An Investment with School Support: Making Private School Tuition Work for Your Family
Private school tuition—especially approaching $60,000 at many independent schools—can feel overwhelming. But understanding how financial aid works makes this investment more accessible than many families realize. The key is knowing the language: need-based financial aid differs fundamentally from merit scholarships, though schools often use these terms interchangeably. Most independent schools use platforms like SSS or Clarity for applications (not FAFSA), and real financial aid experts—not algorithms—review your family's complete picture. After two decades in enrollment and financial aid, I've learned there's no single "financial aid family" profile. Awards range from partial support to full tuition. The only way to know if you qualify? Apply. But understanding the process, deadlines, and right questions to ask gives you a powerful head start.
Financial Aid at Independent Schools: A Starter Guide for Families
If concerns about tuition have held you back from exploring independent schools, you're not alone. Financial aid programs exist to support families across all backgrounds. There's no shame in seeking tuition assistance. Learn how affordability calculators, direct conversations with admissions officers, and proper planning can help make private school education accessible for your family.
The Transformative Power of Boarding School: A Pathway to Independence and Excellence
Boarding school isn’t just schooling away from home — it’s a unique environment where independence, leadership, and community grow hand-in-hand. From intellectual immersion to emotionally rich peer connections, its impact often lasts far beyond graduation. For families exploring educational options, it offers not merely an academic pathway, but one toward resilience, self-knowledge, and lifelong purpose.
What College Admissions Officers Actually Read in Your Child's Application: Insights from Stanford's Review Process
Will admissions officers actually read your child's college application essay? As a former Stanford admissions officer, I spent 45 minutes on each application—reading every word. Here's what makes essays memorable in committee meetings.
The Real Open House
Choosing the right school requires more than attending a polished open house. As a former admissions director, I've seen how these curated events showcase the ideal but may not reveal the full picture of daily school life. While open houses serve their purpose, parent tours during regular school days offer invaluable insights into authentic classroom dynamics, teacher interactions, and student engagement.
Parent tours allow you to ask pressing questions without children present, observe real-time problem-solving by administrators, and witness genuine school culture. Though limited in availability, these 1.5-hour experiences provide the most meaningful connection between families and schools. If parent tours aren't available, attend open houses strategically—ideally 1-2 years before applying when pressure is minimal. Remember: the right school visit combines both heart and practical evaluation of your significant educational investment.
How to Choose the Right School for Your Child: A Parent's Step-by-Step Guide
Choosing the right school for your child is one of the most important decisions you'll make as a parent. Whether you're considering private schools, navigating high school options, or planning for college admissions, this comprehensive guide provides actionable steps to find the perfect educational fit. Learn from a former admissions officer's insider perspective on school visits, application timing, and avoiding common mistakes in the school selection process.
How to Choose the Right-Fit School for Your Child
Discover key factors to consider when selecting a private or independent school. Tips for Bay Area parents seeking the best fit for their child.