PK is 4 years old. There are a few schools that have a Pre-pre-K, but they don't go to 12th grade. So, yes, it is way to early.

She asked ... "But in short I'm looking for a program that will be Pre-K/K through 12 and coed ideally." So assuming PreK is 3 years old it really is not that early.

So are there any schools that start with Pre-K and go to 12th. I know lots that go pre-K - 8 and 3 - 12 but Pre-K to 12?

Bullis is 3-12 (non-religious) in MD. They have summer camps for younger kids.

OP here...Oh I totally agree its way too early to think about the application process. I was more interested in learning about the programs that fit the parameters I know are important to us...more or less a starting point. My private school experience growing up with a major part of who I am today, in a good way And it took finding a culture that was right for my entire family.

Good private schools are tough, competitive and with the right mix of components very rewarding. Just trying to learn about what the DC schools have to offer overall. And good is defined as what makes sense for your child and family.

For what its worth, I love research, so this is more of a learning tool right now.

Thanks again for all the information and insight!!

It is waaaaay too early. the process doesn't begin until the year before your child will start school and it can become unhealthy to jump into this whole process too early. You don't want to be seeing your growing child as an applicant, she's just a baby. And you really have no idea at this point what kind of school would fit her needs and personality.

Seriously. Next year you should think about preschool -- NEXT YEAR. PRESCHOOL. Then take it from there.

OP here. 11:56, I do keep up with alum via FB etc...love to see fellow GHSer's up here...no place like it in my opinion. If we were in Dallas, I wouldn't even need to ask my questions...DD would be going there

12:39, thanks for the input, I appreciate it.

OP just to clarify, you don't need to get started on the actual admissions process earlier than the year in which you are applying. The wait lists are etablished after March admissions and only last until school starts in September, at which point the process starts anew.

1991. Check out the Facebook page for other alums.

Oh wow! Such a small world. I'm class of 97...what year are you?

Ao did I. What year? I thought your description suggested an SPC school. I think gds and maret are most similar. In my day, the gds and greenhill debaters dated.

OP here...I'm from Dallas and am very familar with private schools in that area. I went to Greenhill School for 13 years...I'm also familar with Hockaday(all girls) and St. Marks(all boys.)

I just want to get started as soon as it makes sense to find the right match for my daughter.

Thanks everyone for the help thus far!

Where in Texas? Are there schools there in which you have experience?

Read the FAQ too. Good luck!

Thanks!! And yes, I do have time on my side thankfully!

Get a copy of Georgia Irvin's book. It lays out the basics and the kinds of issues you outline in your post. You have plenty of time to learn the area and the school options.

Hello All-
I'm new to the area from Texas. I have a very young daughter(not even one yet) but I'm starting my private school research because I feel I have a lot to learn about the area. Also, from my personal experience in Texas, you have to get started early with admissions, waiting lists etc...I'm sure its the same here.

But in short I'm looking for a program that will be Pre-K/K through 12 and coed ideally. We really don't want a religious based school but strongly value all aspects of diversity. Additionally, a school that values the arts, athletics and education; college matriculation is important as well as the tenure of the teaching staff; everything else will have to come down to finding the right "fit."

I'm just looking for a little direction on how and where to get started...I'm not looking for admissions procedures just recommendations on good programs. Oh and by the way I live in Maryland but I'm not discouraged by "longish" commutes to school as long as its worth it!

Thanks a ton in advance!