Dissatisfied with School Choice

[Anonymous]

We're not happy and are increasingly frustrated with where DC currently is enrolled. We are now looking at single-sex, more traditional schools. The school we prefer starts in 4th, though there are options for other single-sex traditional schools in earlier grades. We don't know if we should hang on a few more years in hopes of being admitted to our preferred school or get out of our current school now, which is most definitely not the right fit for DC. Any advice?

[Anonymous]

could you give us a little more info? like dc or maryland, boy or girl, in what ways is your current school not a good fit, grade of child now. then perhaps those of us with experience or insight can help out more. thanks.

[Anonymous]

We're looking at schools in DC and Maryland. The current school is ultra liberal and is probably better suited for a child who isn't easily distracted (there are lots of distractions) and works well independently. Our DC is focused and highly motivated if the material or topic is interesting, but not so much if bored. DC needs a more engaging environment with more structure.

Thanks.

[Anonymous]

i wouldn't stay for sure. Are there religious schools nearby that might work? They tend to be more traditional.

[Anonymous]

Here are some questions I would think about:
Is the frustration on your part or on your son's? One or two more years is a huge percentage of his life, and I would move him soon if he is unhappy. But if it is your frustration, it's a much smaller percentage of your life, and you might be able to grin and bear it.
Is the mismatch causing sub-par performance? He will have a better shot at getting into the school of your choice with a strong academic record. If he isn't performing well where he is, that would be an argument for an early switch.
How do the different aspects of the current school weigh for you? If you're ok with the academics but uncomfortable with the liberal atmosphere, that could be a put-up-with-it situation, or a move-him-now-we-don't-like-what-he's-learning situation.

[Anonymous]

If you are planning to apply out now, rather than waiting for a later entrypoint year, you may have a hard time getting into other schools. Your current school may be unhappy to see your child leave and less understanding if you apply out multiple years in a row. You may want to consider waiting to apply out until the school you really desire has an entry year (4th grade).

[Anonymous]

Look at Landon. It starts in 3rd grade and is great for boys like your son.

[Anonymous]

My son is thriving at Landon