What 9th graders can do now to get into Best College

Attention 9th graders, the college may feel like a long way away. In some ways, it is. But, in more ways than one, it’s really not. College-bound 9th graders are part of the college admissions process, whether they know it or not. In fact, our firm starts working with many teens in their freshman year of high school.

Long before students start receiving college mailings, they can get prepared. 9th graders can take these three steps to get into the best college for them:

  • Get to know yourself – At the same time that 9th grade may be an exciting time socially with making new friends at school, it’s also a great time for freshmen to explore and find new things that they like and enjoy doing. This may mean checking out a new club at school, starting a hobby, or trying out a summer program in a new subject area. Self-awareness is key in knowing what you want for college!
  • Plan your courses for all four years of high school – Setting your schedule ahead of high school graduation is a great way to build a strong foundation of coursework. It will also help you see where there may be courses missing. In those cases, perhaps you could consider an online or summer course. If your high school offers an Honors graduation, the four-year planning will help with determining if that’s a path you want to pursue.
  • Develop good study and organization skills – It’s not too early to find ways to improve your study and organization skills. The coursework in 9th grade is typically more rigorous than 8th grade, so consider how you manage your time after school or how you take notes during class. There are note-taking systems, time management tools, and organizing techniques to try that can help you develop habits that will serve you well throughout high school and beyond.

Ninth grade can be a great year to jumpstart success in high school and getting into the best college. The journey begins with the student!

What other suggestions do you have for 9th grade? Please post comments and questions below

Getting Ready for Parent Teacher Conferences

Parent Teacher Conference Questions | Compass College Advisory

As parent teacher conferences approach, it’s essential to prepare for a meaningful and productive discussion with your child’s teacher. Whether your child is in elementary, middle, or high school, these meetings provide a valuable opportunity to support their academic and personal development.

Key Recommendations for Effective Parent-Teacher Conferences

Focus Beyond Grades

The primary goal of a conference is not just to discuss grades but to understand your child’s learning experience. Grades can be tracked through various means, and by middle school, students should start taking responsibility for their academic performance. A conference should offer insights into your child’s learning process rather than just their report cards.

Promote Two-Way Communication

Conferences should be an interactive platform where both teachers and parents exchange valuable information. Parents should share insights about their child’s learning preferences, interests, and social interactions, while teachers provide feedback on classroom performance. This mutual exchange enhances understanding and support for the student.

Create a Comfortable Environment

The setting of the conference matters. Avoid hierarchical setups where parents sit opposite the teacher. Instead, opt for comfortable seating arrangements that facilitate open dialogue. Schools can take inspiration from efficient queuing systems to ensure smooth and courteous interactions.

Address Underlying Messages

Pay attention to the underlying messages in parent and teacher statements. If there’s a discrepancy in perceptions about homework or classwork, ask clarifying questions to understand the root cause. This approach helps address issues effectively and collaboratively.

Share Classroom Stories

Teachers should share specific examples of students’ work and behavior in class. Narratives about a child’s engagement in subjects or projects can be enlightening for parents. Inviting parents to share stories about their child’s use of skills at home can further enrich the conversation.

Establish Communication Channels

Determine preferred methods of communication for ongoing updates about your child’s progress. Whether through emails or phone calls, setting up these channels during the conference ensures that both parties can stay informed and engaged.

Provide Honest Feedback

Parents attend conferences to understand who is spending time with their children and to learn about their child’s progress. Transparency from teachers helps build trust and a collaborative approach to supporting the student.

Essential Parent Teacher Conference Questions

Understanding your child’s academic and social development throughout the school year is crucial. Here are some important questions to guide your conversation with the teacher:

Understanding Abilities and Skills

Is my child working to their ability?

  • Ask about your child’s performance in various subjects to understand their strengths and areas needing improvement.

What are my child’s strengths and weaknesses?

  • This helps in creating a plan to support their learning effectively.

What skills will my child be expected to master this year?

  • Knowing the expected skills and grades helps set clear goals.

Grades, Tests, and Academic Progress

How are grades determined?

  • Understanding the grading system clarifies how your child’s academic progress and performance is assessed.

Which standardized tests will be given this year?

  • Knowing about upcoming tests helps you prepare and support your child better.

Behavior and Classroom Participation

What is my child’s behavior like in class?

  • Insights into your child’s behavior can reveal potential behavioral issues affecting their learning.

How does my child interact with other children?

  • Your child’s social skills and interactions are crucial for emotional development.

Does my child participate in classroom activities?

  • Active participation is a good indicator of engagement and interest in learning.

Homework Expectations and Support

How much time should my child spend on homework?

  • Understanding homework expectations helps you manage your child’s study schedule.

What can I do to support my child’s learning at home?

  • Teachers can suggest activities and resources to reinforce learning outside school.

Preparing for a Productive Conference

Discuss with Your Child

  • Talk to your child about their school experiences and any questions they might have for the teacher.

Make a List

  • Prepare a list of topics and questions to ensure all your concerns are addressed.

Share Relevant Information

  • Inform the teacher about any significant events or changes in your child’s life that might affect their school performance.

Getting Ready for Parent-Teacher Conferences

As parent-teacher conferences approach, it’s essential to prepare for a meaningful and productive discussion with your child’s teacher. Whether your child is in elementary, middle, or high school, these meetings provide a valuable opportunity to support their academic and personal development.

Key Recommendations for Effective Parent-Teacher Conferences

Focus Beyond Grades

The primary goal of a conference is not just to discuss grades but to understand your child’s learning experience. Grades can be tracked through various means, and by middle school, students should start taking responsibility for their academic performance. A conference should offer insights into your child’s learning process rather than just their report cards.

Promote Two-Way Communication

Conferences should be an interactive platform where both teachers and parents exchange valuable information. Parents should share insights about their child’s learning preferences, interests, and social interactions, while teachers provide feedback on classroom performance. This mutual exchange enhances understanding and support for the student.

Create a Comfortable Environment

The setting of the conference matters. Avoid hierarchical setups where parents sit opposite the teacher. Instead, opt for comfortable seating arrangements that facilitate open dialogue. Schools can take inspiration from efficient queuing systems to ensure smooth and courteous interactions.

Address Underlying Messages

Pay attention to the underlying messages in parent and teacher statements. If there’s a discrepancy in perceptions about homework or classwork, ask clarifying questions to understand the root cause. This approach helps address issues effectively and collaboratively.

Share Classroom Stories

Teachers should share specific examples of students’ work and behavior in class. Narratives about a child’s engagement in subjects or projects can be enlightening for parents. Inviting parents to share stories about their child’s use of skills at home can further enrich the conversation.

Establish Communication Channels

Determine preferred methods of communication for ongoing updates about your child’s progress. Whether through emails or phone calls, setting up these channels during the conference ensures that both parties can stay informed and engaged.

Provide Honest Feedback

Parents attend conferences to understand who is spending time with their children and to learn about their child’s progress. Transparency from teachers helps build trust and a collaborative approach to supporting the student.

Essential Parent-Teacher Conference Questions

Understanding your child’s academic and social development throughout the school year is crucial. Here are some important questions to guide your conversation with the teacher:

Understanding Abilities and Skills

Is my child working to their ability?

  • Ask about your child’s performance in various subjects to understand their strengths and areas needing improvement.

What are my child’s strengths and weaknesses?

  • This helps in creating a plan to support their learning effectively.

What skills will my child be expected to master this year?

  • Knowing the expected skills and grades helps set clear goals.

Grades, Tests, and Academic Progress

How are grades determined?

  • Understanding the grading system clarifies how your child’s academic progress and performance is assessed.

Which standardized tests will be given this year?

  • Knowing about upcoming tests helps you prepare and support your child better.

Behavior and Classroom Participation

What is my child’s behavior like in class?

  • Insights into your child’s behavior can reveal potential behavioral issues affecting their learning.

How does my child interact with other children?

  • Your child’s social skills and interactions are crucial for emotional development.

Does my child participate in classroom activities?

  • Active participation is a good indicator of engagement and interest in learning.

Homework Expectations and Support

How much time should my child spend on homework?

  • Understanding homework expectations helps you manage your child’s study schedule.

What can I do to support my child’s learning at home?

  • Teachers can suggest activities and resources to reinforce learning outside school.

 

Preparing for a Productive Conference

Discuss with Your Child

  • Talk to your child about their school experiences and any questions they might have for the teacher.

Make a List

  • Prepare a list of topics and questions to ensure all your concerns are addressed.

Share Relevant Information

  • Inform the teacher about any significant events or changes in your child’s life that might affect their school performance.

For parents who are getting ready for upcoming conferences, Harvard Family Research has published a useful document for reference, in English and Spanish. It also includes preparation tips for principals and teachers, which shows that the conference should be two-way communication. Reviewing the roles of principals and teachers may help ease any parent uneasiness.

The parent-teacher conference is still one of the most helpful ways for parents to be engaged in their student’s academic achievement. By preparing and asking the right questions, you can ensure that parent-teacher conferences are a productive experience, benefiting your child’s educational journey.

 

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.

More interesting articles to check out:

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College Prep School – Western Reserve Academy

On a recent visit to Western Reserve Academy (WRA) in Hudson, Ohio, I lost my place on the map! One of the things that strike me whenever I visit the campus is how it reminds me of a quaint New England town tucked away from the hurriedness of an urban center. If I didn’t read the sign, perhaps I would think I was in Hanover, NH, or Wellesley, MA. When I talk with students and administrators, it’s clear that the curriculum is challenging, but the culture is fun and rooted in Midwestern values.

These photos highlight some of the features of the campus that are worth mentioning:

  • Almost all of the faculty live on campus, in dorms as well as private homes;
  • WRA is a “three-sport’ high school, which means that students must participate in sports or take a physically active course as an alternative. The gym probably gets a lot of use throughout the year.
  • The library facilities are top-notch and seniors spend plenty of time there to complete their senior thesis.
  • The “Green Key” club is special in that it matches every new student with a senior student. This supports a good way for new students to get integrated into the community.

This final feature is important from an academic point, as well as social. Community is really important at WRA.