If you are very close to someone on the Board, work that angle! Average students who have been admitted through this particular avenue. The schools talk about equity however this absolutely still exists.

No. Only a Board Member or Trustee’s opinion matters. The school doesn’t care that you have friend that goes there. Don’t embarrass yourself.

Not really, unless they're really well connected.

None of the privates we’re looking at seem to ask if you have any friends who recommended you to the school. Is it worth asking a current parent to “put in a good word” for you at these schools (Potomac, SPS, etc)