Confidence in Belonging: How Junior Boarding Schools Transform the Middle School Years
Student Success, Boarding Schools Laurie Bird Student Success, Boarding Schools Laurie Bird

Confidence in Belonging: How Junior Boarding Schools Transform the Middle School Years

The middle school years are tough—but junior boarding schools make it transformational! In Part 2 of our series, I interview Amy Jolly, Head of School at Applewild School, and dive into how these programs help students thrive through challenges, build lasting friendships, and grow into confident leaders. Read on to discover the difference!

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Top 5 Tips for International Families Choosing the Right Boarding School!

Top 5 Tips for International Families Choosing the Right Boarding School!

Are you an international family feeling overwhelmed by the boarding school process? As a consultant specializing in boarding schools, I've got you covered! Here are 5 essential tips to help you confidently choose the right fit for your child. From researching academic programs to understanding school culture, I'm here to guide your family every step of the way. 

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Confidence vs. Arrogance: Balancing True Awesomeness in Kids

Confidence vs. Arrogance: Balancing True Awesomeness in Kids

Yup, I’ll admit it! I see every day just how awesome my kids are—and I’m one proud parent! But don’t most parents think their kids are pretty awesome?! What’s the problem then? Or the challenge? Helping them embrace their unique strengths without tipping into arrogance. True awesomeness in my eyes means being confident in who they are while staying humble and kind. 

Check out my latest thoughts on finding that balance and why that is important in your school search process!

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Why Admission Directors Can’t Afford to Overlook Ethical Educational Consultants

Why Admission Directors Can’t Afford to Overlook Ethical Educational Consultants

School Enrollment & Admissions Directors: Are you overlooking a crucial asset? Ethical educational consultants connect mission-appropriate students with your school, helping to strengthen your community. Don’t let these professionals fly under your radar—discover why they deserve your attention.

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The Importance of Keeping Extracurriculars in Your Student’s Life!

The Importance of Keeping Extracurriculars in Your Student’s Life!

For students, their passions and talents outside the classroom are vital sources of confidence and joy. Whether it’s sports, arts, or any extracurricular, these activities play a crucial role in shaping their self-esteem and identity.

As parents, let's remember to keep these positive outlets in their lives, especially when academic struggles arise. By nurturing what they excel at, we help them build resilience and a strong sense of self-worth!

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Gearing Up for Boarding School: Fun Essentials for a Dorm Room!
Boarding Schools, Student Success Laurie Bird Boarding Schools, Student Success Laurie Bird

Gearing Up for Boarding School: Fun Essentials for a Dorm Room!

Getting your child ready for boarding school? It’s not too early to start! Check out our essential tips and must-have items for a smooth and stylish dorm room setup. From pool noodles for bunk bed safety to cozy keepsakes like custom photo calendars and framed pictures, we've got you covered to ensure your child feels right at home even when they're away!

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Headline: Parental Gratitude and Growth: A Journey from Dyslexia Diagnosis to College Graduation

Headline: Parental Gratitude and Growth: A Journey from Dyslexia Diagnosis to College Graduation

From an initial diagnosis of dyslexia in early childhood to an upcoming college graduation, my parenting journey has been a rollercoaster of emotions and growth. Each stage presented its own set of challenges, but also opportunities for learning and gratitude.

Join me as I reflect on parenting, from the early years of uncertainty to the pride and joy of seeing my daughter achieve success as a college graduate! Read our story here:

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Creating Synergy & Success: The Educational Consultant/Placement Director Partnership
Private Schools, Boarding Schools Laurie Bird Private Schools, Boarding Schools Laurie Bird

Creating Synergy & Success: The Educational Consultant/Placement Director Partnership

Hold onto your seats as we examine The Educational Consultant/Placement Director Partnership, exploring what can (and should) be a dynamic synergy between these two invaluable resources. Say goodbye to uncertainty and hello to confidence as you embark on this exciting chapter of your child's next school!

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Celebrating our Students! Celebrating Success! 

Celebrating our Students! Celebrating Success! 

It's one of our most exciting times of year! Our clients and their families have been accepted into a variety of schools that will help them reach their potential both in and out of the classroom. Here's to celebrating our students and all their many accomplishments!

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Beyond Admissions Decisions: Redefining what “Acceptance” Means 

Beyond Admissions Decisions: Redefining what “Acceptance” Means 

Acceptance is so much more than just a decision from a school. Yes, attending private schools can change the course of your student’s life, but the acceptance decision from a school doesn’t define your student's sense of future success.

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What Does Punxsutawney Phil Know about Boarding Schools?
Boarding Schools Laurie Bird Boarding Schools Laurie Bird

What Does Punxsutawney Phil Know about Boarding Schools?

Okay, I’ll admit it…. I’ve always been a bit fascinated by Groundhog Day! Yes, it’s a silly tradition but it’s fun! Yesterday’s Groundhog Day made me yearn for spring because the groundhog did not see his shadow. Punxsutawney Phil's annual appearance on Groundhog Day, where he predicts the coming of spring by either seeing or not seeing his shadow, holds cultural significance beyond just weather forecasts. I’ve been thinking about how this tradition offers subtle parallels for students interested in attending boarding schools.

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Redefining Success: Why Test Scores Aren’t Everything

Redefining Success: Why Test Scores Aren’t Everything

It’s that time of year when students are getting ISEE and SSAT standardized test score results back, and parents are in a panic! For some students this is the first time they’ve taken the test and for others, it might be their second or third time sitting for the test. Regardless, it’s anxiety provoking because application deadlines are upon us, and test scores may need to be submitted to schools to “complete” applications.

For students who have lower-than-hoped-for private school entrance testing scores, I want to offer some pieces of advice based on my experience:

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The “First Choice Letter” Dilemma: To Write or Not To Write Admissions

The “First Choice Letter” Dilemma: To Write or Not To Write Admissions

If you’ve had a student apply to private school before, or if you have familiarity with private school admissions, you’ve likely heard of ‘first choice letters.’ These letters tend to be a highly debated topic in the private school admissions world.

In this article we’re breaking down what you need to know about first choice letters and if they might be a good move for your student.

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Navigating Rolling Admissions for Latecomer Private School Applicants

Navigating Rolling Admissions for Latecomer Private School Applicants

The new year typically means your student should have all of their private school applications submitted or close to being completed.

But if your student hasn’t started any applications, and you think private school is right for them, they can take advantage of rolling admissions.

Here’s everything you need to know about the rolling admission process.

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How to Celebrate Your Student’s Teachers This Year

How to Celebrate Your Student’s Teachers This Year

Gift giving and celebrations are often reserved for families and friends. But it’s just as important to recognize and appreciate the advisors and teachers who have helped shape your student’s academic success. Here are a few ways you can recognize and express gratitude towards your student’s teachers this holiday season.

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