The College Prep Guide for Parents

College Prep for Parents | The Education Doctor

As parents, supporting your child’s academic path through middle and high school can be both exciting and overwhelming. But it’s crucial to stay informed and proactive about key academic milestones in college preparation and the application process. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate these important milestones of your child’s education journey.

Tips for Busy Middle School Parents

Middle school is a critical time for laying the foundation for future academic success. Here are seven tips for busy parents to help their middle schoolers excel:

  1. Encourage Organization: Help your child develop organizational skills by setting up a dedicated study space and using planners or digital tools to keep track of assignments and deadlines.
  2. Promote Regular Study Habits: Establish a consistent study routine to build discipline and reduce last-minute cramming.
  3. Stay Involved: Attend parent-teacher meetings and stay informed about your child’s academic progress and any areas where they may need additional support.
  4. Foster a Growth Mindset: Encourage your child to view challenges as opportunities for growth and to persevere through difficulties.
  5. Support Extracurricular Activities: Involvement in clubs or sports can enhance time management skills and provide a well-rounded educational experience.
  6. Open Communication: Maintain an open dialogue with your child about their academic experiences and any concerns they may have.
  7. Encourage Reading: Promote a love of reading by providing access to a variety of books and discussing them together.

Preparing College-Bound 9th Graders

Starting high school can be a pivotal moment in a student’s academic career. Here are five essential tips for parents of college-bound 9th graders:

  1. Focus on Academics: Encourage good study habits and a strong academic foundation, as high school grades are crucial for college admissions.
  2. Explore Interests: Support your child in exploring extracurricular activities and interests that align with their passions and future goals.
  3. Understand College Requirements: Familiarize yourself with college admissions requirements and start planning early to meet them.
  4. Promote Time Management: Help your child develop effective time management skills to balance academics, extracurriculars, and social activities.
  5. Build a Support Network: Encourage your child to seek support from teachers, mentors, and peers to help them succeed academically.

How to Motivate Your Teen to Visit Colleges

Visiting colleges is a crucial step in the college selection process, but it can sometimes be a challenging task. Here’s how to motivate your teen and make the visits productive:

  1. Involve Them in the Process: Let your teen take an active role in researching colleges and planning visits. This involvement can increase their investment in the process.
  2. Make Visits Enjoyable: Plan visits to include activities your teen enjoys, such as exploring the campus, attending events, or dining at local spots.
  3. Discuss Goals: Have open conversations about their college goals and what they hope to achieve, which can make the visits more meaningful.

Navigating the Common App for Parents

The Common Application is a popular college application platform used by many colleges and universities. Here are three key tips for parents:

Understand the Application Process

Familiarize yourself with the Common App and its various components, including the personal statement and supplemental essays.

Encourage Early Preparation

Help your child start their application process early to avoid last-minute stress and to ensure they have ample time to complete each section thoughtfully.

Review and Edit

Offer to review and provide feedback on their application materials, but ensure your child remains the primary author to maintain authenticity.

College Testing Insights for Parents

Standardized tests such as the SAT and ACT are an important part of the college admissions process. Here’s what you need to know:

  1. Test Preparation: Encourage your child to start preparing early, through study guides, practice tests, or tutoring if needed.
  2. Testing Strategies: Help them develop test-taking strategies to manage time effectively and reduce test anxiety.
  3. Test Dates and Requirements: Keep track of test dates and registration deadlines, and be aware of each college’s testing requirements.

How Can Parents Support Their Child’s Mental Health During the College Application Process?

The college application process can be a significant source of stress for students. Here’s how parents can help:

  • Encourage Open Communication: Create a safe space for your child to express their feelings and concerns.
  • Promote Balance: Encourage regular breaks from studying and application work to avoid burnout.
  • Normalize Setbacks: Remind your child that rejection is part of the process and doesn’t define their worth or future success.
  • Provide Encouragement: Celebrate small victories, like completing essays or submitting applications, to keep them motivated.

How Can Parents Help Their Child Build a Strong College Resume Beyond Academics?

A well-rounded college resume can set your child apart. Here’s how to support them:

  • Encourage Extracurricular Activities: Suggest joining clubs, sports teams, or community service projects.
  • Promote Leadership Roles: Encourage your child to take on leadership positions in their activities.
  • Support Internships or Part-Time Work: These experiences demonstrate responsibility and real-world skills.
  • Highlight Unique Talents: Whether it’s music, art, or entrepreneurship, emphasize special skills that showcase your child’s individuality.

What Should Parents Know About Financial Aid and Scholarships?

Understanding financial aid and scholarships is crucial for making college affordable:

  • Start Early: Research scholarships and financial aid opportunities as soon as possible.
  • Complete the FAFSA: The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is essential for accessing federal aid and many scholarships.
  • Explore Merit-Based Scholarships: Many colleges offer scholarships based on academic, athletic, or artistic achievements.
  • Use Online Resources: Platforms like Fastweb and Scholarships.com can help identify opportunities.

What Are the Benefits of Dual Enrollment Programs?

Dual enrollment programs allow high school students to take college-level courses, earning credits for both high school and college. Benefits include:

  • Cost Savings: Earn college credits at a lower cost, potentially reducing overall tuition expenses.
  • Academic Preparation: Gain exposure to college-level coursework and expectations.
  • Stronger College Applications: Demonstrate initiative and academic capability to admissions committees.

Parents can encourage participation by:

  • Researching local dual enrollment opportunities.
  • Consulting with school counselors to ensure the courses align with your child’s academic goals.
  • Highlighting the long-term benefits of earning college credits early.

How Can Parents Stay Informed About Changes in College Admissions Trends?

The college admissions landscape evolves constantly. Here’s how to stay updated:

  • Follow Reliable Sources: Subscribe to newsletters or follow websites like College Board and NACAC.
  • Attend Information Sessions: Many high schools and colleges host workshops or webinars for parents.
  • Connect with Counselors: Maintain communication with your child’s school counselor to stay informed.
  • Join Parent Networks: Online forums or local groups can provide insights from other parents navigating the process.

3 Ways Parents Might Unintentionally Hurt College Chances

Sometimes, parents can unintentionally impact their child’s college chances negatively. Here are three common pitfalls to avoid:

  1. Over-involvement: While support is important, avoid being overly involved in your child’s application process. Allow them to take ownership and responsibility.
  2. Pressuring for Perfection: Encourage your child to do their best, but avoid pressuring them for perfect grades or scores. This can lead to unnecessary stress and burnout.
  3. Ignoring Emotional Well-being: Ensure your child’s mental and emotional well-being is prioritized. Stress and anxiety can significantly impact academic performance and overall happiness.

What Are Some Effective Ways to Communicate With College Admissions Counselors?

Building a positive relationship with admissions counselors can be beneficial:

  • Encourage Your Child to Take the Lead: Admissions counselors appreciate hearing directly from applicants.
  • Be Respectful and Concise: Whether emailing or meeting in person, keep communication professional and focused.
  • Ask Thoughtful Questions: Inquire about specific programs, campus resources, or admissions criteria to demonstrate genuine interest.
  • Follow Up: A simple thank-you email after a meeting can leave a lasting impression.

3 Tips for Finding the Right College for Business Majors

colleges for business majors | top undergrad business schools | Compass College Advisory

Is your teen planning to major in business and having difficulty deciding which colleges should be on their list? Keep reading for my top three tips for finding the right college for your teen who wants to pursue a career in business. 

Focus on “Business” Majors in the Top Undergrad Business Schools

If you search online for “business majors” you will come up with a list of thousands of colleges, so when students say they’re interested in business, I ask them, “What are the specific areas of business that interest you?” There are many different functional areas within the business realm, such as:

  • accounting
  • marketing
  • finance
  • operations

Looking specifically at one of these areas will help guide them to different sets of colleges. If your teen is looking into a liberal arts college that doesn’t offer business, they could try looking into economics which will touch on business. Again, the first step is thinking about the functional area of interest.

Research Summer Programs for Business Majors

One of the key things I recommend to students who are interested in business is to consider a summer program to learn more about specific areas of business, such as programs focused on investment banking, finance, marketing or entrepreneurship. There are countless summer programs out there, many virtual.

What Does the Program Offer?

After your teen considers their functional area of interest and looks into summer programs, my next tip would be to look at what the college programs offer. For example, the University of Southern California has an international program in different areas of business that allows for the opportunity to study abroad. There could also be organizations within the college to help get your teen more involved and around other students in the same field.  

Side Note: Another thing to consider when your teen is fine-tuning their list of colleges is the math requirements for different programs; many require that you take calculus in high school. If they’re not on track for that, it can hurt their chances of being admitted. For some business programs, there may be an option to test out of that course. If that is the case, make sure they take that test by the end of junior year. 

Recap for Finding the Right College for Business Majors 

If your teen is considering majoring in business, they should first look at the functional areas within business to find their area of interest. Narrowing their interests down will help with finding colleges that are a good fit. Secondly, your teen should look into summer programs as a viable way to learn about the functional areas of interest. Finally, look at what the colleges offer to support your teen’s success so they can thrive while they’re there and have rich career opportunities afterwards as well. 

Junior year is a critical year for the college admissions process. I want to make sure that your teen is successful throughout the school year and not overwhelmed by this process. If their initial list is too overwhelming, your teen may lean towards popular colleges they’ve heard of before and that’s not going to serve them well.  

Grab your copy of our College Prep Toolkit now to ensure your success in helping your teen navigate through this school year

The Five College Fit Factors

college fit factor | Academic fit | financial fit | social fit | vocational fit | cultural fit | Compass College Fit

Junior year is the start of the college admissions process. In order for your teen to be successful once they’re in college, they need to be applying to colleges that are a good “fit” for them. 

Here are the College Fit Factors to consider:

 

  1. Academic Fit  

Different colleges will have different curriculum and a different approach academically. This includes the faculty-student ratio, the types of programs, how much of an emphasis on writing, and how much access to writing/other academic supports they offer. 

     2. Social Fit 

Social fit means being able to meet like-minded people, make friends and be part of a community. It can also mean the typical aspects of the college experience such as having certain clubs or fraternal/Greek letter organizations on campus. The percentage of freshmen who live on campus, and learning about the residential life experience also plays a role in terms of the social fit. Even learning about the food options and where to go to eat – that’s a big part of communication and socialization. 

     3. Financial Fit 

The third area of fit would be financial fit. Many colleges have different types of opportunities available for families to pay for college. Some colleges have research scholarships for teens that are interested in that area. 

Some colleges have no loans or have a cap on the loans that they offer their students. There are colleges that have grants and scholarships for students who want to study abroad. Consider these different opportunities when deciding which college to attend. 

     4. Vocational Fit 

The fourth (frequently overlooked) area of fit is vocational fit. I encourage teens to look at vocational fit in a couple different ways. First, they should think about what they would like to do after college to determine if a particular college will support them in these endeavors career-wise or professionally.

Also look at the services and support their career planning and placement office offers and at the alumni network. They can determine if there is a preprofessional program. What kind of tracks and offerings do they have for pre-professional programs (such as pre-business, pre-med or pre-law)? Are there networking events they can participate in during college for that vocation later? These are all ways that your teen can consider vocational fit. 

     5. Cultural Fit 

In these times, the cultural piece is one that really matters. While in some ways similar to social fit, this piece goes deeper and asks, “Where will my teen who is different in whatever regard (racially, ethnically, part of the LGBTQ community, etc.) be able to attend and feel celebrated and embraced as part of that community?”

                                              When looking at colleges, cultural fit makes a big difference.

 

The Importance of the Five Areas of Fit 

The five areas of fit I mentioned also make a difference as far as receiving internal scholarships (scholarships that come from the colleges directly). In another article, I will address external scholarships.

How do colleges know if you’re a good fit? Trust me, they know their institutions very well. They know the kinds of students that make up and support the community and who will thrive there, therefore they know the kind of students they want to attract and recruit. This means that it is up to the student to also determine if the college is a good fit for them as well. 

It starts with the students, not with the colleges. 

Students need to have a sense for who they are, what they want to do, their likes and dislikes. This type of self-awareness combined with learning how to self advocate will really help them to put this list together. 

During junior year, there will be opportunities to visit colleges so they need to be sure they have done some homework about what that college offers. Then, they can do a virtual or in-person visit (when those are available) and start to see if that college is a fit for them. 

Keep these tips in mind throughout junior year to support your student’s success with getting into the colleges where they will thrive during their college career. 

Junior Year in High School Scholarships: All You Need To Know

Parents of juniors…I want college admissions to be a stress-free process for your teen. Don’t see how that’s possible? Let me share some intentional things you can do to support your teen’s success to help them (and you!) avoid stressing out. The key is to approach the process in a way that makes sense for your teen, beginning with ownership. 

Let Your Junior Own the Process 

First off, having your junior own the process (being engaged, responsible and accountable) will take a lot of pressure off you as a parent. But it goes deeper than that. I know from the research, and from experience with my own children that when your teen takes ownership of the process, they:

  • are much more successful in the college admissions process and more likely to get into the top colleges on their ist
  • can be sure they are a good fit for the college, and as a result, 
  • end up getting scholarship money. 

The key takeaway is to be sure your teen is in charge so that they are owning the process. 

 

Now that we’ve established that, where can you and your teen start with finding money for college?

 

 

External Scholarship Opportunities to Consider 

Let’s talk about external scholarships, which are scholarships that are not from the colleges, but from external sources. Oftentimes families are unaware of the other resources that are out there. This year especially, you want to be intentional around external scholarships. Here are five in particular that you may not have considered. 

 

 

Scholarships from Companies

Many companies, including law firms, major restaurants and retail companies offer scholarships. One widely-known example is the Coca-Cola scholarship for seniors which is a very large scholarship. However, your junior can position themselves to compete for that scholarship going into senior year. Also look at some of the companies in your own community that offer scholarships, which you can often find on their websites.

Scholarships from Civic Organizations 

Another great resource is civic organizations and foundations. Sometimes they are need-based (which require you to provide proof of need) while others involve a contest, where you complete an application with an essay to qualify. Now is a good time to research the civic organizations in your community that offer scholarships.

 

Scholarships from Credit Unions 

Credit unions are wonderful community neighbors, and they often will have scholarships as well. Sometimes, there are additional offerings for members of that credit union. If you’re a member of a credit union, definitely check that out! I recommend that you look into these opportunities in junior year; some of the requirements are junior-year specific.  Another note regarding credit unions: if you know that there is a credit union that offers a scholarship and you’re not a member, now is the time to become a member. If you plan ahead your teen can position themselves for that particular award now. 

 

Scholarships from Your Employer 

There are a lot of employers that offer scholarships. I believe that NiSource, the energy company here in Columbus, offers scholarships. See if your employer offers scholarships as well. Again, junior year is the time to look into the criteria. 

 

National Merit Scholarship Program 

Most students take the PSAT in junior year and their score will determine whether they qualify for national merit. One thing to know regarding the PSAT, is that it is not really considered for college admission. However, when your junior takes the PSAT and scores in the 99th percentile, then they qualify for a national merit scholarship. Have your teen research the criteria for the National Merit scholarship. 

 

 

Who Can Apply for External Scholarships?

Although you have a junior, be aware that you can apply for an external scholarship beginning at age 13 (keep that in mind if you have younger children as well). If your child wins a scholarship, that money is held and then sent to the college when they enroll. I encourage families with younger teens to apply for scholarships. Not only does it develop their resilience, it also helps to instill that growth mindset that we want our students to have. Plus, they will be adding to their portfolio of writing samples as well.

Preparing for the SAT or ACT

How to get off the waitlist for college | Compass College Advisory
How to get off the waitlist for college | Compass College Advisory

Your teen has taken the practice tests and knows which one best represents their abilities. Congratulations! Now comes the hard part…preparing for the test. Keep reading for my top tips for preparing for the SAT or ACT. 

 

Preparing for the Test 

 

Independent Study

There are a number of ways that students can prepare for either of these tests. Whether they’re taking the SAT or the ACT, they could get a test prep book from the library or from one of the testing agencies to study on their own. I’ve had a number of students who are more disciplined and study on their own. I would recommend that they spend a specific amount of time going through the book and doing the practice tests. They should be going through the different sections of the tests and even on occasion, maybe on the weekend, sit down and go through the entire test for the amount of time of the real test. This extra step can help ensure they are prepared. Again, If your teen is disciplined in that way, that’s a great approach. 

 

Online Programs 

Another way to prepare is using an online service. My son used an online program and that helped him stay on task. The online program provided the practice test and scoring as well so he could see how he was doing. There were also video modules that complemented the material and practice that he was doing. It worked out very well for him and helped him improve his score. There are a number of these different automated online programs available. 

 

Getting a Tutor 

The third approach, which could be a bit more expensive, is getting a tutor. For a number of my students hiring a tutor was the best approach. You can receive tutoring either individually or in a class setting. This is also a great way to ensure that your teen is being held accountable. 

One of the things I want to encourage you to do if you decide to go that route is to interview the tutor. Below you will find some questions that I prepared for interviewing tutors. When it comes to working with a teacher or tutor, some of that learning comes through being able to connect with them. By interviewing the tutor, you can ensure they are a good fit for your family. 

Before interviewing the tutor your teen should first ask themselves a couple of questions. The first is determining how they learn best: would having a one-on-one tutor or a tutor in a class setting allow them to learn best? They should also identify why they need a tutor. 

 

When interviewing the tutor possible questions to ask: 

  • How will you measure your student’s progress throughout their session together? 
  • What kind of homework will they do in between sessions? 

 

(This will allow your teen to plan their schedule and make sure that they have the right expectations around what they should be doing in between time because not only will they be preparing during sessions but also between their time together.) 

 

  • Can you provide a demonstration of a typical session? 

For example, if they have a difficult math homework problem from school can they share it with the tutor and then have the tutor demonstrate how they would explain solving that problem? That can be a way to ensure that the tutor’s teaching style aligns with your teen’s learning style.

 

  • What kind of training have you  had in terms of tutoring?

I know a lot of tutors do professional development. Many of them take the test themselves to make sure that they understand what their students are going through. 

 

Some other questions that parents should also consider would be their cancelation policy, how much they charge, their availability over the holiday break and also asking for references from other parents. By talking with other parents you can get a good sense of how that tutor works, learn about how they engaged their students, as well as their test score results. 

 

If a tutor says they usually help their students get a certain increase over their practice score, then that may give you some indication around their success. Of course it may vary with your own teen. I wouldn’t set the expectation of going from a 22 to 30, but at least getting a sense for how they’re going to engage with your teen. Also, check to see how they will follow through on checking in on the student’s progress between sessions. 

 

If you decide to use a practice book or an online course, then certainly it could be similar in regards to finding out about the best book or program for your teen by reading about past success stories. Any case studies or testimonials available online would be a great resource to check out. 

 

At the end of the day, it’s going to be a two-way street in terms of your teen participating and doing the work. You don’t want to make the investment if they’re not going to follow through on their side. However, if they do follow through they really can achieve those great results. 

 

Have you signed up to receive my FREE College-Prep Toolkit? It includes a Junior Year Roadmap to help you navigate junior year and to know what your teen should be doing each month to stay on track. 

Get ahead and stay ahead! Get my FREE Toolkit.

5 Reasons Teens must Set Goals for High School

college fit factor | Academic fit | financial fit | social fit | vocational fit | cultural fit | Compass College Fit

Every school year brings surprises, so teens can’t plan ahead for every event. However, setting 3-5 foundational goals for high school each school year can make a difference in its success. Examples of goals that my own teens and teen clients have set include:

  • Maintain a _____ GPA
  • Meet with a teacher after school each week
  • Increase volunteer hours at _________________ by 1 hour per week
  • Start a ___________ club at my community center
  • Complete art portfolio with __ drawings by end of semester

WHY GOALS?teen with parent

Setting goals during high school can help a teen in numerous ways even beyond college . . . for life success:

  1. Have a Purpose – Goals gives teens something to work for – a sense of purpose and direction. One of the first questions I ask my teen clients is “Why do you want to go to college?” If a teen can articulate why they want to go, then it makes it easier to help them find the best fit as well as have a reason to continue being their best.
  2. Stay Motivated – Goals give teens that extra boost to keep going, especially if they start to waiver.
  3. Believe in Yourself – Goals give teens the inspiration to aim for something that they may not have thought possible.
  4. Be Accountable – Goals remind teens at the end of the semester or school year of what they have accomplished or NOT.
  5. Get help – Goals give teens a way to be more specific when they ask for help. The best help comes when others know how to help

START NOW

The question for every college-bound teen – What are your goals for this semester? School year?

Responding to this question is the first step towards a successful school year. Please share your high school year and goals.

 

How Does Boarding School Work? My Reasons Against It

mak_boarding_school_02

When it comes to the decision of whether to send your child to a boarding school, understanding how boarding schools work is crucial. Boarding schools are educational institutions where students live on campus during the school year. This setup provides a unique environment where academics, extracurricular activities, and social life are integrated into a structured setting. However, despite the benefits that boarding schools can offer, I’ve found myself grappling with the idea, especially when considering what boarding schools are like today.

The Evolving Perception of Boarding Schools

In recent years, there have been significant shifts in how boarding schools are perceived and chosen by families. Here are two key trends that highlight this change:

  1. Student-Initiated Interest: Unlike the traditional notion where parents “send” their children to boarding school, many students today actively seek out these opportunities. For instance, I recently met a family visiting Phillips Academy Andover, where the middle school-aged daughter was the one driving the discussion about attending boarding school. The parents, unfamiliar with what a boarding school is like, were initially hesitant but were open to exploring the option due to their daughter’s enthusiasm.
  2. Increased Awareness and Variety: Organizations like The Association of Boarding Schools (TABS) and educational consultants have played a significant role in educating families about the diversity among boarding schools. Families are learning that no two boarding schools are alike; each has its own unique culture, academic focus, and extracurricular offerings. As part of the application process, many boarding schools require campus visits and interviews, giving students firsthand experience of what boarding schools are like. For some students, these visits can affirm their desire to attend a particular school, while for others, it might lead to the realization that a specific school isn’t the right fit.

Why I Wouldn’t Consider Boarding School for My Child

As my own children approach high school age, the idea of boarding school has crossed my mind. The prospect of a boarding school education, with its rigorous academics, diverse extracurricular activities, and well-rounded social environment, is certainly appealing. Yet, I’ve identified several reasons why I would hesitate to send my child to boarding school:

  1. Location Concerns: While New England is home to many prestigious boarding schools, there are also reputable schools in the Midwest and California. However, the thought of my child being far away from home is a significant deterrent for me. Despite the benefits of the boarding school experience, the geographical distance could make it difficult for my child to maintain close family ties and could add emotional strain.
  2. Brand Name Over Substance: The reputation or brand name of a boarding school is often touted as a major selling point. However, I believe that a school’s name and history should not be the sole factors in the decision-making process. What’s more important is whether the school’s current programs and campus culture align with my child’s specific academic, social, and developmental needs. A prestigious name doesn’t guarantee that it’s the best environment for my child.
  3. Peer Influence: Another reason I would not consider a boarding school is the influence of my child’s friends. While having a friend at the same school might ease the transition, every child is unique. The reasons that make a boarding school appealing to one family may not apply to ours. My decision must be based on my child’s individual needs rather than on social factors.

The Broader Considerations

With these points in mind, the possibilities for my child’s education remain wide open. I must critically evaluate how to support my child in finding the best educational environment that meets his learning, social, and developmental needs. There are additional questions to consider, such as my child’s readiness and maturity level for the boarding school experience. Ultimately, I need to weigh these factors against my personal feelings about having my child stay close to home.

Boarding schools, by their nature, are designed to foster independence, resilience, and a strong sense of community. Students are immersed in a structured environment that promotes both academic and personal growth. However, as a parent, the thought of being apart from my child during such formative years is challenging. Would it be selfish of me to prioritize my desire to have my child nearby over the potential benefits of a boarding school education? This is a question that many parents grapple with, especially when considering the long-term impact on their child’s development.

What Boarding Schools Are Like Today

Today’s boarding schools are vastly different from the traditional images many people hold. Far from the rigid, isolated environments of the past, modern boarding schools are vibrant communities that offer a wide range of activities, from arts and sports to leadership and service opportunities. These schools emphasize holistic development, ensuring that students are not only academically prepared but also socially and emotionally well-rounded.

For example, many boarding schools now offer specialized programs in STEM, the arts, and global studies, allowing students to pursue their passions in a supportive environment. Additionally, the close-knit nature of boarding school communities means that students often form strong, lifelong friendships and build networks that can be beneficial throughout their lives.

The facilities at these schools are often state-of-the-art, with campuses that resemble small colleges. Students have access to resources that may not be available at local public schools, including advanced laboratories, art studios, and athletic facilities. Moreover, the presence of highly qualified faculty who live on or near campus ensures that students receive personalized attention and support.

Conclusion: Is Boarding School the Right Choice?

Deciding whether to send your child to boarding school is a deeply personal decision that depends on many factors, including your child’s personality, maturity level, and academic and social needs. Understanding how boarding schools work and what boarding schools are like today is essential in making an informed choice.

While there are many compelling reasons to consider boarding school, it’s important to remember that this option is not for everyone. Some students thrive in the structured, immersive environment that boarding schools provide, while others may find the distance from home and the intensity of the experience challenging.

As a parent, it’s crucial to weigh the benefits against the potential drawbacks and to consider your child’s unique needs and circumstances. Whether you ultimately decide in favor of boarding school or opt for a different educational path, the goal should always be to provide the best possible environment for your child’s growth and success.

If you’re considering boarding school for your child, take the time to visit campuses, talk to current students and parents, and reflect on what you hope to achieve through this educational experience. With careful thought and consideration, you can make the decision that is best for your family.

Sober Living for Teens: Staying Clean and Out of Trouble Through Drug Court

The springtime brings the promise of new beginnings—the sun shines brighter, and flowers start to bloom. As much as I find myself on edge during the flurry of college admission decisions, the anticipation of what lies ahead in May always keeps me going. Graduation season is around the corner, and there’s nothing quite like seeing my students walk across the stage, their families beaming with pride. But this year, one graduation moved me in a way I hadn’t expected—Drug Court graduation.

A Different Kind of Graduation

Unlike any graduation I’ve attended, the Drug Court ceremony I witnessed recently left a profound impact on me. The setting was unconventional—held in a courtroom, the ceremony was far from the typical high school or college event. My friend, who has been deeply involved in supporting these teens, invited me to attend, and I couldn’t resist the opportunity to see the culmination of such a challenging journey.

The students, dressed in graduation gowns, looked like any other teenagers ready to embark on the next phase of their lives. But this ceremony held deeper significance. The presiding judge opened with warm, yet brief, remarks that hinted at the trials and tribulations these teens had faced during their time in Drug Court.

What is Drug Court?

For many teens, staying sober and out of trouble can be an uphill battle. Drug Court is a specialized program that offers an alternative to traditional sentencing for teens who have encountered legal trouble due to substance abuse. Much like “traffic court,” Drug Court proceedings occur after a law has been broken, offering a structured program in lieu of serving jail time.

During their time in Drug Court, teens receive substance abuse counseling and are supported by a community of officials, educators, and counselors dedicated to helping them turn their lives around. The program is rigorous and demands accountability, but it also provides the tools and support needed for sober living.

The Road to Sober Living for Teens

Staying sober is not easy, especially for teens who face a myriad of pressures from peers, school, and life in general. Drug Court gives these teens a chance to break free from the cycle of addiction and legal trouble. Throughout the program, setbacks may occur, but the focus remains on rehabilitation and long-term sobriety.

One of the most encouraging aspects of Drug Court is its success rate—an estimated 90% of Drug Court graduates stay out of jail. This high success rate is a testament to the program’s effectiveness in promoting sober living for teens and providing them with the foundation to lead a positive, law-abiding life.

The Impact of Drug Court Graduation

Attending the Drug Court graduation reminded me of the importance of second chances and the power of community support. These teens have not only worked to stay sober, but they have also committed to changing the trajectory of their lives. The ceremony was filled with pride and joy, not just for the graduates but also for everyone who supported them along the way.

Sober living for teens is possible, and programs like Drug Court play a crucial role in making that a reality. As these graduates move forward, they do so with the knowledge that they have overcome significant obstacles and can continue to stay on the path of sobriety.

Graduation is always a time of celebration, but this Drug Court graduation was a powerful reminder that for some, the journey to that stage is about much more than just academic achievements—it’s about reclaiming their lives.

Final Thoughts

For any teen struggling with substance abuse, the road to sobriety can be daunting, but programs like Drug Court offer hope. Sober living for teens isn’t just about avoiding trouble; it’s about building a future free from the constraints of addiction. The success of Drug Court graduates is a testament to what can be achieved when there is support, structure, and a commitment to change.

If you or someone you know is facing similar challenges, consider exploring the options that Drug Court and other similar programs provide. The path to recovery is challenging, but with the right support, sober living is not just a possibility—it’s a reality.

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Centre College and Transylvania U in Kentucky

Centre College, located in Danville, Kentucky, has a national reputation. The college is located in a small town where the college is the happening place. It wasn’t clear, however, if there was a strong relationship between the town and the college. A student described the Centre-Danville relationship as “getting better.” Staff and students consistently described the culture of the campus as “academic” and “All-American.” So, if that sounds like your kind of campus, great, keep on reading! If these descriptors are not appealing to you, keep reading this posting, but perhaps we should talk! ☺

Culture and tradition at Centre

The more telling signs of the cultural spirit may be the strong presence of students from Ohio and Tennessee with a 55% in-state population overall. My own impression of the Centre culture is a Southern/Midwest homey-ness!

All freshman dorms are single-gender with graduated visitation privileges. Upperclassmen have varied housing options. The new upper-class dorm got rave reviews. The dining hall, fitness center, and other academic buildings are also either new or recently renovated. What was nice about the renovations on campus is that they maintained the character of the architecture on campus

What makes Centre College special

A signature differentiator of the college is the “Centre Term.” Centre Term, a 3-week period between the first and second semesters, provides an opportunity for almost every student to study abroad. The main dining hall is adorned with flags displaying all the countries visited by Centre students.IMG_0399

Gotta check out the glass-blowing course if you attend!

While I was in Kentucky, I also visited Transylvania University. Quite frankly, I didn’t know much about the college until I heard the President speak at an IECA conference last November. The fact that the President had been a partner at Goldman was even more intriguing. One of the reasons I visited was to see what compelled him to relocate to Lexington, KY!

Transylvania students love their campus

The Transylvania campus is located in a really hip section of Lexington – not too far from campus. There were several restaurants close by and the homes in the neighborhood appeared well-kept. I was a bit disappointed with being on campus, however, because a campus police officer actually followed me around. Not sure why I was singled out. Nevertheless, it dampened my spirits a bit.

transylvannia university campusStudents that I met were enthusiastic and positive about their experiences at Transylvania. (I didn’t let the overzealous campus police ruin that.) Students remarked on the small class sizes and access to extra-curricular activities. I didn’t get a sense of Transylvania’s distinguishing qualities, but do plan to visit again! Stay tuned.

School Climate Indicators and Teacher Turnover

When was the last time you checked the job openings in your school district? You might not be actively searching for a job, but understanding the available employment opportunities in your district or at a college you’re interested in can provide valuable insights into the cultural and educational climate of that institution. These job openings can serve as crucial school climate indicators that may affect your child’s educational experience.

Why Job Openings Matter in School Districts

Job openings within a school district or at a college are more than just opportunities for employment; they can be indicative of larger trends and issues within the institution. For instance, if a school or university is advertising multiple faculty positions, it raises several important questions:

  • What’s driving the high number of openings?
  • Is the school expanding rapidly, or is there a significant turnover?
  • Have faculty members recently retired, or are they leaving due to dissatisfaction?
  • How will these vacancies affect the average class sizes and, subsequently, the quality of education?
  • What is the institution doing to ensure that students are involved in the process of hiring new faculty members?
  • How long will it take to fill these positions, and what will be the interim solution?

Each of these questions touches on key school climate indicators. The term “school climate” refers to the quality and character of school life, including the relationships among students, teachers, and administrators. A healthy school climate is essential for effective teaching and learning, and understanding the implications of job openings can help parents and community members assess the health of their local educational institutions.

Teacher Turnover: A Critical School Climate Indicator

One of the most significant school climate indicators is teacher turnover. High rates of teacher turnover can signal underlying issues within a school or district, such as low morale, insufficient support, or lack of professional development opportunities. When teachers frequently leave, it can lead to disruptions in the learning environment, affecting student achievement and overall school stability.

For parents, this means that understanding teacher turnover in your child’s school is crucial. A school with a high rate of teacher turnover may struggle to maintain a consistent educational experience for students. This can lead to larger class sizes, overburdened remaining teachers, and a decline in the quality of instruction. Additionally, frequent changes in faculty can make it difficult for students to build trusting relationships with their teachers, which is vital for their academic and emotional development.

Researching Job Openings as Part of School Selection

As part of the research that K-12 parents do each year when evaluating schools, it’s a great idea to look at job openings within the district. This approach can provide insights into how stable and supportive the school environment is. Here are some questions you might consider when reviewing job openings in your district:

  • How will my child’s schedule change while a position is being filled?
  • How will substitute teachers be supported during this transition?
  • What impact will these vacancies have on course offerings?
  • How will parents be notified about new administrative hires, especially for high-profile roles like chief academic officer or superintendent?
  • What is the expected timeline for filling these roles, and how might this affect the school year?
  • What input will parents and the community have in the hiring process, particularly for key leadership positions?

These questions are not just about satisfying curiosity—they are about managing expectations and ensuring that your child’s academic experience is as smooth and uninterrupted as possible. Understanding how the school handles job vacancies can give you a clearer picture of its overall health and effectiveness.

The Broader Impact of Job Openings on School Climate

The presence of multiple job openings, especially in key teaching and administrative roles, can significantly impact the overall school climate. If there’s a lot of turnover or difficulty in filling positions, it can lead to a sense of instability among both students and staff. This instability can trickle down to affect everything from classroom management to student performance.

Moreover, a high number of job openings might indicate underlying issues within the school’s culture or leadership. For example, if teachers are leaving because they feel unsupported or undervalued, it’s a sign that there may be systemic problems that need to be addressed. This is why it’s essential for parents to stay informed about the employment landscape in their child’s school or district.

Action Steps for Parents

To protect your child’s educational experience, consider taking the following steps:

  1. Monitor Job Openings Regularly: Keep an eye on job listings in your school district or at potential colleges. This can help you stay informed about any significant changes that might affect your child’s education.
  2. Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask school administrators about the reasons behind multiple job openings. Understanding the context can help you better assess the situation.
  3. Advocate for Stability: If you notice a trend of high teacher turnover, consider addressing your concerns with the school board or parent-teacher associations. Stability in staffing is crucial for maintaining a positive school climate.
  4. Evaluate School Fit: When considering schools for your child, take job openings into account as one of the factors in your decision-making process. A school that consistently struggles to retain staff may not be the best fit for your child.
  5. Stay Involved: Engage with your child’s school community to stay informed about hiring processes and decisions. Your involvement can make a difference in ensuring that the school maintains a stable and supportive environment for all students.

Conclusion

In conclusion, job openings within a school or district are more than just employment opportunities—they are important school climate indicators that can impact your child’s education. High teacher turnover, in particular, is a red flag that should prompt further investigation. By staying informed and asking the right questions, you can help ensure that your child’s school provides a stable, supportive, and effective learning environment. Remember, a healthy school climate is essential for your child’s success, and being proactive about understanding the employment landscape in your district is a crucial part of that equation.