<p>I'm going to speak on behalf of (some) parents of kids who get REAL average SAT scores 950-1050. Studying for the SAT can only help so much. Yes- 1. You should do CollegeBoard practice tests to familiarize yourself with test format. 2. Re-learn math you did in 9th and 10th grade because the math you forgot is on the test. 3. Read and read some more. But for a lot of average test takers, much more studying leads to frustration and doing worse than if they went into the test cold. What study methods worked for d # 1 who is at Cornell DOES NOT WORK for d #2. I am learning from my 2 daughters that kids have different learning styles and abilities. You have to accept it and go with it. Joolie I wish I could say that if your son studied real hard, he'd get a 1300 on the SAT. But I am using my own daughter as an example-it may not happen. I am looking into finding the best academic environment for her and not propel her into a "higher" level school that might not be the best fit. PS My kid is a varsity athlete too. That's her interest-- her strength--her essence. She is not going to zap all her energy to try to get 70 points higher on the SAT exam. You will find the right schools for him. We have some Texas parents on board. Let us know about your son, I'm sure they can help you out. If you are interested in NY or mid-Atlantic-just let me know. Good luck.</p>
<p>You guys/girls are amazing! I truly appreciate the kind thoughts and encouragement! It feels good to talk about kids who are average academically but who have incredible 'life skills'.
I am surrounded by the super-competitive parent 'coalition' in this school district, and also work in the Special Education field in another school district. It's hard for me to know what 'normal' is!
Anyway....I am feeling quite hopeful now, and will assist my great son in finding the school that is the best fit for him! Thank goodness I found this supportive community!</p>
<p>Joolie, looks like you're already a hit! Once you get to know this place, the advice just keeps coming! </p>
<p>The ACT suggestion is a wise one. Although not everyone does significantly better on it, your son might get better results, since I think the test was originally designed for students in the Midwest, and kids in the South might have similar testing patterns.</p>