Investing in Your Child’s Future

Independent education has deep roots in Connecticut, and its history ties in with the state’s earliest days. For example, one school in New Haven, Hopkins, has been in continuous operation since 1660.Each independent school is a special place that offers families, above all, choice. Parents select the most appropriate learning environment for their child, and schools choose only those children they can serve best. As a result, there are a number of meaningful options in Connecticut that help parents and children find an exact fit.

Choices in Education

From pre-kindergarten through high school, independent schools offer a variety of choices. Some are day or boarding schools; some are both. Some serve only boys or girls, though most are co-educational. The schools range in size from fewer than 100 students to over1,000, and can be found in virtually every part of Connecticut. With rigorous oversight and strong school heads and teachers, each school can pursue its own culture, mission and style of instruction, as well as a common objective — educational excellence. As a result, there are academic programs in Connecticut’s independent schools that are among the nation’s most accelerated. On the other hand, some schools are wholly focused on helping children who are not confident to achieve, while others assist children with learning disabilities too overcome their special challenges.

What to Expect

Independent schools are committed to education in the broadest terms—intellectual, moral, physical and emotional. These schools see every child as a unique individual. Strengths are nurtured and weaknesses are recognized and addressed so that each child can discover his or her own potential, in a stimulating, supportive and focused environment. Small class size and concern for each student’s well-being are manifestations of this belief.

Extracurricular programs are available for everyone. Participation is strongly encouraged, and often required. National research shows that this commitment pays off in many ways, including overall academic achievement.

Connecticut’s independent schools build active, socially responsible citizens. An emphasis on social, moral and ethical development is always a part of the independent school experience. Community service is a fundamental part of most of these schools, which expect something more than "good behavior"– active citizenship, a readiness to serve others and to stand firm for what’s good.

Education requires commitment from every source of influence in a child’s life— especially parents. Therefore, parental involvement is not only encouraged at independent schools, it is expected.

Students who attend independent schools are supported in their motivate onto do well because they are surrounded by others who share high goals. They are not ridiculed for being bright or hardworking. Each independent school student has made a commitment to learn, which is contagious in the proper setting.

Choosing a School

When choosing an independent school, carefully consider factors including your child’s age, gender, abilities, motivation, personality, study habits, interests and learning style. Also consider which setting best suits your own views about learning and development.

The search for a school should begin during the fall of the year preceding the year of enrollment. Most schools make acceptance decisions five to six months prior to the start of a new school year. However, almost all schools enroll a limited number of new students at other times during the course of the year.

First, create a list of all the schools you may want to consider. After you have developed a list, contact the admissions office at each school to request an application package. This will narrow down your list, based not only on a review of the materials received, but on geographic proximity, grades served and other variables.

The next step is to call each school’s admissions office to arrange a campus visit. Most visits will include a tour and the opportunity to meet faculty, students and staff. If school is in session, you may also be able to observe classes during your visit.

Usually, the student and parents will be interviewed, and both will complete a written application form. Testing and transcripts will be requested, as well as references from teachers and others who know your child. Most schools ask that applications be submitted by late January or early February of the year of enrollment. However, as deadlines do differ, ask admissions directors exactly what each school’s deadlines are, and what types of information will be needed.

Truly fine options for independent schools exist in Connecticut. Chances are good that there is a school in the state that is exactly right for your child. And when you decide to choose, you will be stepping up to a key parental responsibility — to guide, support and encourage your child toward the very best that his or her life may offer.

Information courtesy of the Connecticut Association of Independent Schools (CAIS).