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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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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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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The Power of Accepted Student Revisit Days

The Power of Accepted Student Revisit Days

Now that your student has had some time to celebrate their private school acceptances, it’s time to start thinking critically about their options.

Even if your student feels confident in their school choice, attending a revisit day can give them a newfound sense of clarity about what they do and don’t want in their next school.

Check out these questions your student should consider as they enjoy their accepted student revisit days!

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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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The Top 10 Things to Know About Private School Learning Support
Student Success, Private Schools Laurie Bird Student Success, Private Schools Laurie Bird

The Top 10 Things to Know About Private School Learning Support

Navigating the landscape of learning and academic support at an independent school is often daunting for parents! Understanding the support services that are available at each school is essential in helping your student thrive. Here’s a list of the top ten things you should know about the learning and academic support that private school’s tend to offer.

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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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From Start to Strong Finish: Supporting Your Student in the Second Semester
Student Success, Private Schools Laurie Bird Student Success, Private Schools Laurie Bird

From Start to Strong Finish: Supporting Your Student in the Second Semester

What??! The academic year is half-way over!? Although it’s usually a fun time of year, it can be really stressful for students who plan on attending a new school this coming fall.

Below you’ll find some ways that your student can have a successful end to the school year and prepare themselves for private school!

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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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