<p>The original post was discussing the needs of a 9th grader. That is why I didn't address the possibility of simply graduating high school a year early. Simon's Rock accepts students after 10th grade, and sometimes after 9th grade. It gives 15 and 16 year old students the opportunity to attend an excellent LAC and still be among students their own age. After two years they get an AA degree and have the opportunity to transfer to other top colleges, have guaranteed admission to Bard, or to stay and get a BA at Simon's Rock.</p>
<p>Staying in high school for two or three extra years can be a horrendous, mind-numbing experience for students who are not being challenged and do not want to be there. Each child is different, so you certainly do need to weigh the options carefully. I know from personal experience how agonizing these decisions can be. But I can attest to the fact that Simon's Rock is a very good option for certain students. After maturing for two years among peers, moving on to other colleges is not a problem. And the transfer process does work exceptionally well. </p>
<p>Also, Simon's Rock does offer an AEP merit based scholarship which covers all costs. This can be a huge savings when students get two years of college for free.</p>
<p>I should also note that because the students are younger, Simon's Rock is far more accessible and parent friendly than most other colleges (and in fact than most high schools, I suspect). I actually got to meet my daughter's teachers, and they have frequent breaks built into the year -- every six weeks or so they have a week off to go home if they want to. This was greatly appreciated.</p>
<p>I don't claim to know what the best decision is for any child. But I have come to respect Simon's Rock College as a very viable option. It is certainly not for everyone, but I would recommend that anyone exploring early college at least look at it as a possibility.</p>