<p>I’m still firm in my assertion that students forced to go to a specific school may not “suddenly” warm up while there. And it shows up in college interviews.</p>
<p>No one can tell you what is or is not the right decision for your son - but I would recommend reading the book “THE GIFT OF FEAR” which concludes we override our instincts with rationalizations.</p>
<p>Yes - it may be harder to get into a 10th grade program (it was for us) so I know how fierce the competition is. But could it be that your son’s lack of success in getting into other schools is because the school’s could feel that lack of enthusiasm?</p>
<p>My oldest didn’t want to attend a local private school. We dragged her there for a single day shadow experience. She left that evening loving the experience and had changed her mind.</p>
<p>That - for us - was the difference. She realized she wanted to go.</p>
<p>Your son does not. Life isn’t fair - but forcing your son to a new school may backfire in the end.</p>
<p>I think - perhaps - you should find a counselor who can sit down with you and your son to sort it all out. Because he may warm up - or he may not. And many kids who do not warm out end up with lower grades - or worse - get kicked out. Everything he does from now on will count for college. EVERYTHING.</p>
<p>And I’ve asked students how they felt about their school experiences. The one’s who shrug but don’t have a good enough reason, tend to be the ones that are not admitted or waitlisted. Because if they lack enthusiasm for high school, what makes us think it will get better in college.</p>
<p>Find a place your son likes and feels he can thrive in. Parents can only do so much.</p>