Progressive vs Traditional Schools

[Anonymous]

My DC who is going to middle school next year has narrowed down his choice to 2 schools after shadowing aat 4 differenct private schools. His first choice is a very traditional school and his 2nd choice is at the oppoisite end of the spectum as a very progressive school. I see my DC as a very artsy type of kid. He loves to draw, paint, play cello, and piano. He also is an excellent writer. On the other end he is very good and way above average in math and is in the GT math program at his current school. Math is not his favorite subject he prefers art and music. My DC plays travel soccer and is an excellent soccer and tennis player and that is is motivation for choosing school #1. That school is well known for their athletics. I personally thing he would thrive and his talents will really unfold at school #2. They are both so different in their approach to education. I don't know if at his age it should be his choice or mine. I guess I will have to wait until March to see which one he gets accepted to then go from there. My question which type of school is best for a child like this?

[Anonymous]

It sounds like you are blessed with a child who will truly do well in any scenario. Given that, if the admissions results don't decide the matter for you, I would be inclined to let him choose simply because it shows confidence in his ability to do so and would be a very empowering and supportive gesture on your part. Good luck!

[Anonymous]

Some schools that are known for athletics (Landon and St. Albans come to mind) also have very strong art and music programs.

[Anonymous]

OP here. Yes school #1 does have an instinsive arts and instumental music program but it is still a very traditional feel. For some reason I think my son who do better in school #2. He really wants to go to school #1 so I do hope he gets in but it is a very hard school to get into. THe acceptenece rate at school #1 is only 22% for 6th grade. and it is 46% at school #2 for 6th grade. It is more likely that he will get into school #2.

[Anonymous]

Where did you get such precise admission statistics?

[Anonymous]

I think I'd simply wait to see where he's admitted, and then let him make the choice. You don't want to overthink this before you're sure there will even be a choice to make.