Our son has decisions to make (newly admitted for 9th grade in the fall). He is trying to decide which school would be the best fit for him academically. We would like to message privately with any parents with recent relevant experience with any of these schools.
Feel free to message me. Mine is at The Hill, and I would be happy to attempt to answer any questions.
We were accepted at Kent, Berkshire & Peddie (as well as others, including Loomis, which we chose). I would encourage you to revisit them all armed with specific questions and meet with relevant department heads.
Also, really try to drill deep into Peddie. It’s still a bit of a “hidden gem”. We got a real strong sense of intellectualism there, and they are doing some amazing things. It’s not as flashy or picturesque as some of the others, but I think it’s a place where a big brain can really be challenged and encouraged. And the people are really, really nice.
On reflection, Kent and Berkshire really have a lot going on also. Although I’m not sure they are quite as academically rigorous on average, there is plenty of room for someone to blaze a bright path. And they are So, so gorgeous!! Almost all boarders. Cool vibe, and interesting programs. These kids are so lucky! I went to a cinder block public school that couldn’t afford a football team…
Drove through Berkshire’s campus today and it really is gorgeous! The kids we passed all waved hello. Very nice vibe!
First time poster, long time lurker. I know enough to be dangerous, as they say. DS1 is a junior at Kent. I’m an alum. We could not be happier. Kent has courses for those who seek the highest level of rigor and they have excellent support for students who have a weakness in a particular subject. The personal attention that my son has received from his teachers is astounding. If a student is willing to put in the work, Kent will help them reach their potential.
@ProudLoomisDad – I’ve enjoyed your posts. Kent is beautiful and I appreciate the compliments that you’ve paid it in other posts. Kent also places students with the most competitive colleges and universities in the country. The college matriculation lists are quite similar to Loomis’ actually.
We just had our revisit at the Hill yesterday and Kid loved it. Also thought the academics, especially the math and engineering programs were fascinating, I hope you get a chance to revisit if you have not already. They also did a really nice thing, they took pictures of the day all around campus and made a slideshow that they showed at the wrap up, with #choosehill. I thought it was really special, esp since Kid was in one pic looking like he fit right in.