Hi! I’m a parent of a senior at Cate School, and am happy to answer any questions about the school. Overall, it’s been a wonderful experience for our daughter and we feel fortunate that she was able to attend. The location is beautiful, most of the staff and teachers are amazing and caring people, and there are many opportunities for students to grow and thrive. Feel free to let me know if any information would help as you make your decisions!
MODERATOR’S NOTE:
As with all “Ask Me Anything” threads, all students/parents/alum/staff are welcome to chime in to answer questions.
Question about languages…is language 1 for beginners? How advance is 2 or 3? I’m also curious what happens if a child outgrows the language level offered. Do you know if Cate allows independent study or would my daughter have to start a new language?
Here is another language question…my daughter has been interested in learning Arabic or American Sign Language. Neither one of these is offered. Is Cate open to exploring ways for kids to learn a class that isn’t offered?
@msc3173 - The languages offered at Cate are Chinese, French, Japanese, and Spanish. All students take a placement test for freshmen year unless they are beginning a new language, as students come from so many backgrounds. Your child is unlikely to outgrow the language curriculum, as everything but Japanese offers 6-8 levels. Most students do four years, but some students do three years and then either start a new language senior year, or take a year off to take other electives. My kids came in with some Spanish; one ended up in French and one in Japanese - both taught by outstanding faculty. Spanish is probably the most popular, given our location.
I can’t speak for the school, but I would doubt they would allow your student to do independent study for language learning. Besides the logistical issues, Cate has an “all in” philosophy about its community.
Will you be coming to a revisit day? Message me if you would like to meet!