Admission FAQs
What kind of child succeeds at Tower School?
Children of all types thrive at Tower. It is simply not a "one type of student place". Our students have strong cognitive skills, a love of learning, a deep curiosity, and their parents want this type of academic environment for them. That said, we have a wide variety of personalities ranging from outgoing to shy to introspective to comedic! The school is interested in forming a partnership with parents to nurture the intellectual, artistic, social, emotional, and athletic qualities in all students.
How will my child be evaluated?
The admission process is designed to gather as much information as possible about each child to determine whether Tower School will be a good match for their learning style and personality. Throughout the admission process we will have the opportunity to see your child at least twice, to meet with parents to learn more about each child. We will also contact your child's current school to get information from those who see your child on a regular basis.
What is the screening like?
Applicants to pre-kindergarten, kindergarten and first grade are given a screening that measures ability and development. This gives us a great deal of information on readiness. The session lasts about 40 minutes. Can you prepare for the screening? Let them know that they will spend some time playing and doing some work and that they will have fun! Tell them that you will be close by, and meet up again afterwards. It is important for your child to feel comfortable.
Sometimes it is helpful to have your child bring a small item (a favorite toy or stuffed animal) that can stay in the room with them.
What if my child has a bad day?
We all have bad days. No one has a crystal ball to know if a child is coming down with something or just is not able to separate from a parent. Please do not worry! We will re-schedule and try it again. The most important thing for your child to feel is that they tried that they feel your love and support. Children will also pick up on the fact that you might be nervous. Try to relax and let your son or daughter know that they will be working with someone who loves kids and that you will be right nearby. Let them know that they will be doing things like buiding with blocks, tossing beanbags, and drawing. It really is fun and fast! Sometimes it is helpful to come by for a quick hello a day or two before your appointment so they will know just where they will be.
What is the playgroup day?
We love to see our applicants right in our own classrooms, which is why we have a playgroup day for children applying to Pre-k or Kindergarten. Regular classes are not held on playgroup days, so we are able to have small groups of children come in an experience what it is like to be at Tower. They will have lots of fun doing activity stations, reading a story and working on a project. They really have fun!
What about applicants to grades 2 and above?
Applicants for grades 2 - 8 are invited to spend a day with a class of children at their current grade level. They participate in all activities with the class for the day. Each visiting student is paired with a "buddy". Our students love to have visitors and will make your child feel at ease. During the day of your child's visit to Tower, they will work with the Director of Admission on some reading, math, as well as other assessments.
How are admission decisions made?
Most admission decisions are made at the pre-kindergarten and kindergarten level. In each of these grades, the admission committee works to create a class that is balanced in personalities and ages (throughout the calendar year). We are looking for children who demonstrate readiness for our program both academically and socially.
Information collected from the child's visit is added to the school report, test results (where relevant), and application materials. The admissions committee balances all of this information when making decisions.
What happens at the parent interview?
Because you know your child best, a parent interview is a wonderful opportunity to share information about your child's personality, their development, and also to ask questions about Tower School as it relates to your child.
When will we hear about the school's decision?
Like most independent schools in the area, we mail our decisions March 10th. You will receive a letter telling you whether or not we have a place for your child.
If my child is not admitted, will they be placed on a waitlist?
Tower always has more applicants than spaces available. Our small class sizes and distinctive program make it a sought after placement for elementary education. Admission to Tower can take two years for the youngest grade levels. We give preference to families with qualified siblings in the applicant pool, and to qualified candidates who will contribute to our diversity effort. We always welcome applications from new families. In the event that an opening does occur in a particular grade, the admission committee returns to the pool of qualified candidates to add a child to the class.
