Class of 2014Heading to High SchoolInformation MeetingTuesday, April 30, 20137:00pm

What to Expect…Summer

• Information Booklet available online and for pick up after July 1o Possible high school options o Checklisto Examples of forms, resumes, etc.

• Meet to discuss ERB scores (parent request)

What to Expect…Fall

O “Heading to High School” Family Meeting September 18th

O Dallas Private School Preview September 29th at ESDO Individual Parent or Family

Meetings (by request)

What to Expect…FallOMock InterviewsOStudents/Parents Work on

ResumesOSchools Visit GSES OParents Register for the ISEEOStudents Begin Application

Process

Application Process1. Application – Available in September2. Parent Questionnaire3. Student Questionnaire4. Student Essay (if applicable)5. Teacher Recommendations – GSES provides to schools

1. Math2. English

6. School Records – GSES provides transcripts to schools7. Student shadow/visit (Jesuit and Ursuline group visits)

and student interview (usually done the same day as visit)

8. ISEE Test (mid to late January)

ISEE PrepO Recommended but

not requiredO Individual needs of

each student varyO Realistic

expectations (best score your child can get)

O Confident and comfortable

O The test is designed to be challenging

O Know what to expect and have strategies in place

O Students get out of it what they put into it

O ISEE prep books, classes, small group and individual tutoring

Independent School Entrance Exam (ISEE)

Commonly

Asked Question

s…

Q: What part of the application do high schools deem as most important?A: All of it – the application process is extensive so the schools can get an accurate picture of your “whole child.” They will consider every part of the application from the interview to the ISEE scores.

Q: Do I qualify for any financial aid?A: Each school varies in the amount of financial aid they award, but most schools are willing to work with each family to provide some assistance (even in small amounts) when needed.

Q: Will it help my child’s application to have additional letters of recommendation?A: Not necessarily. The application process is designed to be efficient and thorough. If the schools need additional information to review your child, they will contact Good Shepherd or you personally.

Q: Are children of alumnae and siblings guaranteed admission at the various schools?A: Every school has a different policy regarding siblings and alumnae. At most schools it is weighed in the decision, but does not guarantee a place for that student.

Q: How will I know which school is right for my child?A: I will assist you and your child in determining what school is the best fit. I recommend being open to many school options and visiting all of the schools to which you apply. Also, I highly encourage the student to be an active participant in this process and to communicate their opinions and preferences.

Q: What is the wait pool and how does it work?A: At most schools, the wait pool means your child is qualified but there is not enough space. The wait pool remains active until the first day of school. As spots become available, the admission committees will review the candidates and offer places accordingly.

What to do this summer…

READ, READ, READ! Students who read consistently outside of school generally show increased reading comprehension scores over their peers who do not read.

Encourage your child to begin thinking about their resume and what activities they’ve been involved with in and out of Good Shepherd. A few things to consider: community service, extra-curricular activities, awards and accomplishments.

Review the “Heading to High School” information with your child. Begin looking at information about different schools and specific programs in which your child would be interested (athletics, fine arts, academic programs, etc.).

What to do this summer…

Discuss the importance of choosing a high school with your child and encourage them to take ownership in this process. Here are a few specific topics to discuss:

O The importance of studying and working hard at school (schools receive a copy of all GSES middle school transcripts and 8th grade 1st trimester grades).

O Being a responsible “digital citizen” and understanding that schools can view what students post online through various sites (Facebook, twitter, etc.).

Class of 2013O 97% of this

year’s graduating class was accepted at their first or second choice of high schools

O Bishop LynchO Booker T WashingtonO ESDO GreenhillO HockadayO JesuitO John Paul IIO ParishO St. Mark’s O Ursuline

What we hear about our graduates…

“Every year, Good Shepherd students arrive in high school prepared for the academic challenges ahead. But it’s not just in the classroom that we see that preparedness – Good Shepherd students are often seen taking on leadership roles in clubs and student council. They’re confident and ready to make the most of every opportunity that comes their way.” – an area admissions director

I will do everything I can to assist your family during this process. Please feel

free to contact me if you have any additional questions.

Thank you!

Diane McMurrydmcmurry@gsesdallas.org

214-357-1610 ext. 271