Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:SSSAS is second tier private at best. Ireton is better.

NP. Looking at both because we don’t want to drive into DC for school. Why is BI better? Honestly, I thought they are both considered second tier?

What is considered second tier? Is the big 3 top tier and schools that aren’t as good below?

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:SSSAS is second tier private at best. Ireton is better.

NP. Looking at both because we don’t want to drive into DC for school. Why is BI better? Honestly, I thought they are both considered second tier?

Also wondering! They seem similar in terms of academics but would love some clarification and details on what might set each apart.

Anonymous wrote:SSSAS is second tier private at best. Ireton is better.

NP. Looking at both because we don’t want to drive into DC for school. Why is BI better? Honestly, I thought they are both considered second tier?

SSSAS is second tier private at best. Ireton is better.

Anonymous wrote:Could look at commonwealth too

Commonwealth is strictly for ADHD and dyslexic students. OP never mentioned this was an issue for their kid.

Could look at commonwealth too

BI has a wonderfule theater and music arts program. Its small, and because it starts in high school it might be easier to make friends since everyone is starting anew.

Anonymous wrote:We have friends who went to SSSA starting in 9th. They said it was very hard to get into a friend group. Many of these kids have been together through yes and MS. Other than that I have heard great things about both schools.

Definitely something to consider, but they add a decent number in 9th so 2/3 of the incoming class are new to the school. Are a lot of incoming BI students peers from local Catholic k-8 schools like St. Mary’s?

How are the performing arts at both schools?

I wish there were more choices for private high school in Alexandria. Episcopal should start accepting day students!

We have friends who went to SSSA starting in 9th. They said it was very hard to get into a friend group. Many of these kids have been together through yes and MS. Other than that I have heard great things about both schools.

I would go with SSSAS. I think it is stronger academically but they have a range of students and I think they would be more flexible with an anxious kid that BI

Anonymous wrote:Athletics are big at both schools

I realize that but surely non-sporty kids can find their place at one or both.

Athletics are big at both schools

Aside from the religious nuances and price tag disparities, can anyone give a sense for the culture and school environment differences between these two?

In particular, I’m wondering about:

1. Academic intensity and pressure. Child is smart but anxious so don’t want an overly stressful situation. Math is a struggle.

2. Social and sports culture. Child is not into sports and more of an arts/theater/music type.

3. Family profile. We are Catholic but with liberal and progressive values. Also have strayed a bit from the faith in recent years.

Trying to get a sense for “fit” between these two schools. Thank you!