<p>I have posted on College Confidential many times, but I am introducing myself under a 'new name'... my old username was too easy to identify. I am the parent of a boarding school student at a well-regarded pre-prep who will be applying to the usual prep schools. He is a fine kid but not outstanding in any way...we don't hope for the 'best of the best' placement...but do hope for something, somewhere, where he can continue to grow...away from home, as he can not stand his parents...alas. What can I expect as far as support from the pre-prep for placement at 'the best possible', with us living so far away? Will the pre-prep lead him through the process, or do I need to become involved....don't want to helicopter. He is not one of those super-motivated students...a bit lazy, a bit wishful thinking, not very focused, not into sports or academics, just wants freedom...typical adolescent in many ways. He has one more year at the pre-prep before applying...what advice would you give him?</p>
<p>I am always impressed by how much boys mature by the Spring of their 8th grade. Fall of the 8th grade I ponder OMG what are we to do? I can vouch for EBS (Eaglebrook) when it comes to prep school placement, they’re very good at what they do. They may be able to alleviate some of your concerns with their Q&A on their website with respect to the placement process and when it starts (8th grade). EBS is great and if your son is there then I would have no worry. I’ll even venture to say that if he is at anyone of the other Pre-prep, Cardigan, Fay or Fessenden (sp) that he is still in good hands. They really do know what they’re doing and will find the right place for him. The placement officer will come up with a list and will get your son’s and certainly your stamp of approval. The placement office will probably present you with a preliminary list sometime this Winter. You’ll be driving him all over and wherever. Some of the Prep schools visit the the Pre-prep schools but you’ll both want to visit regardless. Having the guidance office there for you and your son makes the whole process less worrisome, in fact enjoyable and exciting as it should be. I think you’ll see positive changes this coming year. Good luck!</p>
<p>Thanks, ops. I am sure that you are right. It is hard to learn to let go when the child is still so young. They are not old enough to have wisdom but fully old enough to mess up their lives!</p>
<p>2kidsnoanswers- love your new name! Yes, the pre preps are very good at placements. And yes, the children get more tolerable with age ;-)</p>