getting into (we should be so lucky!) & turning down school-not 1st choice for LS but may be for MS

[Anonymous]

We're really torn about this. Our oldest is at a lovely, though not so high-pressured school for LS. We deliberately choose a low key school for him but expect we will want to move him for MS. Our youngest is now applying. I hope DC2 will get into the school at which DC1 is as well (similar scores, recs, playdates, etc) , but feel need to have back ups. One back up would be a more academically challenging school that we will definitely want to consider for MS/US. Given DC2's profile, there is some possibility he may get in, as the school starts at the grade for which he's applying. If DC2 is accepted at both schools (I know a long shot) and we turn down the more competitive school for the school where DC1 is, do we jeopardize our chances when we apply to that more competitive school for MS or US? Thanks for any advice/perspective.

[Anonymous]

Yes, you are

[Anonymous]

I don't think so, but I would explain to the school WHY you are declining (e.g., wanting both kids together for ES, etc.). I would also make a point of letting the other school know that they are your first choice - if your DS is a competitive candidate, they might assume you would choose the more competitive school and not offer you a space because of that.

[Anonymous]

We declined a school for DD for K and thene ended up sending her to the school we declined for 6-8th grade. Different needs by middle school and the school that wasnt quite right for K was perfect for 6-8