like if you were a parent in that setting? 

• Ask if the school adds students in the Lower School after Kindergarten? Do they add students in Middle School or Upper School? They will be able to give you an idea of what the volume of applications looks like after Kindergarten. 

I had the privilege of hearing a senior speak about her experience at St. Stephen's & St. Agnes School at our Lower School Curriculum Night. She joined the Saints community in Kindergarten. She is what we call a "lifer". Here are two of her reflections.  

 Expecting the exceptional.  It’s a central and frankly, very prevalent, theme at St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes. We are taught to think critically and to continually question, molding us into better members of the community and, as a result, opening the doors to endless possibilities. If you ever walk down the halls at St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes, you will notice there are no locks on lockers, there isn't any need for them.  We sometimes take for granted how lucky we are to go to school in such a safe environment.  An environment, that to most of us, feels like home.

When children feel safe they do their best work. They are able to take the beautiful academic, artistic, athletic and social risks. They will have the opportunity to grow. 

She also shared her thoughts about the faculty and staff. 

The teachers care about us as people, because we are more to them than just a name on a roster, we are an equal member of the community.  As a teenager in society, it is rare to feel so valued, and I feel valued every single day.   

 I, too, am a lifer. The happiest days of my life were spent at my independent school and I feel so fortunate to help families through the admission process so their children can have an amazing educational experience as well. 

I will close with a video. It is one of my favorites! 

The Value of Independent Schools 

Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family!

Sincerely,
Katherine 

Originally from Grosse Pointe, Michigan, where she attended an independent school from preK-12th grade, Katherine Carbo earned a bachelor’s degree in business and a law degree before returning right back to the independent school world. With experience at four different schools from coast to coast, she writes insights and observations from the front line of independent school admissions.  Mrs. Carbo is the Director of Lower School Admission at St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes School in Alexandria, Virginia.  She may be reached at kcarbo@sssas.org.