Transferring from WIS to another school

[Anonymous]

We have been advised that if we send our child to WIS, it may be difficult to transfer to another school (say, in 3rd or 6th grade) if we decide that WIS is not right for us--just b/c the language immersion aspect makes WIS so different from other independent schools. Can anyone shed light on this issue based on personal experience?

[adelij]

We are considering WIS for my DS in 2009 and just went to an open house, so I'm not an expert but my takeaway is that if WIS is not the right fit for 6th - 12th grade, I dont think the language would be the main transition difficulty - remember they are at 50% language classes from 1st on. My thought is that any transition would be as difficult going from any school. The language skills your child acquired could only help them and if you were going to another private school, they tend to have pretty extensive - although not immersion - language classes.

Basically, they would be getting a world class education and language skills that could help them anywhere. Probably more of a consideration is moving from the IB program to another school that doesnt use it, or just generally looking for a school with the same 'vibe' or progressive/world view approach to education.

The WIS admissions dept seems quite honest, and although you dont want to show them you are not committed thru 12th grade, they surely recognize its not a fit for all students, and could address your concerns w/out it reflecting on your admissions app.

Good luck - keep me posted as another WIS interested party!