Are private school admissions really that competitive? (Atlanta, Sandy Springs: houses, transfer)

[SaschaB]

It looks as though we have a 50/50 chance of relocating to AT area (I'd asked previously about acreage lots within reasonable commute to Cumberland) The move would be mid-year, and ideally we could transition our first grader into a similar-sized Christiqn school following Christmas break-- however reading the school threads is rather intimidating! The private schools of all sizes seem extraordinarily competitive with regards to admissions, plus it comes off as rather "posh" and exclusive. They are so expensive, too! I was surprised how many AT area schools command tuition way, way, way over $10k. Of course here there are expensive, competitive, and "upper crust" private schools, but there are also many middle-range, small Christian and independent private schools that, while not an easy-in, are more accessible and less intimidating to ordinary families who want to invest a bit more into kids' education than public schools offer.
Our current school has 250 kids, and is friendly, laid-back, and still maintains a strong academic reputation.
So... To families enrolled in private schools, and who are experienced with this, how difficult would you guess a mid-year transfer might be? There are so many schools to choose from, I don't even know how to narrow down a search! We've been told to look in east Cobb, Marietta, and even Holly Springs for a home, and I know that geographical area is pretty big.. I'd prefer a smallish Christian school, or a secular school with a traditional ethos.
Can anyone help me narrow down the search? Right now it feels like throwing a whole handful of darts at a giant map, hoping for the best.

Thanks kindly!

[10 feet tall]

There are plenty of private schools like the ones you describe, but they will not be the "name brand" schools that you hear people talk about. And they will not be that competitive to get into mid-year.

[ATL Golfer]

Also, if you want acreage lots that are not $1MM+ I assume you will be living well OTP ...in that case, there are a good amt of schools like you describe.

[Tryska]

It may be a matter of language.

"Private School" means $$$. Try searching for "Christian schools" - that seems to be more what you are looking for anyway.

[CMMom]

Many of the smaller private Christian schools will likely have mid-year openings, but you should start looking around as soon as possible. Sounds like you should focus on North Cobb County as a starting point. One that comes to mind is Mt. Paran Christian School. It's not 20K like the "elite" schools, but it is more than 10K. I'm sure there are small schools that are cheaper than that price point, but I'm just not sure who they are.

[deacongirl]

I would consider public if you are going to be in East Cobb or similar. My kids have all had excellent experiences (coming from a small private school previously). And this area is overwhelmingly Christian--your child will be surrounded by children and families who are extremely active in their churches.

[SaschaB]

Thanks, that helps narrow the field a bit. It's a scary prospect, and we're still on the fence about it!

[LovelySummer]

If you want a lot that is 1+ acre near Cumberland search in 30327.
There are plenty in the 500-700K range. They will be older (70s and 80s) but beautiful, wooded and many have at least an acre. The houses will be listed as Sandy Springs or Atlanta (that part of which is Buckhead). Not sure why someone said you have to go OTP. That is not the case for acreage lots.
Good luck.

Originally Posted by SaschaB

It looks as though we have a 50/50 chance of relocating to AT area (I'd asked previously about acreage lots within reasonable commute to Cumberland) The move would be mid-year, and ideally we could transition our first grader into a similar-sized Christiqn school following Christmas break-- however reading the school threads is rather intimidating! The private schools of all sizes seem extraordinarily competitive with regards to admissions, plus it comes off as rather "posh" and exclusive. They are so expensive, too! I was surprised how many AT area schools command tuition way, way, way over $10k. Of course here there are expensive, competitive, and "upper crust" private schools, but there are also many middle-range, small Christian and independent private schools that, while not an easy-in, are more accessible and less intimidating to ordinary families who want to invest a bit more into kids' education than public schools offer.
Our current school has 250 kids, and is friendly, laid-back, and still maintains a strong academic reputation.
So... To families enrolled in private schools, and who are experienced with this, how difficult would you guess a mid-year transfer might be? There are so many schools to choose from, I don't even know how to narrow down a search! We've been told to look in east Cobb, Marietta, and even Holly Springs for a home, and I know that geographical area is pretty big.. I'd prefer a smallish Christian school, or a secular school with a traditional ethos.
Can anyone help me narrow down the search? Right now it feels like throwing a whole handful of darts at a giant map, hoping for the best.

Thanks kindly!

[Momof2girls2013]

There are a lot of options in the North suburban metro atlanta area. I live in south forsyth (just off McGinnis ferry which separates north Fulton and south Forsyth). The Bigger schools in the area are Pinecrest Academy and Kings Ridge. People on my neighborhood also attend friendship christian school, fideles christian,perimiter school and montessori options.

The smaller suburban schools will take children up until January if space permits. (Afterwards it is less likely).

Listed above are the options within a 10 mile radius of my home... So from my perspective!!