High School Information Night

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High School Information Night

• December 3, 2009

Ojai Valley School
2
Welcome

• The high school application process has a
  reputation for being stressful and difficult, and
  it is our intention to help you have a positive
  and productive experience.
• You are not alone in this process.
• Everyone -- students, parents, and the school
  counselor -- plays an integral role in
  determining the right high school placement.

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Goals This Evening

• Develop a general understanding of the
  re-enrollment process for OVS and the admission
  process for other schools
• Understand the role of the placement counselor
• Learn about the Upper School and how to find the
  best fit for your child

4
Re-Enrollment

• Eighth-graders in good academic and social
  standing those who have demonstrated the
  motivation and capability to enter a
  college-preparatory program will be offered
  re-enrollment to the Upper School in late
  February.
• Eighth-graders DO NOT need to apply
• Please be advised boarding space is limited and
  may not be available after the March 5, 2010
  re-enrollment deadline.

5
Applying to Other Schools

• Often eighth-graders are interested in Upper but
  also want to explore other high school options.
• We encourage students to visit schools, talk to
  their parents, and consult with Mr. Hamilton in
  understanding the admission process.

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We love our OVS students

• We offer a strong college-preparatory high school
  program that embraces the school philosophy of
  educating the whole child.
• Each year we invite our most talented and
  motivated eighth-graders to continue their
  education at the Upper School.

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Role of the Placement Counselor

• Our goal is to see that all eighth graders and
  their families understand the importance of
  making timely decisions when it comes to the
  application timelines both at OVS and at other
  schools.
• Andy Hamilton, Headmaster
• Also serves as placement advisor or counselor
• Contact ahamilton_at_ovs.org
• Student Questionnaire
• Parent Questionnaire

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What to Consider in a School

• We want to encourage you to begin your school
  search by thinking about what type of high school
  experience you want for your child.
• Start with the Basics
• Independent vs. Public
• Day vs. Boarding
• Location
• School Size
• Class Size
• Extracurricular Activities
• Athletics

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What to Considerin a School

• Educational Quality
• School Philosophy.
• What is it and does it appeal to me?
• Atmosphere.
• Is the atmosphere competitive? Nurturing? Will
  my child feel accepted and supported?
• Graduates.
• What percentage of students enter college, and
  what kinds of colleges do they attend?
• Curriculum.
• What are the course offerings?
• Faculty.
• Are the teachers qualified and passionate about
  teaching? How well will they know my child? How
  available are they to students and parents? Is
  there an advisor system? How does this work?

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What to Considerin a School

•  Beyond the Basics
• What types of learning experiences are
  availablein class, on the playing field, in
  extracurricular activities, community service,
  leadership?
• Does the school appear to have a diverse student
  body and faculty?
•  Costs
• What is the tuition? Are there extra charges,
  such as for books, transportation, etc?
• What are the schools financing options?
• What is the financial aid application process?
  When are the deadlines?
•  And Finally

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MostImportant

• Visit the campus. Talk to teachers, students and
  parents.
• Does the school seem to meet your childs needs?
• Know your son or daughter and help find a school
  that will be the BEST FIT for him or her.

12
Applying toOther Schools

• If you intend to apply to more than one school,
  plan for likely admits, near reaches long
  shots. Your GOAL should be at least two
  acceptances so you have a choice.
• Be aware of all deadlines
• Get recommendation forms to counselor (thats
  Andy) and English and Math teachers
• Transcript requests to front office (thats Kara)
• Be aware of application deadlines
• Be aware of financial aid deadlines

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CriteriaUnder Consideration

• Independent secondary schools generally have
  Admission Committees that consider the following
  when evaluating applicants
• Transcripts/grades
• SSAT or other test scores
• Recommendations
• Interview
• Essays application and/or during visit
• Available places for qualified applicants