Sidwell v. GDS

[Anonymous]

My son, who went to a DC public elementary school, was planning to start 7th grade at GDS in the fall. He just got into Sidwell off the waitlist. I know they're both great schools but we're trying to decide between the two. The following is important to us: diversity, emphasis on social/emotional growth, not being overloaded with academics in high school, liberal values etc. I've heard that both schools can be pressure cookers and that GDS has had issues with drugs in the high school. We want our son to be challenged but not to be stressed out. We also don't want him to be overwhelmed by "entitled" kids of SUV-driving parents. Any thoughts from those who have children at these 2 schools?

[Anonymous]

You're going to run into all those problems at both these schools. Both schools will have a heavy high school workload, both will have problems with drugs, both will try to emphasize social and emotional growth, both will have liberal values. Both of these schools have wealthy and entitled kids.

I think these are all important things to consider but you won't find much difference between any of the private schools on these issues. I think it comes down to your gut level reaction to the culture of the school. I know there are plenty of parents who will say certain schools are for this or that kind of kid, but I find that you can't really pigeonhole in the abstract. you just have to look at the school and picture your child there.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:We also don't want him to be overwhelmed by "entitled" kids of SUV-driving parents. Any thoughts from those who have children at these 2 schools?

I just wanted to point out that you kind of set yourself up for defensive/combative responses since you criticize the very parents from whom you are seeking information. I hope you get the information you need - but, more importantly, I hope your apparent attitude does not impact your child's experience of his time at one of these schools.

[Anonymous]

I agree with pp. It is those comments that cause trouble.
That said, I have heard a number of parents and kids who complained about both schools a lot. At Sidwell, it is mostly minority parents that I have had heard complain. ( I am a a member of a minority group)
The complaints about GDS are more pervasive.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:My son, who went to a DC public elementary school, was planning to start 7th grade at GDS in the fall. He just got into Sidwell off the waitlist. I know they're both great schools but we're trying to decide between the two. The following is important to us: diversity, emphasis on social/emotional growth, not being overloaded with academics in high school, liberal values etc. I've heard that both schools can be pressure cookers and that GDS has had issues with drugs in the high school. We want our son to be challenged but not to be stressed out. We also don't want him to be overwhelmed by "entitled" kids of SUV-driving parents. Any thoughts from those who have children at these 2 schools?

Are you African-American? If so, stay with GDS.

[Anonymous]

Unless you are willing to pay 2 tuitions, you may not have a choice except to stay with GDS. GDS's binding date is June 1 which means that there is a high likelihood that they will not let you out of your contract. Before you invest too much emotion into this decision, I would call GDS and see what your options really are.

[Anonymous]

I would only add that there are extracurricular and off-campus (abroad) programs through the schools. You may want to see what the philosophy and opportunities available might be.

As others have noted, both schools may have issues with some of the concerns you express. I am not sure what you would expect from rigorous high schools -- there is a lot expected academically. Your child would not have been admitted if the admissions offices didn't think they could handle it.

Drugs etc. are going to be present everywhere as are the other societal vices.

I am not touching the self-entitled SUV driving family thing. If that is your attitude going in, then these may not be the right institutions for you. (I can't speak to your child, but your attitudes will filter to your child).

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:My son, who went to a DC public elementary school, was planning to start 7th grade at GDS in the fall. He just got into Sidwell off the waitlist. I know they're both great schools but we're trying to decide between the two. The following is important to us: diversity, emphasis on social/emotional growth, not being overloaded with academics in high school, liberal values etc. I've heard that both schools can be pressure cookers and that GDS has had issues with drugs in the high school. We want our son to be challenged but not to be stressed out. We also don't want him to be overwhelmed by "entitled" kids of SUV-driving parents. Any thoughts from those who have children at these 2 schools?

I've heard of GDS's drug problem (I think almost always marijuana). But Sidwell, also?

[Anonymous]

Your experience with the school will depend on the cohort that your child will land into. My kids went to two top tier schools and we had a horrible social experience at both. We are a minority family. We moved one to a less pretentious private school and life totally changed for us: welcoming and exclusive community. Top schools are very arrogant and feel entitled. They only care about your family if your child is either a genious or your family is giving tons of money.

[Anonymous]

Your kid will do well in either one.
So choose the one that has the shortest commute.
What does your ds think? Let him choose

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Your kid will do well in either one.
So choose the one that has the shortest commute.
What does your ds think? Let him choose

Best reply on this thread - if the commute is the same then toss a coin.

[Anonymous]

I think there are more academic opportunities at Sidwell.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I think there are more academic opportunities at Sidwell.

A bit late to the discussion. I'm sure OP has made a decision. But curious as to why you think there are more academic opportunities at Sidwell. Thanks.

[Anonymous]

Sidwell, with the exception of STA/NCS, is the only DC private with national name recognition. If truly a tie between Sidwell and GDS, go with Sidwell for this fact alone.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Sidwell, with the exception of STA/NCS, is the only DC private with national name recognition. If truly a tie between Sidwell and GDS, go with Sidwell for this fact alone.

This is so misguided.