St Alban's and NCS

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:We are at Beauvoir and considering next steps.

We recognize that St Alban's and NCS are among the very best schools in DC but are struggling with the question of if these are the environments we want to raise our kids.

I had friends in college who attended NCS and spoke about what a toxic environment it was - unhealthy competition, eating disorders. I remember thinking how glad I was this wasn't my experience. That was decades ago - is it better now?

We hear people rave about St. Alban's. But when we went on a tour it also felt a bit off to us. -- the high schoolers we interacted with on the tour seemed like great kids but all had this vibe of a bit neurotic and overwhelmed.

I have no doubt that these kids are getting excellent educations and learning how to navigate a high-achieving culture. But are these happy environments? Do kids emerge from schools well-adjusted and ready to thrive and enjoy life?

What do these schools do to actively support this healthy mindset, beyond teaching them to achieve academically?

Are there parents of kids at these school who have had similar doubts? Were those fears confirmed or were you pleasantly surprised?

Please do not respond if you have no experience with the school.

I find NCS and St Alban very strange. They pretend they still live in some traditional bubble from 100 years ago. But the building, the single sex, the location, and the tradition are so out of place in the current time. I got that they want to imitate Oxford or Cambridge. But they never really were contemporary. The Close feels so odd. Just a reminder: the National Cathedral was built in 1893. My grand-grandmother's chair was older.

Well, I find this statement (bolded) very strange. How is the location out of place in the current time? Single sex schools are more popular than ever, so you're wrong about that. And what "tradition" is so out of place in the current time?

Your entire post is based on personal feelings (a grudge?) that most people do not share.

First of all, the National Cathedral was built in modern times in a Gothic style. So, all of its associations are not part of a natural time.
All of the service, cathedral, and uniform are all things of the past. It is classic, maybe. But it is just so out of place in Teleytown.
Single sex schools are somewhat popular. Not than ever.

It’s not in Tenleytown. And only the youngest girls (4-6th grades) wear uniforms. The National Cathedral is one of the most progressive churches around. Weird comments to make when they’re not even accurate.

But the whole vibe is repressive and strange. Most progressive church. I just don't get why being on the Close is a good thing. Fake old building and tourist spot.

The oldest buildings are well over 100 years old. The cathedral itself, finished in the 1990s, is Gothic Revival. But I wouldn't call it fake.

Just a very vibe, old-man (though NCS is a woman) vibe of old money and power and glory to a certain past. No doubt the education is great. But I wonder how the students feel.

DC has little old money. Almost none in fact. Lots of interlopers and visitors have come though but nothing like NYC or Boston areas. Don’t make things up to drive your prejudices.

🤣never heard money talks and wealth whispers? There is tons of whispering in this city, you just probably aren't close enough to hear it.

I agree with this comment. It’s definitely here and always has been. It just doesn’t make itself known by being obvious. And why should they, they literally have nothing to prove, especially not to a bunch of transplants.

How many generations does one need to live in DC to not be a transplant?

How many generations of wealth do you need to be "old money" according to you? I am wealthy first generation and spouse parents are wealthy so my grandkids or my kids are old money or my great grandlkids according to your standards?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:We are at Beauvoir and considering next steps.

We recognize that St Alban's and NCS are among the very best schools in DC but are struggling with the question of if these are in the environments we want to raise our kids.

I had friends in college who attended NCS and spoke about what a toxic environment it was - unhealthy competition, eating disorders. I remember thinking how glad I was this wasn't my experience. That was decades ago - is it better now?

We hear people rave about St. Alban's. But when we went on a tour it also felt a bit off to us. -- the high schoolers we interacted with on the tour seemed like great kids but all had this vibe of a bit neurotic and overwhelmed.

I have no doubt that these kids are getting excellent educations and learning how to navigate a high-achieving culture. But are these happy environments? Do kids emerge from schools well-adjusted and ready to thrive and enjoy life?

What do these schools do to actively support this healthy mindset, beyond teaching them to achieve academically?

Are there parents of kids at these school who have had similar doubts? Were those fears confirmed or were you pleasantly surprised?

Please do not respond if you have no experience with the school.

I find NCS and St Alban very strange. They pretend they still live in some traditional bubble from 100 years ago. But the building, the single sex, the location, and the tradition are so out of place in the current time. I got that they want to imitate Oxford or Cambridge. But they never really were contemporary. The Close feels so odd. Just a reminder: the National Cathedral was built in 1893. My grand-grandmother's chair was older.

Well, I find this statement (bolded) very strange. How is the location out of place in the current time? Single sex schools are more popular than ever, so you're wrong about that. And what "tradition" is so out of place in the current time?

Your entire post is based on personal feelings (a grudge?) that most people do not share.

First of all, the National Cathedral was built in modern times in a Gothic style. So, all of its associations are not part of a natural time.
All of the service, cathedral, and uniform are all things of the past. It is classic, maybe. But it is just so out of place in Teleytown.
Single sex schools are somewhat popular. Not than ever.

It’s not in Tenleytown. And only the youngest girls (4-6th grades) wear uniforms. The National Cathedral is one of the most progressive churches around. Weird comments to make when they’re not even accurate.

But the whole vibe is repressive and strange. Most progressive church. I just don't get why being on the Close is a good thing. Fake old building and tourist spot.

The oldest buildings are well over 100 years old. The cathedral itself, finished in the 1990s, is Gothic Revival. But I wouldn't call it fake.

Just a very vibe, old-man (though NCS is a woman) vibe of old money and power and glory to a certain past. No doubt the education is great. But I wonder how the students feel.

DC has little old money. Almost none in fact. Lots of interlopers and visitors have come though but nothing like NYC or Boston areas. Don’t make things up to drive your prejudices.

🤣never heard money talks and wealth whispers? There is tons of whispering in this city, you just probably aren't close enough to hear it.

I agree with this comment. It’s definitely here and always has been. It just doesn’t make itself known by being obvious. And why should they, they literally have nothing to prove, especially not to a bunch of transplants.

How many generations does one need to live in DC to not be a transplant?

How many generations of wealth do you need to be "old money" according to you? I am wealthy first generation and spouse parents are wealthy so my grandkids or my kids are old money or my great grandlkids according to your standards?

I'm not the PP, but I would say "been here long enough that people forgot when you got here." That being said, there are a lot more of us here than you would think. My great grandmother was a DC socialite back in the day. I prefer to refer to myself as 3rd generation over it (it referring to the pretentious puffery). We don't like to tap strings to get into places, but since everyone has known us for ever we are "lucky enough" to always get in where we want to go...

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:We are at Beauvoir and considering next steps.

We recognize that St Alban's and NCS are among the very best schools in DC but are struggling with the question of if these are in the environments we want to raise our kids.

I had friends in college who attended NCS and spoke about what a toxic environment it was - unhealthy competition, eating disorders. I remember thinking how glad I was this wasn't my experience. That was decades ago - is it better now?

We hear people rave about St. Alban's. But when we went on a tour it also felt a bit off to us. -- the high schoolers we interacted with on the tour seemed like great kids but all had this vibe of a bit neurotic and overwhelmed.

I have no doubt that these kids are getting excellent educations and learning how to navigate a high-achieving culture. But are these happy environments? Do kids emerge from schools well-adjusted and ready to thrive and enjoy life?

What do these schools do to actively support this healthy mindset, beyond teaching them to achieve academically?

Are there parents of kids at these school who have had similar doubts? Were those fears confirmed or were you pleasantly surprised?

Please do not respond if you have no experience with the school.

I find NCS and St Alban very strange. They pretend they still live in some traditional bubble from 100 years ago. But the building, the single sex, the location, and the tradition are so out of place in the current time. I got that they want to imitate Oxford or Cambridge. But they never really were contemporary. The Close feels so odd. Just a reminder: the National Cathedral was built in 1893. My grand-grandmother's chair was older.

Well, I find this statement (bolded) very strange. How is the location out of place in the current time? Single sex schools are more popular than ever, so you're wrong about that. And what "tradition" is so out of place in the current time?

Your entire post is based on personal feelings (a grudge?) that most people do not share.

First of all, the National Cathedral was built in modern times in a Gothic style. So, all of its associations are not part of a natural time.
All of the service, cathedral, and uniform are all things of the past. It is classic, maybe. But it is just so out of place in Teleytown.
Single sex schools are somewhat popular. Not than ever.

It’s not in Tenleytown. And only the youngest girls (4-6th grades) wear uniforms. The National Cathedral is one of the most progressive churches around. Weird comments to make when they’re not even accurate.

But the whole vibe is repressive and strange. Most progressive church. I just don't get why being on the Close is a good thing. Fake old building and tourist spot.

The oldest buildings are well over 100 years old. The cathedral itself, finished in the 1990s, is Gothic Revival. But I wouldn't call it fake.

Just a very vibe, old-man (though NCS is a woman) vibe of old money and power and glory to a certain past. No doubt the education is great. But I wonder how the students feel.

DC has little old money. Almost none in fact. Lots of interlopers and visitors have come though but nothing like NYC or Boston areas. Don’t make things up to drive your prejudices.

🤣never heard money talks and wealth whispers? There is tons of whispering in this city, you just probably aren't close enough to hear it.

I agree with this comment. It’s definitely here and always has been. It just doesn’t make itself known by being obvious. And why should they, they literally have nothing to prove, especially not to a bunch of transplants.

How many generations does one need to live in DC to not be a transplant?

How many generations of wealth do you need to be "old money" according to you? I am wealthy first generation and spouse parents are wealthy so my grandkids or my kids are old money or my great grandlkids according to your standards?

I'm not the PP, but I would say "been here long enough that people forgot when you got here." That being said, there are a lot more of us here than you would think. My great grandmother was a DC socialite back in the day. I prefer to refer to myself as 3rd generation over it (it referring to the pretentious puffery). We don't like to tap strings to get into places, but since everyone has known us for ever we are "lucky enough" to always get in where we want to go...

As do we.... literally get in everywhere we want to go. New money can do that to plus pedigree of family name - don't need to be a DC native.....

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:We are at Beauvoir and considering next steps.

We recognize that St Alban's and NCS are among the very best schools in DC but are struggling with the question of if these are in the environments we want to raise our kids.

I had friends in college who attended NCS and spoke about what a toxic environment it was - unhealthy competition, eating disorders. I remember thinking how glad I was this wasn't my experience. That was decades ago - is it better now?

We hear people rave about St. Alban's. But when we went on a tour it also felt a bit off to us. -- the high schoolers we interacted with on the tour seemed like great kids but all had this vibe of a bit neurotic and overwhelmed.

I have no doubt that these kids are getting excellent educations and learning how to navigate a high-achieving culture. But are these happy environments? Do kids emerge from schools well-adjusted and ready to thrive and enjoy life?

What do these schools do to actively support this healthy mindset, beyond teaching them to achieve academically?

Are there parents of kids at these school who have had similar doubts? Were those fears confirmed or were you pleasantly surprised?

Please do not respond if you have no experience with the school.

I find NCS and St Alban very strange. They pretend they still live in some traditional bubble from 100 years ago. But the building, the single sex, the location, and the tradition are so out of place in the current time. I got that they want to imitate Oxford or Cambridge. But they never really were contemporary. The Close feels so odd. Just a reminder: the National Cathedral was built in 1893. My grand-grandmother's chair was older.

Well, I find this statement (bolded) very strange. How is the location out of place in the current time? Single sex schools are more popular than ever, so you're wrong about that. And what "tradition" is so out of place in the current time?

Your entire post is based on personal feelings (a grudge?) that most people do not share.

First of all, the National Cathedral was built in modern times in a Gothic style. So, all of its associations are not part of a natural time.
All of the service, cathedral, and uniform are all things of the past. It is classic, maybe. But it is just so out of place in Teleytown.
Single sex schools are somewhat popular. Not than ever.

It’s not in Tenleytown. And only the youngest girls (4-6th grades) wear uniforms. The National Cathedral is one of the most progressive churches around. Weird comments to make when they’re not even accurate.

But the whole vibe is repressive and strange. Most progressive church. I just don't get why being on the Close is a good thing. Fake old building and tourist spot.

The oldest buildings are well over 100 years old. The cathedral itself, finished in the 1990s, is Gothic Revival. But I wouldn't call it fake.

Just a very vibe, old-man (though NCS is a woman) vibe of old money and power and glory to a certain past. No doubt the education is great. But I wonder how the students feel.

DC has little old money. Almost none in fact. Lots of interlopers and visitors have come though but nothing like NYC or Boston areas. Don’t make things up to drive your prejudices.

🤣never heard money talks and wealth whispers? There is tons of whispering in this city, you just probably aren't close enough to hear it.

I agree with this comment. It’s definitely here and always has been. It just doesn’t make itself known by being obvious. And why should they, they literally have nothing to prove, especially not to a bunch of transplants.

How many generations does one need to live in DC to not be a transplant?

How many generations of wealth do you need to be "old money" according to you? I am wealthy first generation and spouse parents are wealthy so my grandkids or my kids are old money or my great grandlkids according to your standards?

I'm not the PP, but I would say "been here long enough that people forgot when you got here." That being said, there are a lot more of us here than you would think. My great grandmother was a DC socialite back in the day. I prefer to refer to myself as 3rd generation over it (it referring to the pretentious puffery). We don't like to tap strings to get into places, but since everyone has known us for ever we are "lucky enough" to always get in where we want to go...

Is this sarcasm? I can't tell if you are being serious or not.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:We are at Beauvoir and considering next steps.

We recognize that St Alban's and NCS are among the very best schools in DC but are struggling with the question of if these are in the environments we want to raise our kids.

I had friends in college who attended NCS and spoke about what a toxic environment it was - unhealthy competition, eating disorders. I remember thinking how glad I was this wasn't my experience. That was decades ago - is it better now?

We hear people rave about St. Alban's. But when we went on a tour it also felt a bit off to us. -- the high schoolers we interacted with on the tour seemed like great kids but all had this vibe of a bit neurotic and overwhelmed.

I have no doubt that these kids are getting excellent educations and learning how to navigate a high-achieving culture. But are these happy environments? Do kids emerge from schools well-adjusted and ready to thrive and enjoy life?

What do these schools do to actively support this healthy mindset, beyond teaching them to achieve academically?

Are there parents of kids at these school who have had similar doubts? Were those fears confirmed or were you pleasantly surprised?

Please do not respond if you have no experience with the school.

I find NCS and St Alban very strange. They pretend they still live in some traditional bubble from 100 years ago. But the building, the single sex, the location, and the tradition are so out of place in the current time. I got that they want to imitate Oxford or Cambridge. But they never really were contemporary. The Close feels so odd. Just a reminder: the National Cathedral was built in 1893. My grand-grandmother's chair was older.

Well, I find this statement (bolded) very strange. How is the location out of place in the current time? Single sex schools are more popular than ever, so you're wrong about that. And what "tradition" is so out of place in the current time?

Your entire post is based on personal feelings (a grudge?) that most people do not share.

First of all, the National Cathedral was built in modern times in a Gothic style. So, all of its associations are not part of a natural time.
All of the service, cathedral, and uniform are all things of the past. It is classic, maybe. But it is just so out of place in Teleytown.
Single sex schools are somewhat popular. Not than ever.

It’s not in Tenleytown. And only the youngest girls (4-6th grades) wear uniforms. The National Cathedral is one of the most progressive churches around. Weird comments to make when they’re not even accurate.

But the whole vibe is repressive and strange. Most progressive church. I just don't get why being on the Close is a good thing. Fake old building and tourist spot.

The oldest buildings are well over 100 years old. The cathedral itself, finished in the 1990s, is Gothic Revival. But I wouldn't call it fake.

Just a very vibe, old-man (though NCS is a woman) vibe of old money and power and glory to a certain past. No doubt the education is great. But I wonder how the students feel.

DC has little old money. Almost none in fact. Lots of interlopers and visitors have come though but nothing like NYC or Boston areas. Don’t make things up to drive your prejudices.

🤣never heard money talks and wealth whispers? There is tons of whispering in this city, you just probably aren't close enough to hear it.

I agree with this comment. It’s definitely here and always has been. It just doesn’t make itself known by being obvious. And why should they, they literally have nothing to prove, especially not to a bunch of transplants.

How many generations does one need to live in DC to not be a transplant?

How many generations of wealth do you need to be "old money" according to you? I am wealthy first generation and spouse parents are wealthy so my grandkids or my kids are old money or my great grandlkids according to your standards?

I'm not the PP, but I would say "been here long enough that people forgot when you got here." That being said, there are a lot more of us here than you would think. My great grandmother was a DC socialite back in the day. I prefer to refer to myself as 3rd generation over it (it referring to the pretentious puffery). We don't like to tap strings to get into places, but since everyone has known us for ever we are "lucky enough" to always get in where we want to go...

As do we.... literally get in everywhere we want to go. New money can do that to plus pedigree of family name - don't need to be a DC native.....

Sort of... how do they know you are new money if you aren't shouting it out or showing it off? It's a little different. People who have been here for generations know who each other are.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:We are at Beauvoir and considering next steps.

We recognize that St Alban's and NCS are among the very best schools in DC but are struggling with the question of if these are in the environments we want to raise our kids.

I had friends in college who attended NCS and spoke about what a toxic environment it was - unhealthy competition, eating disorders. I remember thinking how glad I was this wasn't my experience. That was decades ago - is it better now?

We hear people rave about St. Alban's. But when we went on a tour it also felt a bit off to us. -- the high schoolers we interacted with on the tour seemed like great kids but all had this vibe of a bit neurotic and overwhelmed.

I have no doubt that these kids are getting excellent educations and learning how to navigate a high-achieving culture. But are these happy environments? Do kids emerge from schools well-adjusted and ready to thrive and enjoy life?

What do these schools do to actively support this healthy mindset, beyond teaching them to achieve academically?

Are there parents of kids at these school who have had similar doubts? Were those fears confirmed or were you pleasantly surprised?

Please do not respond if you have no experience with the school.

I find NCS and St Alban very strange. They pretend they still live in some traditional bubble from 100 years ago. But the building, the single sex, the location, and the tradition are so out of place in the current time. I got that they want to imitate Oxford or Cambridge. But they never really were contemporary. The Close feels so odd. Just a reminder: the National Cathedral was built in 1893. My grand-grandmother's chair was older.

Well, I find this statement (bolded) very strange. How is the location out of place in the current time? Single sex schools are more popular than ever, so you're wrong about that. And what "tradition" is so out of place in the current time?

Your entire post is based on personal feelings (a grudge?) that most people do not share.

First of all, the National Cathedral was built in modern times in a Gothic style. So, all of its associations are not part of a natural time.
All of the service, cathedral, and uniform are all things of the past. It is classic, maybe. But it is just so out of place in Teleytown.
Single sex schools are somewhat popular. Not than ever.

It’s not in Tenleytown. And only the youngest girls (4-6th grades) wear uniforms. The National Cathedral is one of the most progressive churches around. Weird comments to make when they’re not even accurate.

But the whole vibe is repressive and strange. Most progressive church. I just don't get why being on the Close is a good thing. Fake old building and tourist spot.

The oldest buildings are well over 100 years old. The cathedral itself, finished in the 1990s, is Gothic Revival. But I wouldn't call it fake.

Just a very vibe, old-man (though NCS is a woman) vibe of old money and power and glory to a certain past. No doubt the education is great. But I wonder how the students feel.

DC has little old money. Almost none in fact. Lots of interlopers and visitors have come though but nothing like NYC or Boston areas. Don’t make things up to drive your prejudices.

🤣never heard money talks and wealth whispers? There is tons of whispering in this city, you just probably aren't close enough to hear it.

I agree with this comment. It’s definitely here and always has been. It just doesn’t make itself known by being obvious. And why should they, they literally have nothing to prove, especially not to a bunch of transplants.

How many generations does one need to live in DC to not be a transplant?

How many generations of wealth do you need to be "old money" according to you? I am wealthy first generation and spouse parents are wealthy so my grandkids or my kids are old money or my great grandlkids according to your standards?

I'm not the PP, but I would say "been here long enough that people forgot when you got here." That being said, there are a lot more of us here than you would think. My great grandmother was a DC socialite back in the day. I prefer to refer to myself as 3rd generation over it (it referring to the pretentious puffery). We don't like to tap strings to get into places, but since everyone has known us for ever we are "lucky enough" to always get in where we want to go...

Is this sarcasm? I can't tell if you are being serious or not.

Just trying to answer her question of when do people consider you "old money" vs. new money... and the line is when it's forgotten... so hard to say...

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:We are at Beauvoir and considering next steps.

We recognize that St Alban's and NCS are among the very best schools in DC but are struggling with the question of if these are the environments we want to raise our kids.

I had friends in college who attended NCS and spoke about what a toxic environment it was - unhealthy competition, eating disorders. I remember thinking how glad I was this wasn't my experience. That was decades ago - is it better now?

We hear people rave about St. Alban's. But when we went on a tour it also felt a bit off to us. -- the high schoolers we interacted with on the tour seemed like great kids but all had this vibe of a bit neurotic and overwhelmed.

I have no doubt that these kids are getting excellent educations and learning how to navigate a high-achieving culture. But are these happy environments? Do kids emerge from schools well-adjusted and ready to thrive and enjoy life?

What do these schools do to actively support this healthy mindset, beyond teaching them to achieve academically?

Are there parents of kids at these school who have had similar doubts? Were those fears confirmed or were you pleasantly surprised?

Please do not respond if you have no experience with the school.

I find NCS and St Alban very strange. They pretend they still live in some traditional bubble from 100 years ago. But the building, the single sex, the location, and the tradition are so out of place in the current time. I got that they want to imitate Oxford or Cambridge. But they never really were contemporary. The Close feels so odd. Just a reminder: the National Cathedral was built in 1893. My grand-grandmother's chair was older.

Well, I find this statement (bolded) very strange. How is the location out of place in the current time? Single sex schools are more popular than ever, so you're wrong about that. And what "tradition" is so out of place in the current time?

Your entire post is based on personal feelings (a grudge?) that most people do not share.

First of all, the National Cathedral was built in modern times in a Gothic style. So, all of its associations are not part of a natural time.
All of the service, cathedral, and uniform are all things of the past. It is classic, maybe. But it is just so out of place in Teleytown.
Single sex schools are somewhat popular. Not than ever.

It’s not in Tenleytown. And only the youngest girls (4-6th grades) wear uniforms. The National Cathedral is one of the most progressive churches around. Weird comments to make when they’re not even accurate.

But the whole vibe is repressive and strange. Most progressive church. I just don't get why being on the Close is a good thing. Fake old building and tourist spot.

The oldest buildings are well over 100 years old. The cathedral itself, finished in the 1990s, is Gothic Revival. But I wouldn't call it fake.

Just a very vibe, old-man (though NCS is a woman) vibe of old money and power and glory to a certain past. No doubt the education is great. But I wonder how the students feel.

DC has little old money. Almost none in fact. Lots of interlopers and visitors have come though but nothing like NYC or Boston areas. Don’t make things up to drive your prejudices.

🤣never heard money talks and wealth whispers? There is tons of whispering in this city, you just probably aren't close enough to hear it.

I agree with this comment. It’s definitely here and always has been. It just doesn’t make itself known by being obvious. And why should they, they literally have nothing to prove, especially not to a bunch of transplants.

How many generations does one need to live in DC to not be a transplant?

How many generations of wealth do you need to be "old money" according to you? I am wealthy first generation and spouse parents are wealthy so my grandkids or my kids are old money or my great grandlkids according to your standards?

If you weren’t born here you are a transplant.

The rule for determining “old money” is whether you appear in the Social Register, dated I know, but it’s still a thing certain people pay attention to. And there are plenty of DC natives in it.

Based on the above you are a wealthy transplant.

If your kids were born and reared here they are wealthy DC natives.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:We are at Beauvoir and considering next steps.

We recognize that St Alban's and NCS are among the very best schools in DC but are struggling with the question of if these are in the environments we want to raise our kids.

I had friends in college who attended NCS and spoke about what a toxic environment it was - unhealthy competition, eating disorders. I remember thinking how glad I was this wasn't my experience. That was decades ago - is it better now?

We hear people rave about St. Alban's. But when we went on a tour it also felt a bit off to us. -- the high schoolers we interacted with on the tour seemed like great kids but all had this vibe of a bit neurotic and overwhelmed.

I have no doubt that these kids are getting excellent educations and learning how to navigate a high-achieving culture. But are these happy environments? Do kids emerge from schools well-adjusted and ready to thrive and enjoy life?

What do these schools do to actively support this healthy mindset, beyond teaching them to achieve academically?

Are there parents of kids at these school who have had similar doubts? Were those fears confirmed or were you pleasantly surprised?

Please do not respond if you have no experience with the school.

I find NCS and St Alban very strange. They pretend they still live in some traditional bubble from 100 years ago. But the building, the single sex, the location, and the tradition are so out of place in the current time. I got that they want to imitate Oxford or Cambridge. But they never really were contemporary. The Close feels so odd. Just a reminder: the National Cathedral was built in 1893. My grand-grandmother's chair was older.

Well, I find this statement (bolded) very strange. How is the location out of place in the current time? Single sex schools are more popular than ever, so you're wrong about that. And what "tradition" is so out of place in the current time?

Your entire post is based on personal feelings (a grudge?) that most people do not share.

First of all, the National Cathedral was built in modern times in a Gothic style. So, all of its associations are not part of a natural time.
All of the service, cathedral, and uniform are all things of the past. It is classic, maybe. But it is just so out of place in Teleytown.
Single sex schools are somewhat popular. Not than ever.

It’s not in Tenleytown. And only the youngest girls (4-6th grades) wear uniforms. The National Cathedral is one of the most progressive churches around. Weird comments to make when they’re not even accurate.

But the whole vibe is repressive and strange. Most progressive church. I just don't get why being on the Close is a good thing. Fake old building and tourist spot.

The oldest buildings are well over 100 years old. The cathedral itself, finished in the 1990s, is Gothic Revival. But I wouldn't call it fake.

Just a very vibe, old-man (though NCS is a woman) vibe of old money and power and glory to a certain past. No doubt the education is great. But I wonder how the students feel.

DC has little old money. Almost none in fact. Lots of interlopers and visitors have come though but nothing like NYC or Boston areas. Don’t make things up to drive your prejudices.

🤣never heard money talks and wealth whispers? There is tons of whispering in this city, you just probably aren't close enough to hear it.

I agree with this comment. It’s definitely here and always has been. It just doesn’t make itself known by being obvious. And why should they, they literally have nothing to prove, especially not to a bunch of transplants.

How many generations does one need to live in DC to not be a transplant?

How many generations of wealth do you need to be "old money" according to you? I am wealthy first generation and spouse parents are wealthy so my grandkids or my kids are old money or my great grandlkids according to your standards?

I'm not the PP, but I would say "been here long enough that people forgot when you got here." That being said, there are a lot more of us here than you would think. My great grandmother was a DC socialite back in the day. I prefer to refer to myself as 3rd generation over it (it referring to the pretentious puffery). We don't like to tap strings to get into places, but since everyone has known us for ever we are "lucky enough" to always get in where we want to go...

Ew. Speaking of pretentious puffery. 🙄

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:We are at Beauvoir and considering next steps.

We recognize that St Alban's and NCS are among the very best schools in DC but are struggling with the question of if these are in the environments we want to raise our kids.

I had friends in college who attended NCS and spoke about what a toxic environment it was - unhealthy competition, eating disorders. I remember thinking how glad I was this wasn't my experience. That was decades ago - is it better now?

We hear people rave about St. Alban's. But when we went on a tour it also felt a bit off to us. -- the high schoolers we interacted with on the tour seemed like great kids but all had this vibe of a bit neurotic and overwhelmed.

I have no doubt that these kids are getting excellent educations and learning how to navigate a high-achieving culture. But are these happy environments? Do kids emerge from schools well-adjusted and ready to thrive and enjoy life?

What do these schools do to actively support this healthy mindset, beyond teaching them to achieve academically?

Are there parents of kids at these school who have had similar doubts? Were those fears confirmed or were you pleasantly surprised?

Please do not respond if you have no experience with the school.

I find NCS and St Alban very strange. They pretend they still live in some traditional bubble from 100 years ago. But the building, the single sex, the location, and the tradition are so out of place in the current time. I got that they want to imitate Oxford or Cambridge. But they never really were contemporary. The Close feels so odd. Just a reminder: the National Cathedral was built in 1893. My grand-grandmother's chair was older.

Well, I find this statement (bolded) very strange. How is the location out of place in the current time? Single sex schools are more popular than ever, so you're wrong about that. And what "tradition" is so out of place in the current time?

Your entire post is based on personal feelings (a grudge?) that most people do not share.

First of all, the National Cathedral was built in modern times in a Gothic style. So, all of its associations are not part of a natural time.
All of the service, cathedral, and uniform are all things of the past. It is classic, maybe. But it is just so out of place in Teleytown.
Single sex schools are somewhat popular. Not than ever.

It’s not in Tenleytown. And only the youngest girls (4-6th grades) wear uniforms. The National Cathedral is one of the most progressive churches around. Weird comments to make when they’re not even accurate.

But the whole vibe is repressive and strange. Most progressive church. I just don't get why being on the Close is a good thing. Fake old building and tourist spot.

The oldest buildings are well over 100 years old. The cathedral itself, finished in the 1990s, is Gothic Revival. But I wouldn't call it fake.

Just a very vibe, old-man (though NCS is a woman) vibe of old money and power and glory to a certain past. No doubt the education is great. But I wonder how the students feel.

DC has little old money. Almost none in fact. Lots of interlopers and visitors have come though but nothing like NYC or Boston areas. Don’t make things up to drive your prejudices.

🤣never heard money talks and wealth whispers? There is tons of whispering in this city, you just probably aren't close enough to hear it.

I agree with this comment. It’s definitely here and always has been. It just doesn’t make itself known by being obvious. And why should they, they literally have nothing to prove, especially not to a bunch of transplants.

How many generations does one need to live in DC to not be a transplant?

How many generations of wealth do you need to be "old money" according to you? I am wealthy first generation and spouse parents are wealthy so my grandkids or my kids are old money or my great grandlkids according to your standards?

I'm not the PP, but I would say "been here long enough that people forgot when you got here." That being said, there are a lot more of us here than you would think. My great grandmother was a DC socialite back in the day. I prefer to refer to myself as 3rd generation over it (it referring to the pretentious puffery). We don't like to tap strings to get into places, but since everyone has known us for ever we are "lucky enough" to always get in where we want to go...

Ew. Speaking of pretentious puffery. 🙄

Aaaaaannnnnd that's why we keep to ourselves and don't flash money...

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:We are at Beauvoir and considering next steps.

We recognize that St Alban's and NCS are among the very best schools in DC but are struggling with the question of if these are in the environments we want to raise our kids.

I had friends in college who attended NCS and spoke about what a toxic environment it was - unhealthy competition, eating disorders. I remember thinking how glad I was this wasn't my experience. That was decades ago - is it better now?

We hear people rave about St. Alban's. But when we went on a tour it also felt a bit off to us. -- the high schoolers we interacted with on the tour seemed like great kids but all had this vibe of a bit neurotic and overwhelmed.

I have no doubt that these kids are getting excellent educations and learning how to navigate a high-achieving culture. But are these happy environments? Do kids emerge from schools well-adjusted and ready to thrive and enjoy life?

What do these schools do to actively support this healthy mindset, beyond teaching them to achieve academically?

Are there parents of kids at these school who have had similar doubts? Were those fears confirmed or were you pleasantly surprised?

Please do not respond if you have no experience with the school.

I find NCS and St Alban very strange. They pretend they still live in some traditional bubble from 100 years ago. But the building, the single sex, the location, and the tradition are so out of place in the current time. I got that they want to imitate Oxford or Cambridge. But they never really were contemporary. The Close feels so odd. Just a reminder: the National Cathedral was built in 1893. My grand-grandmother's chair was older.

Well, I find this statement (bolded) very strange. How is the location out of place in the current time? Single sex schools are more popular than ever, so you're wrong about that. And what "tradition" is so out of place in the current time?

Your entire post is based on personal feelings (a grudge?) that most people do not share.

First of all, the National Cathedral was built in modern times in a Gothic style. So, all of its associations are not part of a natural time.
All of the service, cathedral, and uniform are all things of the past. It is classic, maybe. But it is just so out of place in Teleytown.
Single sex schools are somewhat popular. Not than ever.

It’s not in Tenleytown. And only the youngest girls (4-6th grades) wear uniforms. The National Cathedral is one of the most progressive churches around. Weird comments to make when they’re not even accurate.

But the whole vibe is repressive and strange. Most progressive church. I just don't get why being on the Close is a good thing. Fake old building and tourist spot.

The oldest buildings are well over 100 years old. The cathedral itself, finished in the 1990s, is Gothic Revival. But I wouldn't call it fake.

Just a very vibe, old-man (though NCS is a woman) vibe of old money and power and glory to a certain past. No doubt the education is great. But I wonder how the students feel.

DC has little old money. Almost none in fact. Lots of interlopers and visitors have come though but nothing like NYC or Boston areas. Don’t make things up to drive your prejudices.

🤣never heard money talks and wealth whispers? There is tons of whispering in this city, you just probably aren't close enough to hear it.

I agree with this comment. It’s definitely here and always has been. It just doesn’t make itself known by being obvious. And why should they, they literally have nothing to prove, especially not to a bunch of transplants.

How many generations does one need to live in DC to not be a transplant?

How many generations of wealth do you need to be "old money" according to you? I am wealthy first generation and spouse parents are wealthy so my grandkids or my kids are old money or my great grandlkids according to your standards?

I'm not the PP, but I would say "been here long enough that people forgot when you got here." That being said, there are a lot more of us here than you would think. My great grandmother was a DC socialite back in the day. I prefer to refer to myself as 3rd generation over it (it referring to the pretentious puffery). We don't like to tap strings to get into places, but since everyone has known us for ever we are "lucky enough" to always get in where we want to go...

Ew. Speaking of pretentious puffery. 🙄

Aaaaaannnnnd that's why we keep to ourselves and don't flash money...

😂😂 Exactly!

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:We are at Beauvoir and considering next steps.

We recognize that St Alban's and NCS are among the very best schools in DC but are struggling with the question of if these are in the environments we want to raise our kids.

I had friends in college who attended NCS and spoke about what a toxic environment it was - unhealthy competition, eating disorders. I remember thinking how glad I was this wasn't my experience. That was decades ago - is it better now?

We hear people rave about St. Alban's. But when we went on a tour it also felt a bit off to us. -- the high schoolers we interacted with on the tour seemed like great kids but all had this vibe of a bit neurotic and overwhelmed.

I have no doubt that these kids are getting excellent educations and learning how to navigate a high-achieving culture. But are these happy environments? Do kids emerge from schools well-adjusted and ready to thrive and enjoy life?

What do these schools do to actively support this healthy mindset, beyond teaching them to achieve academically?

Are there parents of kids at these school who have had similar doubts? Were those fears confirmed or were you pleasantly surprised?

Please do not respond if you have no experience with the school.

I find NCS and St Alban very strange. They pretend they still live in some traditional bubble from 100 years ago. But the building, the single sex, the location, and the tradition are so out of place in the current time. I got that they want to imitate Oxford or Cambridge. But they never really were contemporary. The Close feels so odd. Just a reminder: the National Cathedral was built in 1893. My grand-grandmother's chair was older.

Well, I find this statement (bolded) very strange. How is the location out of place in the current time? Single sex schools are more popular than ever, so you're wrong about that. And what "tradition" is so out of place in the current time?

Your entire post is based on personal feelings (a grudge?) that most people do not share.

First of all, the National Cathedral was built in modern times in a Gothic style. So, all of its associations are not part of a natural time.
All of the service, cathedral, and uniform are all things of the past. It is classic, maybe. But it is just so out of place in Teleytown.
Single sex schools are somewhat popular. Not than ever.

It’s not in Tenleytown. And only the youngest girls (4-6th grades) wear uniforms. The National Cathedral is one of the most progressive churches around. Weird comments to make when they’re not even accurate.

But the whole vibe is repressive and strange. Most progressive church. I just don't get why being on the Close is a good thing. Fake old building and tourist spot.

The oldest buildings are well over 100 years old. The cathedral itself, finished in the 1990s, is Gothic Revival. But I wouldn't call it fake.

Just a very vibe, old-man (though NCS is a woman) vibe of old money and power and glory to a certain past. No doubt the education is great. But I wonder how the students feel.

DC has little old money. Almost none in fact. Lots of interlopers and visitors have come though but nothing like NYC or Boston areas. Don’t make things up to drive your prejudices.

🤣never heard money talks and wealth whispers? There is tons of whispering in this city, you just probably aren't close enough to hear it.

I agree with this comment. It’s definitely here and always has been. It just doesn’t make itself known by being obvious. And why should they, they literally have nothing to prove, especially not to a bunch of transplants.

How many generations does one need to live in DC to not be a transplant?

How many generations of wealth do you need to be "old money" according to you? I am wealthy first generation and spouse parents are wealthy so my grandkids or my kids are old money or my great grandlkids according to your standards?

I'm not the PP, but I would say "been here long enough that people forgot when you got here." That being said, there are a lot more of us here than you would think. My great grandmother was a DC socialite back in the day. I prefer to refer to myself as 3rd generation over it (it referring to the pretentious puffery). We don't like to tap strings to get into places, but since everyone has known us for ever we are "lucky enough" to always get in where we want to go...

Ew. Speaking of pretentious puffery. 🙄

Aaaaaannnnnd that's why we keep to ourselves and don't flash money...

DP. Isn't boasting about how you can get in anywhere sort of "flashy?" Btw I have never had an issue getting in anywhere - anywhere. I guess we are "connected" but I do not think of that way? Are you saying others are not able to get in places? I am now generally curious.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:We are at Beauvoir and considering next steps.

We recognize that St Alban's and NCS are among the very best schools in DC but are struggling with the question of if these are in the environments we want to raise our kids.

I had friends in college who attended NCS and spoke about what a toxic environment it was - unhealthy competition, eating disorders. I remember thinking how glad I was this wasn't my experience. That was decades ago - is it better now?

We hear people rave about St. Alban's. But when we went on a tour it also felt a bit off to us. -- the high schoolers we interacted with on the tour seemed like great kids but all had this vibe of a bit neurotic and overwhelmed.

I have no doubt that these kids are getting excellent educations and learning how to navigate a high-achieving culture. But are these happy environments? Do kids emerge from schools well-adjusted and ready to thrive and enjoy life?

What do these schools do to actively support this healthy mindset, beyond teaching them to achieve academically?

Are there parents of kids at these school who have had similar doubts? Were those fears confirmed or were you pleasantly surprised?

Please do not respond if you have no experience with the school.

I find NCS and St Alban very strange. They pretend they still live in some traditional bubble from 100 years ago. But the building, the single sex, the location, and the tradition are so out of place in the current time. I got that they want to imitate Oxford or Cambridge. But they never really were contemporary. The Close feels so odd. Just a reminder: the National Cathedral was built in 1893. My grand-grandmother's chair was older.

Well, I find this statement (bolded) very strange. How is the location out of place in the current time? Single sex schools are more popular than ever, so you're wrong about that. And what "tradition" is so out of place in the current time?

Your entire post is based on personal feelings (a grudge?) that most people do not share.

First of all, the National Cathedral was built in modern times in a Gothic style. So, all of its associations are not part of a natural time.
All of the service, cathedral, and uniform are all things of the past. It is classic, maybe. But it is just so out of place in Teleytown.
Single sex schools are somewhat popular. Not than ever.

It’s not in Tenleytown. And only the youngest girls (4-6th grades) wear uniforms. The National Cathedral is one of the most progressive churches around. Weird comments to make when they’re not even accurate.

But the whole vibe is repressive and strange. Most progressive church. I just don't get why being on the Close is a good thing. Fake old building and tourist spot.

The oldest buildings are well over 100 years old. The cathedral itself, finished in the 1990s, is Gothic Revival. But I wouldn't call it fake.

Just a very vibe, old-man (though NCS is a woman) vibe of old money and power and glory to a certain past. No doubt the education is great. But I wonder how the students feel.

DC has little old money. Almost none in fact. Lots of interlopers and visitors have come though but nothing like NYC or Boston areas. Don’t make things up to drive your prejudices.

🤣never heard money talks and wealth whispers? There is tons of whispering in this city, you just probably aren't close enough to hear it.

I agree with this comment. It’s definitely here and always has been. It just doesn’t make itself known by being obvious. And why should they, they literally have nothing to prove, especially not to a bunch of transplants.

How many generations does one need to live in DC to not be a transplant?

How many generations of wealth do you need to be "old money" according to you? I am wealthy first generation and spouse parents are wealthy so my grandkids or my kids are old money or my great grandlkids according to your standards?

I'm not the PP, but I would say "been here long enough that people forgot when you got here." That being said, there are a lot more of us here than you would think. My great grandmother was a DC socialite back in the day. I prefer to refer to myself as 3rd generation over it (it referring to the pretentious puffery). We don't like to tap strings to get into places, but since everyone has known us for ever we are "lucky enough" to always get in where we want to go...

Ew. Speaking of pretentious puffery. 🙄

Aaaaaannnnnd that's why we keep to ourselves and don't flash money...

DP. Isn't boasting about how you can get in anywhere sort of "flashy?" Btw I have never had an issue getting in anywhere - anywhere. I guess we are "connected" but I do not think of that way? Are you saying others are not able to get in places? I am now generally curious.

Furthermore what kinds of places?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:We are at Beauvoir and considering next steps.

We recognize that St Alban's and NCS are among the very best schools in DC but are struggling with the question of if these are in the environments we want to raise our kids.

I had friends in college who attended NCS and spoke about what a toxic environment it was - unhealthy competition, eating disorders. I remember thinking how glad I was this wasn't my experience. That was decades ago - is it better now?

We hear people rave about St. Alban's. But when we went on a tour it also felt a bit off to us. -- the high schoolers we interacted with on the tour seemed like great kids but all had this vibe of a bit neurotic and overwhelmed.

I have no doubt that these kids are getting excellent educations and learning how to navigate a high-achieving culture. But are these happy environments? Do kids emerge from schools well-adjusted and ready to thrive and enjoy life?

What do these schools do to actively support this healthy mindset, beyond teaching them to achieve academically?

Are there parents of kids at these school who have had similar doubts? Were those fears confirmed or were you pleasantly surprised?

Please do not respond if you have no experience with the school.

I find NCS and St Alban very strange. They pretend they still live in some traditional bubble from 100 years ago. But the building, the single sex, the location, and the tradition are so out of place in the current time. I got that they want to imitate Oxford or Cambridge. But they never really were contemporary. The Close feels so odd. Just a reminder: the National Cathedral was built in 1893. My grand-grandmother's chair was older.

Well, I find this statement (bolded) very strange. How is the location out of place in the current time? Single sex schools are more popular than ever, so you're wrong about that. And what "tradition" is so out of place in the current time?

Your entire post is based on personal feelings (a grudge?) that most people do not share.

First of all, the National Cathedral was built in modern times in a Gothic style. So, all of its associations are not part of a natural time.
All of the service, cathedral, and uniform are all things of the past. It is classic, maybe. But it is just so out of place in Teleytown.
Single sex schools are somewhat popular. Not than ever.

It’s not in Tenleytown. And only the youngest girls (4-6th grades) wear uniforms. The National Cathedral is one of the most progressive churches around. Weird comments to make when they’re not even accurate.

But the whole vibe is repressive and strange. Most progressive church. I just don't get why being on the Close is a good thing. Fake old building and tourist spot.

The oldest buildings are well over 100 years old. The cathedral itself, finished in the 1990s, is Gothic Revival. But I wouldn't call it fake.

Just a very vibe, old-man (though NCS is a woman) vibe of old money and power and glory to a certain past. No doubt the education is great. But I wonder how the students feel.

DC has little old money. Almost none in fact. Lots of interlopers and visitors have come though but nothing like NYC or Boston areas. Don’t make things up to drive your prejudices.

🤣never heard money talks and wealth whispers? There is tons of whispering in this city, you just probably aren't close enough to hear it.

I agree with this comment. It’s definitely here and always has been. It just doesn’t make itself known by being obvious. And why should they, they literally have nothing to prove, especially not to a bunch of transplants.

How many generations does one need to live in DC to not be a transplant?

How many generations of wealth do you need to be "old money" according to you? I am wealthy first generation and spouse parents are wealthy so my grandkids or my kids are old money or my great grandlkids according to your standards?

I'm not the PP, but I would say "been here long enough that people forgot when you got here." That being said, there are a lot more of us here than you would think. My great grandmother was a DC socialite back in the day. I prefer to refer to myself as 3rd generation over it (it referring to the pretentious puffery). We don't like to tap strings to get into places, but since everyone has known us for ever we are "lucky enough" to always get in where we want to go...

Ew. Speaking of pretentious puffery. 🙄

Aaaaaannnnnd that's why we keep to ourselves and don't flash money...

DP. Isn't boasting about how you can get in anywhere sort of "flashy?" Btw I have never had an issue getting in anywhere - anywhere. I guess we are "connected" but I do not think of that way? Are you saying others are not able to get in places? I am now generally curious.

No, you are making this deeper than someone responding on an anonymous forum.

First of all no, I would never say it like that in real life, but I have also never been on the side of not getting in at places where people claim only "connected people get in." It could be sour grapes, but I don't take away from their potential lived experience, by discounting it as a possibility though.

Secondly the comment that started me responding to this thread was that it doesn't exist here and the intent of my response is simply to tell you that it does. We just don't talk about it outside people it is safe to talk about it with. Growing up here, that "ewww" response takes me back to high school where once people found out enough about who you were, they stopped engaging with you as a human and started engaging with you as something to be studied and used for their own gains. I am 100% serious when I say that I invited friends over I've had them say "oh are the rich guys all going to be there?" and I had friends tell me how expensive my bedroom carpet was or question me on why I had built in cabinets in my closet instead of a "normal closet." It makes you feel like they aren't really your friends.

Here I can be anonymous, answer the question being asked and when I hit send, I can go back to being a normal human. Your judgement doesn't stick to be as a person. People always want to know if it exists and I don't think it is fair to pretend it doesn't, but I also don't feel comfortable admitting it most of the time.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:We are at Beauvoir and considering next steps.

We recognize that St Alban's and NCS are among the very best schools in DC but are struggling with the question of if these are the environments we want to raise our kids.

I had friends in college who attended NCS and spoke about what a toxic environment it was - unhealthy competition, eating disorders. I remember thinking how glad I was this wasn't my experience. That was decades ago - is it better now?

We hear people rave about St. Alban's. But when we went on a tour it also felt a bit off to us. -- the high schoolers we interacted with on the tour seemed like great kids but all had this vibe of a bit neurotic and overwhelmed.

I have no doubt that these kids are getting excellent educations and learning how to navigate a high-achieving culture. But are these happy environments? Do kids emerge from schools well-adjusted and ready to thrive and enjoy life?

What do these schools do to actively support this healthy mindset, beyond teaching them to achieve academically?

Are there parents of kids at these school who have had similar doubts? Were those fears confirmed or were you pleasantly surprised?

Please do not respond if you have no experience with the school.

I find NCS and St Alban very strange. They pretend they still live in some traditional bubble from 100 years ago. But the building, the single sex, the location, and the tradition are so out of place in the current time. I got that they want to imitate Oxford or Cambridge. But they never really were contemporary. The Close feels so odd. Just a reminder: the National Cathedral was built in 1893. My grand-grandmother's chair was older.

Well, I find this statement (bolded) very strange. How is the location out of place in the current time? Single sex schools are more popular than ever, so you're wrong about that. And what "tradition" is so out of place in the current time?

Your entire post is based on personal feelings (a grudge?) that most people do not share.

First of all, the National Cathedral was built in modern times in a Gothic style. So, all of its associations are not part of a natural time.
All of the service, cathedral, and uniform are all things of the past. It is classic, maybe. But it is just so out of place in Teleytown.
Single sex schools are somewhat popular. Not than ever.

It’s not in Tenleytown. And only the youngest girls (4-6th grades) wear uniforms. The National Cathedral is one of the most progressive churches around. Weird comments to make when they’re not even accurate.

But the whole vibe is repressive and strange. Most progressive church. I just don't get why being on the Close is a good thing. Fake old building and tourist spot.

The oldest buildings are well over 100 years old. The cathedral itself, finished in the 1990s, is Gothic Revival. But I wouldn't call it fake.

Just a very vibe, old-man (though NCS is a woman) vibe of old money and power and glory to a certain past. No doubt the education is great. But I wonder how the students feel.

DC has little old money. Almost none in fact. Lots of interlopers and visitors have come though but nothing like NYC or Boston areas. Don’t make things up to drive your prejudices.

🤣never heard money talks and wealth whispers? There is tons of whispering in this city, you just probably aren't close enough to hear it.

Name names. The richest residents for the last 200 years came from somewhere else. The “old” money just watched them come in a push them around because the “old” money didn’t have the juice to do much about it. Because this never was a town of native old money. While some of the descendants of the 18th century wealthy families are still around, most of them are hustling to get by these days. Meanwhile, since the beginning, the likes of Vanderbilts, Dodges, Rockerfellers, Merriweather Posts, McLeans, etc etc etc up to the Bezos types, have showed up in town and rolled the likes of Charles Carroll Glover as if they were mere clerks. And don’t act like you are aware of some inside scoop and I am not.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:We are at Beauvoir and considering next steps.

We recognize that St Alban's and NCS are among the very best schools in DC but are struggling with the question of if these are the environments we want to raise our kids.

I had friends in college who attended NCS and spoke about what a toxic environment it was - unhealthy competition, eating disorders. I remember thinking how glad I was this wasn't my experience. That was decades ago - is it better now?

We hear people rave about St. Alban's. But when we went on a tour it also felt a bit off to us. -- the high schoolers we interacted with on the tour seemed like great kids but all had this vibe of a bit neurotic and overwhelmed.

I have no doubt that these kids are getting excellent educations and learning how to navigate a high-achieving culture. But are these happy environments? Do kids emerge from schools well-adjusted and ready to thrive and enjoy life?

What do these schools do to actively support this healthy mindset, beyond teaching them to achieve academically?

Are there parents of kids at these school who have had similar doubts? Were those fears confirmed or were you pleasantly surprised?

Please do not respond if you have no experience with the school.

I find NCS and St Alban very strange. They pretend they still live in some traditional bubble from 100 years ago. But the building, the single sex, the location, and the tradition are so out of place in the current time. I got that they want to imitate Oxford or Cambridge. But they never really were contemporary. The Close feels so odd. Just a reminder: the National Cathedral was built in 1893. My grand-grandmother's chair was older.

Well, I find this statement (bolded) very strange. How is the location out of place in the current time? Single sex schools are more popular than ever, so you're wrong about that. And what "tradition" is so out of place in the current time?

Your entire post is based on personal feelings (a grudge?) that most people do not share.

First of all, the National Cathedral was built in modern times in a Gothic style. So, all of its associations are not part of a natural time.
All of the service, cathedral, and uniform are all things of the past. It is classic, maybe. But it is just so out of place in Teleytown.
Single sex schools are somewhat popular. Not than ever.

It’s not in Tenleytown. And only the youngest girls (4-6th grades) wear uniforms. The National Cathedral is one of the most progressive churches around. Weird comments to make when they’re not even accurate.

But the whole vibe is repressive and strange. Most progressive church. I just don't get why being on the Close is a good thing. Fake old building and tourist spot.

The oldest buildings are well over 100 years old. The cathedral itself, finished in the 1990s, is Gothic Revival. But I wouldn't call it fake.

Just a very vibe, old-man (though NCS is a woman) vibe of old money and power and glory to a certain past. No doubt the education is great. But I wonder how the students feel.

DC has little old money. Almost none in fact. Lots of interlopers and visitors have come though but nothing like NYC or Boston areas. Don’t make things up to drive your prejudices.

🤣never heard money talks and wealth whispers? There is tons of whispering in this city, you just probably aren't close enough to hear it.

Name names. The richest residents for the last 200 years came from somewhere else. The “old” money just watched them come in a push them around because the “old” money didn’t have the juice to do much about it. Because this never was a town of native old money. While some of the descendants of the 18th century wealthy families are still around, most of them are hustling to get by these days. Meanwhile, since the beginning, the likes of Vanderbilts, Dodges, Rockerfellers, Merriweather Posts, McLeans, etc etc etc up to the Bezos types, have showed up in town and rolled the likes of Charles Carroll Glover as if they were mere clerks. And don’t act like you are aware of some inside scoop and I am not.

THIS! This forum is so enamored with the idea that there's this secret club of old money folks running around this area (that you'd never know about because they drive Fords and never buy new clothing) and it's not true. Most wealthy people live like wealthy people for one, and two, in DC there are not that many old families that have been able to keep their wealth. The intersection of the wealthiest families in DC and "old money" families is like 3.