<p>I'm considering applying to Stevenson instead of going to my local suburban high school. Since the public schools in my area (SF Bay Area, South Bay) are highly regarded and have mind boggling high API scores, I was wondering how academics at Stevenson would compare. I know it's above average and superior to most schools out there but I'm curious whether it will be better than my local high school. Price is no object (God, I feel spoiled when I say that)...soley in terms of academics. Is Stevenson more rigorous? More well-respected academically?</p>
<p>I’ve heard Stevenson is one of the best schools in all of California. Deciding to attend boarding school is your own decision to make, but based on academic rigor alone, I’m guessing Stevenson is a better bet. I don’t have any personal experience with Stevenson, but as with all other boarding schools, the academics itself is much more than what you’d get at public school, even if they are fantastic schools. one of the greatest things about boarding school in comparison to public is the unmatched extra curricular activities, committed teachers, great facilities, international student body which undoubtedly outshine that of your current school’s. </p>
<p>If as you say money is of no concern, then IMO you should go for it!</p>
<p>Why don’t you apply to Cate, Thatcher, and Stevenson? See where you fall with acceptances, and in the meantime you can investigate Stevenson and the others rigorously.</p>
<p>It’s Thacher, not Thatcher.</p>
<p>Comparing Stevenson to Cal. Publ Schools is really not a fair comparison. The experience will be very different. BS will focus on the education and individual growth; PS will focus, as you allude to, on getting high API test numbers. Those numbers are only relevant for comparing the test scores of pub schools within Cal and are not very meaningful for individual students experiences–they simply say the PS is doing well in meeting or exceeding the state testing standards. You need to examine the look and feel of PS vs. BS and judge for yourself what is right for you.</p>
<p>Ditto on Cate and Thacher. Harker School in San Jose would be a superb day school option in your local area.</p>
<p>I second Harker - an absolutely amazing school.</p>