<p>It seems that these boards are focused on big, high intensity schools. But, would appreciate any constructive comments on any of these schools. Daughter has high SSAT's, all A's, arts, sports, life story. But, she is not looking for an intense big school.</p>
<p>Here’s a link to a thread that was started in some part as a reaction to your observation that the board can get a bit too focused on certain types of schools.</p>
<p><a href=“http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/prep-school-admissions/1130908-hidden-gems-lesser-known-prep-schools.html[/url]”>http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/prep-school-admissions/1130908-hidden-gems-lesser-known-prep-schools.html</a></p>
<p>Thanks for this!</p>
<p>I grew up (and my parents still live) in the town where Buxton is located–one of the most beautiful places on earth to me. If your daughter is interested in Art this might be worth a closer look, as there are two incredible art museums in town (one with a great collection of Impressionists, the other is the college museum). There’s also an up and coming contemporary art museum one town over. It’s also a great place for outdoor sports–hiking, canoeing, cross-country skiing… But it’s very isolated (almost a 30 minute drive to the nearest Target) and the winters are cold. Still, from what I know of Buxton, they really let kids express themselves and forge their own path, and they are far more interested in intellectual curiosity and integrity than competitiveness. I think it’s a great place for a kid who is smart and unique, but is over the competitiveness.</p>
<p>And for what it’s worth, I had a delightful chat with two teachers from Solebury at a conference last year, and I was struck by their warmth and thoughtfulness. They were both long-time teachers at the school and spoke about it with such affection and intelligence. It really is a hidden gem–I’d love to hear more about it.</p>
<p>Thanks, Albion. She has been living somewhere colder and more isolated so Williamstown will seem urban!! I am a big fan of MassMoca and think she would like the arts feeling of that part of Massachusetts. I really like the look of all 3 of the schools. We are working with a great educational consultant who really knows my daughter, so I will report after we visit.</p>