Atlanta Private School: 6th Grade Paideia - 2 questions (tuition, roach)

[luveybear]

Paideia does not require SSAT scores, but our child had to take it anyway for other schools. Should we include (scored 98%tile) with Paideia application? They said we would have to provide the paper results.




Also I've heard that it "helps to know someone" for Paideia Admissions. Our friend is an alum who sends his kids there. I suppose we can ask him to write a letter (vouching for our family), but I am not a "pull strings" type of person. Plus, I think our child is otherwise a solid candidate, so I am hesitant to take a risk. Should I not have him write a letter, because it'll backfire? OR Should I have him write a letter, because it takes things like that to get in?


Any other 6th grade admissions advice welcome.


Thanks in advance for responses

[AnsleyPark]

Originally Posted by luveybear

Paideia does not require SSAT scores, but our child had to take it anyway for other schools. Should we include (scored 98%tile) with Paideia application? They said we would have to provide the paper results.




Also I've heard that it "helps to know someone" for Paideia Admissions. Our friend is an alum who sends his kids there. I suppose we can ask him to write a letter (vouching for our family), but I am not a "pull strings" type of person. Plus, I think our child is otherwise a solid candidate, so I am hesitant to take a risk. Should I not have him write a letter, because it'll backfire? OR Should I have him write a letter, because it takes things like that to get in?


Any other 6th grade admissions advice welcome.


Thanks in advance for responses

Having had two children go through the private school admissions process, I would recommend doing whatever you can reasonably to do, including having your friend write a nice letter. Our experience with Westminster is that it doesn't hurt. Now, having said that, I don't know for sure if it actually helps.

[luveybear]

Originally Posted by AnsleyPark

Having had two children go through the private school admissions process, I would recommend doing whatever you can reasonably to do, including having your friend write a nice letter. Our experience with Westminster is that it doesn't hurt. Now, having said that, I don't know for sure if it actually helps.

Could a letter backfire at a place like Paideia where they try to create an egalitarian environment?

[AtlJan]

Originally Posted by luveybear

Could a letter backfire at a place like Paideia where they try to create an egalitarian environment?

No, I think the letter is a good idea. One thing about Paideia is that they are eager to see that you are a fit for their unique school culture. The letter might show them that you have a particular interest in their learning approach--and you're not just aimlessly applying because what-the-hell.

You will also get a chance to describe your special interest in the school and fit with the school at the parent meeting. I believe they meet with applicant parents, but I could be confusing them with another school.

[CMMom]

Originally Posted by AtlJan

No, I think the letter is a good idea. One thing about Paideia is that they are eager to see that you are a fit for their unique school culture. The letter might show them that you have a particular interest in their learning approach--and you're not just aimlessly applying because what-the-hell.

You will also get a chance to describe your special interest in the school and fit with the school at the parent meeting. I believe they meet with applicant parents, but I could be confusing them with another school.

I think you're right about that. And I just had an amusing thought. What if the prospective parent walked in wearing a Trump hat or t-shirt? Heads would explode. I'm just teasing Paideia, but they are known to be pretty progressive and left-leaning and I wonder what would happen if an applicant's family was evangelical or super-conservative.

[PeteATL41]

Originally Posted by luveybear

Could a letter backfire at a place like Paideia where they try to create an egalitarian environment?

As "egalitarian" as possible when the tuition is $23K per year...

[luveybear]

Too bad half the responses don't try to answer my questions.

[CMMom]

If you know someone who is a distinguished alum, on the Board of Trustees, or whatever, sure, have him write a letter. It should emphasize that you are a family who fits in with the school culture and will jump right in and get involved. I think that's totally fine to do. You don't want to bombard them with 10 letters of recommendation from your neighbors, coworkers, pastors, and Grandma. That's overkill, but one from someone they know is fine.

[Littleboysrule]

I have heard that Paideia relies heavily on who you know in the school, so a letter could help if it is someone you know well and trust. As for the SSAT score, it can't hurt. Just don't submit 100 pieces of paper to go along with it. Good luck!