March 14, 2008
High School Placement 3-14-2008
Ann Meissner Jennifer Franklin (Seventh Grade Humanities Teacher)
We want to offer congratulations to students and families for a job well done. We’re impressed not only with the caliber and variety of area high school into which students have been accepted, but also with the maturity of our 8th graders through this stressful week.
While a good number of you have already made decisions or narrowed down your options, specific strategies can be helpful during this time. Parents, this is an opportunity to model decision-making strategies for your 8th grader. You may want to:
o Develop pro and con lists individually and/or as a family.
o Revisit the list of priorities you developed earlier this year.
o Revisit web sites.
o Consider arranging for another visit to a particular school.
o Talk with students or families who attend or who have attended a particular school. We’re happy to put you in touch with a PHS alumni family if that would be helpful.
Some other ideas:
Consider having your child send a thank you note to a school where he or she has been accepted and has decided not to attend. This is a polite gesture for the admissions committees that have worked hard through out this process at each school.
We hope that families and students will continue to support one another in their process and final high school decisions. Our students attend a wide range of schools and this positively reflects the individuality of our students – something we value as a school community.
We encourage you to call or email if you have questions or simply want to talk through your thinking.
February 29, 2008
High School Placement 2-29-2008
Ann Meissner Jennifer Franklin (Seventh Grade Humanities Teacher)
Catholic high school admissions decisions will be mailed to families on Thursday, March 6, while independent schools will mail their decisions out on the 10th of March. Ann will be meeting with eighth graders on Wednesday March 12 to begin compiling information about acceptances. Please remember, the dates by which schools need to receive a family's deposit are firm, and so it is important that they don't miss those dates.
Before opening any envelopes, please keep in mind the following:
1. While it may sound simple, you are all wonderful people, regardless of the outcome of this process.
2. Did I mention you are wonderful people?
3. You will have a great high school experience, so keep things in perspective. In a few months, you’ll be so nervous about walking into the wrong science class on the first day of school that the decision week will be shoved into the back of your mind.
4. Don’t expect the impossible; there will be some disappointments in that mailbox. There will also be opportunities for the next four years. Focus your energy and emotions on the positives, not on what you wished would have happened.
5. Unanticipated outcomes can be good ones. Some things are just meant to be.
6. Think before you act. Don’t pick up the phone impulsively or march into an admissions office the day after you receive your letters.
7. Admission is competitive enough these days that the following really is true: To be waitlisted or denied admission to a high school does not mean that you are unworthy of going there. It simply means there are better places out there for you.
8. If you really want to go somewhere that put you on a waitlist, tell them! When you return your postcard asking to stay on the waitlist, add a nice note directly to the card, or, if you really need to say more, attach a letter. Speak from your heart! Schools will not know if they can accept students off the wait list until after the enrollment deadline. Be respectful of their time and this reality; it is a myth that simply making yourself known will help you get what you want. If you call the admissions director every day, this is overkill! Stick with one genuine letter (faxing it is fine) and maybe a phone message. And be sure to communicate to Ann what is happening as well so that we can advocate for your family when appropriate. Let us know if you have further questions about this part of the process.
9. Be kind and sensitive to others. The only admission decision you should be concerned about is your own. Please avoid the inconsiderate habit of burning up the phone lines all week. Give yourself and your friends space.
10. If you have choices to make, parents and students should listen carefully to each other. Parents, the goal is to enroll in the school that will best suit your child’s growth. It is tempting to steer your child toward the school that you would choose for yourself. Avoid this pitfall!
11. Once you have made a decision, please let any other schools know that you will not be accepting a space so that they may move on to their wait pool.
This list is not exhaustive, so please call us and ask if you need help, or someone to listen to you. When you are ready, please email or call Ann regarding your decisions so that we have an accurate understanding of who is going where in the fall, or who is waitlisted and needs support. We have enjoyed working with each family through this process, and look forward to sharing your joys in the coming weeks.
Ann and Jennifer
P.S. Thank you to Karen Amaker, former middle school dean, for the content of this letter!
February 15, 2008
High School Placement 2-15-2008
Ann Meissner Jennifer Franklin (Seventh Grade Humanities Teacher)
Thinking ahead, we want to let you know that both of us will be available to talk to students and families as acceptance letters begin to arrive to help in the process of choosing a final school. Acceptance letters will be arriving in mid-March and families will have about a week to make a final decision. We will be meeting with students when we return from the February break to talk about how to manage this next phase.
February 01, 2008
High School Placement 2-1-2008
Ann Meissner Jennifer Franklin (Seventh Grade Humanities Teacher)
I hope you have enjoyed the last few weeks of application-free living. Some parents and students have voiced concerns about missing transcripts. Transcripts could not be mailed until the first semester ended and we had grades. We mailed the transcripts last week and so all of the high schools should have what they need. This is a confusion that happens every year, apparently, because middle schools on a semester system don't have first semester grades available until a little later. Eighth graders should bear in mind that grades, while important, are only one factor high schools consider when making admissions decisions. You have put a great deal of time into your applications, and schools will recognize your many strengths and talents through these efforts.
Some students have learned of their status at School of the Arts (SOTA). Please let Ann know of any acceptances as soon as possible. If your child has been accepted at SOTA and you are certain that is your school of choice, please call or email the other high schools and withdraw your application. This makes room for other students and is simply an act of courtesy to the admissions officers.
As always, feel free to let Ann or Jennifer know about any questions or concerns.
January 18, 2008
High School Placement 1-18-2008
Ann Meissner Jennifer Franklin (Seventh Grade Humanities Teacher)
Happy New Year! While, for most of you, the high school application process has come to a close or is winding down, there are still a few loose ends to tie up.
Many SOTA auditions have been scheduled for this month, and these students will know soon whether or not they have been accepted. Good luck (or break a leg) to all 8th grade artists applying to SOTA!
Catholic school recommendations have been completed and mailed to schools.
If you are applying to a public school, you will need to complete a form that registers your child into the school district. This is in addition to any application specific to the individual schools. For more information, go to the website at www.sfusd.edu. Ann has copies of the form at PHS.
Transcripts, including grades, will be mailed to all high schools on Thursday, January 24, after the close of the first semester. The high schools are aware of this schedule.
If, at this point, your family has a definite first choice of independent high schools (i.e. – your child will go there if accepted), you may want to send the admissions office of this school a letter stating your commitment to the school and why it is your first choice.
As always, please direct any questions or concerns about the high school application process to Jennifer or Ann.
December 14, 2007
High School Placement 12-14-2007
Ann Meissner Jennifer Franklin (Seventh Grade Humanities Teacher)
As the year and the admissions process comes to a close, we wanted to give you a final reminder of some important dates. Independent applications are due on January 10, 2008. Your complete application packets must be postmarked by this date.
Teachers and advisors are in the process of completing high school recommendations. Ann will edit all recommendations and mail them along with the seventh grade transcript during the winter break. First semester of eighth grade transcripts will be sent at the end of the first semester.
Lowell’s required admissions test is on Saturday, January 5th, 8:00 a.m. and Wednesday, January 9th, 6:00 p.m. You must indicate on your application which test date you are selecting.
The Catholic Schools placement test is in early January. If your child will need accommodations for the test make sure you have made the necessary arrangements.
A few families have yet to give us their prioritized list of schools. We use the prioritized list to help make sure families are on the right track and that the schools selected are a good match for students. Occasionally, a school will contact us when they are down to the final decisions and choosing between several students for one spot. It helps the school to have a sense of how likely the student is to accept the spot if offered to them. This is also true if a school begins to work with their wait list.
Congratulations in advance for getting through the arduous high school admissions process. While we know this is an inherently stressful process, we hope it has also been fun and enlightening. If you have last minute questions or concerns, feel free to contact us before the 19th. Happy Holidays and best of luck.
Ann and Jennifer
December 07, 2007
High School Placement 12-7-2007
Ann Meissner Jennifer Franklin (Seventh Grade Humanities Teacher)
Friday Letter
High School
December 6, 2007
As winter break draws near, students should be actively engaged in the essay writing process. Students applying to SOTA should be compiling their portfolios. All students should remember the importance of careful revision and editing when writing application essays. If family members, teachers, or advisors have offered students feedback on their drafts, it will benefit them to pay close attention to their suggestions.
Several families have asked why we ask for a prioritized list of schools. We use the prioritized list to help make sure families are on the right track and that the schools selected are a good match for students. Occasionally, a school will contact us when they are down to the final decisions and choosing between several students for one spot. It helps the school to have a sense of how likely the student is to accept the spot if offered to them. This is also true if a school begins to work with their wait list.
A flexible tuition workshop will be held at Lick-Wilmerding High School on Monday, January 7 from 7:00-9:00 PM. No RSVP is necessary. More information is available at <http://www.lwhs.org/podium/default.aspx?t=51085>
As always, feel free to call or email Ann or Jennifer with questions or concerns as the process approaches its close.
Take care,
Ann and Jennifer
November 30, 2007
High School Placement 11-30-2007
Ann Meissner Jennifer Franklin (Seventh Grade Humanities Teacher)
Friday Letter
High School
November 30, 2007
Monday is the preliminary filing date for the Parent/Guardian applications at the independent schools. This is a preliminary or courtesy deadline and schools will continue to accept applications up until the final deadline on January 10. If possible it is better to turn in the applications earlier rather than later as it facilitates the work of the admissions offices.
Lowell – We have copies of the Lowell 9th grade applications that must be submitted together with an SFUSD Enrollment Application by Friday, December 7.Lowell’s required admissions test is on Saturday, January 5th, 8:00 a.m. and Wednesday, January 9th, 6:00 p.m. You must indicate on your application that test date you are selecting.
SOTA – If your family is applying to SOTA your child received a packet from PHS yesterday that included any teacher recommendations that PHS faculty were asked to complete and transcripts that include grades for seventh grade. The packet also included a letter indicating that our first semester will end on January 18 and that first semester eighth grade reports will be mailed on January 24.
The Catholic Schools placement test is in early January. If your child will need accommodations for the test make sure you have made the necessary arrangements.
Financial Assistance – If you are applying for financial assistance, make sure you have the necessary materials submitted at the correct time. Most schools will not consider a financial assistance application without all of the requested information.
All 8th graders have submitted the signed teacher recommendation and transcript release forms. We are in the process of completing the recommendations. Ann will edit all recommendations and mail them along with the seventh grade transcript during the winter break. Remember that our first semester does not end until January 18th and so we are not able to supply eighth grade transcripts until January 24th. A note explaining this will accompany the transcripts and recommendations. This is not a problem for the high schools and several other middle schools are on a similar schedule.
Take care,
Ann Meissner and Jennifer Franklin
November 16, 2007
High School Placement 11-16-2007
Ann Meissner Jennifer Franklin (Seventh Grade Humanities Teacher)
High School
November 15, 2007
As we move towards Thanksgiving vacation we also move into the next stages of the high school placement process. While shadow visits and open houses continue, it is now the time to make decisions about which schools you will apply to, and start on those applications if you haven’t already.
Many students have already begun work on their applications and everyone else seems to have a developed plan for this work. This is a big job, and not one that should be left until the last minute. Please make sure that your student is moving through this process diligently and thoughtfully, and managing time wisely. We recommend setting up a schedule for completing the application for each school. Set specific deadlines and hold each other accountable. Also, remember to maintain boundaries during this time – let the students do their part, especially the essays!
Most students have provided Ann with the signed transcript release form and teacher recommendation forms. If you have not yet done so, please get them in right away. A written list of schools to which you are applying is also due now.
If you are applying to SOTA, make sure that Ann has the recommendation form if you want a PHS teacher to complete it. These are due to SOTA earlier than the other recommendations and so we need them by November 26th at the latest.
Take care,
Ann Meissner and Jennifer Franklin
November 09, 2007
High School Placement 11-09-2007
Ann Meissner Jennifer Franklin (Seventh Grade Humanities Teacher)
Friday Letter
High School Column
November 9, 2007
Many students are registered to take the SSAT test tomorrow. Solid rest, a nutritious breakfast, comfortable clothes and a positive attitude are all helpful. Also, please remember that the scores for these tests are only one part of the application. Good luck!
SSAT Flex Test – The SSAT offers additional “flex testing” for any student wishing to take or retake the test for better scores on a date other than the scheduled national test dates. The testing date may be scheduled on an individual basis for an additional fee of $125.00. Contact Kathy Van Huffel for further information. 415-307-5307 or kvanhuffel@thelaurelschool.com
Students and families have been asking when the student essays should be written. The answer to this question is very individual. It will depend on how your family plans to spend the winter break. For some families, this is a time full of outside commitments and therefore the essays should be completed before the vacation. For other families, the school break provides more time to focus on the high school applications. In either case, it is a good idea to develop a schedule that will allow you and your child plenty of time to devote to completing the essays and application. Jennifer and I are both available to read student or parent essays and offer our feedback. Students are also welcome to ask their other teachers for feedback.
Now is the time to stabilize the list of schools to which you will be applying. Submit this list, in writing and preferably by email, by Monday, November 12 to Ann Meissner (ann_meissner@presidiohill.org). The list should include all schools – public, charter, parochial, independent. Please rank the schools in order of preference, recognizing that this order may shift as you continue the school visits, tours and other research.
Signed teacher recommendation and transcript release forms are also due on November 12. I do not need individual envelopes for each school as the form indicates. I will send all of the information to each school in one large envelope rather than in separate mailings as this is easier for the admissions offices.
Take care,
Ann and Jennifer
P.S. A high school you may not be familiar with is Mid-Peninsula in Menlo Park. It is a small school that seems to recognize unique styles of learning and is able to create flexible academic programs designed to meet individual needs. They have an Open House coming up on Tuesday, December 4 at 7pm.
November 02, 2007
High School Placement 11-02-2007
Ann Meissner Jennifer Franklin (Seventh Grade Humanities Teacher)
High School Friday Letter
11.2.07
Listed below are important dates for a number of schools. Please see the web sites of each school for more detailed information.
Independent Schools
December 3 – Parent/Guardian application, courtesy deadline
Schools ask that you submit this initial paperwork so they have time to organize their files etc.
January 10 – Complete application due
March 10 – Admissions decision letters mailed
March 19 – Enrollment contract due
Lowell High School
December 7 – Application due. You must also complete an application to the public school district. Copies of both forms are available in Ann’s office. These forms must be submitted in person, not by mail. See the Lowell web site for more information.
January 5, 8am – Admission test
January 9, 6pm – Admission test
Students must indicate which date they will take the test on the application form.
March 7 – Admissions decision letters mailed by this date
March 21 – Registration due date
SOTA
Applications include a portfolio as well as the application to the public school district. Auditions are held in January. Please contact SOTA directly for more information.
Catholic Schools – not all Catholic Schools follow the same deadlines. Please consult each school’s website for more detailed information.
November 19 –S.I. Application Priority Filing Date. Applications received after this date include an increased fee.
November 30 – Application due to SHCP
December 1 – Parent/Guardian application, courtesy deadline for Sacred Heart and Stuart Hall
January 9/10 –Applications due to Stuart Hall and Convent of the Sacred Heart
January 5 – Admission test for SI and SHCP
January 12 – Admission test at other Catholic Schools. This is also the date for students who qualify for extended time. Applications for this accommodations are due November 19.
March 7 – Admissions decision letters mailed by this date
March 14 – Enrollment contract due
Charter Schools
Gateway
January 31 – Applications due for lottery
Leadership Academy
January 31 – Applications due
City Arts and Technology
Open enrollment process. See website
October 26, 2007
High School Placement 10-26-2007
Ann Meissner Jennifer Franklin (Seventh Grade Humanities Teacher)
HS Friday letter
October 26, 2007
We hope you are continuing to enjoy the process of exploring area high schools.
By this time you should be well into your search, have scheduled a time to take the SSAT, and visited several schools through open houses and shadow visits. If you have not already done so, families should take some time to look over application requirements. Students should have submitted a resume to Ann as applications require a list of activities, passions and accomplishments and writing all of this down in one place helps students think about what to include on an application. Additionally, teachers use these student resumes as reference material when completing their recommendation forms. Many students have already begun a brainstorming or outlining process for the essays they will be required to write for each application. This is a great idea, as it breaks down the essay writing process, and gets the writing juices flowing.
Remember that all paperwork goes through Ann. Now is the time to provide me three items:
1.)A signed transcript release form for the independent schools. You received a copy of this in the high school packet provided to you in June from PHS. You have also likely received a copy from one or more of the high schools you have visited. I only need one copy of the form signed by a parent.
2.) Signed teacher recommendation forms for the independent schools. There are three teacher recommendation forms that must be completed by PHS faculty and sent directly to the independent high schools. These were included in the high school packet you received in June. You have also likely received a copy from one or more of the high schools you have visited. These are written by the math teacher, humanities teacher and the counselor/principal. Dennis will be completing the math forms, Trevor will complete the humanities forms and the advisor will complete the counselor/principal form. If the advisor is Dennis or Trevor then Ann will write this recommendation. Ann reviews all forms before they are sent to the schools. I only need one copy of the recommendation form. We will complete the forms, photocopy and mail to the various schools you have asked us to send recommendations and transcripts.
3.) A written list of schools to which you would like Presidio Hill to send transcripts and teacher recommendations. The transcripts will include 7th grade letter grades and first semester of 8th grade, letter grades. If you are ready to prioritize the list of schools, please do so adding any information that might be helpful for the school to know. For example you might indicate if there is a school that is a clear first choice. If you are not yet ready to prioritize the schools, that’s fine. You can send a prioritized list in anytime before February 1st. Please do not give transcript request forms or signed teacher recommendation forms to teachers.
NOTE: Please submit these three items to Ann by November 12, 2007. Do not give them to the classroom teachers, advisors or Jennifer. You may put them in my mailbox in the lobby or in my office.
October 19, 2007
High School Placement 10-19-2007
Ann Meissner Jennifer Franklin (Seventh Grade Humanities Teacher)High School Friday Letter
October 19, 2007
Lowell Night for Eighth Graders is November 8 from 7-9pm. This is an ideal opportunity for eighth graders and one parent/guardian to visit Lowell. The evening includes a presentation in the auditorium that provides an overview of course offerings by faculty representatives. It also include highlights from the principal’s perspective and a presentation by Lowell students and the PTSA. There is also a self-guided tour of the campus.
In order to attend, you must have a ticket. PHS is responsible for submitting a list of names of students and one parent/guardian who would like tickets. I will pick the tickets up from Lowell on November 1st and distribute them to the students. Please note that only one adult per student is allowed to attend.
Please email Ann (ann_meissner@presidiohill.org) by October 23rd if you would like a ticket. You will not be allowed admittance without a ticket and tickets can not be obtained from Lowell after this date.
Branson School in Ross is offering a Neighborhood Coffee/Evening Discussion in San Francisco for prospective parents on November 6. RSVP to 415-454-3636x209. The address is 2700 Green Street. There are other Neighborhood Coffee/Evening Discussions being held in Marin. Call Branson for more information.
October 12, 2007
High School Placement 10-12-2007
Ann Meissner Jennifer Franklin (Seventh Grade Humanities Teacher)
High School
Friday letter 10.12.07
I hope students took my suggestion seriously and spent some time over the 4 day weekend working on applications. Please make sure that is happening so that the work of completing the applications isn’t left to the last minute. This is true for the parent portion as well!
Students were given a homework assignment entitled Student Resume. This is due on October 15. Additional copies of the assignment are posted outside my office.
Now is time to begin thinking about what schools your child will apply to. In about one month I will be asking for a written list of these schools. We use this list to know where to send transcripts and teacher recommendations. I will need to have signed forms from each family authorizing the sending of this material. Your child will be given the forms to bring home for completion and return.
An 8th grade parent recently told me about a relatively new group who has partnered with SFUSD to provide information to parents. Their website is: www.CalfeeSchoolGuide.org. One project they have taken on is filming at each school. Those mini films will be available on their website beginning October 12, 2007. They also post info on school addresses, tours, etc. Check it out!
October 05, 2007
High School Placement 10-05-2007
Ann Meissner Jennifer Franklin (Seventh Grade Humanities Teacher)
High School Friday Letter
October 5, 2007
The public school enrollment fair is October 27th at the Bill Graham Theater. Click here to download a flyer. This is one place to learn about public school options. You could also learn about the public schools through the website www.sfusd.edu or through the website for Parents for Public Schools at www.ppssf.org.
Lowell Information – Applications for Lowell will be available beginning October 27 at the public school enrollment fair on October 27th. See the flyer below. They may also be picked up at the school district placement office at 555 Franklin Street, room 100. The applications will also be available online at www.sfusd.edu. These applications, along with the general enrollment form for the public school district, are due December 7th.
The Lowell Night for 8th Graders will be Thursday, November 8th. This is an open house event which PHS will have tickets for closer to the event. All students interested in Lowell should plan on attending this evening event. Shadow visits may be arranged by emailing shadowlowell@yahoo.com. If you or your child knows a student a Lowell with whom you would like to schedule you may request that person when schedule the visit.
City Arts and Technology and Metro – This is a charter school located in the Ingleside district. The philosophy and style of teaching has many similarities to PHS. The study body size is roughly 400 students with classes of approximately 20 students. I visited the campus this week and was very impressed with the diversity and the stated goals of the school. I did not get to sit in on classes so I don’t have a good feel for the quality of instruction but this school is definitely worth investigating if you are interested in a public school option. Enrollment decisions are done by lottery. There are roughly 3 times as many applicants as there are spaces. Open house dates are October 22, November 27, January 28, February 11 from 6:30-8:00 pm. No reservations are necessary. To arrange a tour and shadow visit call the main office at 841-2200.
Information for the public alternative School of the Arts is available at sfsota.org. A portfolio and audition are required in addition to an application.
Waldorf High School is celebrating the opening of their new site at 470 West Portal on Saturday, October 13 from 1-5pm. Everyone is welcome.
September 28, 2007
High School Placement 09-28-2007
Ann Meissner Jennifer Franklin (Seventh Grade Humanities Teacher)
High School
School shadow visits are happening. Open Houses are being attended. Students are engaged in preparing for the SSATs. Parents and students are comparing notes on their experiences with the various schools. Now it is time to turn to the application and begin to think about answers to the essay questions, perhaps writing some first drafts. Jennifer and I are both available to read first drafts and offer our editing suggestions. By the middle of November, PHS will need a written list of the schools to which you would like teacher recommendations and transcripts to be sent.
Here at school students are receiving some test preparation advice from learning specialist Lisa Mackey and sitting in on presentations from the admissions offices of a variety of schools. We have already met with Stevenson School, Lick Wilmerding, Drew, Urban, and Marin School. In the next few weeks we will have visits from Stuart Hall and Convent, Sacred Heart Cathedral Prep, Woodside International and International High School.
As many of you have probably noticed the web sites for the public schools do not have current dates listed. I would encourage you to contact the individual schools by phone rather than rely on the web sites for the public schools.
As always, don’t hesitate to ask Ann or Jennifer for guidance.
September 21, 2007
High School Placement 09-21-2007
Ann Meissner Jennifer Franklin (Seventh Grade Humanities Teacher)
High school
9.21.07
Student visits to high schools have begun. It is wonderful to hear the students analyzing their visits, being open to changing their impressions and critically thinking about the qualities each school brings to the high school experience. When a student misses school for a visit please call or email the advisor and Martin (martin_gross@presidiohill.org, 751-9318x100) so that are keeping accurate attendance records. Your child is responsible for contacting the teachers of classes s/he will be missing either in person or by email and making plan for completing any necessary work.
Below are questions that students/families may want to refer to when trying to differentiate between schools. Remember to keep some sort of written record of the impressions as the school visits progress. It will be very easy to confuse schools or forget a particular visit several months from now when you will be making final decisions.
*What was your first impression as you entered the school?
*How were the facilities and how does that influence your thinking? Think about the libraries, computer labs, science labs, sports facilities, art studios, theaters, classrooms, cafeterias, student lounges, halls, bathrooms, neighborhood.
*What is your impression of the teachers? Were the teachers interested in the subject matter? Could you imagine feeling comfortable working with the teachers? Did the teachers explain things in a way you could understand? Did the students seem comfortable with the teachers?
*What is your impression of the students? How did they act in class? Did they seem engaged in the curriculum? Were they nice to one another? Were they nice to you?
*Can you see yourself attending this school and doing well?
*Can you see yourself attending this school and enjoying it?
*Do you think you would feel safe and secure at this school?
*What did you learn about the school that is exciting to you?
*What did you learn about the school that surprises you or is different than the impression you had before visiting?
*If you were to go to this school, what kinds of things would you want to participate in?
September 14, 2007
High School Placement 09-14-2007
Ann Meissner Jennifer Franklin (Seventh Grade Humanities Teacher)
High School Counseling
9-14-07
Now is the time to decide which test date(s) you would like for the SSAT and to get your registration materials in order. You may register on-line at SSAT.org.
We recommend the October or November test date so if you decide a second try would be a good idea, you still have December and January. Also, an earlier test date may have a subtle impact on admissions committees at the high schools by indicating that you are organized and thoroughly invested in the high school application process.
If you are requesting accommodations due to a learning difference/disability, make sure Lisa Mackey receives your application one month prior to the test date so that PHS is able to complete our part and you have enough time to submit the application to SSAT.
Sunday, September 16 is the High School Fair from 1-4pm at Brandeis Hillel Day School. Your child received a ticket for this fair. It is required for admittance. This is an excellent opportunity to check out schools with which you are not familiar since the independent and some of the public and charter schools will be represented under one roof. Plan on using all 3 hours as there are a lot of schools to learn about.
Students of color may wish to investigate A Better Chance, an organization which helps place students of color in high schools. Go to www.abetterchange.org for additional information. Typically this program is seeking students who have grades of B or better, solid teacher recommendations and are involved in extracurricular activities. The first part of the application is due October 1, 2007.
If you have not met with your high school counselor, Ann or Jennifer, make sure to get an appointment scheduled in the next couple of weeks.
Thanks,
Ann and Jennifer
September 07, 2007
High School Placement 09-07-2007
Ann Meissner Jennifer Franklin (Seventh Grade Humanities Teacher)
High School Placement
September 7, 2007
This is the first of many high school columns that will come to you this fall and winter. The column will remind you of important deadlines and provide guidance as you navigate the high school application process. Feel free to contact your high school counselor at any point if you have additional questions. Now is the time for you to be scheduling shadow visits to schools, planning your open house visits, and preparing for the SSAT. Please keep your search wide and your mind open to new possibilities. You may be surprised at what you learn! Everyone should be planning to apply to a minimum of 5 schools.
If you have not registered for the SSAT, please do so now by going to www.ssat.org. If you need special accommodations, download the appropriate form and submit it to Lisa Mackey as soon as possible.
Sunday, September 16 is the High School Fair from 1-4pm at Brandeis Hillel Day School on Brotherhood Way. We will give the students a ticket for this fair on September 10th. There is another high school fair this weekend geared for families currently attending public or parochial schools. Please do not attend this fair; wait until next weekend. Come and enjoy the PHS Fall Gathering instead!
Sunday, September 23 is the Boarding School Fair from 11-2 at Town School. There will be representatives from both California and East coast schools. No ticket or reservation is necessary.
An organization of parents entitled Parents for Public Schools-SF (ppssf.org) will host an enrollment open house for public schools on Ocobert 3. Go to the web site for more information.
SFUSD will host an enrollment fair October 27. This is a large, busy event. If you plan to attend, anticipate crowds and be prepared by knowing which programs/schools you are interested in learning more about.
School of the Arts (SOTA) and Lowell are two public schools that generate significant interest from PHS families. Both schools require an Enrollment Application to San Francisco Unified School District in addition to their own application procedures. This document is available on-line at www.sfusd.edu.
Lowell requires a separate test that is offered in early January on a weekend and also a week day evening. Lowell applications will be available at Lowell or the Education Placement Center of SFUSD at 555 Franklin Street, room 100, beginning in November and are due in December.
SOTA requires an audition in addition to the application. The auditions take place in January. They also require a separate teacher recommendation form.
The Catholic schools also require a separate test that will be offered January 5 from 8:30-noon. These schools also require a separate teacher recommendation form.
Gateway, Leadership, City Arts and Tech, and Metro are the charter high schools offering college prep programs. Check them out on-line. There are links from www.sfusd.edu.
There are several independent schools that are less well known although all offer interesting programs. You may want to investigate one or more of the following:
Waldorf High School, Jewish Community High School, Crystal Springs Upland High School, Marin Academy, Woodside International, Marin School, Sterne School.
Students from PHS have considered the following boarding schools in past years:
Cate, Miss Hall, Stevenson, Thacher, Santa Catalina, North Country. Students will have an opportunity to meet a representative from Stevenson on September 12th.
Have fun with your research! See you Saturday at the Fall Gathering.
Ann and Jennifer
March 23, 2007
High School Placement 03-23-2007
Ann Meissner Jennifer Franklin (Seventh Grade Humanities Teacher)
High School Friday Letter
March 23, 2007
Congratulations to everyone! I have been so impressed, once again, with the level of maturity our eighth graders have demonstrated this week. Emotions ran strong as students received their news about high school acceptances and yet the class was able to contain those emotions, express sensitivity to one another, and make their individual decisions. Parents, you deserve credit in here too as I’ve felt your genuine and careful support of your children through this whole process. Nice work!
I’m also very proud of the variety of schools our students were accepted to, as this reflects the wonderful variety of our student body. Our kids are making good choices and we wish them well as they decide between acceptances to Bay, Convent of the Sacred Heart, Drew, Immaculate Conception Academy, International High School, Lick, Lowell, Marin Academy, Marin School, Riordan, Sacred Heart Cathedral Preparatory, Saint Ignatius, School of the Arts, Stuart Hall, University, and Urban.
Again, congratulations to everyone. Enjoy the moment!
March 16, 2007
High School Placement 03-16-2007
Ann Meissner Jennifer Franklin (Seventh Grade Humanities Teacher)
Final words regarding the high school admissions letters…
*Undoubtedly emotions will run high this weekend. This is likely the first time that your child has received acceptance and rejection letters. Being available as a calm and reassuring adult will be especially important during this time. We will support the group as a whole throughout the next few weeks and offer opportunities for students to talk about high school as they are interested.
* Out of courtesy to one another, think in terms of asking other families or students “What have you decided about high schools?” versus “What schools did you get in to?” Or start a conversation by asking “Would you like to talk about high school?” This gives each child and family the opportunity to share as much or as little information as they would like.
*The temptation to talk about high schools every waking minute will be there for some of you this weekend. One approach may be to schedule times when your family will talk regarding high schools so that no one feels bombarded with questions or conversation about high schools. Pro and con lists developed individually and as a family can also be useful tools. Remember the list of priorities you developed earlier this year. This is an opportunity to concretely model for your child decision-making strategies.
*Most independent and parochial schools give families one week to make a decision. Use this week well for your family, but please do let the schools know right away once you’ve made a decision. To help make a final decision you may want to arrange for another visit, talk with students or families who attend or who have attended a particular school, revisit the web sites. We’re happy to put you in touch with a PHS alumni family if that would be helpful.
*Consider having your child send a thank you note to a school where he or she has been accepted and has decided not to attend. This is a polite gesture for the admissions committees that have worked hard through out this process at each school.
*Please do speak respectfully about every school and every student. We will be expecting the same of the students. Our students attend a wide range of schools and this positively reflects the individuality of our students – something we value as a school community.
*We encourage you to call or email if you have questions or simply want to talk through your thinking.
Ann and Jennifer
March 09, 2007
High School Placement 03-09-2007
High school admissions decisions will be mailed to families on Thursday, March 15 and you will most likely receive your letters in the mail by Friday or Saturday. Before opening any envelopes, keep in mind the following:
1. While it may sound simple, you are all wonderful people, regardless of the outcome of this process.
2. Did I mention you are wonderful people?
3. You will have a great high school experience, so keep things in perspective. In a few months, you’ll be so nervous about walking into the wrong science class on the first day of school that the decision weekend will be shoved into the back of your mind.
4. Don’t expect the impossible; there will be some disappointments in that mailbox. There will also be opportunities for the next four years. Focus your energy and emotions on the positives, not on what you wished would have happened.
5. Unanticipated outcomes can be good ones. Some things are just meant to be.
6. Think before you act. Don’t pick up the phone impulsively or march into an admissions office first thing Monday morning.
7. Admission is competitive enough these days that the following really is true: To be waitlisted or denied admission to a high school does not mean that you are unworthy of going there. It simply means there are better places out there for you.
8. If you really want to go somewhere that put you on a waitlist, tell them! When you return your postcard asking to stay on the waitlist, add a nice note directly to the card, or, if you really need to say more, attach a letter. Speak from your heart! Schools will not know if they can accept students off the wait list until after the enrollment deadline. Be respectful of their time and this reality; it is a myth that simply making yourself known will help you get what you want. If you call the admissions director every day, this is overkill! Stick with one genuine letter (faxing it is fine) and maybe a phone message. And be sure to communicate to me what is happening as well so that I can advocate for your family when appropriate. Let us know if you have further questions about this part of the process.
9. Be kind and sensitive to others. The only admission decision you should be concerned about is your own. Please avoid the inconsiderate habit of burning up the phone lines all weekend. Give yourself and your friends space.
10. If you have choices to make, parents and students should listen carefully to each other. The goal is to enroll in the school that will best suit your child’s growth. It is tempting to steer your child toward the school that you would choose for yourself. Avoid this pitfall!
11. Once you have made a decision, please let any other schools know that you will not be accepting a space so that they may move on to their wait pool.
This list is not exhaustive, so please call me and ask if you need help, or someone to listen to you. When you are ready, please email or call me regarding your decisions so that I have an accurate understanding of who is going where in the fall, or who is waitlisted and needs support. I have enjoyed working with each family through this process, and look forward to sharing your joys in the coming weeks.
Ann
P.S. Thank you to Karen Amaker, former middle school dean, for the content of this letter!
March 02, 2007
High School Placement 03-02-2007
Ann Meissner Jennifer Franklin (Seventh Grade Humanities Teacher)
High School Column
Please email Ann a prioritized list of your high schools if you haven’t already done this or if something has changed for you. This is most important if there is a school that is a clear first choice, one that your family knows they would commit to if you received an acceptance. However, do not feel pressured into picking a first choice if your family is seeing benefits at several different schools.
Ann will be meeting with the eighth grade class soon to discuss ways to work with managing the emotions and responses that will inevitably come when you receive letters from the high schools. This is an important time to be available to your child and to remain calm and reassuring, no matter what the outcome. As I keep reminding the students, everyone is going to high school next fall…we just don’t know where yet!
February 09, 2007
High School Placement: 02-09-2007
Ann Meissner Jennifer Franklin (Seventh Grade Humanities Teacher)
Friday Letter
High School Column
February 9, 2007
Please email Ann (ann_meissner@presidiohillschool.org) a prioritized list of high schools if you have not already done so or if something has changed in your thinking. This information is most helpful if there is a school that is a clear first choice for your family. However, do not feel pressured into pick a first choice if your family sees benefits and positives aspects to several different schools.
Some students have learned of their status at School of the Arts (SOTA). If your child has been accepted at SOTA and you are certain that is your school of choice, please call or email the other high schools and withdraw your application. This makes room for other students and is simply an act of courtesy to the admissions officers.
February 02, 2007
High School Placement 02-02-2007
Ann Meissner Jennifer Franklin (Seventh Grade Humanities Teacher)
I hope you are enjoying the last few weeks of application-free living. While there is little to report at this time of year, we wanted to address a few concerns
Some parents and students have voiced concerns about missing transcripts. Transcripts could not be mailed until the first semester ended (January 19) and we had grades. We mailed the transcripts last week and so all of the high schools should have what they need. This is a confusion that happens every year, apparently, because middle schools on a semester system don't have first semester grades available until a little later.
Eighth graders should bear in mind that grades, while important, are only one factor high schools consider when making admissions decisions. You have put a great deal of time into your applications, and schools will recognize your many strengths and talents through these efforts.
As always, feel free to let Ann or Jennifer know about any questions or concerns.
January 12, 2007
High School Placement 01-12-2007
Ann Meissner Jennifer Franklin (Seventh Grade Humanities Teacher)
For many of you, the application process ended this week, and many families have breathed a collective sigh of relief. For most schools, the acceptance notification date is March 15. SOTA applicants will be notified sooner, in a few weeks time.
The teacher recommendation process is winding down as well. Catholic school recommendations will be mailed today, along with recommendations for Leadership Academy and Gateway. Lowell recommendations will be mailed out in early February.
Hopefully this process has been an opportunity for families to reflect on their goals, hopes, fears and aspirations regarding the year to come. In spite of the stressful nature of this process, we hope you’ve enjoyed exploring the city’s diverse high schools.
In a couple of weeks, we will collect a prioritized list of your schools if you have not already provided one. In the meantime, enjoy the free time you have since you are no longer touring schools and completing applications.
January 05, 2007
High School Placement 01-05-2007
Ann Meissner Jennifer Franklin (Seventh Grade Humanities Teacher)
It’s crunch time for 8th grade families this week as you put the finishing touches on your high school applications. Hopefully the process is going smoothly, and you are looking forward to a well-deserved rest once all of your materials have been submitted.
We received a reminder this week from the SSAT board stating the following:
The SSAT offers additional “flex testing” for any student wishing to take or retake the test for a better score on a date other than the scheduled national test dates. The testing date may be scheduled on an individual basis for an additional fee of $125.00. You may contact Kathy Van Huffel for further information at 415.307.5307 or kvanhuffel@thelaurelschool.com.
Other reminders for January:
Lowell’s required admissions test is on Saturday, January 6th, 8:00 a.m. and Wednesday, January 10th, 6:00 p.m. You must indicate on your application the test date you are selecting.
Most SOTA auditions have been scheduled for this month, and these students will know soon after whether or not they have been accepted. Good luck (or break a leg) to all 8th grade artists applying to SOTA!
The Catholic Schools placement test is in early January. If your child will need accommodations for the test make sure you have made the necessary arrangements. Catholics school recommendations are due in mid-January; 8th grade teachers and advisors have the necessary forms and PHS will be responsible for submitting them by the deadline.
If you are applying to a public school, you will need to complete a form that registers your child into the school district. This is in addition to any application specific to the individual schools. For more information go to the website at sfusd.edu.
Teacher recommendations have been mailed to the independent schools. Transcripts, including grades, will be mailed to all high schools the week of January 22nd, after the close of the first semester.
As always, please direct any questions or concerns about the high school application process to Jennifer or Ann.
December 15, 2006
High School Placement 12-15-2006
Ann Meissner Jennifer Franklin (Seventh Grade Humanities Teacher)
Time is flying, deadlines are fast approaching, and 8th graders should be putting the finishing touches on their applications as well as writing and revising personal essays and portfolios.
Remember in your essays to answer questions honestly and from your experience. In your essay you can use your writing voice to convey so much about your authentic self. Consider your audience, but also feel free to surprise and delight your reader with details about your unique personality and perspective.
Teacher/advisor recommendations will go out Wednesday, December 20 with a note indicating that the transcripts will go out on January 22, since the semester does not end until the 19th.
For those applying to Catholic schools, any arrangements for necessary accommodations for the required placement test must be made now.
For those of you applying to public schools, please be aware of the school district’s deadlines and requirements. This includes not only Lowell, SOTA and Gateway, but all public schools, including charter schools, that eighth graders may consider attending. Visit the San Francisco Unified School District website at www.sfusd.k12.ca.us for complete information on public school options.
As always, please let us know if you need any further guidance. Have a safe and restful holiday!
December 01, 2006
High School Placement 12-01-2006
High School Column
December 1, 2006
Ann Meissner Jennifer Franklin (Seventh Grade Humanities Teacher)
Associate Director
Middle School Dean
Due Today: The prioritized list of schools to which you will be applying. We will use this list to know where to send transcripts and recommendations later this month. Please include every school you are considering, even if you ultimately decide not to apply. It is better that we get the recommendations to a school that you end up not applying to than you apply to a school without the recommendations and transcripts. Send this list to Ann by email ann_meissner@presidiohill.org.
Today is also the date that the preliminary applications are due to the independent high schools. If you have not yet sent in your applications, go ahead and do so as soon as you are able. This is the preliminary deadline and schools will continue to accept applications up until the final deadline in January. It is better to turn in the applications earlier rather than later as it facilitates the work of the admissions offices.
Mark your calendars for the San Francisco Unified School District visit on December 4. The presentation will be from 6:30-7:30. Come with questions about the application process for the public schools.
Lowell – We have copies of the Lowell 9th grade applications which must be submitted together with an SFUSD Enrollment Application by Friday, December 22nd, 2006.. Lowell’s required admissions test is on Saturday, January 6th, 8:00 a.m. and Wednesday, January 10th, 6:00 p.m. You must indicate on your application that test date you are selecting.
SOTA - Include the mid-semester progress reports with your application as the most current report card. PHS will submit a seventh grade transcript before December 16 with a note explaining that our first semester ends January 19 and grades will be available January 22. We will then mail an updated transcript that includes seventh and first semester eighth grade grades.
The Catholic Schools placement test is in early January. If your child will need accommodations for the test make sure you have made the necessary arrangements.
Financial Assistance – If you are applying for financial assistance, make sure you have the necessary materials submitted at the correct time. Most schools will not consider a financial assistance application without all of the requested information.
Everyone has submitted the signed teacher recommendation and transcript release forms. We are in the process of completing the recommendations. Ann will edit all recommendations and mail them along with the seventh grade transcript during the winter break. Remember that our first semester does not end until January 19th and so we are not able to supply eighth grade transcripts until January 22nd. A note explaining this will accompany the transcripts and recommendations. This is not a problem for the high schools and several other middle schools are on a similar schedule.
There will not be a High School entry for next Friday, December 8 due to Follies. Please feel free to call or email with any questions.
Take care,
Ann Meissner and Jennifer Franklin
November 17, 2006
High School Placement 11-17-2006
High School Column
November 17, 2006
Ann Meissner Jennifer Franklin (Seventh Grade Humanities Teacher)
Associate Director
Middle School Dean
As we move towards Thanksgiving vacation we also move into the next stages of the high school placement process. While shadow visits and open houses continue, it is now the time to make decisions about which schools you will apply to, and start on those applications.
Many students have already begun work on their applications and everyone else seems to have a developed plan for this work. This is a big job, and not one that should be left until the last minute. Please make sure that your student is moving through this process diligently and thoughtfully, and managing time wisely. We recommend setting up a schedule for completing the application for each school. Set specific deadlines and hold each other accountable. Also, remember to maintain boundaries during this time – let the students do their part, especially the essays!
Remember, if you are applying to Saint Ignatius, the application is due this coming Monday, November 20.
Mark your calendars for the San Francisco Unified School District visit on December 4. The presentation will be from 6:30-7:30. Come with questions about the application process for the public schools. Click here for a printable flyer about this event.
Finally, as you form the list of schools that you will definitely be applying to, email this list to Ann, so that we have updated information. The deadline is December 1 and it is best if the list is arranged in order of preference, knowing that this order may shift around as you continue to collect more information.
Take care,
Ann Meissner and Jennifer Franklin
November 10, 2006
HS Placement 11-10-06
High School Column
November 10, 2006
Ann Meissner Jennifer Franklin (Seventh Grade Humanities Teacher)
Associate Director
Middle School Dean
Many students are registered to take the SSAT test tomorrow. Solid rest, a nutritious breakfast, comfortable clothes and a positive attitude are all helpful. Also, please remember that the scores for these tests are only one part of the application. Good luck!
Students and families have been asking about when the student essays should be written. The answer to this question is very individual. It will depend on how your family plans to spend the winter break. For some families, this is a time full of outside commitments and therefore the essays should be completed before the vacation. For other families, the school break provides more time to focus on the high school applications. In either case, it is a good idea to develop a schedule that will allow you and your child plenty of time to devote to completing the essays and application.
Now is the time to stabilize the list of schools to which you will be applying. Submit this list, in writing and preferably by email, by Friday December 1 to Ann Meissner (ann_meissner@presidiohill.org). The list should include all schools – public, charter, parochial, independent. Please rank the schools in order of preference, recognizing that this order may shift as you continue the school visits, tours and other research.
Last night’s Dialogue Circle was a discussion with recent PHS graduates. Twelve high school students representing seven different high schools spoke with the gathered parents and staff about their experience at PHS and the transition to high school. The students were asked what advice they might offer to current eighth graders involved in the high school application process. Here is what they had to say:
Relax.
Take time to breathe.
You will go to high school somewhere. You won’t be stuck in home-schooling.
You won’t die at the age of 14 with no high school to go to.
Make sure to shadow at every school you are applying to. You may get a sense that “this is my high school!” from one of the visits.
Don’t lock yourself into just one school. Keep your options open.
Take care,
Ann and Jennifer
October 27, 2006
HS Placement 10-27-06
In this week’s column we’d like to remind you of a few additional dates.Please let us know, if you have not already done so, if you would like to attend the Lowell Night for Eighth Graders on November 9. We have to submit their names to Lowell to receive tickets required for admission.
All students should at this time be registered for the SSAT.
Please be aware that the preliminary filing date for the parents’ part of the high school applications for independent schools is December 1.
All high school applications require recommendations. Please submit recommendation forms to Ann/the appropriate teachers, advisors, etc. to give those writing on your behalf as much time as necessary to complete them.
Again, for students applying through A Better Chance, Part II of the ABC application is due on November 1.
October 06, 2006
HS Placement 10-06-06
Friday Letter
High School
October 6, 2006
This week’s column includes a number of dates and deadlines you may need to know about. The public schools and some of the Catholic schools have different deadlines for application submision than the independent school. Please check the individual school’s web site for accurate details.
October 16, 10am-1pm
Boarding School Fair
Town School, 2750 Jackson Street
October 26, 2006, 7:00pm
The Marin School Presents Louann Brizendine, M.D., best selling author of The Female Brain, in a talk on "Understanding the Teen Girl Brain". RSVP: 415-339-9336 x102
The Marin School
100 Ebbtide, Sausalito, CA 94965
November 3, 17
December 1, 8
1p.m.
School of the Arts (SOTA) Open House Dates
Note: Shadow visits are scheduled after a student has attended an open house. Attendance at an open house is required before a shadow visit can be scheduled.
November 9, 7-9pm
Lowell Night for Eighth Graders
Lowell High School
Please RSVP to Ann Meissner by October 13, 2006 in order to receive a required ticket. Applications will be available beginning October 29th and are due in early December. More information about the application process to Lowell will be included in next week’s Friday column.
November 20
Saint Ignatius applications due.
December 2
Lowell applications due. These must be hand delivered to 555 Franklin Street. For more information go to www.sfusd.edu
December 4, 6:30-7:30pm
San Francisco Unified School District Information Night
Susan Andrews Theater, PHS
Ciick here for a printable flyer about this event.
September 22, 2006
HS Placement 09-22-06
Friday Letter
High School
September 22, 2006
Student visits to high schools have begun. It is wonderful to hear the students analyzing their visits, being open to changing their impressions and critically thinking about the qualities each school brings to the high school experience. Below are questions that students/families may want to refer to when trying to differentiate between schools.
What was your first impression as you entered the school?
How were the facilities and how does that influence your thinking? Think about the libraries, computer labs, science labs, sports facilities, art studios, theaters, classrooms, cafeterias, student lounges, halls, bathrooms, neighborhood.
What is your impression of the teachers? Were the teachers interested in the subject matter? Could you imagine feeling comfortable working with the teachers? Did the teachers explain things in a way you could understand? Did the students seem comfortable with the teachers?
What is your impression of the students? How did they act in class? Did they seem engaged in the curriculum? Were they nice to one another? Were they nice to you?
Can you see yourself attending this school and doing well?
Can you see yourself attending this school and enjoying it?
Do you think you would feel safe and secure at this school?
What did you learn about the school that is exciting to you?
What did you learn about the school that surprises you or is different than the impression you had before visiting?
If you were to go to this school, what kinds of things would you want to be involved in?
September 15, 2006
HS Placement 09-15-06
High School Counseling
9-15-06
Now is the time to decide which test date(s) you would like for the SSAT and to get your registration materials in order. You may register on-line at SSAT.org.
We recommend the November test date. The December test date is not a good option because it is the day after Follies and the students will be tired. If the test is taken in November, and you decide as a family that taking the test a second time is a good idea, the January test date will still work. Also, a November test date may have a subtle impact on admissions committees at the high schools by indicating that you are organized and thoroughly invested in the high school application process.
If you are requesting accommodations due to a learning difference/disability, make sure Lisa Mackey or Ann Meissner receives your application one month prior to the test date so that PHS is able to complete our part, and you have enough time to submit the application to SSAT.
You are welcome to include Presidio Hill as one of the schools to which scores are reported although you are not required to. It can be helpful information as we help in the selection process.
For the families of girls, Mercy High School’s open house is Sunday, October 29th at 9am.
Sunday, September 17 is the High School Fair from 1-4pm at Brandeis Hillel Day School. Your child received a ticket for this fair. It is required for admittance. There has been some conversation that only one adult is allowed to attend per child. We have not received any information to that effect and believe it to be an untrue rumor.
September 08, 2006
HS Placement 09-08-06
High School Placement
September 8, 2006
The weekly Self and Community High School Counseling course met this week for the first time. Students were full of enthusiasm, trepidation, and questions. It was evident that some students had given a lot of thought to this process already and others were just beginning to realize they are truly going to graduate from PHS! Many answers to the questions posed by the students directed them to the web sites for the individual schools. I would encourage all of you to be spending time investigating various public, charter, independent, parochial and boarding school options. Now is the time to keep your search wide.
Thursday, September 14, 2006, is the A Better Chance Presentation from 6:00-7:30pm for seventh and eighth grade families of students of color. A Better Chance is an advocacy organization that works with families and high school placement. Click here for a printable flyer.
Sunday, September 17 is the High School Fair from 1-4pm at Brandeis Hillel Day School. There is another high school fair this weekend, but it is geared for families currently attending public or parochial schools. Please do not attend this fair; wait until next weekend. Come and enjoy the PHS Fall Gathering instead!
School of the Arts (SOTA) and Lowell are two public schools that generate significant interest from PHS families. Both schools require an Enrollment Application to San Francisco Unified School District in addition to their own application procedures. This document is available on-line at www.sfusd.edu.
Lowell requires a separate test that is offered in early January on a weekend and also a week day evening.
SOTA requires an audition and they begin in January. They also require a separate teacher recommendation form.
The Catholic school test will be offered January 6 and January 13. This coincides with one of the Lowell dates so plan ahead. Students taking the Catholic school test who will require accommodations will be tested on the January 13th date only.
Gateway, Leadership, City Arts and Tech, and Metro are the charter high schools offering college prep programs. Check them out on-line. There are links from www.sfusd.edu.
In the family counseling sessions this fall, there are four schools that have not been discussed very much and deserve at least thinking about: Waldorf High School, Jewish Community High School, Crystal Springs Upland High School, and Marin Academy.
Students from PHS have considered the following boarding schools in past years:
Cate
Miss Hall
Stevenson
Thacher
Santa Catalina
North Country
Have fun with your research! See you Sunday at the Fall Gathering.
September 01, 2006
HS Placement 09-01-06
High School Placement 9-1-06
This column is devoted to sharing dates and other information relating to high school placement that eighth grade families may need this year. Please plan on looking here regularly for updates.
A wonderful opportunity to get information and meet admissions people is the Independent High School Fair which is Sunday, September 17 from 1-4pm at Brandeis Hillel Day School at 655 Brotherhood Way in San Francisco. The event is for eighth grade students and their parents only, as space is tight.
It is a good idea to attend the fair with the intention of gathering as much information as you can on schools you are not familiar with yet. If you are positive you are going to attend an open house and have scheduled a visit for your student at a particular school already, you may not learn much by visiting those schools at the fair. Look for schools that you do not know much about, or have not heard of before, and check out their booths and presentations. It may be a good idea to split the family up in order to hear more presentations and maximize your time.
Thursday, September 14 from 6:00-7:30pm a representative from A Better Chance will be at PHS to meet with parents of students of color. A Better Chance is an advocacy organization that helps families with students of color through the high school application process.
In the coming weeks, representatives from some high schools will be on campus to meet with interested eighth graders to share information about their schools and answer questions. This is a good opportunity for students to learn more about a school and to face to face the admission officers. Parents are welcome to join us as well. The schedule is below and a few more schools may be added later on.
Thursday, September 14 1:05-1:35 Lick Wilmerding High School
Monday, September 18 1:05-1:35 Urban High School
Tuesday, September 19 1:05-1:35 Drew High School
Monday, September 25 1:05-1:35 Jewish Community High School
Thursday, September 28 1:05-1:35 Bay High School
Thursday, October 5 1:05-1:35 University High School
Thursday, October 12 1:05-1:35 San Domenico High School
Monday, October 23 1:05-1:35 International High School
We’re enjoying meeting with each of your families individually.
Take care,
Jennifer Franklin and Ann Meissner
High School Placement Counselors
March 03, 2006
HS Placement 3-03-05
High school admissions decisions will be mailed to families the week of March 13 and you will most likely receive your letter in the mail by Friday, March 17. Before opening any envelopes, keep in mind the following:- While it may sound simple, you are all wonderful people, regardless of the outcome of this process.
- Did I mention you are wonderful people?
- You will have a great high school experience, so keep things in perspective. In a few months, you’ll be so nervous about walking into the wrong science class on the first day of school that the decision weekend will be shoved into the back of your mind.
- Don’t expect the impossible; there will be some disappointments in that mailbox. There will also be opportunities for the next four years. Focus your energy and emotions on the positives, not on what you wished would have happened.
- Unanticipated outcomes can be good ones. Some things are just meant to be.
- Think before you act. Don’t pick up the phone impulsively or march into an admissions office first thing Monday morning.
- Admission is competitive enough these days that the following really is true: To be waitlisted or denied admission to a high school does not mean that you are unworthy of going there. It simply means there are better places out there for you.
- If you really want to go somewhere that put you on a waitlist, tell them! When you return your postcard asking to stay on the waitlist, add a nice note directly to the card, or, if you really need to say more, attach a letter. Speak from your heart! Schools will not know if they can accept students off the wait list until after the enrollment deadline. Be respectful of their time and this reality; it is a myth that simply making yourself known will help you get what you want. If you call the admissions director every day, this is overkill! Stick with one genuine letter (faxing it is fine) and maybe a phone message. And be sure to communicate to me what is happening as well so that I can advocate for your family when appropriate. Let us know if you have further questions about this part of the process.
- Be kind and sensitive to others. The only admission decision you should be concerned about is your own. Please avoid the inconsiderate habit of burning up the phone lines all weekend. Give yourself and your friends space.
- If you have choices to make, parents and students should listen carefully to each other. The goal is to enroll in the school that will best suit your child’s growth. It is tempting to steer your child toward the school that you would choose for yourself. Avoid this pitfall!
This list is not exhaustive, so please call me and ask if you need help, or someone to listen to you. When you are ready, please email or call me regarding your decisions so that I have an accurate understanding of who is going where in the fall, or who is waitlisted and needs support. I have enjoyed working with each family through this process, and look forward to sharing your joys in the coming weeks.
Karen
November 04, 2005
HS Placement 11-04-05
It’s November! The Fall is fading away quickly and we are moving into the next stages of the high school placement process. While shadow visits and open houses continue, it is now time to make decisions about which schools you will apply to, and start on those applications.
This is an excellent time for students to begin working on their portion of the applications. This is a big job, and not one that should be left until the last minute. Please make sure that your student is moving through this process diligently and thoughtfully, and managing time wisely. We recommend setting up a schedule for completing the application for each school. Set specific deadlines and hold each other accountable. Also, remember to maintain boundaries during this time—let the students do their part, especially the essays!
Remember, if you are applying to Saint Ignatius, the application deadline is quickly approaching. Their online application is due November 14!
Look for other schools that also have online applications. Many schools are moving towards having electronic applications exclusively, or they may prefer online applications. They will usually make this clear on their websites.
Mark your calendars for the San Francisco Unified School District visit on November 14. The presentation will begin at 6:30 p.m. Come with questions about the application process!
Finally, as you form the list of schools that you will definitely be applying to, email your respective coordinator, Karen or Lisa, so that they can have updated information.
Peace,
Karen Amaker and Lisa Spengler
High School Placement Coordinators
October 14, 2005
HS Placement 10-14-05
The annual “Lowell Night for Eighth Graders” will take place on Thursday, November 10, 7:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m., at Lowell High School, 1101 Eucalyptus Drive. Families are required to RSVP to Karen on or before 3:00 p.m. on Monday, October 17. Your RSVP will guarantee you a ticket for the event. Due to space limitations and high demand, a ticket admits one student with one adult.
Students applying to independent schools should register for the November 12 SSAT test date. The deadline for registering for the November test is October 21. You may register online, by mail, or by fax. Visit www.ssat.org for additional information or to register online. The test registration fee is $90. Families experiencing economic hardship may be eligible to receive a SSAT fee waiver. To apply for a fee waiver, contact the admissions office at a school to which you are applying.
Save the date! The Boarding School Fair will be held at the Town School for Boys, 2750 Jackson Street, on October 15 from 10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. .
The Public School Enrollment Fair is scheduled for Saturday, October 29, 2005, 9:00 a.m–-3:00 p.m. The Fair will be held at the Bill Graham Civic Auditorium at 99 Grove Street (Civic Center, near City Hall).
A Better Chance application, Part II is due on November 1. Lisa S., Jono, and students’ advisors will complete the student recommendation forms (Forms 2A-2D). Students must turn in to Karen a copy of the graded writing sample on or before Wednesday, October 26. Karen is responsible for mailing Part II to the New York ABC office.
A representative from San Francisco Unified School District will present to students and parents on Monday, November 14, 6:30 p.m. (Theater). Applications will be available. All families are encouraged to attend the enrollment workshop. Counselors will describe the enrollment process, explain how to complete the application, highlight key dates, and answer questions.
Parents are encouraged to attend the following on-campus information sessions between 1:05 p.m.–1:35 p.m.:
Marin School, Monday, October 17
Lick Wilmerding, Monday, October 24
Marin Academy, Wednesday, October 19
Urban School, Thursday, October 27
University High School, rescheduled for November 9
Stevenson School, rescheduled for November 16
Peace,
Karen Amaker and Lisa Spengler
High School Placement Coordinators
October 07, 2005
HS Placement 10-7-05
Greetings from your high school placement counselors! By now, students should have finalized the list of schools to visit-visit and interview days are filling up! With the application deadline for public and private schools only months away, we are encouraging students to begin drafting essays for the independent school common application.
Archie Fokin, Manager of the Educational Placement Center for the San Francisco Unified School District, will visit PHS on Monday, November 14, 6:30 pm (Theater). Parents and students are encouraged to attend this workshop, which is designed to provide assistance to families applying to public school. Applications will be available.
The Public School Enrollment Fair is scheduled for Saturday, October 29, 2005, 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. The Fair will be held at the Bill Graham Civic Auditorium at 99 Grove Street (Civic Center, near City Hall). The application deadline for participation in Round I is Friday, January 12, 2006 (eighth graders moving to ninth grade). Friday, December 2 marks the application deadline for any student applying to Lowell High School. The School of the Arts admissions process involves completion of two applications: a pre-application to SOTA and an application to the San Francisco Unified School District. Students who complete the five-part application are typically given an audition on a first come, first served basis beginning in early January. For more information about applying to public school in San Francisco, please visit the SFUSD website at www.sfusd.edu or call 415-241-6085.
Parents are encouraged to attend the following on-campus information sessions between 1:05 p.m.–1:35 p.m.:
Marin School, Monday, October 17
Marin Academy, Wednesday, October 19
Lick Wilmerding, Monday, October 24
Urban School, Thursday, October 27
University High School, rescheduled for November 9
Stevenson School, rescheduled for November 16
Families applying to high school through the A Better Chance program should turn in their recommendation forms (Part 2) to Karen. The application deadline for Part 2 is November 1 (applications must be in the New York office on November 1). Karen is responsible for mailing recommendations to A Better Chance.
The Boarding School Fair will be held at the Town School for Boys on October 15 from 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m., 2750 Jackson Street. Please remember to mark your calendars. We are available to answer questions about the application process and are continuing our individual meetings with students.
Peace,
Karen Amaker and Lisa Spengler
High School Placement Coordinators
September 30, 2005
HS Placement 9-30-05
This is a light week, in terms of the Friday letter, but we know that the activities around high school admissions are amplifying greatly. Students are off on shadow visits quite regularly and taking responsibility for checking in with teachers and staying on top of homework. As a reminder, when scheduling visits, please avoid October 12 (Humanities field trip), October 27 (Science field trip), and the first two weeks in December before Follies. The Humanities field trip is a new date. If visits are already scheduled for that date, do not feel compelled to reschedule them if it will be inconvenient or disruptive. Lisa apologizes for the late notification; it took over a month for the trip to come together.
October and November are high season for Open Houses as well. Please make sure you have the dates and times for the schools you want to visit. A few schools require reservations, so read the fine print on their websites. Check out www.envisionschools.org to get info on two city charter schools, Metro and City Arts. They are holding Open Houses next week, and may be interesting options for many students.
Those applying to A Better Chance need to adhere to the deadlines set by ABC. Hopefully, you have already mailed your portion of the material. Please get the recommendation forms in to Karen by Monday at the latest so teachers and advisors can begin writing.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Karen or Lisa.
Peace,
Karen Amaker and Lisa Spengler
High School Placement Coordinators
September 23, 2005
HS Placement 9-23-05
We hope the high school fair was productive and informative for all who were able to attend. By now you should have a strong sense of the schools you are interested in. You should also have open house dates for each of these schools on your high school calendar. Please make sure that you have all necessary information. School websites are a great place to find out about individual school admission procedures and open house dates.
A number of students have begun their shadow visits while others have dates lined up. Please make sure that you contact schools of interest in order to receive their information and set up a visit for your student. At some schools, these days fill up quickly, thus leaving you with only a few dates from which to select.
For those students planning on applying to A Better Chance, please get teacher recommendation and transcript release forms to Karen by September 30 so that she can distribute them to teachers and advisors.
Students should return signed (parent signature and date) independent school recommendation forms (English, math, and principal/counselor) and the transcript release form to Karen ASAP, if they have not done so already. Students should not check off schools on any of the forms. In the coming months we will provide you with a date by which the final list of schools is due. All recommendation requests need to be processed through Karen in order to streamline the process for parents and teachers, and so that we can track the forms.
Marin Academy has been added to the list of schools visiting PHS. They will be here on October 19 from 1:05 p.m. until 1:35 p.m. Parents are welcome to attend the presentations, which are held in the Humanities right room. In case you missed the previously published list, we have included it below.
o 9/12-Drew School
o 9/14-Saint Ignatius College Preperatory
o 9/28-Bay School
o 10/3-International High School
o 10/5-University High School
o 10/12-Stevenson School (boarding)
o 10/17-The Marin School
o 10/19-Marin Academy
o 10/24-Lick-Wilmerding
Contact Karen or Lisa with any questions or concerns.
Peace,
Karen Amaker and Lisa Spengler
High School Placement Coordinators
September 16, 2005
High School Placement 9-16-05
A wonderful opportunity to get information and meet admissions people is the Independent High School Fair, which is Sunday. A ticket for the fair was sent home with your student on Wednesday. You must have this ticket in order to enter the fair. It is for the eighth grade student and parents only, as space is tight. This year, the fair is going to be at Katherine Delmar Burke School, which is located at 7070 California Street. Parking may be limited, so consider the MUNI option! The hours are 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
It is a good idea to attend the fair with the intention of gathering as much information as you can on schools you are not familiar with yet. If you are positive you are going to attend an open house and have scheduled a visit for your student at a particular school already, you may not learn much by visiting those schools at the fair. Look for schools that you do not know much about, or have not heard of before, and check out their booths and presentations. It may be a good idea to split the family up in order to hear more presentations, and maximize your time. The first hour of the fair is an opportunity to gather information from the schools at their respective tables. The final two hours consist of school presentations that last a half hour each. Decide on four schools, or more if you divide yourselves up, and take notes!
This week, representatives from Drew School and St. Ignatius College Prep visited with eighth graders during study hall. Most students elected to attend the presentations, and they asked great questions! We are still adding schools to this list, so watch future Friday letters for new dates. In addition to those listed last week, Stevenson School, a boarding school located in Pebble Beach, will be here on October 12.
As a reminder, SI has an early application deadline (November 14), so make sure you have all necessary dates on your calendar.
We were pleased to offer a presentation on Tuesday by A Better Chance. This program is for students of color, and we were excited that all families were represented. In the coming week, review the material distributed by ABC during the meeting, and make a decision as to whether you are going to apply. If you need further information, don’t forget to check out their website as well. Inform Karen of your family’s decision by September 30 at the latest. Also at this time, recommendation forms for ABC need to be in Karen’s possession so that she can distribute them to teachers. Please do not give the forms directly to the teacher. We need to have a tracking system to make sure all documents are being processed. If you have questions or concerns about ABC, please contact Karen.
Recommendation forms will also be required for all independent school applications and for some public schools. Karen distributed copies of the independent school forms to students on Wednesday in order to get parent signatures on the form. Those forms should be returned to Karen on or before Wednesday, September 21! As soon as all forms are gathered, she will distribute them to Jono (math recommendation), Lisa (English/humanities recommendation), and your student’s advisor for the counselor recommendation. Karen will write the advisor recommendations for Lisa and Jono’s advisees.
As a reminder, students should check in with their teachers the day before they will be absent for a high school visit. They are responsible for getting all work, and turning it in on time. We are encouraging responsibility on the part of the student!
Finally, Lisa McClain-Vanderpool would like all eighth grade parents to send her an email so that she can update the room parent list. She is the eighth grade communication liaison. Thanks Lisa!
Peace,
Karen Amaker and Lisa Spengler
High School Placement Coordinators