What is the most elite NYC preschool?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:
Can you explain how a preschool would prioritize prepping for private K?

NP - It comes from the parents and not the preschool. When you start hearing about 4 year olds that can read, you start to worry whether your child is falling behind. Some preschools are play-based learning so the director will tell you not to worry and all childrens will learn to read soon enough in K. You start to feel the need to supplement outside the preschool.

TTs want smart kids not prepped kids. Beyond being smart there are obviously other qualities that matter. I would focus more on making sure the kid is curious, enjoys learning, has a great personality, communicates well with peer and adults, and can control emotions well. Rather than teaching math or reading early.

m


Agree. Great advice. Let them love learning and it will all fall into place. Have faith in your child and their personality.

Exactly, best gift we can give them is a happy childhood. It will all fall into place. Counter to some common perceptions, most TTs put more weight in evaluating the kids themselves than anything else, so really for the right kid it doesn’t matter if it’s TT preschool, no name preschool, public preschool, your child will shine no matter any of that.

I second this. Based on my observation of my kids’ classmates at TT school. When my kids were in K, their K class had a decent number of kids from public schools or no name preschools. Some of them were clearly academically advanced but some were not. But what I noticed all of them had were the qualities where I can see them doing well in any setting. They were engaged, social, knew how to listen directions, curious, and etc.That made me think that these admissions people know what they are doing.

Let your kid shine. Just don’t get in the way by being obnoxious or annoying parent during the tour or interview:

Exactly this. Schools don't want parents who think they can force some kind of outcome for their kid. It risks becoming a nightmare later on.

My kid got into a "TT" school too and they stressed during the admitted parents event that reading is not required heading into K. They try and pick out what the above poster called out: bright, curious, engaged.

I was the first one to not care about tiers but simply making my DC happy and give them tools and enablement to thrive because I noticed their eagerness to learn. We enrolled in a non-feeder independent private play-based preschool. My DC is a force of nature in a good way and now at a TT K getting amazing feedback about their attention, engagement levels, and being made an example in class by their teachers.

My DC got 2 acceptances in K from TT single gender schools and none from coeds. We were still happy with the outcome and our 1st choice came through but that made me start thinking whether coming in as an unconnected family from a non-feeder might not be the best approach for my 2nd DC who is very different from the 1st. Our PSD while lovely is quite new with no strong ties or experience in exmissions, we had to do this process a lot by ourselves last year and it ran us to the ground with much stress involved and surprises. I’m worried how this might go for my very introverted 2nd DC so I wonder if I should look into feeders for them. What would you do in my case?

You guys sound awesome! Happy it worked out for DC. I'm the poster who is strongly considering picking a non-feeder (awaiting preschool results at end of this month). Do you mind sharing what you mean by "we had to do this process a lot by ourselves last year and it ran us to the ground with much stress involved and surprises"? We would also love to target SS schools like a Collegiate or St Bernard's eventually.

Sure and thanks! So I started overly relaxed being the European I am and finding all this a madness. I witnessed the madness in the open houses and laughed secretly with my spouse that we’re no those people and we’ll be fine, we trust our DC and us to have a solid outcome.

I didn’t get any input on my school list when I presented it to my PSD, which is fine I guess. My PSD didn’t provide any tips or advice other than hand holding which I’ll also take. It was clear they didn’t know the schools much other than some intro events these schools host for PSDs. There was zero input or connecting me with other alumni to get insight because there were no other alumni in those TT schools other than pre-pandemic here and there. I had to rally and own it up to collect insights beyond my own visits. There was no feedback coming in either and when I pushed to get them to obtain some it was very unclear and vague in most cases. When my PSD asked those unclear schools to come visit they said no. The results were 2 very strong acceptances out of the 8 we applied and a couple waitlists. Another example, on decision day I had no idea what we’re getting, my PSD knew a bit earlier and was happy but wouldn’t tell me. Then all the rejections were coming in and the 2 acceptances came in last so that’s where I struggled mentally. I’d like to have some more pointers and insights on round 2.

We initially were going to put more effort in coed schools because we have 2 different gender kids. But after touring we steered and liked the SS ones more for our DC. So it’s only inconvenient that we have to go through this again otherwise very much worth it.
If your PSD is strong and has knowledge and experience you will be totally fine from a nonfeeder and usually I’ve heard can work for their favor. Although I do see large number concentration of certain preschools at my DC’s K which advisors would say “they can’t get too many from one feeder.” It seems like the opposite to me so far but maybe things change each year.

[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:
Can you explain how a preschool would prioritize prepping for private K?

NP - It comes from the parents and not the preschool. When you start hearing about 4 year olds that can read, you start to worry whether your child is falling behind. Some preschools are play-based learning so the director will tell you not to worry and all childrens will learn to read soon enough in K. You start to feel the need to supplement outside the preschool.

TTs want smart kids not prepped kids. Beyond being smart there are obviously other qualities that matter. I would focus more on making sure the kid is curious, enjoys learning, has a great personality, communicates well with peer and adults, and can control emotions well. Rather than teaching math or reading early.

m


Agree. Great advice. Let them love learning and it will all fall into place. Have faith in your child and their personality.

Exactly, best gift we can give them is a happy childhood. It will all fall into place. Counter to some common perceptions, most TTs put more weight in evaluating the kids themselves than anything else, so really for the right kid it doesn’t matter if it’s TT preschool, no name preschool, public preschool, your child will shine no matter any of that.

I second this. Based on my observation of my kids’ classmates at TT school. When my kids were in K, their K class had a decent number of kids from public schools or no name preschools. Some of them were clearly academically advanced but some were not. But what I noticed all of them had were the qualities where I can see them doing well in any setting. They were engaged, social, knew how to listen directions, curious, and etc.That made me think that these admissions people know what they are doing.

Let your kid shine. Just don’t get in the way by being obnoxious or annoying parent during the tour or interview:

Exactly this. Schools don't want parents who think they can force some kind of outcome for their kid. It risks becoming a nightmare later on.

My kid got into a "TT" school too and they stressed during the admitted parents event that reading is not required heading into K. They try and pick out what the above poster called out: bright, curious, engaged.

I was the first one to not care about tiers but simply making my DC happy and give them tools and enablement to thrive because I noticed their eagerness to learn. We enrolled in a non-feeder independent private play-based preschool. My DC is a force of nature in a good way and now at a TT K getting amazing feedback about their attention, engagement levels, and being made an example in class by their teachers.

My DC got 2 acceptances in K from TT single gender schools and none from coeds. We were still happy with the outcome and our 1st choice came through but that made me start thinking whether coming in as an unconnected family from a non-feeder might not be the best approach for my 2nd DC who is very different from the 1st. Our PSD while lovely is quite new with no strong ties or experience in exmissions, we had to do this process a lot by ourselves last year and it ran us to the ground with much stress involved and surprises. I’m worried how this might go for my very introverted 2nd DC so I wonder if I should look into feeders for them. What would you do in my case?

Sounds like they are different gender?

Exactly

You should pat on your back for navigating the process with such great outcome with the first one. You will feel less stressed when doing it again. I think even for people working with an experienced director there might still be surprises along the way. Even though you won’t have legacy priority I think these schools especially the SS schools all talk to each other and the fact your older dc got into a TT SS in the opposite sex should help your second dc as well. I personally would prefer to maintain a long term relationship with the preschool director (probably better recommendation that comes out of it) vs. going to a new school a few months before starting the applications. I don’t think being introverted is a deal breaker at all. I’m sure you will have great outcome for your second dc regardless.

Thank you for your pov and yes we did feel proud for navigating this stressful process and having a good outcome. I’m counting also on the perception we might give 2nd time around that due to my first DC we have it together and attends a coveted school. Introvert is not a bad thing at all and I know that admissions want different personalities. The only feedback I got for my first DC when it wasn’t going to work out (1-2 times) was that they weren’t being social and were keeping to themselves, that DC is my extroverted one but probably became shy on that setting and day, I can’t imagine what they would say for my 2nd DC who is always curling up with a book in a corner, prefers to avoid interacting but has brilliant answers when someone peals back those layers. They’re my little one so not yet applying to K for a few more years, so was debating starting them fresh with at a new school and PSD.

Can you say which schools made the comment about not being social/keeping to themselves? Says a lot about the schools.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:
Can you explain how a preschool would prioritize prepping for private K?

NP - It comes from the parents and not the preschool. When you start hearing about 4 year olds that can read, you start to worry whether your child is falling behind. Some preschools are play-based learning so the director will tell you not to worry and all childrens will learn to read soon enough in K. You start to feel the need to supplement outside the preschool.

TTs want smart kids not prepped kids. Beyond being smart there are obviously other qualities that matter. I would focus more on making sure the kid is curious, enjoys learning, has a great personality, communicates well with peer and adults, and can control emotions well. Rather than teaching math or reading early.

m


Agree. Great advice. Let them love learning and it will all fall into place. Have faith in your child and their personality.

Exactly, best gift we can give them is a happy childhood. It will all fall into place. Counter to some common perceptions, most TTs put more weight in evaluating the kids themselves than anything else, so really for the right kid it doesn’t matter if it’s TT preschool, no name preschool, public preschool, your child will shine no matter any of that.

I second this. Based on my observation of my kids’ classmates at TT school. When my kids were in K, their K class had a decent number of kids from public schools or no name preschools. Some of them were clearly academically advanced but some were not. But what I noticed all of them had were the qualities where I can see them doing well in any setting. They were engaged, social, knew how to listen directions, curious, and etc.That made me think that these admissions people know what they are doing.

Let your kid shine. Just don’t get in the way by being obnoxious or annoying parent during the tour or interview:

Exactly this. Schools don't want parents who think they can force some kind of outcome for their kid. It risks becoming a nightmare later on.

My kid got into a "TT" school too and they stressed during the admitted parents event that reading is not required heading into K. They try and pick out what the above poster called out: bright, curious, engaged.

I was the first one to not care about tiers but simply making my DC happy and give them tools and enablement to thrive because I noticed their eagerness to learn. We enrolled in a non-feeder independent private play-based preschool. My DC is a force of nature in a good way and now at a TT K getting amazing feedback about their attention, engagement levels, and being made an example in class by their teachers.

My DC got 2 acceptances in K from TT single gender schools and none from coeds. We were still happy with the outcome and our 1st choice came through but that made me start thinking whether coming in as an unconnected family from a non-feeder might not be the best approach for my 2nd DC who is very different from the 1st. Our PSD while lovely is quite new with no strong ties or experience in exmissions, we had to do this process a lot by ourselves last year and it ran us to the ground with much stress involved and surprises. I’m worried how this might go for my very introverted 2nd DC so I wonder if I should look into feeders for them. What would you do in my case?

You guys sound awesome! Happy it worked out for DC. I'm the poster who is strongly considering picking a non-feeder (awaiting preschool results at end of this month). Do you mind sharing what you mean by "we had to do this process a lot by ourselves last year and it ran us to the ground with much stress involved and surprises"? We would also love to target SS schools like a Collegiate or St Bernard's eventually.

Sure and thanks! So I started overly relaxed being the European I am and finding all this a madness. I witnessed the madness in the open houses and laughed secretly with my spouse that we’re no those people and we’ll be fine, we trust our DC and us to have a solid outcome.

I didn’t get any input on my school list when I presented it to my PSD, which is fine I guess. My PSD didn’t provide any tips or advice other than hand holding which I’ll also take. It was clear they didn’t know the schools much other than some intro events these schools host for PSDs. There was zero input or connecting me with other alumni to get insight because there were no other alumni in those TT schools other than pre-pandemic here and there. I had to rally and own it up to collect insights beyond my own visits. There was no feedback coming in either and when I pushed to get them to obtain some it was very unclear and vague in most cases. When my PSD asked those unclear schools to come visit they said no. The results were 2 very strong acceptances out of the 8 we applied and a couple waitlists. Another example, on decision day I had no idea what we’re getting, my PSD knew a bit earlier and was happy but wouldn’t tell me. Then all the rejections were coming in and the 2 acceptances came in last so that’s where I struggled mentally. I’d like to have some more pointers and insights on round 2.

We initially were going to put more effort in coed schools because we have 2 different gender kids. But after touring we steered and liked the SS ones more for our DC. So it’s only inconvenient that we have to go through this again otherwise very much worth it.
If your PSD is strong and has knowledge and experience you will be totally fine from a nonfeeder and usually I’ve heard can work for their favor. Although I do see large number concentration of certain preschools at my DC’s K which advisors would say “they can’t get too many from one feeder.” It seems like the opposite to me so far but maybe things change each year.

Given you have one DC in at a good school already, one other option is to just ask your current school's admissions director how separate DC at another school is seen.

I strongly believe you get at least some additional weighting during the process, as one thing I've come to understand is that schools prefer parents that "get it." Part of this is expressed in legacy + sibling preferences, but beyond that they look for other signals too. And if you've been a collaborative, non-dramatic parent at one other known DC, that sends a very strong signal that you're likely going to be a good partner at any other schools you apply your other DC to.

And who knows, your admissions director might confirm that they all do talk to each other! Which may help put your mind at ease too.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:
Can you explain how a preschool would prioritize prepping for private K?

NP - It comes from the parents and not the preschool. When you start hearing about 4 year olds that can read, you start to worry whether your child is falling behind. Some preschools are play-based learning so the director will tell you not to worry and all childrens will learn to read soon enough in K. You start to feel the need to supplement outside the preschool.

TTs want smart kids not prepped kids. Beyond being smart there are obviously other qualities that matter. I would focus more on making sure the kid is curious, enjoys learning, has a great personality, communicates well with peer and adults, and can control emotions well. Rather than teaching math or reading early.

m


Agree. Great advice. Let them love learning and it will all fall into place. Have faith in your child and their personality.

Exactly, best gift we can give them is a happy childhood. It will all fall into place. Counter to some common perceptions, most TTs put more weight in evaluating the kids themselves than anything else, so really for the right kid it doesn’t matter if it’s TT preschool, no name preschool, public preschool, your child will shine no matter any of that.

I second this. Based on my observation of my kids’ classmates at TT school. When my kids were in K, their K class had a decent number of kids from public schools or no name preschools. Some of them were clearly academically advanced but some were not. But what I noticed all of them had were the qualities where I can see them doing well in any setting. They were engaged, social, knew how to listen directions, curious, and etc.That made me think that these admissions people know what they are doing.

Let your kid shine. Just don’t get in the way by being obnoxious or annoying parent during the tour or interview:

Exactly this. Schools don't want parents who think they can force some kind of outcome for their kid. It risks becoming a nightmare later on.

My kid got into a "TT" school too and they stressed during the admitted parents event that reading is not required heading into K. They try and pick out what the above poster called out: bright, curious, engaged.

I was the first one to not care about tiers but simply making my DC happy and give them tools and enablement to thrive because I noticed their eagerness to learn. We enrolled in a non-feeder independent private play-based preschool. My DC is a force of nature in a good way and now at a TT K getting amazing feedback about their attention, engagement levels, and being made an example in class by their teachers.

My DC got 2 acceptances in K from TT single gender schools and none from coeds. We were still happy with the outcome and our 1st choice came through but that made me start thinking whether coming in as an unconnected family from a non-feeder might not be the best approach for my 2nd DC who is very different from the 1st. Our PSD while lovely is quite new with no strong ties or experience in exmissions, we had to do this process a lot by ourselves last year and it ran us to the ground with much stress involved and surprises. I’m worried how this might go for my very introverted 2nd DC so I wonder if I should look into feeders for them. What would you do in my case?

You guys sound awesome! Happy it worked out for DC. I'm the poster who is strongly considering picking a non-feeder (awaiting preschool results at end of this month). Do you mind sharing what you mean by "we had to do this process a lot by ourselves last year and it ran us to the ground with much stress involved and surprises"? We would also love to target SS schools like a Collegiate or St Bernard's eventually.

Sure and thanks! So I started overly relaxed being the European I am and finding all this a madness. I witnessed the madness in the open houses and laughed secretly with my spouse that we’re no those people and we’ll be fine, we trust our DC and us to have a solid outcome.

I didn’t get any input on my school list when I presented it to my PSD, which is fine I guess. My PSD didn’t provide any tips or advice other than hand holding which I’ll also take. It was clear they didn’t know the schools much other than some intro events these schools host for PSDs. There was zero input or connecting me with other alumni to get insight because there were no other alumni in those TT schools other than pre-pandemic here and there. I had to rally and own it up to collect insights beyond my own visits. There was no feedback coming in either and when I pushed to get them to obtain some it was very unclear and vague in most cases. When my PSD asked those unclear schools to come visit they said no. The results were 2 very strong acceptances out of the 8 we applied and a couple waitlists. Another example, on decision day I had no idea what we’re getting, my PSD knew a bit earlier and was happy but wouldn’t tell me. Then all the rejections were coming in and the 2 acceptances came in last so that’s where I struggled mentally. I’d like to have some more pointers and insights on round 2.

We initially were going to put more effort in coed schools because we have 2 different gender kids. But after touring we steered and liked the SS ones more for our DC. So it’s only inconvenient that we have to go through this again otherwise very much worth it.
If your PSD is strong and has knowledge and experience you will be totally fine from a nonfeeder and usually I’ve heard can work for their favor. Although I do see large number concentration of certain preschools at my DC’s K which advisors would say “they can’t get too many from one feeder.” It seems like the opposite to me so far but maybe things change each year.

Given you have one DC in at a good school already, one other option is to just ask your current school's admissions director how separate DC at another school is seen.

I strongly believe you get at least some additional weighting during the process, as one thing I've come to understand is that schools prefer parents that "get it." Part of this is expressed in legacy + sibling preferences, but beyond that they look for other signals too. And if you've been a collaborative, non-dramatic parent at one other known DC, that sends a very strong signal that you're likely going to be a good partner at any other schools you apply your other DC to.

And who knows, your admissions director might confirm that they all do talk to each other! Which may help put your mind at ease too.

I agree with this. Schools want parents who get it. They do not want any obnoxious parents. It seems like you (poster asking about their second dc) already get it. The ss you are interested for second dc will definitely note that your first dc is in opposite gender ss. That works for you in a big way.

[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:
Can you explain how a preschool would prioritize prepping for private K?

NP - It comes from the parents and not the preschool. When you start hearing about 4 year olds that can read, you start to worry whether your child is falling behind. Some preschools are play-based learning so the director will tell you not to worry and all childrens will learn to read soon enough in K. You start to feel the need to supplement outside the preschool.

TTs want smart kids not prepped kids. Beyond being smart there are obviously other qualities that matter. I would focus more on making sure the kid is curious, enjoys learning, has a great personality, communicates well with peer and adults, and can control emotions well. Rather than teaching math or reading early.

m


Agree. Great advice. Let them love learning and it will all fall into place. Have faith in your child and their personality.

Exactly, best gift we can give them is a happy childhood. It will all fall into place. Counter to some common perceptions, most TTs put more weight in evaluating the kids themselves than anything else, so really for the right kid it doesn’t matter if it’s TT preschool, no name preschool, public preschool, your child will shine no matter any of that.

I second this. Based on my observation of my kids’ classmates at TT school. When my kids were in K, their K class had a decent number of kids from public schools or no name preschools. Some of them were clearly academically advanced but some were not. But what I noticed all of them had were the qualities where I can see them doing well in any setting. They were engaged, social, knew how to listen directions, curious, and etc.That made me think that these admissions people know what they are doing.

Let your kid shine. Just don’t get in the way by being obnoxious or annoying parent during the tour or interview:

Exactly this. Schools don't want parents who think they can force some kind of outcome for their kid. It risks becoming a nightmare later on.

My kid got into a "TT" school too and they stressed during the admitted parents event that reading is not required heading into K. They try and pick out what the above poster called out: bright, curious, engaged.

I was the first one to not care about tiers but simply making my DC happy and give them tools and enablement to thrive because I noticed their eagerness to learn. We enrolled in a non-feeder independent private play-based preschool. My DC is a force of nature in a good way and now at a TT K getting amazing feedback about their attention, engagement levels, and being made an example in class by their teachers.

My DC got 2 acceptances in K from TT single gender schools and none from coeds. We were still happy with the outcome and our 1st choice came through but that made me start thinking whether coming in as an unconnected family from a non-feeder might not be the best approach for my 2nd DC who is very different from the 1st. Our PSD while lovely is quite new with no strong ties or experience in exmissions, we had to do this process a lot by ourselves last year and it ran us to the ground with much stress involved and surprises. I’m worried how this might go for my very introverted 2nd DC so I wonder if I should look into feeders for them. What would you do in my case?

You guys sound awesome! Happy it worked out for DC. I'm the poster who is strongly considering picking a non-feeder (awaiting preschool results at end of this month). Do you mind sharing what you mean by "we had to do this process a lot by ourselves last year and it ran us to the ground with much stress involved and surprises"? We would also love to target SS schools like a Collegiate or St Bernard's eventually.

Sure and thanks! So I started overly relaxed being the European I am and finding all this a madness. I witnessed the madness in the open houses and laughed secretly with my spouse that we’re no those people and we’ll be fine, we trust our DC and us to have a solid outcome.

I didn’t get any input on my school list when I presented it to my PSD, which is fine I guess. My PSD didn’t provide any tips or advice other than hand holding which I’ll also take. It was clear they didn’t know the schools much other than some intro events these schools host for PSDs. There was zero input or connecting me with other alumni to get insight because there were no other alumni in those TT schools other than pre-pandemic here and there. I had to rally and own it up to collect insights beyond my own visits. There was no feedback coming in either and when I pushed to get them to obtain some it was very unclear and vague in most cases. When my PSD asked those unclear schools to come visit they said no. The results were 2 very strong acceptances out of the 8 we applied and a couple waitlists. Another example, on decision day I had no idea what we’re getting, my PSD knew a bit earlier and was happy but wouldn’t tell me. Then all the rejections were coming in and the 2 acceptances came in last so that’s where I struggled mentally. I’d like to have some more pointers and insights on round 2.

We initially were going to put more effort in coed schools because we have 2 different gender kids. But after touring we steered and liked the SS ones more for our DC. So it’s only inconvenient that we have to go through this again otherwise very much worth it.
If your PSD is strong and has knowledge and experience you will be totally fine from a nonfeeder and usually I’ve heard can work for their favor. Although I do see large number concentration of certain preschools at my DC’s K which advisors would say “they can’t get too many from one feeder.” It seems like the opposite to me so far but maybe things change each year.

Given you have one DC in at a good school already, one other option is to just ask your current school's admissions director how separate DC at another school is seen.

I strongly believe you get at least some additional weighting during the process, as one thing I've come to understand is that schools prefer parents that "get it." Part of this is expressed in legacy + sibling preferences, but beyond that they look for other signals too. And if you've been a collaborative, non-dramatic parent at one other known DC, that sends a very strong signal that you're likely going to be a good partner at any other schools you apply your other DC to.

And who knows, your admissions director might confirm that they all do talk to each other! Which may help put your mind at ease too.

I agree with this. Schools want parents who get it. They do not want any obnoxious parents. It seems like you (poster asking about their second dc) already get it. The ss you are interested for second dc will definitely note that your first dc is in opposite gender ss. That works for you in a big way.

You may also have a leg up by simply sharing that you have firsthand knowledge of what SS education is like and value it for your second DC -- some schools may really value that for the "fit factor" aspect.

[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:
Can you explain how a preschool would prioritize prepping for private K?

NP - It comes from the parents and not the preschool. When you start hearing about 4 year olds that can read, you start to worry whether your child is falling behind. Some preschools are play-based learning so the director will tell you not to worry and all childrens will learn to read soon enough in K. You start to feel the need to supplement outside the preschool.

TTs want smart kids not prepped kids. Beyond being smart there are obviously other qualities that matter. I would focus more on making sure the kid is curious, enjoys learning, has a great personality, communicates well with peer and adults, and can control emotions well. Rather than teaching math or reading early.

m


Agree. Great advice. Let them love learning and it will all fall into place. Have faith in your child and their personality.

Exactly, best gift we can give them is a happy childhood. It will all fall into place. Counter to some common perceptions, most TTs put more weight in evaluating the kids themselves than anything else, so really for the right kid it doesn’t matter if it’s TT preschool, no name preschool, public preschool, your child will shine no matter any of that.

I second this. Based on my observation of my kids’ classmates at TT school. When my kids were in K, their K class had a decent number of kids from public schools or no name preschools. Some of them were clearly academically advanced but some were not. But what I noticed all of them had were the qualities where I can see them doing well in any setting. They were engaged, social, knew how to listen directions, curious, and etc.That made me think that these admissions people know what they are doing.

Let your kid shine. Just don’t get in the way by being obnoxious or annoying parent during the tour or interview:

Exactly this. Schools don't want parents who think they can force some kind of outcome for their kid. It risks becoming a nightmare later on.

My kid got into a "TT" school too and they stressed during the admitted parents event that reading is not required heading into K. They try and pick out what the above poster called out: bright, curious, engaged.

I was the first one to not care about tiers but simply making my DC happy and give them tools and enablement to thrive because I noticed their eagerness to learn. We enrolled in a non-feeder independent private play-based preschool. My DC is a force of nature in a good way and now at a TT K getting amazing feedback about their attention, engagement levels, and being made an example in class by their teachers.

My DC got 2 acceptances in K from TT single gender schools and none from coeds. We were still happy with the outcome and our 1st choice came through but that made me start thinking whether coming in as an unconnected family from a non-feeder might not be the best approach for my 2nd DC who is very different from the 1st. Our PSD while lovely is quite new with no strong ties or experience in exmissions, we had to do this process a lot by ourselves last year and it ran us to the ground with much stress involved and surprises. I’m worried how this might go for my very introverted 2nd DC so I wonder if I should look into feeders for them. What would you do in my case?

You guys sound awesome! Happy it worked out for DC. I'm the poster who is strongly considering picking a non-feeder (awaiting preschool results at end of this month). Do you mind sharing what you mean by "we had to do this process a lot by ourselves last year and it ran us to the ground with much stress involved and surprises"? We would also love to target SS schools like a Collegiate or St Bernard's eventually.

Sure and thanks! So I started overly relaxed being the European I am and finding all this a madness. I witnessed the madness in the open houses and laughed secretly with my spouse that we’re no those people and we’ll be fine, we trust our DC and us to have a solid outcome.

I didn’t get any input on my school list when I presented it to my PSD, which is fine I guess. My PSD didn’t provide any tips or advice other than hand holding which I’ll also take. It was clear they didn’t know the schools much other than some intro events these schools host for PSDs. There was zero input or connecting me with other alumni to get insight because there were no other alumni in those TT schools other than pre-pandemic here and there. I had to rally and own it up to collect insights beyond my own visits. There was no feedback coming in either and when I pushed to get them to obtain some it was very unclear and vague in most cases. When my PSD asked those unclear schools to come visit they said no. The results were 2 very strong acceptances out of the 8 we applied and a couple waitlists. Another example, on decision day I had no idea what we’re getting, my PSD knew a bit earlier and was happy but wouldn’t tell me. Then all the rejections were coming in and the 2 acceptances came in last so that’s where I struggled mentally. I’d like to have some more pointers and insights on round 2.

We initially were going to put more effort in coed schools because we have 2 different gender kids. But after touring we steered and liked the SS ones more for our DC. So it’s only inconvenient that we have to go through this again otherwise very much worth it.
If your PSD is strong and has knowledge and experience you will be totally fine from a nonfeeder and usually I’ve heard can work for their favor. Although I do see large number concentration of certain preschools at my DC’s K which advisors would say “they can’t get too many from one feeder.” It seems like the opposite to me so far but maybe things change each year.

Given you have one DC in at a good school already, one other option is to just ask your current school's admissions director how separate DC at another school is seen.

I strongly believe you get at least some additional weighting during the process, as one thing I've come to understand is that schools prefer parents that "get it." Part of this is expressed in legacy + sibling preferences, but beyond that they look for other signals too. And if you've been a collaborative, non-dramatic parent at one other known DC, that sends a very strong signal that you're likely going to be a good partner at any other schools you apply your other DC to.

And who knows, your admissions director might confirm that they all do talk to each other! Which may help put your mind at ease too.

I agree with this. Schools want parents who get it. They do not want any obnoxious parents. It seems like you (poster asking about their second dc) already get it. The ss you are interested for second dc will definitely note that your first dc is in opposite gender ss. That works for you in a big way.

You may also have a leg up by simply sharing that you have firsthand knowledge of what SS education is like and value it for your second DC -- some schools may really value that for the "fit factor" aspect.

All very fair points and what we’re capitalizing on for our 2nd DC. We truly appreciate the SS education and we plan on expressing that in the opposite gender SS when it’s time. Indeed showing that our first born is enrolled in one should be the proof. I have also wondered if my 2nd DC would be more of a coed fit as they grow, but I’ll cross that bridge when I get to it and seeing what kind of learner they will be.

[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:
Can you explain how a preschool would prioritize prepping for private K?

NP - It comes from the parents and not the preschool. When you start hearing about 4 year olds that can read, you start to worry whether your child is falling behind. Some preschools are play-based learning so the director will tell you not to worry and all childrens will learn to read soon enough in K. You start to feel the need to supplement outside the preschool.

TTs want smart kids not prepped kids. Beyond being smart there are obviously other qualities that matter. I would focus more on making sure the kid is curious, enjoys learning, has a great personality, communicates well with peer and adults, and can control emotions well. Rather than teaching math or reading early.

m


Agree. Great advice. Let them love learning and it will all fall into place. Have faith in your child and their personality.

Exactly, best gift we can give them is a happy childhood. It will all fall into place. Counter to some common perceptions, most TTs put more weight in evaluating the kids themselves than anything else, so really for the right kid it doesn’t matter if it’s TT preschool, no name preschool, public preschool, your child will shine no matter any of that.

I second this. Based on my observation of my kids’ classmates at TT school. When my kids were in K, their K class had a decent number of kids from public schools or no name preschools. Some of them were clearly academically advanced but some were not. But what I noticed all of them had were the qualities where I can see them doing well in any setting. They were engaged, social, knew how to listen directions, curious, and etc.That made me think that these admissions people know what they are doing.

Let your kid shine. Just don’t get in the way by being obnoxious or annoying parent during the tour or interview:

Exactly this. Schools don't want parents who think they can force some kind of outcome for their kid. It risks becoming a nightmare later on.

My kid got into a "TT" school too and they stressed during the admitted parents event that reading is not required heading into K. They try and pick out what the above poster called out: bright, curious, engaged.

I was the first one to not care about tiers but simply making my DC happy and give them tools and enablement to thrive because I noticed their eagerness to learn. We enrolled in a non-feeder independent private play-based preschool. My DC is a force of nature in a good way and now at a TT K getting amazing feedback about their attention, engagement levels, and being made an example in class by their teachers.

My DC got 2 acceptances in K from TT single gender schools and none from coeds. We were still happy with the outcome and our 1st choice came through but that made me start thinking whether coming in as an unconnected family from a non-feeder might not be the best approach for my 2nd DC who is very different from the 1st. Our PSD while lovely is quite new with no strong ties or experience in exmissions, we had to do this process a lot by ourselves last year and it ran us to the ground with much stress involved and surprises. I’m worried how this might go for my very introverted 2nd DC so I wonder if I should look into feeders for them. What would you do in my case?

Sounds like they are different gender?

Exactly

You should pat on your back for navigating the process with such great outcome with the first one. You will feel less stressed when doing it again. I think even for people working with an experienced director there might still be surprises along the way. Even though you won’t have legacy priority I think these schools especially the SS schools all talk to each other and the fact your older dc got into a TT SS in the opposite sex should help your second dc as well. I personally would prefer to maintain a long term relationship with the preschool director (probably better recommendation that comes out of it) vs. going to a new school a few months before starting the applications. I don’t think being introverted is a deal breaker at all. I’m sure you will have great outcome for your second dc regardless.

Thank you for your pov and yes we did feel proud for navigating this stressful process and having a good outcome. I’m counting also on the perception we might give 2nd time around that due to my first DC we have it together and attends a coveted school. Introvert is not a bad thing at all and I know that admissions want different personalities. The only feedback I got for my first DC when it wasn’t going to work out (1-2 times) was that they weren’t being social and were keeping to themselves, that DC is my extroverted one but probably became shy on that setting and day, I can’t imagine what they would say for my 2nd DC who is always curling up with a book in a corner, prefers to avoid interacting but has brilliant answers when someone peals back those layers. They’re my little one so not yet applying to K for a few more years, so was debating starting them fresh with at a new school and PSD.

Can you say which schools made the comment about not being social/keeping to themselves? Says a lot about the schools.

Sure one of them was Brearley and the other HM. Vastly different places with very few spots for unconnected families but for the latter I applied when I hadn’t toured SS yet so wanted to give coed a chance. The 2 direct competitors of Brearley wanted them.

[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:
Can you explain how a preschool would prioritize prepping for private K?

NP - It comes from the parents and not the preschool. When you start hearing about 4 year olds that can read, you start to worry whether your child is falling behind. Some preschools are play-based learning so the director will tell you not to worry and all childrens will learn to read soon enough in K. You start to feel the need to supplement outside the preschool.

TTs want smart kids not prepped kids. Beyond being smart there are obviously other qualities that matter. I would focus more on making sure the kid is curious, enjoys learning, has a great personality, communicates well with peer and adults, and can control emotions well. Rather than teaching math or reading early.

m


Agree. Great advice. Let them love learning and it will all fall into place. Have faith in your child and their personality.

Exactly, best gift we can give them is a happy childhood. It will all fall into place. Counter to some common perceptions, most TTs put more weight in evaluating the kids themselves than anything else, so really for the right kid it doesn’t matter if it’s TT preschool, no name preschool, public preschool, your child will shine no matter any of that.

I second this. Based on my observation of my kids’ classmates at TT school. When my kids were in K, their K class had a decent number of kids from public schools or no name preschools. Some of them were clearly academically advanced but some were not. But what I noticed all of them had were the qualities where I can see them doing well in any setting. They were engaged, social, knew how to listen directions, curious, and etc.That made me think that these admissions people know what they are doing.

Let your kid shine. Just don’t get in the way by being obnoxious or annoying parent during the tour or interview:

Exactly this. Schools don't want parents who think they can force some kind of outcome for their kid. It risks becoming a nightmare later on.

My kid got into a "TT" school too and they stressed during the admitted parents event that reading is not required heading into K. They try and pick out what the above poster called out: bright, curious, engaged.

I was the first one to not care about tiers but simply making my DC happy and give them tools and enablement to thrive because I noticed their eagerness to learn. We enrolled in a non-feeder independent private play-based preschool. My DC is a force of nature in a good way and now at a TT K getting amazing feedback about their attention, engagement levels, and being made an example in class by their teachers.

My DC got 2 acceptances in K from TT single gender schools and none from coeds. We were still happy with the outcome and our 1st choice came through but that made me start thinking whether coming in as an unconnected family from a non-feeder might not be the best approach for my 2nd DC who is very different from the 1st. Our PSD while lovely is quite new with no strong ties or experience in exmissions, we had to do this process a lot by ourselves last year and it ran us to the ground with much stress involved and surprises. I’m worried how this might go for my very introverted 2nd DC so I wonder if I should look into feeders for them. What would you do in my case?

You guys sound awesome! Happy it worked out for DC. I'm the poster who is strongly considering picking a non-feeder (awaiting preschool results at end of this month). Do you mind sharing what you mean by "we had to do this process a lot by ourselves last year and it ran us to the ground with much stress involved and surprises"? We would also love to target SS schools like a Collegiate or St Bernard's eventually.

Sure and thanks! So I started overly relaxed being the European I am and finding all this a madness. I witnessed the madness in the open houses and laughed secretly with my spouse that we’re no those people and we’ll be fine, we trust our DC and us to have a solid outcome.

I didn’t get any input on my school list when I presented it to my PSD, which is fine I guess. My PSD didn’t provide any tips or advice other than hand holding which I’ll also take. It was clear they didn’t know the schools much other than some intro events these schools host for PSDs. There was zero input or connecting me with other alumni to get insight because there were no other alumni in those TT schools other than pre-pandemic here and there. I had to rally and own it up to collect insights beyond my own visits. There was no feedback coming in either and when I pushed to get them to obtain some it was very unclear and vague in most cases. When my PSD asked those unclear schools to come visit they said no. The results were 2 very strong acceptances out of the 8 we applied and a couple waitlists. Another example, on decision day I had no idea what we’re getting, my PSD knew a bit earlier and was happy but wouldn’t tell me. Then all the rejections were coming in and the 2 acceptances came in last so that’s where I struggled mentally. I’d like to have some more pointers and insights on round 2.

We initially were going to put more effort in coed schools because we have 2 different gender kids. But after touring we steered and liked the SS ones more for our DC. So it’s only inconvenient that we have to go through this again otherwise very much worth it.
If your PSD is strong and has knowledge and experience you will be totally fine from a nonfeeder and usually I’ve heard can work for their favor. Although I do see large number concentration of certain preschools at my DC’s K which advisors would say “they can’t get too many from one feeder.” It seems like the opposite to me so far but maybe things change each year.

Given you have one DC in at a good school already, one other option is to just ask your current school's admissions director how separate DC at another school is seen.

I strongly believe you get at least some additional weighting during the process, as one thing I've come to understand is that schools prefer parents that "get it." Part of this is expressed in legacy + sibling preferences, but beyond that they look for other signals too. And if you've been a collaborative, non-dramatic parent at one other known DC, that sends a very strong signal that you're likely going to be a good partner at any other schools you apply your other DC to.

And who knows, your admissions director might confirm that they all do talk to each other! Which may help put your mind at ease too.

I agree with this. Schools want parents who get it. They do not want any obnoxious parents. It seems like you (poster asking about their second dc) already get it. The ss you are interested for second dc will definitely note that your first dc is in opposite gender ss. That works for you in a big way.

You may also have a leg up by simply sharing that you have firsthand knowledge of what SS education is like and value it for your second DC -- some schools may really value that for the "fit factor" aspect.

All very fair points and what we’re capitalizing on for our 2nd DC. We truly appreciate the SS education and we plan on expressing that in the opposite gender SS when it’s time. Indeed showing that our first born is enrolled in one should be the proof. I have also wondered if my 2nd DC would be more of a coed fit as they grow, but I’ll cross that bridge when I get to it and seeing what kind of learner they will be.

For what it is worth, my child is at a TT co-ed school, and in her class there are several boys with older sisters at SS schools. I do not personally know of any girls in her class with older brothers at SS schools, but they may exist too. This is all to say that you should free to apply to co-ed and single sex for your second child. No need to feel pigeon holed into SS.

[Anonymous]

Does anyone know why certain big name preschools like Episcopal, Brick and STMPG don’t publish anything about their exmissions like other good preschools do? Is it to keep it elusive or simply a matter of not keeping a very heavily updated website?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Does anyone know why certain big name preschools like Episcopal, Brick and STMPG don’t publish anything about their exmissions like other good preschools do? Is it to keep it elusive or simply a matter of not keeping a very heavily updated website?

From my observation, they don't want to market themselves based on exmissions rather than the child's development as it promotes the wrong values. The prestige and elegance comes from not making it feel transactional.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Just read Sophie Brickman's book Plays Well With Others to get a sense of how insane the whole feeder preschool aspiration is at the parent level.

Yes it's satire but she went through it herself (I think kids went to PCDS, she's also Brearley/Trinity alumna) so I'm guessing she draws upon a lot of real experience.

I haven’t read the book yet. I can only imagine the amount of insanity and delusions she must have seen over the years.

My kids went to one of the feeder preschools mentioned here, and I’ve seen enough of the ridiculous moments and entitled parents. Some are pretty entertaining while some are head scratchers, especially during the exmission and when the results are out. Some will go far overdrive to save face when they didn’t make it to their first choice.

One family was pretty sure their dc will make it to TT K but also applied to “safety” schools that they considered beneath them. They were arrogant and also brusque. I guess they didn’t get good feedbacks from some of the TT because they changed their tunes and would talk badly about TT and how they heard those schools are toxic. They didn’t seem to get how the school admissions people can smell their arrogance and sense of entitlement immediately.

In the end, they got waitlisted everywhere including their safety schools. Our PSD had to work hard. After the deadlines for deposit passed, the family got off the waitlist and made it to the safety school that they thought was beneath them. Instead of being grateful, in their typical fashion, they made sure they informed everyone that the school made a special exception to make space for their dc. It was truly smh moment.

Wow. Thanks for sharing.

It does seem stressful at some of these feeders. PCDS has like 30 kids apply to private (I am sure it is even more at WSMS- seemed like a large school). I really enjoyed PCDS during this admissions cycle (teachers and admin seemed exceptional) but it is clear that there are so many well connected people attending (authors, TV, celebs) (and who seem to be tight with the admin). If we got in, I am not sure how we (totally unconnected) would even be able to make a dent / stand out to advocate for our child. Every other kid seemed to be sibling of a Brearley, Collegiate or Trinity kid (slight exaggeration but not really).

I have heard people have been stressed about exmissions at Temple Emanu-El and 92NY, too, the past few years.

PCDS parent. Not everyone is connected as a sibling/legacy (we are, but we’re one of the few in our class) and the exmissions is pretty impressive. You are spot on about the teachers- they are impressive and the kids are very prepared for the kindergarten process (which can’t be said for every “top” preschool in my experience). Glad that came through in your admissions process!

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Just read Sophie Brickman's book Plays Well With Others to get a sense of how insane the whole feeder preschool aspiration is at the parent level.

Yes it's satire but she went through it herself (I think kids went to PCDS, she's also Brearley/Trinity alumna) so I'm guessing she draws upon a lot of real experience.

I haven’t read the book yet. I can only imagine the amount of insanity and delusions she must have seen over the years.

My kids went to one of the feeder preschools mentioned here, and I’ve seen enough of the ridiculous moments and entitled parents. Some are pretty entertaining while some are head scratchers, especially during the exmission and when the results are out. Some will go far overdrive to save face when they didn’t make it to their first choice.

One family was pretty sure their dc will make it to TT K but also applied to “safety” schools that they considered beneath them. They were arrogant and also brusque. I guess they didn’t get good feedbacks from some of the TT because they changed their tunes and would talk badly about TT and how they heard those schools are toxic. They didn’t seem to get how the school admissions people can smell their arrogance and sense of entitlement immediately.

In the end, they got waitlisted everywhere including their safety schools. Our PSD had to work hard. After the deadlines for deposit passed, the family got off the waitlist and made it to the safety school that they thought was beneath them. Instead of being grateful, in their typical fashion, they made sure they informed everyone that the school made a special exception to make space for their dc. It was truly smh moment.

Wow. Thanks for sharing.

It does seem stressful at some of these feeders. PCDS has like 30 kids apply to private (I am sure it is even more at WSMS- seemed like a large school). I really enjoyed PCDS during this admissions cycle (teachers and admin seemed exceptional) but it is clear that there are so many well connected people attending (authors, TV, celebs) (and who seem to be tight with the admin). If we got in, I am not sure how we (totally unconnected) would even be able to make a dent / stand out to advocate for our child. Every other kid seemed to be sibling of a Brearley, Collegiate or Trinity kid (slight exaggeration but not really).

I have heard people have been stressed about exmissions at Temple Emanu-El and 92NY, too, the past few years.

PCDS parent. Not everyone is connected as a sibling/legacy (we are, but we’re one of the few in our class) and the exmissions is pretty impressive. You are spot on about the teachers- they are impressive and the kids are very prepared for the kindergarten process (which can’t be said for every “top” preschool in my experience). Glad that came through in your admissions process!

Thanks for your insight.

Can you elaborate more on the preparation difference between preschools? What specifically are you observing that leads you to beleive PCDS is doing things better here than some other well-known schools?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Just read Sophie Brickman's book Plays Well With Others to get a sense of how insane the whole feeder preschool aspiration is at the parent level.

Yes it's satire but she went through it herself (I think kids went to PCDS, she's also Brearley/Trinity alumna) so I'm guessing she draws upon a lot of real experience.

I haven’t read the book yet. I can only imagine the amount of insanity and delusions she must have seen over the years.

My kids went to one of the feeder preschools mentioned here, and I’ve seen enough of the ridiculous moments and entitled parents. Some are pretty entertaining while some are head scratchers, especially during the exmission and when the results are out. Some will go far overdrive to save face when they didn’t make it to their first choice.

One family was pretty sure their dc will make it to TT K but also applied to “safety” schools that they considered beneath them. They were arrogant and also brusque. I guess they didn’t get good feedbacks from some of the TT because they changed their tunes and would talk badly about TT and how they heard those schools are toxic. They didn’t seem to get how the school admissions people can smell their arrogance and sense of entitlement immediately.

In the end, they got waitlisted everywhere including their safety schools. Our PSD had to work hard. After the deadlines for deposit passed, the family got off the waitlist and made it to the safety school that they thought was beneath them. Instead of being grateful, in their typical fashion, they made sure they informed everyone that the school made a special exception to make space for their dc. It was truly smh moment.

Wow. Thanks for sharing.

It does seem stressful at some of these feeders. PCDS has like 30 kids apply to private (I am sure it is even more at WSMS- seemed like a large school). I really enjoyed PCDS during this admissions cycle (teachers and admin seemed exceptional) but it is clear that there are so many well connected people attending (authors, TV, celebs) (and who seem to be tight with the admin). If we got in, I am not sure how we (totally unconnected) would even be able to make a dent / stand out to advocate for our child. Every other kid seemed to be sibling of a Brearley, Collegiate or Trinity kid (slight exaggeration but not really).

I have heard people have been stressed about exmissions at Temple Emanu-El and 92NY, too, the past few years.

PCDS parent. Not everyone is connected as a sibling/legacy (we are, but we’re one of the few in our class) and the exmissions is pretty impressive. You are spot on about the teachers- they are impressive and the kids are very prepared for the kindergarten process (which can’t be said for every “top” preschool in my experience). Glad that came through in your admissions process!

Thanks for your insight.

Can you elaborate more on the preparation difference between preschools? What specifically are you observing that leads you to beleive PCDS is doing things better here than some other well-known schools?

At this point in our we have friends that have been through every “top” preschool (UES, UWS, and downtown). They vent during the kindergarten process about how much prep they had to do themselves— hire tutors, sign up for Little Learning, etc. There’s more, but it would identify me. Let’s just say I’ve kept my ears open.

There are great preschools with great, well deserved reputations. And then there are preschools coasting on their name recognition and past lore.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Just read Sophie Brickman's book Plays Well With Others to get a sense of how insane the whole feeder preschool aspiration is at the parent level.

Yes it's satire but she went through it herself (I think kids went to PCDS, she's also Brearley/Trinity alumna) so I'm guessing she draws upon a lot of real experience.

I haven’t read the book yet. I can only imagine the amount of insanity and delusions she must have seen over the years.

My kids went to one of the feeder preschools mentioned here, and I’ve seen enough of the ridiculous moments and entitled parents. Some are pretty entertaining while some are head scratchers, especially during the exmission and when the results are out. Some will go far overdrive to save face when they didn’t make it to their first choice.

One family was pretty sure their dc will make it to TT K but also applied to “safety” schools that they considered beneath them. They were arrogant and also brusque. I guess they didn’t get good feedbacks from some of the TT because they changed their tunes and would talk badly about TT and how they heard those schools are toxic. They didn’t seem to get how the school admissions people can smell their arrogance and sense of entitlement immediately.

In the end, they got waitlisted everywhere including their safety schools. Our PSD had to work hard. After the deadlines for deposit passed, the family got off the waitlist and made it to the safety school that they thought was beneath them. Instead of being grateful, in their typical fashion, they made sure they informed everyone that the school made a special exception to make space for their dc. It was truly smh moment.

Wow. Thanks for sharing.

It does seem stressful at some of these feeders. PCDS has like 30 kids apply to private (I am sure it is even more at WSMS- seemed like a large school). I really enjoyed PCDS during this admissions cycle (teachers and admin seemed exceptional) but it is clear that there are so many well connected people attending (authors, TV, celebs) (and who seem to be tight with the admin). If we got in, I am not sure how we (totally unconnected) would even be able to make a dent / stand out to advocate for our child. Every other kid seemed to be sibling of a Brearley, Collegiate or Trinity kid (slight exaggeration but not really).

I have heard people have been stressed about exmissions at Temple Emanu-El and 92NY, too, the past few years.

PCDS parent. Not everyone is connected as a sibling/legacy (we are, but we’re one of the few in our class) and the exmissions is pretty impressive. You are spot on about the teachers- they are impressive and the kids are very prepared for the kindergarten process (which can’t be said for every “top” preschool in my experience). Glad that came through in your admissions process!

Thanks for your insight.

Can you elaborate more on the preparation difference between preschools? What specifically are you observing that leads you to beleive PCDS is doing things better here than some other well-known schools?

At this point in our we have friends that have been through every “top” preschool (UES, UWS, and downtown). They vent during the kindergarten process about how much prep they had to do themselves— hire tutors, sign up for Little Learning, etc. There’s more, but it would identify me. Let’s just say I’ve kept my ears open.

There are great preschools with great, well deserved reputations. And then there are preschools coasting on their name recognition and past lore.

Sorry, meant to say at this point in our *lives*

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Just read Sophie Brickman's book Plays Well With Others to get a sense of how insane the whole feeder preschool aspiration is at the parent level.

Yes it's satire but she went through it herself (I think kids went to PCDS, she's also Brearley/Trinity alumna) so I'm guessing she draws upon a lot of real experience.

I haven’t read the book yet. I can only imagine the amount of insanity and delusions she must have seen over the years.

My kids went to one of the feeder preschools mentioned here, and I’ve seen enough of the ridiculous moments and entitled parents. Some are pretty entertaining while some are head scratchers, especially during the exmission and when the results are out. Some will go far overdrive to save face when they didn’t make it to their first choice.

One family was pretty sure their dc will make it to TT K but also applied to “safety” schools that they considered beneath them. They were arrogant and also brusque. I guess they didn’t get good feedbacks from some of the TT because they changed their tunes and would talk badly about TT and how they heard those schools are toxic. They didn’t seem to get how the school admissions people can smell their arrogance and sense of entitlement immediately.

In the end, they got waitlisted everywhere including their safety schools. Our PSD had to work hard. After the deadlines for deposit passed, the family got off the waitlist and made it to the safety school that they thought was beneath them. Instead of being grateful, in their typical fashion, they made sure they informed everyone that the school made a special exception to make space for their dc. It was truly smh moment.

Wow. Thanks for sharing.

It does seem stressful at some of these feeders. PCDS has like 30 kids apply to private (I am sure it is even more at WSMS- seemed like a large school). I really enjoyed PCDS during this admissions cycle (teachers and admin seemed exceptional) but it is clear that there are so many well connected people attending (authors, TV, celebs) (and who seem to be tight with the admin). If we got in, I am not sure how we (totally unconnected) would even be able to make a dent / stand out to advocate for our child. Every other kid seemed to be sibling of a Brearley, Collegiate or Trinity kid (slight exaggeration but not really).

I have heard people have been stressed about exmissions at Temple Emanu-El and 92NY, too, the past few years.

PCDS parent. Not everyone is connected as a sibling/legacy (we are, but we’re one of the few in our class) and the exmissions is pretty impressive. You are spot on about the teachers- they are impressive and the kids are very prepared for the kindergarten process (which can’t be said for every “top” preschool in my experience). Glad that came through in your admissions process!

Thanks for your insight.

Can you elaborate more on the preparation difference between preschools? What specifically are you observing that leads you to beleive PCDS is doing things better here than some other well-known schools?

At this point in our we have friends that have been through every “top” preschool (UES, UWS, and downtown). They vent during the kindergarten process about how much prep they had to do themselves— hire tutors, sign up for Little Learning, etc. There’s more, but it would identify me. Let’s just say I’ve kept my ears open.

There are great preschools with great, well deserved reputations. And then there are preschools coasting on their name recognition and past lore.

Anyone have any thoughts on Little Learning? When I looked at it, seemed like overkill together with a good preschool? But maybe that’s an incorrect assumption.