Overview of NYC High School Admission Process PS/IS 276

We just started middle school-why do we have to start thinking about this already? 7th grade is an EXTREMELY important year! Get a head start! This can be an overwhelming process if started too late.

Why is 7th grade so important? Admission to many schools is based on 7th grade grades, state test scores in reading and math, attendance and lateness.

Types of Schools/How schools select students Specialized High Schools Audition Schools Choice Schools

Specialized High Schools Admission is based on the Admission Test only (SHSAT) Test is usually given towards the end of October Schools include Bronx Science, Stuyvesant, Brooklyn Technical H.S.) Everybody is eligible to take this test Manhattan youth will be offering a test prep class as part of the after-school program Kaplan- http://www.kaptest.com/

Audition Schools Admission is by audition or portfolio For example, if a student auditions for a drama program, he/she may have to prepare a monologue as part of the audition. Portfolio examples include preparing 10-20 pieces of original art. Other areas include musical theatre, vocal music, dance, drama, instrumental music, fashion design. Grades, exam scores and attendance will be looked at as well. Join BPC Portfolio club with Julie!

Audition continued… If your child has a particular interest, nurture that interest now. Vocal lessons, enroll in dance classes, etc. Audition schools include LaGuardia High School, Art & Design, Frank Sinatra, etc.

Choice Schools Screened- may require interview, essay, academic portfolio, other diagnostic test. Education Option (Ed. Opt) Limited Unscreened Unscreened Zone (Manhattan does not have zoned high schools)

How does the admission process work? The high school admission process is a “match” process. Students rank school choices and schools rank students. Where the two meet, we have a match! Screened schools may require an interview, academic portfolio, essay, diagnostic test, letters of recommendation, etc. While you apply to many high schools (up to 12), you will only be matched (receive admission) to one. That is the school you must attend. If you apply to the specialized high schools, you will also be accepted to one other school on your list of 12 choices, and you can choose between the 2 schools.

What should I consider? Location- What schools are nearby your home? How long is the commute? What is the area near the school like? School Size: large school with many extra-curriculars, small school with close knit feel? Interest Areas, Curriculum and Courses: What are your academic interests and strengths? Are you looking for a particular focus? Special Ed. Services: What does their program look like? Extracurriculars: What types of clubs and sports are offered?

What is the Best Fit for you… Discuss with your child his/her interests, goals and talents. Review extra-curricular activities and clubs at the school Take note of special programs, advanced placement (AP) courses, etc. Reputation of college office Can you picture yourself there? Do the kids look like they could be your friends?

How do we learn about the schools? School tours! These typically take place in the fall of 8th grade, except for some schools that offer tours in the spring of 7th grade (Beacon, Bard) Parents are responsible for contacting the schools and arranging tours on their own (look on schools website for dates/scheduling). Start contacting the schools no later than September 2012 Walk by the schools to get a sense of the students

Resources High School Fairs High School Directory (comes out fall 8th grade) NYCDOE on-line directory and other resources http://schools.nyc.gov/ChoicesEnrollment Check out http://insideschools.org/ New York City’s Best Public High Schools: A Parent guide by Clara Hemphill

7th grade preparation Focus on study skills, organization, time management, and homework completion Strong attention to lateness/attendance Start preparing portfolios (save graded projects and papers as some schools require academic portfolios) Spring school tours If interested in arts schools- join BPC portfolio club with Julie