Future Kindergartener

Freddie is registered at our zoned, district public school for the Fall 2014 class.

He was offered a spot in the general eduction class, but we had to formally register him to accept the placement. He'll later get offered a spot in the G&T class, but I went ahead and registered him in case something should happen and he needed this general education spot.

It was nice to see familiar faces of families we know, neighbors and playmates, registering as well.  It's hard to believe he'll be in KINDERGARTEN!

Kindergarten Search: G&T Placement Request Submitted

My future kindergartner in the halls of the local public school…love the flags representing the
nationalities of the diverse student body.

Sorry it has taken so long for me to get this post up.  I've had a few questions, but have been avoiding writing this or even thinking about this because it creates anxiety for me and I get emotional.  I've lost lots of sleep thinking about this, and my blood pressure rises anytime I hear anyone talking about it.  Sigh.

Anyway, after touring schools a few weeks back we decided we really, really, really liked one particular public school.  The general eduction and gifted education program were equally impressive, with loads of special programs and extras funded by the PTA who raises upwards of $1million each year.  The only downside would be the commute, but we weren't sure Freddie's 97th percentile score would be high enough to secure a spot and even if he had a 99 it would be quite lucky for him to nab one of the 30ish available seats in kindergarten next year.

I mentioned this being the kind of school you move close to so you can be in the district when your kid is of school age, so I did look at apartments in the district.  Sadly, moving into the district would mean we'd be moving out of Charlie's employer subsidized housing and into a very expensive rental.  If were were to move into the district our rent would at least double for a pretty puny, old apartment compared to our current digs which aren't anything fab to begin with.  So that'd mean spending at least $36,000 more per year on rent to move into this school district.  Not going to happen.

Well, regardless of whether we moved we needed to submit our requests for G&T programs.  Realistically we weren't sure what chances Freddie had at placement in one of programs we toured, but we decided that even if he did have a chance the best overall option was the local public G&T program.

Why on earth would we go with a school we overall feel "Meh" about?  Well, it really boils down to our biggest priority…Stress Free, Easy Living, where we Spend Time with each other.  Going to a school other than our local school would have involved a commute of 40ish minutes in one direction.  I had thought Charlie could do morning drop offs on his way to work, but this would mean his getting to work 1-1.5 hours later than usual, extending his workday into what is usually our family time.  Sure, he'd get that time with Freddie on the morning commutes, but he'd miss out on time with Hans.  That'd mean I'd want to do the schlepping in both directions, and dragging Hans along on a 1.5 hour round trip commute twice per day.  Sounds ugly.

Oh, and the school with the bus that has a stop near our building? Those kids are walking to the bus stop at 6.45 am each day.  Sounds ugly as well.  So even if Freddie were to get a spot in a top tier G&T program, it would mean compromise and sacrifice somewhere.

So we listed our district school first.  A poor school with limited resources, but it's a five minute walk from our building, and we could leave the house at 8.30am and be on time and he can be on the playground with Hans or having a snack in front of the tube each afternoon by 2.45pm.  That counts for a lot.

And then there's the hefty (nonrefundable) deposit we put down on the private school.  I think we're ready to totally accept the public school option and withdraw from the private school.  We still have some time to think about it, but the more we talk about it the more we think its best to just go to the public school.  While the private school does have a bus that picks up right in front of our building, it would be a long commute for my little Freddie.  The commute would add between 40-60 minutes to each end of his day, making a long day for a 5 year old.  I hear the kids love it and I have no doubt Freddie would adjust, survive and probably LOVE the bus ride, it would mean that school + 2 hours in transit would make up his entire day.  There'd be no time left for swimming or soccer or gymnastics or even playing in the yard until sunset.  While he'd get LOTS of extras in his school day at the private school on par with or superior to the after school programs he participates in currently, Charlie and I both want the boys to get experiences from many people and many places.  We do not want everything they're exposed to and filled with to come from once source, and a long day for Freddie would mean his experiences would be limited to school.

My biggest concern is if we go the public school route and things are unacceptable there is little to no hope of getting a private school spot after kindergarten.  (And zero chance of retesting and getting a different G&T school placement).  Attrition rates are 9-11% in private schools which means anywhere from 3-10 spots depending on the class size at a private school after kindergarten, and far fewer in public G&T programs after kindergarten.  I already know the enrollment at the local public school steadily declines with each grade, but I am not sure if this is because parents are unhappy with the school or if it is just the nature of city folks to finally move to the suburbs as their kids age.  Our timeline here is uncertain, and I don't want to feel squeezed out of because of school before Charlie wraps up his project.

So that's where we are.  Still some uncertainty, but almost there.

Kindergarten Search: G&T "Options"

School A:

• 30 minute commute with a tram ride and a train ride.  The train ride isn't exactly a comfortable one as the 6 train is packed, but still not a horrid commute.  And the school is close to the metro station which is good.
• G&T school, so all students must have qualified for G&T, there are no general ed spots.
• Heavy hitting academics, and lots of parents asking questions about the academics…how does math program compare to what is offered at School X?  where do kids go on to middle school?  do these high standard middle schools report kids coming from your school are prepared?
• Curriculum is accelerated, with about 40% of the material being presented being above grade level.  While this is NOT a big priority to me, I do think it is something that would be appropriately challenging for Freddie and something he'd benefit from.
• Principal was great.  Young, well spoken, handled all the questions with ease.  She spoke a lot about considering the whole child and really working to appropriately challenge individuals and nurturing all of a child's talents and abilities.
• PTA reports spending about $1500 per pupil each year to provide several enrichment programs.
• Standard 25 kids in each kindergarten class (increased to 30 at 1st grade) but the PTA funds assistants in each of the classes. 
• When we left I looked at Charlie and he said "Freddie would do fine here.  I still like Private School B better."
• There are 50 seats for kindergarten in 2 classes, but 19 of those seats will go to siblings who have priority.  That leaves 31 seats and with 400 kids in our district scoring 97+ percentile and 200 scoring 99th percentile I don't have a whole lot of hope that Freddie would get a seat with his score of 97.  

School B:

• This is our local public school.  I wrote about it before here and here.  But to recap the facility is beautiful for a public school but it is definitely feels like a "poor" school without many resources beyond the budget provided by the DOE.  That being said I know many families have been pleased with prekindergarten and kindergarten experiences, but beyond that not many families seem committed to the school.
• The G&T program is new and not really developed.  
• The kindergarten classes are full with 25 kids.  There weren't enough kids to make full independent classes for grades 1 and 2 so there are 3 "bridge"1st/2nd grade combo classes.  I think combo classes can be great given the appropriate teacher, but overall I think they can be difficult to run well and effectively.  
• The low enrollment of the program lead me to ask wether the principal considered the program to be "stable" and/or "growing".  The principal didn't think what was happening in this school as far as attrition to be much different than many other NYC public schools.  I get the general feeling that many families leave after the early elementary years, and I am not sure if this is true of NYC as a whole or if it is just this particular G&T program.  Does this speak of the G&T program and school or is this part of the transient nature of our community?
• The G&T program is new, only 5 years old, so it isn't well defined and doesn't seem very differentiated from the general education program.  Which isn't necessarily a bad thing, because General Education teachers can do great jobs challenging all students, but it would have been nice to hear about ways the school philosophy of gifted education plays out in the classroom.  But, I don't think they are at the point of having a school philosophy regarding their G&T program.
• Pluses for this school are there will be people in the neighborhood in the classes and it is a five minute walk from our building.  There's a lot to be said for that.
• There are 50 G&T seats.  It is also not a highly sought after program so I am confident Freddie could have a seat in this program.
• Charlie didn't visit with me since he had been on the general education tour.

School C:

• This would involve about a 35 minute commute.  A train ride and a walk.  The train ride isn't bad, but the walk would be a bit much with a five year old (and a three year old in tow) especially in inclement weather.
• The neighborhood isn't very good.  The general education sector of the school draws from a rather impoverished area.  I feel pretty confident this is why the principal was very clear about the fact that the G&T students are self contained and have different schedules from the general education students.  Parents definitely wanted to hear this.  She said it was in the name of the G&T teachers being able to be on the same schedule and have the same prep times in order to effectively collaborate.  
• The principal was ….quirky?  Not the best speaker, but I suppose I shouldn't let over shadow the other aspects of the school.
• G&T program is only 5 years old.
• The principal said the general G&T philosophy is to work one grade level above in academics and she wants RIGOR.  And engagement.  And active hands on learning.  
• There was one G&T teacher present from each grade and I must say it was an amazing group of young women.  Obviously bright, dedicated, hard working, well developed teachers.  All young, but with some experience under their belt.  I think the success of this school is entirely due to these teachers.  We also came across almost all of the other G&T teachers still working in their classrooms.
• The evidence of teaching and learning in the classrooms (student work samples and instructional supports) was impressive.  There did seem to be a high level of rigor and a huge push to really challenge each student on the part of these teachers.  
• It is a "poor" school.  There was a parent present who gave her story of coming to the school:  product of NYC G&T who went on to Harvard and Harvard law who forfeited the 80% private school tuition payment she had made for her daughter to attend this school and she in no way regrets that decision.  It seemed as though she was trying to develop a very active parents group.  While the parents group isn't raising lots of money for extras the teachers seem very active in finding grants and funding and ways to bring experiences to their students.  The teachers seem to do a whole lot with few resources.  They also really, really, really want parent involvement.
• 50 seats.  Principal said she hadn't a clue if any siblings would be taking those seats.  
• Charlie didn't go on this tour.  He stayed home with the kids so no opinion from him here.

School D:

• I will start by saying this would be our absolute very first choice for Freddie (and Hans) without a doubt of every single school we've looked at.  Both Charlie and I LOVED this school.  This school is exactly what we think school should be…excellent and free.  I wish we had moved into their zone upon moving to NYC because we'd both be thrilled to have the boys in their general education program. I seriously would consider moving to be in the zone to attend this school.
• Commute would be a train ride and a walk.  Similar to School C as they are relatively close.  A walk that would not be fun with both boys in bad weather.
• The principal is amazing.  He is an excellent speaker, very professional, and has a clear vision for his school.
• He very clearly states that the curriculum for G&T and General Ed kids is the same because he thinks G&T pedagogy is just good teaching and all kids deserve access to good teaching.  He referenced some of my favorite gifted research. Several parents had a huge problem with this.  They wanted to hear that the program was accelerated or their child was somehow getting something more or was going to be able to do more.  He spoke to the importance of looking at kids as individuals and meeting them on whatever level they are on regardless of a G&T label.  He felt confident they were meeting the needs of every child in that building and pushing every student to their maximum potential.  
• The school has an extremely active parent group.  The amount of "extras" in the school are amazing.  The classes are full and moneys are not spent on teaching assistants (there is a lot of research that says PTR (pupil etcher ratio) doesn't greatly impact student achievement) but the parent group pays for so many extra programs and teachers in the school….right down to paying for olive oil to be used in the cafeteria rather than the refined oil the DOE pays for. 
• The parents volunteer their time and talents and are hugely involved in making this school a success.  This is what school should be like.
• Both Charlie and I left there saying this was the school we wanted for Freddie.  But, only 50 seats, 15 going to siblings so only 35 available.  I don't think we have any chance of getting one of those seats.  

And so that's that.  My baby boy scored in the 97th percentile.  I am very proud of him.  He is exceptional.  On a different day it may have been a 99 but it's a 97 and that's most likely not enough to get into 3 of the 4 schools we considered as options based on location.  That frustrates me immensely.  

A note about numbers:  14,600 kids tested in all five boroughs of NYC and 1900 scored 97 or above.  Those 1900 kids are eligible for "citywide" programs which are open to all five boroughs but there are 300 kindergarten seats in these schools, so they all go to kids with 99s.  In our district (one section of Manhattan) there are 400 kids who scored 97 or above and it is those 400 kids who have first dibs (after siblings) on the top *district* schools we looked at.  Unfortunately of the 400, 200 scored 99 so assuming Freddie is the first name "pulled from the hat" of those scoring 97 there will have already been lots of seats filled by 99s and 98s.

Next steps:  Think, discuss, and I ain't going to lie there will be some crying…why is this so emotional for me?…rank schools, submit to the DOE by next week, wait until the lottery is complete and he is offered a spot on May 26th.  

Kindergraten Search: G&T Results

Freddie scored 97th percentile.  He did great!

He is technically "eligible" to apply to one of the "citywide" schools with a 97, however since so many kids score 99 these days he essentially has no chance of getting a seat in a citywide school.  There was really only one citywide school we were interested in as the others would have commutes over an hour long.

He has preference at the district G&T programs, including our neighborhood school.  There are 2-3 programs other than our neighborhood program we're interested in so we'll tour those next week.  I am currently trying to get in the tours before they fill.  Our interest is primarily based on location since I don't think any of the programs are worth a commute of over an hour.

I'm not sure what the chances of him getting into any program other than our neighborhood school G&T program are.  The preschool director seems to think the chances are pretty high although numbers reflecting scores for all tested have not been released yet so it's difficult to tell.  Since so many kids score 99 there aren't enough seats in the citywide programs so these kids then fill slots in the top district schools, the schools we're interested in.

We'll do tours next week, submit an application by April 21st ranking schools we are interested in, and then receive placement letters May 26th.

Kindergarten Search: Placement Accepted

I forgot to update last week!  We sent in the deposit and accepted the offer in the 2014 kindergarten class in Private School B.

We expect to hear about G&T scores this week or next.

Kindergarten Search: Admissions Offer

Private School B called and offered Freddie a spot in the 2014-2015 kindergarten class!

Well, actually they called yesterday, but I was involved in cake baking with the boys (read: up to my elbows in batter and cleaning up a huge mess) and I wanted to be prepared if a spot was offered (read:  discuss with Charlie).  So I phoned this morning and she asked if we'd be interested in a spot for Freddie.

The contract is in the mail and we have a week to respond.  If we accept the offer a $4000 deposit is required.

Charlie and I both really liked this school and felt very comfortable here.  We both agree he would receive a fuller school experience here as compared to the other option of public school.  Our only concerns were the commute and of course the cost.

We both would like to see how he scores on G&T tests and if any other opportunities come from that, but that means losing the $4000 if we opt for a public G&T program.  It's a common dilemma for many NYC families, and many folks do end up forgoing the deposit and accepting a slot in a G&T program.  We haven't seen the G&T programs yet, so we're not even sure what they'll offer or how they compare.  (Parents only get to see the programs once scores are released.)  Although we only know a handful of people in the G&T programs, we've heard they're excellent as far as academics and large donations and fundraising efforts from very active parent organizations fund many of the extras which may be comparable to private schools.   We've also heard the schools are competitive and the homework heavy.  And a slot in one of these programs would also involve a commute.

Next steps:  wait for the contract and take some time to think it over.

Kindergarten Search: Private School Admissions

Freddie didn't get accepted to either school.  I wasn't really surprised, and didn't take it personally.  I know in NYC it is just a matter of numbers.  Although I like to think Freddie is the most charming, delightful future kindergartener with the IQ of Einstein, the reality is there are lots and lots of kids just like him, and many of them are already connected to these school communities.

Charlie's response when I told him:  Good.  I think we're both a little relieved as it feels as though the decision was made for us.  Neither of us felt 100% in the private school decision, but both of us felt if he did get offered a spot it was something we would have liked to do for him.

Confusing, right?  You see, neither of us is at all worried about Freddie and academics.  We know he'll achieve and learn and be successful.  Further down the road we may be shopping for something appropriately challenging for him, but at this point we aren't interested in a school providing heavy hitting academics. We also aren't so worried about class size or him getting lost in a class of 30 kids.  Again, whether he is in a class of 15 kids at a private school or a class of 30 kids in public school Freddie is the type of kid who is going to get what he needs academically.  And the public school option here isn't an urban school filled with violence and out of control behavior, so while I think he'd be getting an earful of some things I'd rather he not know about yet, that was bound to happen sooner or later.  As far as teachers, the public school is filled with all sorts and while there is something to be said for the teacher with the latest and greatest training and techniques, I definitely consider those old school, rough around the edges, should have been nun types to be character building, and something Freddie could handle and even benefit from (I don't think you see those in private schools these days thanks to parents who know little about teaching and everything about making life easy and fun for their kids.)

Generally both of us feel kinda "meh" about public school.  The curriculum is adequate.  The extras, however, are none existent.  We both liked private school because he'd get art class and use a kiln, he could select an instrument and have lessons, he'd go on field trips around the city, physical education classes would involve facilities and equipment beyond kickball on the blacktop, he'd take foreign language classes where the goal is actual fluency…all during his 9am-3pm school day.

But private school here comes with a huge price tag.  And for us a commute, and who wants to give up any more family time to be pushing our way through the city.  It also means that perhaps we're joining a group who's values don't align with ours as many people in the city subscribe to the belief that kindergarten (or even preK or the 2 year old program) begins their child's journey to an ivy league university and thus a successful career and the holy grail of happiness.  We'd be joining a community who perhaps doesn't bat an eye over writing a $40,000 check for tuition (or $80,000 for families with two kids).  We don't know enough about the city to really have a full read on the communities at the schools to which we applied, so it would have been a risk.

He did however get a spot on the wait list at Private School B.  We should be getting more information on the wait list process this week.  I imagine he could potentially be offered a spot later this month depending on how many families turn down the offers that went out on Friday.  Since families applying to privates tend to apply to 8-10 schools (I cannot even imagine the time and expense involved in applying to this many schools!), some may have several offers.  Also, contracts and deposits of approximately $5,000 are due on the 14th so families will release spots if they aren't REALLY interested in enrolling.  There's also a small chance of spots opening in the spring when some parents forfeit their deposit to accept G&T spots in public schools or opt out of paying the first tuition payment which is typically 70% of the tuition, and I imagine there's always someone who moves or something changes.  I do know that the way wait lists work, the spot opening would most likely need to be filled with a similar child to maintain the precise balance schools try to achieve.  So, if an Asian girl was giving up her spot, Freddie would not necessarily be the first selected off the wait list to fill this spot.  (Just as a reminder, Charlie and I really liked Private School B.  It is an international school where many kids get a HUGE reduction in tuition because of their employer so the community was diverse in terms of socioeconomic status.  It is fairly traditional and felt warm and nurturing.  Our only real hang up was it was a lengthy commute, although a school bus stops at our building so we neither Charlie or I would have to make the commute but Freddie would be on a bus 40-50 minutes each morning and afternoon…which I actually think might be the dream school experience for him!)

So, we'll wait and see what we hear about the wait list, but the chances are slim for a private school spot.

What's next?  G&T testing results theoretically come out early April, and if Freddie scores in the gifted range we'll have the opportunity to tour some G&T programs and submit requests for spots at schools which seem like a good fit by mid-April.  These are theoretical dates because we're talking about the public system here an nothing goes as planned in the public realm.  Also, keep in mind these would only be REQUESTS since so many kids score in the gifted range, scores in addition to lottery are used to fill seats in G&T programs in the city.  So I kind of feel like we are in a holding pattern for the spring until we know his scores and definite dates for tours and submitting requests.

The saga continues...

Kindergarten Search: Zoned Public School Option

Future kindergartener snuggling with Tigey

Charlie and I toured our "zoned" public school.  Technically, we can apply to any public school within our district but the only school where we have priority is at the school within our zone.  Generally speaking, the desirable public schools in our district fill all of their seats with kids within the zone so the chances of getting into a district school we aren't zoned for is slim, unless scoring 99th percentile and applying to the G&T program at that school.

We've registered Freddie for our "zoned" school.  I toured it some time ago and wanted Charlie to see it as well.

Some notes:

• The principal addressed the group, which she didn't do last time.  She came across well.
• The facility is one of the nicest I've seen for a public school.  Sadly there aren't resources to use the campus as it was intended.  There is a music room, library, auditorium, art room, science lab, gym.  There are "teachers" and technically kids are getting one "special" (art, music, PE, Spanish) each day of week, but the quality is definitely limited.  Supposedly they have art once a week, but the art teacher is there only two days a week so I'm not certain how she's able to see everyone considering there are 4 classes of kindergarten alone.  
• There are four kindergarten classes, 2 of which are general ed and the other two are gifted and talented classes.  The kindergarten classes have 25ish kids and one teacher.  This increases to about 30 in grade 1.
• There are some "combo" classes in the G&T program, meaning ages are mixed because there aren't enough students to necessitate separate classes.  This was surprising considering the 2 GT kindergarten classes.  I'm not sure if this means the GT program is growing and gaining stability or if perhaps kids leave after kindergarten.  Although this isn't something we have to consider unless Freddie scores high enough on the GT test, it is concerning because the school could be in danger of losing the GT program if enrollment isn't stable.
• The school is very diverse, which is to be expected considering our neighborhood.
• It reminds me very much of the last public school where I taught in that it was a pretty average example of public education…not a whole lot of resources, middle to working class families, and an ok education where kids learn particularly if parents are involved.  
• One thing which is a definitely plus for the school it is a 5 minute walk from our building.
• Another positive is we knew probably 75% of the families on the tour.  There is a lot to be said for being part of the community.

What we hear from families:

• Some families are happy.  Although no one raves about it, most families think it is fine for the youngest years.  I think many of these families plan on leaving the city before hitting 3 grade and at the very latest before middle school.  
• Some families aren't happy and are exploring other options, including moving.  The general sentiment has been the general ed classrooms aren't as good as the GT classrooms, there are some behaviors that not all teachers can keep in check, and overall they want more extras in an eduction.  

Kindergarten Search: Gifted and Talented Testing

Future Kindergartner

Freddie completed the test for Gifted and Talented.  Because of the number of kids prepping and scoring 99th percentile he pretty much needs to be in the 99th percentile to get a spot in a G&T program at the top public schools in the city.  We will get the results in April.

He returned in 55 minutes.  Some kids returned in 30 minutes, and one girl in his group had not yet returned when he did.  My understanding is the longer they test the better because the test administrator stops the test once the child has missed so many and will not qualify for G&T.  So, going strictly on time, I suppose he did better than average, but wasn't the best?  Eh, hard to make anything of the time, but the reality is I'm searching for some clue.  I'll probably google "how long to take NYC G&T test" at least 1 or 100 times between now and April.

This was the first time I could sense nervousness from him in any of these "school admissions" experiences he's had.  I don't think he necessarily felt the weight of a "testing experience" but the school was big, the group was large, and the folks running the show weren't exactly gentile.  Don't get me wrong, everyone was kind and the process was as organized as anyone could expect but it was definitely not as soft an experience as his "play dates."  But, I keep reminding myself my kid is sensitive, he's not fragile.  Sure enough when it was time to walk down the hall with the proctor his tight grip on my hand loosened voluntarily and off he went, not looking back.  And he came bounding back an hour later with a big smile.

I was nervous.  Listening to the parents in the auditorium discuss their plans for their kids to take violin lessons and practice 60 minutes daily by age five and one day attend Julliard was stressful.  Seeing parents doing test prep questions with their child up until the minute the proctor arrived was stressful.  And thinking about my baby perhaps sitting side by side these Julliard bound kids is kind of…well….stressful.

This was the end of the kindergarten search process for now (although I have to check to make sure his recommendation letters have been submitted).  We wait to hear back from private schools on February 7th, however deposits for private schools are due within a week of acceptance letters being received and G&T testing results won't be available until early April.  Awesome, eh?

Kindergarten Search: Interview at Private School A

Future Kindergartner

Freddie had his "play date" at Private School A.  It serves as an interview with the child where a small group of children play together in a classroom and each spend some one on one time with a teacher who asks some questions and speaks with the child.  Freddie really enjoyed his play date at Private School B but he still told me he was "nervous" about this playdate.  I think he really just likes the dramatic aspect that being nervous implies but I played along and told him I was nervous too to be in a room with mamas and dadas that I didn't know, and so I understood his feeling nervous.  He had a pensive expression but when the teacher came in the room to gather the children in her group he popped up and said "I gotta go, Mom!" and took off.  Halfway down the hall he turned around and waved with a big grin.

For the hour he was gone I chatted with other parents, and it was fine.  Some families seemed like normal folk and others, well, not so much.  There were discussions and probing about what other schools everyone was applying to and for some of these families this was the 6th and 7th playdate.  Definitely a fair share of brand conscious types who worked their professions and hints of their ivy league educations into the conversations, but overall the vibe was good and I felt like we'd be fine at this school.  And when Freddie came back with a bigger grin than he flashed going in I knew he'd be fine here too.  

He told me about the story the teacher read and how he had to draw things and there were blocks, "My favorite, Mom."  I couldn't help but ask which classroom he liked more, and I was a little surprised when he said he preferred this one.  I thought Private School B would be his pick because he has a friend at that school who he adores and being a more traditional school, Private School B is more colorful and visually stimulating.  I asked him what about it made it better, and he responded "there are so many blocks and so much room to build."  

That's the end of our private school application process.  Now we just wait.  Acceptance letters go out on February 7th.

Kindergarten Search: Public School, lottery admission

This morning we toured a public school that admits by lottery.

My notes:

• 1 block from Charlie's work and a door to door commute of about 25 minutes.  It would involve a tram ride and 7 block walk or a train ride and a similarly distanced walk.
• Admissions priority is given to families working in the area.  I am not sure of the numbers for kindergarten but we did try to get a spot here for PreK but there were 450 applicants for 36 spots.
• 325 students enrolled in grades PK-8
• Definitely diverse, with 40% of student body being Hispanic, 7% Asian, 32% Black, and 15% White.  
• Socioeconomic diversity seems to span middle to lower incomes.  We know a handful of families with kids here.
• 24 kids in lower grade classes with 2 teachers in each class most of the time.
• Housed in a LARGE, old school building.  It is fairly well maintained for a public school.  The "complex" houses several schools so there are high school students in the same building, as well as an "infant program" which serves babies of teen mothers in one of the high school programs.  
• The school is progressive.  There is little focus on traditional assessments.  Teachers are called by their first names which irks me.  Small detail but not feeling that.
• The principal and assistant principal came across as with it and committed to the school.  Our tour was given by a parent who really is not well spoken or informative, sadly.  She was nice and loves the school but really isn't a person to be giving tours.  
• Mixed grades by design...Kinder/1 combo, 2/3 combo and so on.  Students have the same teacher for 2 years.
• No G&T program, which I figure goes with the philosophy of the school that they are meeting the individual needs of students so there is not a reason for a separate program.
• The classrooms were busy, but there didn't seem to be a lot of high quality instruction going on, or instruction that I felt pushed critical thinking.  
• There was a general feeling of disarray.  This was partly due to the structure of the instruction but also because of the lack of appropriate facilities in public schools, something I experienced.  There was stuff in the halls, classroom didn't have storage space, things that are difficult to control in public school settings.  
• No extras.  The school does seem to partner with some community organizations to provide some extras to students, but it is minimal at best.  I know students are able to swim regularly at a nearby community pool (can you even begin to imagine taking 24 kindergartners to the pool during the course of a school day?!?).  By and large if the kids are going to get anything beyond the basics of school it is only because the teacher works to integrate it into the regular classroom lessons.  I've been there.
• Looking at "performance scores" given by the state this is an average to below average school (although they tell you they don't put much stake into formal assessments and do not prep the way other schools due hence the poor scores), but seems to be performing better than our zoned district school on the island.  

How'd we feel?

• Probably not a good idea to have gone straight to this school after sitting in the $35,000 private school yesterday.  The facilities just do not compare.  This school had a nice library, a space for dance and art, a gym, but unfortunately the funding is not there to utilizes these spaces appropriately or to their full extent.  There is a nice library and you'd think with all of the schools housed in the building it would always be utilized but it was empty.  There is no librarian.  There is an exceptional public library across the street that I imagine gets visited.
• The progressive philosophy has some overlap with the school we interviewed with yesterday, but the execution just does not compare.  The focus and discipline were not there in the same way they were at the private school.  I don't think that to be necessarily a reflection on the faculty or staff, but they just don't have the same resources.
• Neither of us felt crazy about it.  
• Neither of us felt it would challenge Freddie.
• Both felt there was a chance of Freddie being exposed to a little "street life."
• Both of us though Freddie would probably be fine here, for a few years anyway.   

Next steps:  Submit application before March and wait to see if we get a spot in the spring.  We're not certain we'll apply though, but we have some time to think about it.

Kindergarten Search: Interview at Private School A

Today Charlie and I had an interview for kindergarten admissions at Private School A.  The interview was to be last week, but was rescheduled by the school because someone was ill.  So after a bit of shuffling childcare and Charlie's work schedule we finally settled on this morning as a good date.  Charlie and I had a little time together at Starbucks before making our way to the school which was nice since I was feeling a bit nervous.

Thankfully I prepped Charlie by having him read over the application we submitted as the interview questions were fairly similar to the 8 short answer style/essay questions on the application.  Charlie and I have spent some time talking about Freddie and talking about school in general, and I did at least read the questions to him and asked for feedback before submitting an application, but the actual responses were crafted by me alone.  So, I did want to keep him  in the loop before we had to talk to anyone who was making some decisions about our family based on those responses.

This school is the one where we felt like Freddie would fit best, although we weren't sure how well we'd fit with the other parents.  The program, progressive in approach, would really suit Freddie's verbal nature and overall interest in learning.  Today I felt a bit more "warmth" than I did on our last visit.  My perception during the tour and presentation was the school was really targeting a population that we didn't really fit into, it almost felt like a product was being marketed and they touted their product/program to be far superior to any other.  Now, I must say while this program does really align with my purely theoretical philosophy of eduction, I also have first hand experience working in settings which are very different an no where near align with my philosophy and for the most part kids with supportive families (and lots of kids with not so supportive families) come out the other side as productive, adjusted, and happy.  So, beyond my philosophy of education, I know there are many, many ways to successfully educate children.

The interviewer who is in the admissions department addressed my concerns about the diversity of the school.  The school really, really, REALLY lays out the importance of diversity in their school.  The admissions brochures devote a large section to outlining that diversity, even showing photos of current families to document their said "diversity."  I asked about the socioeconomic diversity of the school, because it is something hard to see from the photos and is something important to Charlie and I for so many reasons which I'll go into at another time. She responded that her job is to craft a diverse setting, which includes socioeconomic diversity, and all sorts of families are part of the school community and receive varying amounts of financial aid to help create that community.

I also asked that she comment on my second concern:  is this a "neighborhood school" where Freddie would somehow feel on the outside if not living within blocks of the school?  I asked this question of some current parents who were available after our tour a few weeks ago.  The parents gave the feeling that most of the families are close, with a few making a commute.  Her response seemed to indicate that many families are not necessarily within walking distance, and she felt the strength and inclusiveness of the community would mean there wouldn't be an issue with Freddie not living around the corner.

The interview lasted 25 minutes.  Charlie commented on it being the shortest interview ever, but their interviews are slated in 30 minute intervals, so I don't think that is a bad sign per se.  Overall I suppose the interview went well.  I left feeling even better about the school and program, although who knows how they felt about us.  We laid it out and were ourselves, and I really didn't want to do anything but that.  I did wear a dress and high heels though, and that NEVER happens in real life.  I was tempted to ask how many open spots they'd be filling and the number of applicants, but resisted.  Just knowing about the class sizes and the fact that there is a preschool program where most kids presumably stay on for kinder I'd say there are probably 5-7 spots available at best.  And given the population of Manhattan and the numbers of families who apply to private schools in the city I know that statistically there is little chance of us getting a place here.  And we're ok with that.

Next steps:  They'll send us a date for Freddie to visit and interact with teachers and other kids, which most will be sometime in early January.

Kindergarten Search: Interview at Private School B

Future kindergartner heading to an interview on the bus

Just as a recap, Private School B is the international, diverse school with a 40 minute commute.  Charlie and I both really liked this school as a whole and thought Freddie would do very well here.

Charlie, Freddie, and I all headed downtown in the afternoon as Freddie was going to have his "interview" (they call it a play date) as well.  I was expecting an "interview" style meeting for Charlie and I as well, but thankfully it turned out to be more of a meet and greet with the head of school, the assistant principal of the elementary component of the school, and several other families.

We dropped Freddie in a classroom with two teachers and a few other children there for the same purpose.  He was bursting with excitement. And I do mean bursting.  I think his cheeks may be aching from smiling so much.  We stopped to see a friend's cubby and he was wide eyed looking at the classrooms.  When we got to the classroom to which he was assigned he let go of my hand and joined the group without looking back.  He sat at a desk and got involved with the other kids .

While Freddie was downstairs we went to a classroom and listened to the head of school, an assistant principal (who I think is essentially the principal of the lower school), and a teacher speak some about the school and conduct a Q&A answer session.  I *really* liked the administration.  They were warm and down to earth and their commitment to the school and learning was obvious.  Seeing and hearing the administration speak solidified our good feelings about this school.

Some things we learned:

• The first question asked was "What are the kids doing downstairs?"  The administration gave some vague information but asked to keep it vague because they didn't want the process to be invalidated by people prepping.  He continued to speak about how they are not looking for one certain thing or the highest scores because they feel strongly that many different types of children do well in the school.  
• Teachers come from over 80 different countries.  Most are certified in their home country but undergo professional development and training to ensure the rigor and philosophies align with the school.
• Home languages in the school total 100 with 150 countries being represented at the school.
• Students are expected to be fluent in 2 new languages when they graduate in 12th grade.  In lower school they attend foreign language classes daily and in middle school they will attend 2 foreign language classes almost daily (7 of 8 days).  The language classes are taught by native speakers and have 4-6 children in each.  Impressive.
• The attrition rate is similar to or lower than most other private NYC schools at 8-9%.  
• The kids come from ALL over the city.  And Roosevelt Island has more families attending the school than any other NYC zip code.  This made me feel good, as my biggest concern is the commute and distance from the school.  Knowing there are several families living in our neighborhood made me feel we'd still feel part of the school community even though we don't live within walking distance.  Walking distance and neighborhoods are a big thing in urban living, folks.  
• The administration spoke about academics, including homework, and further solidified my feelings that school is progressive enough in their teaching as well as appropriately rigorous that Freddie would be challenged.
• They also spoke about the arts and physical education in a way that gave the impression that Freddie's whole person would be developed and his interests would be valued and he could explore other talents through school

In his closing remarks the head of school referenced one of the essay responses he read when he was reviewing applications.  Guess what...it was mine!  Yep, I'll be available for application prep consultations.  

When we returned to the classroom to pick up Freddie, all of the students were standing in the doorways waiting for their parents but after scanning I didn't see Freddie.  I finally found him sitting by himself in a reading corner of a classroom reading a stack of books he'd gathered.  He wasn't ready to leave but was excited to tell me about his time there.  They played and read books and drew pictures and wrote letters.  "Kindergarten is going to be so much fun, but I didn't know my colors. Mom," he said.  We both laughed. 

Next steps:

• Letters of recommendation for his preschool need to be sent to Private School B.  I signed the record's release.  I wish I knew what in the world these said.
• Our interview at Private School A was scheduled for today, but the school cancelled.  We rescheduled for next week.

Kindergarten Search: Private School B

Today we toured the second private school to which we've applied.  It's a busy week for us.  Next week we have interviews.

Some notes:

• The commute is about 40 minutes door to door.  It involves a train ride and then a bus ride. 
• The school does offer bus transportation from our building for an extra cost.  The cost is about the same as I'd pay taking the subway roundtrip twice a day to bring and pick him up.  The school bus ride would be about an hour, which makes for a very long day for a five year old.  But, if you ask Freddie about kindergarten, riding the bus is on his list of top exciting expectations.  
•  The school is downtown and along the East River.  The campus is new, modern, gated, and enormous!  It houses about 1300 students in grades K-12.
• There are two gyms, a beautiful auditorium, a library, a great playground, an art studio, music classes, a science lab, and Charlie's favorite...a room called "Colabaratory"....it is filled with legos and wires and batteries and tools for building anything the kids can dream up.
• There 5 kindergarten classes with about 18 kids in each class.  Each teacher has an assistant and there is often a third teacher in the room as there are floating assistants and resource teachers in and out of classrooms.
• School takes in at 8.45am and lets out at 2.45pm.  This seems like a short day to me.  I need to compare it to other school times but I thought most schools had a 7 hour day.
• This school has an EXTREMELY diverse, international student body.  I'd venture to say we would probably be one of only a handful of families that doesn't speak at least one other language or have citizenship in another country.
• This diversity contributes to a theme of peace, friendship, and social awareness in all classes.
• We didn't meet the principal.  The tour was given by a parent.  
• Everyone was warm and friendly.
• Because the crowd is so international, students do tend to leave the school, although the parent giving the tour said most students tend to stay for at least 6 years.  One third of the high school graduating class began in kindergarten.  
• Tuition is $29,000.
• Although the cost of tuition is high, more than half of familes are eleigible for a 75% reduction in tuition through their employer (not Charlie's employer sadly...the school is associated with a large international organization).  This means the school has some socioeconomic diversity since more than half of the families aren't writing a $30,000 check for tuition.

Charlie and I both liked this school quite a bit.  This is exactly what we had in mind when thinking about schools for the boys.  It is a good balance of academics and play, although I have heard the high school program isn't as rigorous as many would like.  It is more traditional than private school a but not as traditional as the Catholic school.  It offers more "extras" (art, music, foreign language, PE) than the Catholic school but not as many as Private School A.

Looking strictly at the approach to education at the three school Charlie and I both felt strongly the school that would best fit Freddie was Private School A, the progressive school we toured yesterday.  But both of *us* felt more comfortable at Private School B today.  

Next steps:

• We have interviews at both private schools next week.  
• We haven't decided if we'd apply to the Catholic school. Need to figure that out soon.
• I am scheduling a tour at a public school near Charlie's work.  It is not our district school, but admits students through a lottery.  Although we have "preference"because Charlie works in the area, there are typically 450ish applicants for fewer than 100 spots.
• I toured our district public school a few years ago.  I am hoping they are offering tours this year as I'd like Charlie to see it. Rereading what I wrote I'm relieved to see that I thought he'd be fine here.
• Freddie will be tested for public school G&T program in mid January, although results aren't known until April, three months after private schools require a deposit. 

Kindergarten Search: Private School A

Today we toured a private school.  It is one of two private schools to which we applied.  Both schools were recommended by the preschool director based on my criteria of convenient and of course a good fit for Freddie.

We arrived about 8.15am for the 8.30am tour and got to watch the students as they came in for class.  It was a diverse, hip mix of families.  The school is downtown which has a more laid back feel and this plays a part in the families at this school.  The school also has a very progressive approach so that compounds the hip family factor.

So some notes about the school....

• 25 minute door to door commute.  The school is downtown but just steps away from the metro station so it'd be a quick ride on the F train from our building to school.  
• The school has children 2-13 years old..preK-8th grade.  365 students, two classes at each grade.
• The campus is made up of 7 brownstones which have been beautifully remodeled.  
• There are a few "yards" so the children have time outside.  I also think there is a gym down the street, although we didn't see it.
• We didn't meet the head of the school.  
• The admissions director gave a great presentation outlining the school's philosophy of teaching and learning.
• Building a diverse community is very important to the school.  Several of the questions on the application involved diversity and how we would contribute to the diverse community.  I will say the student population didn't stand out as particularly racially diverse.
• It is a place where I think I'd enjoy teaching.  A lot of the methods align with my teaching philosophy, although I strongly believe there are many, many, many ways to educate children successfully.  I also don't think that using one method over another produces better citizens, thinkers, artists, or people.  
• I think Freddie would love it here.  And I mean LOVE it.  The schedule, materials, and classrooms looked fun.  Building, actual physical as well as metaphorical building, are at the core of their program and this is totally Freddie.  
• The nature of the instructional set up means there is a lot of overlap in subjects and true "thematic" teaching.
• Some of the progressive pieces that I'm not sure I totally love are the students calling teachers by first names.  This isn't something anyone spoke about but I did here a little girl refer to her teacher by her first name.  I am a bit more traditional than that.  There aren't "grades" in the lower school, and I'm not sure when/if they ever get grades.  Although I don't feel grades are the only way to communicate progress I do feel grades are part of the larger school community most kids eventually experience and I wonder how that transition into a more traditional environment will be.  The presentation did touch on the wide range of high schools students go on to and find success after this experience.  
• The tuition is $34,000.  Yep, $34,000.  

Charlie liked it.  He said, "I think Freddie would be very happy here and do well here."  I agree.  Overall I really liked it as well.  

Comparing it to the Catholic school option, I'll say the facility is far nicer.  The"extras" like art, music, movement, field trips, were more plentiful than the Catholic school option. 

But, I think the chances of Freddie being accepted are slim.  The school receives many applicants and I think the openings for next year are fewer than 10.

Tomorrow we tour Private School B.  

Kindergarten Search: Catholic School

A little info on the search thus far:

• We've submitted two applications to private schools recommended to us by the preschool director.  Her recommendations were based on my high priority on convenience and knowing Freddie.
• We have heard back from one of the private schools and have a parent tour set up.  Stinks that the only way to get into these schools is to first apply, send in your $75 application fee, and then wait to have a tour set up.  Sadly I missed the opportunity to tour without an application by not beginning this process when he was *three*.  In addition to the tour we also have a parent info session (parent interview) scheduled as well as a "playdate" for Freddie.  I think this is where the teacher tries him out in class to see how he manages with others.
• We haven't yet heard back from the other private school, but I understand it to be highly competitive and the response time is slow because they receive so many applications.
• Freddie has the "ERB Test" scheduled for Monday.  This is the psychological and educational testing required by private schools.  The reports will be sent to each of the private schools he applies to.  It cost $565.  Yikes.
• Freddie is scheduled to take the test for the public school gifted and talented program in January. We only get the opportunity to look at these programs if he scores high enough for the G&T program.  High enough = AT the 99th percentile, although if he scores IN the 99th percentile he'll most likely get a G&T spot but probably not at our first choice public schools.  
• We'll register him for the regular public school program in January so he'll be assigned a spot to a public kindergarten class no matter what else happens.

Got all that?  Now on to today's school...

Today we toured a Catholic elementary school on the upper east side.  We haven't submitted an application yet but did take the application packet.  Although there is no "deadline" the first round of acceptance letters goes out in January so I assume we need to send in the application and the $225 application fee soon so a parent interview and playdate for Freddie can be set up.

We were the first to arrive about 8.30 this morning and were led to the auditorium by a student. Thankfully my atheist husband didn't burst into flames when we walked in the door, so I thought we were off to a good start.  I was also pleased to see some regular folks in the mix.  I spotted the NYC standard plastic surgery and Prada but that was outnumbered by regular looking people.

The school was recommended by friends we know with children in the school currently.  It would be quite a commute for Freddie with the fastest route being a tram ride and then a bus ride uptown with a door to door commute time of probably about 40 minutes.  This is a long commute for a kindergartner, and the winter weather will add some challenges to that commute as well, although I know he won't be the first, only, or last five year old to do it.  

Some notes about the school:

• Tuition is $6,000 and then some fees bring the total yearly out of pocket to about $9,000.
• Pupil teacher ratio in the lower elementary grades was about 10:1 with class size being about 20 and each teacher having an assistant.
• There were two classes of each grade in the lower elementary.  This is new as the school is expanding.  It seems as if the "face" of the school is changing.  I think as an affordable nonpublic option they are becoming more sought after.  I think this growth is good but also makes me wonder about growing pains they may be experiencing.  They are looking to expand their campus to another building within walking distance.
• The yard is a tiny patch on concrete.  Although they do get some time out there each day.
• They get at least one period of enrichment each day:  music, art, French, physical education, library.  
• There are musical instruments (violins for everyone in 4th - 8th grade), field trips, plays.
• The principal is young and presents well.
• There seems to be a lot of effort involved in including parents in the community.  I actually found it funny how much they talked about parents meeting new friends.  Evidently that must be a priority for families.
• It seems very traditional in the academic approach.  The principal even used the word "academic" when describing the 3 year old program.  That is definitely a NYC parent priority.
• Students attend mass twice per month.
• We toured the school and the facility is nice for an old building.  The church is in the middle of the school.
• Students attend religion classes and will make their sacraments.  The principal did sell it as a "good person" form of Catholicism promoted at the school rather than the Catholic guilt variety.
• 75% of students are Christian or Catholic.  
• 95% of students entering kindergarten stay through 8th grade,
• 80% of families live within walking distance.
• There are several after school enrichment classes offered:  drama, robotics, art.
• Students for the most part appeared engaged in the lessons.  

Charlie said he liked it.  He said it was fine. 

I think it will be good to have seen everything that is available to hopefully feel good about our choice. The biggest problem I am having with this process is it doesn't really feel like we have much choice.  I know Freddie will do well in just about any situation.  He's just that kind of kid.  So I'm thankful for that and it does make this process somewhat easier, but I don't like feeling like we really don't have many options.  And I have to remind myself that nothing will be perfect. 

Yep, we're applying to private.  Yep, he may score high enough for G&T.  Yep, there's always the public school.  So it seems like we have options, but the reality is our preferred options may not pan out.  We may only end up with the public school, go to the assigned school and class option.  

How did I feel about it?  I thought it was fine.  I was teary for about half of it thinking about little Freddie standing in that big building in khaki pants and a white collared shirt with all of those kids at morning exercises saying the pledge of allegiance.  And there lies the most complicated part of this equation...my baby is going to school.  I am handing him off to someone else for 8 hours a day, 180 days a year.  I am trusting that not only will he learn to read and write but his confidence and curiosity  will be nurtured and his work ethic developed.  Rational Erin knows Charlie and I will always be the biggest contributors to that well from which Freddie draws his love of learning, exploring, and life but Crazy Train Emotional Nut Erin is getting in the way of all things logical.  Give me some time.  Its a process.

I visited a big kid school today, for Freddie

Today I toured the local public school.  Kinda crazy to think about the whole prospect of school.  It will be a few years before Freddie attends the prekindergarten 4 year old program but I wanted to start thinking about what our options are when that time rolls around.  Our school options also will play a role in where we move after the time limit on hospital housing expires. 

My notes:

• 5 minute walk from apartment
• Security guard checks IDs of everyone entering building
• PreK-8, enrollment about 450 students
• 4 years old before December 31st for PreK, 5 years old before December 31st for Kindergarten
• Diversity is obvious.  Statistics given noted almost even percentages of black, white, Hispanic, Asian
• Couldn't tell me percentage of students receiving free or reduced lunch.  Curious if the SES diversity is similar to racial diversity.  Will look into.
• 1 PreK class:  2.5 hours per day, note preference of morning or afternoon sessions on application, fills quickly, wait list, registration first week of March, 18 students, 1 teacher, 1 assistant
• Each grade level has 3 classes, one of which is a gifted class
• Kinder classes had 15 students, 1st grade had 13 students in each class
• 3 SPED classes, lower, middle, upper
• Auditorium is beautiful
• Gym
• Playground, recess daily, before lunch for younger students
• Computer lab with 40 work stations, full time computer teacher, younger students attend twice per week
• Full time music and art teacher with classes 1-2 times per week
• PE twice a week
• Student work all over school
• Kids smile, make eye contact, and say hello as they pass in halls
• Teachers were warm and appear to vary in experience and methods
• Freddie likes the way the toilets flushed...and the water fountains in each hallway

Freddie would be fine here.  The kids looked happy and engaged.  It's certainly traditional as most public schools are but I have no doubt he'd have an experience that would assist him in growing to his potential.  It'd prefer a bit of a longer day for him by the time he's 4, but 2.5 hours a day will be a good stepping stone to kindergarten. 

The tour was quite the outing for Freddie.  He acted as though I should be dropping him off in the classroom.  He greeted everyone, made eyes at the big kids, and thanked them for their time.  He walked in and out of classes with the other adults on the tour not really paying attention to if I was even visiting that particular classroom. 

I'm not certain we'll be here when he's prekindergarten age.  We'll see.  I imagine I should also check out some of the private school options, but with tuition being $25K I am not really sure how much of an option they really are.