Reply to k-12 or k-8?

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[quote=Anonymous]This is such an interesting thread, but the posts thus far are too simplistic. Based on what’s been shared above you would think the consideration is solely superior developmental experience of K-8 vs security of locking in a position early in a K-12. The reality is there are other considerations at play.

Our children did the full course in a very well regarded area  K-8, with a track record of strong HS placement. While we and our children cherished the experience, making adult and kid friends for life, our children were ready to bolt by 6th/7th grade.  9 years is a long time to spend with the same group. Additionally, children start leaving terminal 8s early and while some come in for the MS experience, it doesn’t make up for the attrition and the social benefit in the MS years just wasn’t as bailable for our children as in the primary years.

When our kids did transition to HS (big 3 schools) they (and we) had another surprise. While they were indeed developmentally nurtured and confident, they were not wholly academically prepared.  In particular, their grammar skills were severely lacking. We were guided by the HS to do support work over the summer and they were each further supported by faculty at the new school on arrival  It took time but fortunately the skills came. We were told by long time leadership at the HS that it is common for students from K-8 to arrive confident and well rounded in general, making them great additions in HS - but also needing support in some academic areas. They mentioned how in their experience the teaching resources at the K-8s are not consistent but the families are reticent to acknowledge it or leave early because of the affinity for the K-8 communities. In hindsight, that was certainly our experience.

This isn’t a two sided discussion. It needs to recognize there are many considerations that factor into what is the best environment for any child And that sometimes those considerations are counter to the principals that make K-8 so appealing. [/quote]

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