Grades 11 & 12

We approach each new student as an individual with his or her own hopes, talents, interests, and unique potential and seek to create an environment for reflective decision-making. While encouraging participation in community service, extracurriculars, and reading for pleasure while developing plans for a meaningful use of summer vacations, we begin the planning process for higher education. These form the framework around the student’s transcript of grades and course choices, which are of central importance.

Each student applying to colleges has an account on CollegePlannerPro, college admissions software, which serves as our primary reference tool and organizer throughout our work together. This software has four modules for self-assessment, with which we start each student. We take time during the self-assessments to get to know the student as she develops insights about herself. The software also allows for detailed research on each college being considered, refinement of the college list, tracking of deadlines, saving of any test scores along with a detailed calendar with personal reminders. Students receive reminders of each meeting and every deadline. Parents have access to their student’s account and receive notices of every meeting and assignment. 

Our goal is to identify “best fit” schools or universities, and to guide the student through the admissions requirements in a calm, clear, organized manner. We discuss whether ACT/SAT testing is a priority. With frequent meetings, we help the student develop essays to the best of his ability, while emphasizing writing skills and self-expression. We work closely with each student throughout every step of the admissions process until all decisions have been received and a final choice made. Support is provided through every step of the process through final acceptances and the student’s college selection.

Starting Early: Grades 9 & 10

Many parents want to be sure that their children stay on track throughout high school, and we are here to help. When students start work with us in grade 9 or 10, we assist with year-end course choices throughout high school, encourage extracurricular activities that connect with the student’s interests, oversee a pleasure reading program, and help develop summer plans that both enrich and inspire while maintaining close oversight of academic work. Summer plans can include an enrichment or reinforcement summer class either online or on campus, volunteer work and/or paid job.  We closely oversee academic progress and can connect a student with a tutor as needed. The first two years of high school set the stage for the final two, and for a successful admission process to university.