Happy New School Year!

The 2015-2016 school year has begun! It is so wonderful to see our families back on campus!

If you are starting the admission process this fall you probably have a great deal of questions. Here are a few frequently asked questions - hopefully they will help as we start the journey together!

What can parents expect during the admissions process?

At SSSAS, we look at the admission process as an exciting time for families to get to express their hopes and dreams for their child. We get to partner with them and guide them through the process. Our job is to introduce families to our community - and when we do this they have a better sense if this is an environment that fits with their family. I love admissions because of the personal connections I get to make with families. I particularly love being the Director of Lower School Admissions because I know the foundation years are so crucial for children - the growth during these years is extraordinary.

When do I get started? 

Start early - The admission season starts one year prior to when you want to begin. So if you’re looking to enroll in fall of 2016, you’ll start visiting schools and applying this fall. The application deadline for most schools in our area is late December or January.

How do I learn more about options for my child?

You can search for local independent schools by visiting our regional organization: The Association of Independent Schools of Greater Washington. You can also visit our national organization: The National Association of Independent Schools. Both websites provide information about independent schools in general and you can search for schools in your area.

I have researched some schools online and would like to get more information and schedule a tour. How do I go about doing this?

You can request more information by calling or emailing the school's admission office directly and/or you can submit an online inquiry form. As we navigate this admission season together I will share some questions to consider as you start to visit schools.

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 & Financial Aid at St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes School in Alexandria, Virginia.  She may be reached at kcarbo@sssas.org.