<p>I really want to attend a private school next fall for the 10th grade (2012-2013 school year). I live in NJ but I'm not sure which private schools I should apply to. I looking for a school with strong academics, great colllege counseling program, and a decent athletic program (least important). A couple of schools I had in mind was Delbarton and Morristown-Beard. Please give me your thoughts on either of these 2 schools and other possible suggestions.</p>
<p>Both of those schools are pretty close to me. The sports at both are extremely strong and a big focus. Because of this, they may not be the right choice for you if your main goal is academics. I think Delbarton is stronger in academics than Morristown Beard, however. Some other possible suggestions (I assume you are looking for day schools) are Pingry, Newark Academy, Montclair Kimberly Academy, and Rutgers Preparatory School.</p>
<p>Princeton Day School, possibly?</p>
<p>10th grade is an “off” year for admissions; will totally depend on open spots in any of the schools recommended…you may want to apply to all in your area and then decide where to go when you are admitted…</p>
<p>some schools have only 5-10 openings for 10th grade…some have none…</p>
<p>I also live in NJ, and am currently a sophomore. Next year, I’ll be transferring to a private school… Moving to a private school as an incoming 10th grader is arguably one of the harder years in the application process. Like other people have said, there are less spots. </p>
<p>Private day schools include Pingry, Delbarton, Rutgers Preparatory School, Gill St. Bernard’s, Princeton Day School, Villa Walsh, Stuart, Hun School, and there are more but I can’t seem to come up with them off the top of my head…</p>
<p>I’m not sure if you’re thinking of boarding, but Peddie and Lawrenceville are boarding schools as well as possible day schools. Lawrenceville is one of the most prestigious and Peddie is also good. Near NJ in the PA region is a boarding school called Blair Academy. The campus there is beautiful haha</p>
<p>Best of luck!!</p>
<p>Actually Blair is in NJ in Blairstown. It’s very close to the Delaware Water Gap with PA across the river. The campus is beautiful. Academics are good. Honors, AP classes and math beyond Calculus BC are available to motivated students. College advising is strong. It is a closely knit community with almost all faculty living on campus and 80% boarding.</p>
<p>Given the small # of places in day schools close to home, you and your family might consider boarding options. Boarding schools do add to the class for 10th grade, so there is less competition.</p>
<p>If you are considering a day school, my suggestion is to keep the commute within 30 minutes. It’s a long academic day and then sports, theater, ec’s, etc. You also want to be able to attend parties and other activities with school friends.</p>
<p>Good luck!</p>