Anonymous wrote:Good luck to everyone. I know this is a long and stressful process. Please make sure you keep some perspective. I know it’s hard when the process is so long.
My DC1 is at TJ. And it’s a great school for that kid. But it is a long commute from Western Fairfax, and long days. Catches the bust at 7:30. Out of school at 4. Does an EC from 4:30-7:30, but often finishes at 8. Home at 8:30, for dinner, a shower, homework. Bed after midnight many nights. Works hard for solid grades, but not exceptional. Loves the school, loves the kids. Is getting a great education. Is often stressed. It takes a toll on him, and takes a toll on us.
DC2 was a TJ finalist who was not admitted. Was devastated at the time. But started base HS with a good attitude. Also works hard, and has a much stronger GPS. Does an EC and is usually home by 6. Is getting enough sleep. Also loves the school, also loves the peer group. Will likely end up at the same caliber college as the TJ kid. Is getting a great education.
The point is that TJ is an amazing school especially for the right kid. But like anything worth having, it comes at a cost. And many of the base school will also provide a great education and also have smart, motivated kids who are going places.
I hope everyone’s kid gets into arak, if that’s what they want. But please help your kid keep it in perspective. It’s a great school. But not the only school where they can be successful.
Isn't your DC1 stressed out and sleep deprived because of the EC activity that takes 3-3.5 hours every day? It has nothing to do with TJ. When our DD was accepted by TJ, I felt so worried in advance because I read plenty of messages like yours. She just finished her first quarter at TJ and gets all As so far. She has plenty of time for EC activities, part-time job, friends, and screen time. Nobody in our family is stressed out because of her school.