If you have private school dreams for your brilliant child, Hoerle is the woman to know. The vice president at the National Association for Independent Schools was recently appointed executive director of the Secondary School Admission Test Board, overseeing the SAT of private school admissions. Parents of 2-year-olds stress out about which pre-school tracks to the Ivy Leagues. Is that necessary?
It’s really up to the family — their wherewithal and their priorities. In my family’s case, we had an excellent public school option for elementary school. My daughter was a little bit behind on skills when we switched her to an independent school as a sixth-grader, but it was still the right fit for us. Every family needs to make those choices.
What about the best advice for parents determined to get their child into the top high school?
We went through the admissions process with my daughter, and I did the same when I was young. It was stressful then, and the anxiety level has only ratcheted up. I would advise families to see everything as part of a larger process, and to learn as much as you can about your child’s strengths and weaknesses. Then, make the best match based on what you learn.
But what if you learn that your kid is a dunce? Just kidding. How about this — best independent school in the D.C. area?
[Laughing] Of course it’s my daughter’s school! Sandy Springs Friends School — it’s been perfect for us.
And you’re certain that the cost and stress of an independent school is worth it?
The best gift you can give your child is the gift of an education. For parents trying to figure out where to put their financial resources, I’ll tell you — it’s in independent schools. Finding the right match for your family is the key to it all.
Leah Fabel
