The Hotchkiss School

The Hotchkiss School is a private independent co educational boarding school located in Lakeview Conneticut. It was founded in 1891 and provide a education unsurpassed by most boarding schools in the country. We toured the school among other schools in Conneticut this past week. Students come to Hotckiss from over 36 countries including the Umoted States for the experience of a lifetime.

Hotchkiss has a mixture of students from every country imaginable, Afganistan, Iran, Africa, South American, China, and so many other countries. The schools also has a rigious academics curriculum which requires at least 6 hours of homework per day. Hotckiss is marvelous school for the right student. Our tour of the school was simply facinating. Parents looking at a school like Hotchkiss, will be very impressed by its academics with over 200 courses and 16 departments ranging from art, fine arts, mathmatics, history, languages, chemisty and biological sciences, which students must be independent, and high achievers to compete in such a rigorous program. Students must also be self motivated.

Students at the school study economics, mathmatics, physics, advance calculus, trigonometry, among other courses in every imagable setting, where an international baccularate level of education is offered, and ESL English as a second Language is taught. It is clear to me, not every student will be accepted at Hotchkiss. We discuss in depth the requirement for admission and most students would have to be exceptionally prepared.


There are pre. upper, middle and senior level courses, and all students have a very clear idea of their direction and goals. It is not uncommon to travel to other countries at Hotchkiss. Most students already have a international direction. Course offeing includes: world religion. philosophy, music, theatre, modern languages including Chinese, advanced mathmatics, history, just to name a few. All of the students we toured with were very happy with the school, and considered it a privellege to attend the school and be admitted.

As a traditional boarding school dress is casual, and with some dress days, a blazer and slacks for boys and shirts and blazer for girls is required. The expectations are high, and students who have challenges might not fit at Hochkiss, but it certainly is a indepth boarding school. We visited the art studio which was comprised of students in fine art, sculpture among so many other choices for art students. We also toured other parts of the campus including the dorms which are double bunked. We found most students are so busy, they simply don't have much time to go to their rooms unless it is for studying.

A student panel was held with all consultants, and we asked the students about the amount of time it required to keep up at Hochkiss. Many of the students spend at least 2 hours per subject in study hall and after classes which means 6 hours a day studying. The school has a wonderful athletic facility where sports like squash, tennis, volleyball, basketball, and so many other sports are played at a very competitive level with schools like Choate Hills and Berkshire, both highly competitive schools.

The bookstore had all college level cousre books, ranging from Shakespearean Literature to Advanced Calculus. Students can trade in their books at the end of the year and this reduce the cost for books. The campus has 0ver 800 acres of land. It is a non denominational school, which accepts students from all faiths and backgrounds. The annual tuition is $41,800.00 and there is a cheaper route for day students. Rachel Bear is the admissions director, and met with us in the morning of our tour to address our concerns of parents and consultants. Many of the questions about the school foccused on its future, its mission, and direction with students who are extermely gifted and talented.

Parents seem impressed by the school, when we talked to the students, it afterall is a class act to say the least. The offering special lecture series at the school with prominent individuals from all over the world to discuss current topics related to education is exceptional for students in a boarding community. Classroom size is large enough for individual attention with the traditional circular table for more class interaction. We talked to a student from Chicago, who says the school has changed her life. We believe the doors that open up by attending Hotchkiss is enormous.


One parent donated 5 million dollars to the school, even after not re-enrolling his son in the school. The endowment size is 380 million and much of this is used for scholarships and school improvments. 38 percent of the students are of color and 92 percent are boarding students. which speak well of the overall student population and the emphasis on boarding students. Most boarding school require a minimum of 3 sports for students, however many of the students are involved in less.

Having heard about Hochkiss, would you send you child to this type of boarding school? What type of student do you feel would be placed at a school like Hotchkiss? Would consider the school to be high end? What things do you like about the school?

Marvelwood

Marvelwood School is a co educational boarding school located in about 1.5 hours from Hardford Conneticut. Marvelwood is the brainchild of Robert A. Botkin and Ian Han, who started the school in 1956 with 21 boys and a handful of teachers in a country setting, which is remarkable! We toured the school, recently with several consultants from as far as China and Russia and Brazil. Additional consultants from several states were also a part of the tour. California, South Carolina, North Carolina. Colorado, Georgia, as well as the New England States.

Many parents looking at Marvelwood would be very surprized at the culture and diversity at the school, not to mention the schools wonderful sense of community. The student body is about 166, which is a perfect fit for international student's or ESL students from other countries. The school also has a curriculum to help students with learning differences, its a great fit for the right student. It is a traditional boarding school for boys and girls. has a terrific athletic programs, varied classes, and curriculum addressing the academic needs and challenges of students no matter what their learning curve might be.

My student tour guide was from Ghana. Africa. Her name is Alicia. She as a very excited student, who is very bright, articulate, knowledable about different cultures having attending school in Malysia, Africa, and the United States. She is involved in mulitiple activities, and very much a leader on the campus. She first came to Marvelwood, after looking at several other schools in the United States.

Her brother, who is also a boarding student, at Choate, is described as a very bright student equally. Alicia has regular contact with her brother, and often returns home in the summer with much excitement to tell her parents of her experience at Marvelwood. The most significant part of this students life was she was also in public school student. She found attending public school to be very challenging and not in the direction for sucess.

When we asked, why she choose Marvelwood, she indicated," everyone here feels like family". "We know everyone and everyone knows us". My mom lives in Ghana and she is coming to visit, but we talk all the time about the school". She is equally pleased about my coming to Marvelwood". We could tell, from the excited smile on her face. which was glowing. Indeed this is a special place for many international and stateside students.

The school challenges students no matter where they come from", -"I feel so much a part of the community at Marvelwood its like home". It's hard to explain, but we all feel like family here".As a consultant, there was not a single student, we interviewed, or toured with at the school, that did not say something positive to say about the school. All of the students were excited and very enthuastic, and engaging.

A student who does not want to attend Marvelwood, or a seclusive student would not be a good fit, according to one student on our students on the student panel. Simply because "its a school, where you simply cannot hide."

With an average class size of 9 expanding 83 acres of land it is as beautiful a campus, as the students themselves. What makes Marvelwood an exceptional school are its kids, with good character, a strong sense of community at the school, its protection of its students by helping them mature and focus on helping other students, achieve sucess. The faculity in the commuity is equally committed most living on campus. Our student was so very excited about the school's graduation, she could not hesitate to tell us aobut her anticipated graduation the following year, and the traditions of the school.

She indicated she was planning on attending either George Washington University or several other schools with prestige. She wanted to become a lawyer, and it was very clear she had direction and focus. Her advisor was also involved in helping her plan for college and to make the right decisions.

As a student she also told us about the rigrious academics in her home country before coming to Marvelwood. Her dream was to attend a school in the United States and become a lawyer. An ambition she has had for a very long time. Strong meaningful relationships seem to be a part of Marvelwood, which is also a part of the reason our student excels. We had lunch together, toured every part from the fine arts, to the athetic center, showing award to the school in everything from basketball, soccer, baseball, and a host of trophies incased in teh athletic hall. Alicia was a very warm and caring young lady, the tour also had a tstudent panel who was equally proud of Marvelwood.

Marvelwood is an intimate community of students, where each student is important and each student is recognized. As a consultant, this is absoutely one of the best schools, we found in our many tours of schools and programs. Teachers are more than teachers at Marvelwood, they are advisers, and Alicia spoke highly of the students and they also spoke well of her. Marvelwood cost about $48,000 fourty eight thousand dollars for tuition. An enrollment fee is added and much of the interview process is finding the right student for Marvelwood. There is a payment plan offered to parents, and their is a resident deposit for the school.

All students must wear a jacket blazer and girls were skirts at the knee and boys wear a shirt in tie during classes. Alicia said this was not a problem for her, she was accustomed to this dress code and it shows pride in being a student at Marvelwood. All student do attend study hall and receive individual help in any subject by teachers and adivisors. The school has a very well developed music program, that allows students to study the history of the Beatles to receiving individual instruction in guitar, piano, and practically all instruments from strings to percussions instruments, including acapella music.

There are girls and boys sports, with all the trimmings of traditional school with a highly competitive program in most sports. Some of the activies include: Math Club, SAT Prep. Drivers Education, Drama, Book Club. Girls Night, Movie Night, International Fair. Scabble Club, Shaksepeare, Prom, Dances, Student Faculity Basketball Games, Winter Carnival, Ski Club and so many other activities, its hard to list them all.

One parent visiting the school, reflected on her son coming to Marvelwood, saying "her son would not be the same student, had he not attended Marvelwood". The parent lives not far from the school came to our tour to meet us as consultants. The was a great opportunity to hear from a parent about the school and its impact on her son, personally.

We believe for a parent who is looking for a school with diversity, acceptance, helping children from 9-12 grades achieve sucess this is the right place. Marvelwood does accept students in 12th grade and has an excellent LD program for student with learning differences, which is very uncommon for a traditional boarding school. This shows the comittment by the school to achievement of students sucess, no matter what level they might be.

What do you think of Marvelwood? Is this the type of school for you son and daughter? What do you like about Marvelwood? Did the personal testimony by a parent influence you decidion to send a student? How can we help you to send you child to a school like Marvelwood?

Piney Woods Country Life Boarding School

Piney Woods Boarding School is one of the four remaining historically African American Boarding Schools in the country. The schools is located about 21 miles from Jackson Mississippi. in a scenic part of Missippi with rolling hills, and several lakes. It has its roots in the segregated south but also has a unique history, in being both a boarding school, and at one time a school for the blind. While many schools at an eariler time were segregated Piney Woods has a legacy of their ownm with a strong connection to Jackson.

We spoke to the Director of Admissions Ron Huddlesworth, about the school, and found some very interesting things which most consultants might not know about Piney Woods. Many consultants, we have spoken to are either not familar with Piney Woods, or never toured the school. They might have heard of the school, but they have never spoken directly to a faculty at Piney Woods, so their knowledge is limited, most have never seen the campus or explored its historic legacy.

Mr. Huddlesworth was gracious to speak to me about the school by a conference call, which was we both shared many of the concerns of parents having children at Piney Woods. While he was preparing for its annual tubilee- A historical term, often used by many black sch0ols and colleges which is often referred to as parent-alumni days in other boarding schools. We spoke to Mr. Huddlesworth, at greath length about the schools misssion, history and its direction.

The school has a mission of training young men and women toward heart, hands, and helping-a motto of the school which has been embrassed since its beginning. These three areas are a play a significant part of Pinney Woods purpose. While many parents might not undestand this motto or misssion, it's clear tha helping students in these areas are critical. Students are als0 sent to Piney Woods for a college prepatory education, which might not be clear to some parents or consultants. We spoke to one consultant on our tour in New England, who thougth
Piney Woods was a school for only African American students. We had to clarify the diversity of the school to this consultant.

Piney Woods started as all boys school, but is now a co educational boarding school that has student from over 20 different countries and states including girls on the campus. Piney Woods offers a good scholastic curriculum to help students who want to enter college, while preparing for life. The mission of preparing students for life is the essential part of the school's motto. They have over 2000 acres of land, where students do farming chores and work to address this mission. Unlike other boarding schools, students do work on campus, having great responiblities for maintaining the campus.

This supplements the tuition which is at a reduced rate often more afforable to familes which have low economic support. Many student coming to Piney come to the school with a resuced rate for tuition. Many paying much less than they would had they attended a boarding school on the east coast, which can range up to 48,000 fourty eight thousand dollars.

The faculty at Piney Woods are wonderful and committed teachers, many African American who are interested in the student population. Mr. Huddlesworth reminded me about the school and its mission and purpose, in our discussion. The school has on its main page information which was addressed on CNN Lives program "Black in America". This series, talks about the educational challenges of minority youth in America as well as the culture.

The program was hosted by CNN addressing some of the challenges black Ameican face with the drop out rate and violence in public schools. We are planning a tour to Piney Woods to meet the faculty very soon. Our invitation was many months ago, and we feel the school has great opporunities for the right student. Mr. Huddlesworth, explained " Piney Woods is open to all students not exclusively black students". "We do have a large number of black students but mmany of our students come from other countries, including the Carribean, some from Canada others from Egypt". "Many parents many not look at Piney Woods, because they think its a all black boarding school". Other parents might send a student to the school, simply by word of mouth.

We worked with a parent, who had a son at Piney Woods, and left the school after a short time requesting my services for a school. The parent felt Piney Woods as not a good match for her child. We wanted to ask for ourselves, about why this parent removed their child from Piney Woods. More imporatantly, we wanted first hand knowledge of the school, rather than a single parent experience of the school.

Some parents concerns about a school like Piney Woods simply because of the ethnic composition of the students, other might have different reasons. Mr. Huddlesworth, simply replied, "well many parents send their childre to Piney for the wrong reasons". Often the problem is they "have a problem long before coming to Piney Woods, and that is simply not our mission.

We wanted to ask this question, because when a consultant sends a student to an all black rural boarding school, in Mississippi, there might be nunerous reason, or concerns which have nothing to do with the school itself. We also want to determine if those reasons were valid, and if Piney Woods is the best place for the right student. While adjustment to a rural community in Missippi may be an issue or challenge for a student from a urban community, the right place is imporant for any consultant working with a family.

The fact is 98 percent of students attending Piney Woods go on to college. We found the curriculum matching to the states proficiency, but probably needing additional courses in latin and fine arts, and probably math and science was perhaps needed.

The schools' motto is heart, help, and hands is the very essence of the school mission can be accomplished. When a consultant is looking at a school like Piney Woods or Pine Forge, also a historically black Seventh Day Adventist boarding school, they must understand both schools mission and its focus. Pine Forge is a historically black boarding school in Pensylvania, which like
Piney Woods has a largely black student population.

The question we want to ask is: What do you know about Piney Woods, Did you know of this historically black boarding school? What interest you about Piney Woods. Are there some areas of concern you might have in the perception of the school versus other traditional co educational boarding schools? Have you visited the school? What challenges would you have in selecting the school?

Copper Canyon Academy

Copper Canyon is a private therapeutic boarding school located in Central Arizona which provides care for girls who are struggling with emotional growth challenges. My tour of the school was a couple of years, ago at this time its owner, was Tammie Berman, who developed the school based on her vision of having a quality school for girls.

Copper Canyon is supported through Aspen Education, and has been operating for several years in this southwestern location. The school has been featured on Dr. Phil. It was clearly one of the programs, he recommended for struggling girls who were faced with challenges emotionally or needed a good strong program. We have visited Copper Canyon a few times, since this two year period. The most recent changes were they have a new director, Paul Taylor who has a complete staff of women all Masters level clinicans. Most of the therapist are specialized in EBT. Emotional Behavioral Therapy.

Copper Canynon has a good education progam which is supported by its education director, Ken Buxton, who works with the girls during the school year. Copper Canyon has girls from all over the country and different countries around the world. The schools is not just a single niche boarding school program but well rounded therapeutic level program for girls. We were impressed by Copper Canyon's campus as it is secluded, but very warm and friendly for the girls. It is clearly a place to send a girl, who need to feel secure, have a stronger sense of self work, feel well cared about, and protected.

We have placed a student at the school because it worked very well for the family, and it provided much needed direction for our student. The average length of stay is about 12 months. Girls have a variety of activities including equine and canine therapy programs also community service and trips and activities.

Our last student even went to Mexico to work with a family there, however presently they are not leaving the country for any trips. This student, had great sucess at Copper Canyon with a combined family therapy sessions during the program and additional programming which helped the students. While the current concern by many parents might be sending their daughter to a program like Copper Canyon, its always good to tour the program with a consultant.

There are no AP courses at Cooper Canyon. Some parents are concern about this academic focus of being in a therapeutic school, but students can complete their education and this can be done from any state in the United States, with the requirement meeting the Arizona Department of Education requirements. Arizona has the AIMS state testing which meausure grade lavel and proficiency. Most therapeutic boarding schools have to meet their own states guidelines for compeleting high school. This might vary from state to state.

Copper Canyon probably exceeds the expectations of the AIMS (Arizona Instrument Measure Standards)which is the required test for all public schools . This testing is generally administered during their academic year. Cooper Canyon used the Terra Nova as a testing measure, w;he we spoke to Paul Ravanecraft the new admissions director.

Arizona does ranks 48th in all states in school testing. While a consultant sending a student to Cooper Canyon may be concern about this information, particularly regarding sharing this information with parents, its also important in school selection. The education department isvery good. The Director, is very familar with the education requirements, has been in education in therapeutic schools and programs for a long time and has good working knowlege of the requirement for all schools.

The trend these days is to provide quality education at therapeutic boarding schools and Copper Canyon does suceed in accomplishing this. Copper Canyon offers soccer, baseball and basketball for girls on campus. The education program is involved in a very special program to take girls to Washington and learn about how the country is actually run. How the legislature and the senate and the congress works.

Cooper Canyon has a three level system at the school which addresses leadership, trust, and resonsiblity. These three key areas help girls in their program to achieve sucess, while identifying therapeutic goals. The cost of attending this program is about 5,900.00 per month, this includes tuition fees, and housing for the program. Additional cost would be programs which might include community service trips or programs which are part of the school activities. Students wear uniforms, which are generally casual with a polo shirts. The most interesting part, is when special events are held the girls dress up like ladies.

Graduation is at the completing of the school, and all girls participate in the program. When I attended graduation, there was not a dry eye in the auditorum at the graduation. Paul has done a terrific job in transitioning the program. Shanon was the past admission director has now left the school, was a great asset to the program.

One things which is key to any therapeutic school program, is having comittted staff, this seem to be changing in the industry. There are significant changes in staffing that are affecting the pas goals of the progams. This is an extremly challenging position for staff who have been at program for years. Aspen Programs have been criticized for this change, shifting staff from school to schools and program to programs. Many consultants feel this is damaging the programs themselves. Students who are alumi families

Miss Hall's School

Miss Hall's School is one of the oldest all girl's preparatory boarding school's in the country. The school was first open in 1898's and started as a leadership school for women, viewed by most as a finishing school for girls, at that time. Miss Hall's has become one of the finest all girls schools in the nation. We had a chance to tour Miss Hall's a couple of year's ago, and visited the faculty and the girls on campus. It is a wonderful school, and its current Director of Admission Ms. Kim Bolland, is equally as gracious, to host several consultants on our New England tour, at during the fall.

Most of the history of Miss Hall's, is surrounded by its history of Ms Hinsdale Hall, who started the school during the 1800's as a leadership school. Horizons which has now become a part of the school's leadership model, in preparing girls for the future, is a wonderful program. This is a terrific model for the school, which helps girls to become leaders for the future.
Enrolling most of its girls in schools like Vassar, Smith, Welsley, are just a few of the prestigious schools which admit students from Miss Hall's. The school was actually rebuilt in 1909 after a tragic fire destroyed it's orginal building.

We have been to several schools in the east, both single gender and co educational boarding schools, and believe, Miss Hall's and Miss Porter's are our choices. Miss Hall's is our favorite, all girls school, in addition to many other schools in the area. Our tour included several other schools located cl0se by. We found the girls at Miss Hall's to be very hospitable. Very knowledgable, very diverse culturally, Many of the girls come from all over the world, representing 20 different countires, ranging from China, Pakistan, Korea, China, Africa, Carribean, coutries in Eastern Europe, and the Ukraine.

We spoke to several of the girls, from New York and surrounding states, and toured the dorms, classroom, visited classes in session, and spoke directly to faculity during our tour with the girls as they spoke about the entire campus for this all girls boarding school. Present enrollment is at about 188 students. This is a perfect match for a small classroom size of 12 in each class and the match for the right student. All of the girls we had aquaintance, were very disciplined, very much the kind of girls you would see in any private or public school, and clearly leaders of the future. The curriculum is college prepatory focus, and all the girls were accepted or planning on attending college.

The curriculum has strong academic presence. Miss Hall prides itself in sending their girls to the best schools in the country. The average girl attending Miss Hall's has a SAT score of 1800 well above the national level. Over 20 percent of the girls come from ethnically diverse background and many of the girls receive scholarships. The cost of attending a school like Miss Hall's is about *$40,000, which is today's maket is average. Schools like Miss Hall's also offer the Merit Scholarhsip to students.

The school offers many activities for this price, but mostly it offers much prestige and sucess. The activities for girls include: alpine skiing, lacrosse, tennis, basketball, softball, among other sports. While these activities do not reflect the multitude of everything from fine arts, creative arts, music and other activities, it is simply one of the best places for girls to learn and have a great sense of accomplishment. Most girls attending a school like Miss Hall's have their own accomplisments to say the least. Many entering schools like Mahattan School of Music and Jillard after graduation were included in their choices.

Many parents would think that going to an all girls school would be very challenging for today's girls, but that simply is not the case. These girls are really good at many things, from literature, art, music, sports nd athletics, to community activities. Many of the girls have or will travel around the world. The girls are actively involved in community activiites and have a specific organization on campus for community service.

The campus seems small by measure of a larger school, but its mean to be this way, its a school where each teacher, each faculity knows each girl. There is no stone unturned in this campus. Each of the girls know this. The reputation is elite, the girls accepted at Miss Hall's know they are special, and they make you feel special. Without a doubt, Miss Hall's is one of the best of all boarding schools in the eastern seaboard.

Would you send you daughter to a all girls boarding school? What things did you not know about Miss Hall's? What are some myths about all girls schools? Did you know that sports and athletics are a part of most all girls boarding schools? What famous Senator now Secetary of State attended an all girls boarding school?

When Should I Send My Child To A Wildereness Program

There is much discussion about the benefits of sending students to a wilderness program. The industry has been facing significant challenges over the years identifying these benefits, in measureable terms, leaving some programs to close. While many consultants sucessfully placed students in these programs, their have been many parents who also question the validity of these programs. Many have been compared to "boot camps" while others have a sometime vague description.

Many wilderness programs have made significant changes to the length of stay comparing the actual cost of the program. This has made this type of placement more affordable, but it also has lead to asking questions by parents of the value of these types of progams. This is particulary true when there have been not well documented information on the value of these programs over the years by stafff not familar with documentation.

While several programs have offered complete information on the value of these programs, professional associations have just taken a look at the requirement by accrediting associations and standards which has changed the way businesses like wilderness programs have operated in the past.

Organizations, like TheNational Assocation of Therapeutic Schools have taken serious look at both state to state, and federal or health care guidelines of these programs exploring with legislators the reason these programs even exist. Much of the criticisn in the industry, has come from parents who have had children in wildereness programs and complained of not having trained professionals to insure safety in the industy.

While there are a range of topics on this issue, many programs like Red Cliff, Second Nature, Open Sky and SWSU have either changed their program to be more safer or developed well documented data so support their programs. Our tours and speaking to program directors or staff, have been many are moving to a medical model in their programs.

This method is to identify the better programs, and to help families. These programs may also vary philosophy and in cost. Safety, which becomes the concern of most parents, has been a greater concern for parents and the industry is now monitering safety in programs, using very clinically based monitering, from taking routine check of students in the field, both medically and keeping the kind of information needed to show weight loss and gain to showing improved physical strength and endurance.

Whille helping these families is what educational consultants do best it is also clear programs are now doing their best to improve the outcome measures of wilderness programs. Not having professionally trained staff to provide adequate traiing is certainly a concern of mosst parents sending their child to a program.

Many programs now have increased their Master Level clinicians in the fielsw and are doing therapy in the field. An example of this model is Red Cliff Accent. The not only have equipment which is safe, but staff monintering the ue of this equipment in the field. Also, dietary concerns, as mentioned earlier are of great concern for adolescents with low body weight or even overweight conditions.

While many children these days remain overweight and in poor condition, wilderness progams are moving in a direction to looking at obesity in chlidren and certainly looking at methods to improve this condition. It is estimated that many children living in the United States are overweight.

The cost versus the safety in any programs or the length of staying out of the field seem to vary. This is a concern for many parentsw and having adolesecent or children who are overweight or underweight engaged in outdoor activities of this kind is of growing concern to programs.

We have determined therapy is not always being done in all programs neither are there measures clear to a parents. However, The Associations like the National Association of Outdoor Wilderness has done more documentatin with programs like Red Cliff as well as SUSW and Second Nature.

Sucessful wilderness programs, are usually taking data and collecting this information offering more information to families. A family portal is also being used in some programs to allow parents to see the sucess of the programs using photography or even jouraling.

Parents are unlikely to go to associations like the Rehabilitation Facilities or other associations unless there is neglect. Even when parents are concern about the length of time their child spends in a wilderness program is often is a matter of simply not communicating with their child until after graduation from a program.

The largest part of why the industry has had so many challeges, is its not taking steps to collect data or due to the lacking in outcome measures which have to be document similar to doing medical record keeping. Insconsistency in the industry has lead many insurance companies not to pay for these programs.

At one time, many of these programs were seen as very benefical, using behavioral management terms, now, these terms are either unclear or not aw well document by non profesisonally trained individuals. Documentation simply did not exist, until residental programs or similar program were made to be more accountable by agencies. The question many consultants may have to answer with parents is: Why do consultants and parents send their children to a wilderness programs? Who is responsible for these programs? What outcome measures have been established after leaving the program, and what follow up is being done.

These questions have been quite varied, among programs and depending on the program, this might leave the consultants with unanwered questions too. While many consultants with great experience working with families may have significant knowledge of the program, they may not understand the outcomes of these programs. In many cases, a consultant familar with wilderness program will make the best assessment based on the child's behavior. Not exclusivley measure of what the program will do.

The real meaure of the any therapeutic program is to identify the specific outcomes or interventions used by the clinican, not by the staff trained in outdoor recreation, as many types of interventions may be used in a wilderness program.

However, a educational consultant must be familar with these intervetions to keep parents informed of these benefits. Consultants likewise can help families by placing students in the correct programs to measure outcomes, rather than simply saying "a wilderness program is our first step".

Wilderness program may have several components. Some focus on teaching daily living skills and other work on areas of leadership, responsiblity, working together, therapy or cooperation, and some are specfically designed to be focused on behavior modification.

Many of these programs are rather vague, when explaing this to families. A consultat might say " a step down from a therapeutic school placement", is better than no placement, but this "simply does not make sense in the managed care model.

When a student's behavior is not reachable or attainable this is simply not the measure of having students in a wilderness program. We have spoken to many parents about their child leaving wilderness programs simply unaware of the purpose they were in the program.

Basically not having specific direction in these program may mean there is limted sucessful outcomes, no matter what the cost. We suggest, some questions we have about any wilderness program or the intervention used in that program be discussed before the placement.

This needs to be address to all parents and consultant need to be prepared for these questions. Peer interaction is not a meaure of outcome for adolescents. Having other adolescent to model behavior is not a sucesful way to determine a change in adolescent behavior.

A consultant working in this area need to know if the program has clear measureable outcomes. Whether these outcome are clincially measured or identified by staff. Who is measuring these outcomes, their qualifications are as important as the program itself. Any intervention can be used and not be the right intervention for adolescents.

Most students, have said to us, "its a whole lot better", entering a therapeutic school after attending a wilderness program, while others say "they did not want to go to wilderness in the first place". Sucessful wilderness programs should be very supervised, but they also need a clinical component. Staff which is untrained in wildereness can be a disaster. Also having staff without knowledge of safety issues or use of outdoor equipment can be very challenging but there are many programs which have clinical knowledge and therapy services. Some programs can damage a student, permanently when the program is developed by untrained individuals.

Many wilderness programs are now making changes to address this issue. Others are still faced with challenges of finding the right fit for the right student. When hiring an educaational consultant, there are many ways a consultant can help a student placed in a wilderness program. Many schools now have wilderness as a component, to moving in a therapeutic school program which might work for a family. The experience needs to be a sound academic program along with clearly defined goals based on outcome measures. The staff also needs to be trained in leadership and safety. The students should be able to demonstrate measureable improvement in behavior by measureable outcome measures, not just behavior which is temporary or not significant to improving the self esteem of the student.

A consultant working with a family should examine all the safety issues in a wilderness program, the cost, whether transition from a wilderness program is even needed, and if it is needed, how long? Where will the student go following this type of placement. These are very important questions to address with a family by the consultant. Does the student have a health risk, that might preclude being in a program. Does the student have a eating disorder, or a managament of health issue, diabetes, poor nutrition, or a health risk, which might be harmful to the student being in a wilderness program. Most students have to have a physical before entering a program. Is it possible to have this done? What resistance would happen from the student if they were not in the program? Are there any legal implications?

Does the student have a substance abuse issue? How long has it been a problem? Will sending them to a program make things even more challenging. What back up plan do you have? What means of getting to the program do you have in place? All these areas need to be addressed? Would it be better for the consultant to make the decision or offer this to the parents? What intervention are consulants providing by making the decision for the family? Does the family undestand these options?

A consultant can answer most of these questions for a family, adding additional support in this type of placement. Knowing the program is essential to any sucess of this type of placement. Would you send you child to a wilderness program? What have you heard about wilderness programs. Did you know that many sucessful placements start with wilderness programs. How long would be considered a good length of time for a wilderness program?

What about Facebook?

Many parents, these days, having children at any age, know about Facebook. A social networking site, with over 400 million members, designed by Matthew Zuckerberg, of Boston Massachuttes. The web site was first a afterthought of Matthew and his roomates at college. This social networking site has turned out to be a multi-billion dolllar business used now by high and small businesses, politican, entertainers, civic leaders, social organizations, and mostly by our children.

The appeal continues to explode in all forms of media as well its use by many boarding schools, private schoools, educational consultant, alumni, and current students to inform parents of this ever growing social media. When you want to find out the latest at the school, go to Facebook. When you want to connect all your friends, go to Facebook.

The site can connect virtually every family, friend, or interest, you might have and let others know, your hobbies, your taste in music, whether you are single, need to chat, plan an event, or announce where you will be or planning to attend. Practically everything from talking about global warming, to politics, is on Facebook. Every thing from talk radio stations to global warming and greehouse gases are listed on Facebook.

The Chamber of Commerce is on Facebook, churches or sororieties, frats, area on Facebook, special interest groups, food aid, health care needs, poverty in Africa, China, The war in Iraq, Iran, Afganistain, Military wifes, practically anything you can think about or have interest in.

Kids these days know social networking, probably better, than their parents having an average of 50 text messages sent from sites like Facebook and Twiter. They might even know their own brothers and sisters better on Facebook than they do in the home. At one time, students studied together, there were study halls, assemblies, class project, dances, now these same activities are coordinated using social networking. A student can invite a friend, talk about their interest, find out mutual friends, talk about a school. post a photo, maybe two, maybe a album of photos, to friends near or far. A friend in China can become a friend in Iran or India.

Many consultants are listed on Facebook, organizations can blog, upload a live streaming video announcing an event, post an event, start a discussion group. A virtual learning community can be established in mintues, you can connect to Twitter, send a message in seconds on events at school.

So why are kids bored in school? I had to learn this the hard way, by going back to school myself. I was in graduate school, at the time, and had to learn about social networking late in life. Initally, it was very intriguing. However, I felt more confortable with the tradtional way of learning. Reading the book, digesting the information, and simply sharing the information with my collegues was the usual method. Simple right? Not exactly!

While my experience in social networking has lead me to my own learning, this also lead me to how children learn and how to make it more interesting, more challenging. Facebook offers this global networking that simply can be a learning experience. Many schools now are changing how we learn to what we learn. What we are learning about Facebook among other social networking sites is unbelievable! We are learning that children don't have to read a story to learn how to read. We are learning, that visual learning is changing how we learn. Children of all ages even as young as 5 are able to use Facebook. While the appeal has been more with Asian, students who have at least a Bachelors Degree or higher, students in this country are quickly catching up to the pace of social networking. We don't teach about it much at the secondary level, in fact most public or private school, are just learning, how this tool works. We do know, that Facebook is here to stay. It has parental controls. it has privacy settings, it has live chat, it has instant messenger, it has all the bells and whistles, combined that has taken Yahoo and MSN Messenger years to develop.

In fact, Facebook ranks higher than any other web site, in effectively social networking. Who is on Facebook? Sarah Palin, John Mc Cain, Michelle Obama, Oprah, Barak Obama, Brian Williams, Carly Simon, Sophia Loren, practically anyone you can name. We think by allowing students to understand how to communicate on Facebook, potentially they could learn a wealth of information. What is Facebook all about? Are you using social media in you classroon? How is it being used? When did you first hear about Facebook? Are you aware Facebook was developed by college students? Are you able to use Facebook in the classroom if you are a teacher? Is it more effective in teaching or learning with your child? How could you teach you child using Facebook?

International Student Insurance

International Student Insurance is often a concern of parents, who have children studying at a school abroad. While most parents concerns are about the cost of this coverage, other parents are asking about the conditions of these plans. Many parents will be surprised to find out, that many of these plans are afforable. Most are even better than the insurance plans offered in some schools or programs.

Most consultants faced with explaining these cost, may find many international insurance plans provide exceed the plans by schools. Most international plans also cover student studying in abroad. Students who are citizens in the United States have to pay even more for insurance than their neighbors from other countries. There are limits to this coverage, depending on the state where the individual lives, however, their status as a student will affect whether they are accepted or denied in a plan. An example: might be if you are attendnig a school outside the country and full time student, coverage will likely be provided.

However if you are not a citizen living in the states, not a full time student, this would not be covered. Also you would not be accepted in a local plan. Depending on the state where the student lives, a local insurance plan is the only option for parents. For example: A student might be covered in Virginia, but not in New York, especially if they are not a full time student studying abroad. They might be covered, if they are a full time student, but not covered in certain countries, particularly when the State Department has restrictions for student citizens of the United States.

While most parents may have a local insurance plan or local carrier, for their child. An internatinoal plan would likely not be necessary, for a student living in the United States. However, if they are not covered by a local provider, having a international plan as an international student would be a good option, if they were a international student. When a student is not a full time student, they cannot be covered by most international plans.
The same applies, if they are insured by a local insurance carrier in the United States.

The student would be covered by an international plan, if they were re-entering the United States. but only for a limited time which is usually 15 days. The plan would also allows pre existing conditions to be covered as well. This depending on the plan, or the plan administrator coverage may be varied.

Lord's of London is one of the largest insurance providers in the world which has such a plan for student. It is one of the most recognized and best insurance companies in the world providing insurance for international students. The deductible is minimal and the coverage is extremely well benefited.

Blue Cross and Blue Shield on the other hand offers a very limited plan in the United States. It is usually offered state to state, not internationally. Arizona Blue Cross , which is a single carrier, providing limited coverage for students attending schools, in Arizona, is much more expensive than the plan for international students.

This does not include: neighboring states. Most plans in the United States have a monthly rate which can be paid by the parents of the student. A local plan is sometimes limited to certain states. New York, Virginia, New Hampshire have varied plans with Blue Cross Blue Shield. There is additional cost to spouses, usually a deductible for insurance by the parents.

The international plan offers a$100 one hundred dollar, deductible which must be paid at the time of service, and covers unde ra budget plan of $250,000 dollars of coverage. Follow-up visit do not have to pay this deductible. Total cost woud be $595 five hundred and ninety dollars, which includees the administrative fees covered by this plan. The plan would also cover most countries including Canada.

All students studying abroad are included in the plan offered by Lords, no matter what country they reside. The appeal the plan is it is much more afforable. Furthermmore this insurace is marketed to other countries, we also found similar plans which provide better care than the insurance in the United States.

Many parents debating the issue of health care reform may need to take a second look at how this might play out if we ever have a national health care plan. It might force coverage by existing plans, to jump on board. While they have numerous reason for denying health care to millions of students, not allowing afforable health care for students is often an add on fee to tuition as most private school and even universities. A national health care plan might include student insurance, and it might eliminate students not having plans in any country. If this sounds confusing, well it is, it has taken me hours talking to insurance agents on this topic, many have many options, and terms you just can't imagine.

We believe helping students and parents, through this process, discussing an afforable health care is needed. The current cost of existing health care plans estimated to exceed 300 per cent in the next few years, will make it impossible for parents to afford health care. The United States is last on providing affordable health care for all citizens, not to mention students. While the controversy of health care coverage is not passed the Senate, it appears some movement is coming on this issue shortly but will it cover student insurance? Many of our parents who we work with were very suprized to see this as an add on to their tuition, while other were aware of this cost.

While health care coverage for international students is much more afforable than on a localinsurance plan, many parents faced with this challenge might not be as familar with the different cost for families. What do you think? Is insurace more afforable for your child studying abroad or is local insurance more afforable? Were you aware of insurance differences and pricing? Did you know insurance is offered at many private schools? Do you have a son or daughter who might be an international student? What choice would you make?

The Fenster School

The Fenster School, is a private co educational college prepartory boarding school for underachieving students. The school is located in Tuscon about 2 hours from Phoenix, Arizona. We had a chance to visit the school this past summer, and spend a wonderful time with their wonderful marketing Director Mrs. Barbara Fenster and their enthusastic headmaster, Mr Don Shafer. Mr. Shafer has since left Fenster, and Allan Fenster is now the head of admission's at the school.

Mr. Shafer, is graduate of UCLA, recalls his former days of playing basketball under the famous coach, John Wooden. Don played with Karem Abdul Jabar, the retired NBA Hall of Famer, who player with the world famous Los Angeles, Lakers. Don has been at Fenster for many years and has good insight into some of the needs of students at Fenster. While we guess his athletic skills are no match for today's athlete, we wanted to ask him a few questions? We will likely also follow up with the new director to address our concerns about Fenster.


We meet for lunch, following our tour of the school, and talked about the questions parents most often ask about Fenster? Shafer explained to us, Fenster is a really college prepatory boarding school for underchieving students, which is has focus on helping these students go to college and acheive sucess. In fact, 90% of our students go on to college. "A typical student who might perform well at Fenster, is one who is rather mediocre, in school, or who might be a typically have challenges academically. Student's who attends our school, show remarkable progress while here, who might be considered incapable of doing the work in another boarding school or program. This makes our school "unique".

Fenster also has the appeal for both these students, who need some individual help but needs the direction. A less structured learning setting might not fit for every student but for the right student, we offer that direction. The academics are broad covering subjects for college inclduing fine arts, math, science, and the required courses for admission to college. We also offfer AP courses at Fenster. We also have students coming out of wilderness program and therapeutic schools. Many of these school are preparing our students, we just pick up where they have left off in helping the student academically.

The campus is very spread out, having a large swimming pool, library and nature surrounding. While the campus was actually developed in the late 1940's, its campus reflect a southwest feel, with many of the buildings in stuccio, or southwest design. The dorms are small but cozy, with most of the rooms, limited accessories and the fluff, which some boarding schools do have. Fenster, probably cuts the cost of attednig a boarding school in half. The current tuition is $28,000 (twenty eight thousand dollars). This is considerably cheaper verus the cost of $48,000 (forty eight thousand dollars, which is average cost at other schools.

Arizona. has only three boarding college prepatory programs in the state, which are accreditd, but few offer help for students with learning differences, similar have a similar support programs for an underachieving student. Fester does have an athletic program, cultural or fine arts activities, as well as international visits, which might not be visiable on a tour initally. The campus has good teachers, and a afforable cost for parents in this economy. Most consultant we have spoken to, have mixed feeling about Fenster, some really like the program, while others have specific concerns related to supervision at the school. While we have addressed this with the marketing director and headmaster, they insist there are support services for families, including a off campus psychlogist for special needs studeents.

Many of the student, however, do go on to attend college. Some of the schools include: The University of Arizona, Arizona State University, among many others. Letty Yates, a cconsultant from San Antonio, Texas. We first spoke about Fester, when I was touring with her in Georgia. We spoke of the program extensively, sharing the pro's and con's of sending a student to the school. Letty has several students at Fenster, and many of her families have been very happy with the placement. Many of her student's are from Mexican families living in various cities in this growing country.

I have visited Mexico, which has many boarding schools, however many parents are interested in a school like Fenster to learn English. Many traditional boarding schools have ESL programs to meet the challenges of international students, often for english proficiency.Typically a family would like to send their child to a school like Fenster for this purpose.

Fenster has the core academics courses which are needed to apply to a college, with the freedom of attending a school, which is private. Many parents sending their children to Fenster have this in mind. and hiring an consultant helps in a school like Fenster. A consultant would keep track of the students academic sucess in the program, providing this help to a student who might be underperforming or having challenges at home. Many students simply lack the discipline or need help in forming study habits. Fenster does help students with ADD Attention Deficit Disorder who often need a different learning path. Teachers at Fenster work with these students to achieve sucesss.

We believe for the right student, Fenster is a good choice. Most consultant would work with parents to help them understand the mission of Fenster related to the students direction in attending college. Would Fenster be a choice in a school for your child? What are some things you have learned about Fenster, which interest you? Is cost a factor in sending you child to a boarding school? Is this price reasonable for your family? Do you have a student who needs a ESL program? Where have you been looking?

Are Chicago Schools Unsafe?

The Secretary of Education, Arne Ducan, along with Mr. Eric Holder, Attorney General with the Department of Justice, recently visited Chicago to investigate crime in the public schools. After the tragic death of Derrion Albert, a honor student, who attend a public school in Chicago, was beaten to death, by a group of gang members. The question of violence in the schools became a lead story and topic of the media. This topic has also raised many questions by many parents of the safety in public schools. While not all public schools are unsafe, many are in a critical care condition in some neighborhoods, of today's larger cities.

This is not the first incident of violence in Chicago's schools, it's just one of the many death's attributed by gang violence, in these troubled communities. Faced by increased number of teacher lay offs, and reduction in school funding, student drop out rate, outside prevelance of crime, and the desire to take over parts of the community, seem to tbe the chief problem. The Attorney General, says, " this is not a black problem or a white problem". However it is clear, it is a problem of conditions. While these conditions exist in low income communities already plagued by crime, students living in these communities are victims of these crimes.

Budgets have already caused trouble schools to get worse, despite efforts for school improvement. Crime ridden communities threaten students who " snitch", and reward those who engage in crime. Does sending the Secetary of Education back to his own neighborhood, change what should be done? While the issue has be addressed privately by the Director, among students and parents, the rate of violence is still at 5o percent.

Will parents wait for the verdict or answer on how to improve school safety. This is already an alarming percentage, when you think of the number of student enrolled in public schools to be estimated over 47. 8 million.

What do you think? Is safety an concern in your neighborhood? Are there incidents of gang violence in the community you live in? Why is violence such a problem in today's public schools? Do you know of this type of violence in private schools? Why is there a difference? What do you think our role could play in helping you child?

What Is ADHD?

Many parents are confused about a true definition of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Many have concluded their child has the condition, while other fight aganist this label. Some parents believe this label, is unfounded, unfair, or unwarrented, leading to legal action. The condition may also vary among children, attending school, which can described by educators who has developed an IEP at the parents request. Some students have a 504 plan to address these students who may have a learning differences. Some require additional testing while others are not affected by testing and show high scoring on aptitude and standarized test. Some require accomodation for testing, while others need no accomodations.

Dr. Toni Bowen PhD and Educational Program Specialist for the Divsion of Special Education for the Georgia Deparment of Education, discussed the issue of accomodation with me. Our discussion conclude: accomodations for students with a learing difference varied, that they are "put into place to lessen the effects of the student's disablity". While many students have been identified as cognitively impaired, to learning impaired, these accomodations are federally mandated iun public schools.

While having the correct term in a public school, may be a matter of funding some children remain challenging at best in any setting. Many are sometimes mis-diagnosed, while others are labeled with a learning disablities affecting a lifetime. However, the purpose to to put all students in a equal category for receiving educational services.

In some school settings, the desire for a more inclusive classroon has been promoted, while other students are engaged in "pull out" classes for specfic needs they have. This approach seem to vary from school to school and classroom to classroom leaving parents confused.

While the condition has had much discussion, among parents and teachers to discussion groups, or even bloggers, recent research has contribued the correct information on the condition. Some doctors believe the condition to be related to genetics, while many parent's still believe, it is related to diet, nutrition, and numerous other factors.

The condition is most commonly seen in early childhood. While many parents have speculated on way to treat the condition, many fear of medication being the only option, resist all treatment. A more clear diagnosis should be made by a pedetrican. It is estimated that beween 3 and 5 percent of children have this condition. This means that out of 25 children in a normal classroom setting at least 1 will have the condition.

There might be less students recognized with the condition but in general, base on the research data, the condition might be more. Dr. Heidrich Hoffman first discovered the condition in children, when he could not find suitable reading materal for his son. While he was also a poet, he developed a book of poems, title: Figety Phillips which actually had charcteristics of his own 3 year old child in the book.

Since this time, several thousands of articles and research on the topic have been spread. Having been submitted by leading medical experts on the topic and even some by educators, the entire diagnosis of this condition remains a mystery in the medical community. We do know medication does help the condition. More recently medication which has been prescibed, has been resisted by some parents still having doubts. A range of conditions from Aspergers, which is high functioning autism can be seen in children these days, with increased diagnosis seen in early pre school children.

A consultat might work with a child with ADD or ADHD helping a parent to find the right educational setting. Finding the correct school is critical at best. The placement option for these students can range from individual therapy or smaller class sizes to 1:1 classrooms. Do you have a child with ADD or ADHD, who needs help? What have you done to get this help? Do you know the difference betwen ADD and ADHD? Post your comments? Tell us what you know about the condition? Share with us your experience to identify you child's diagnosis? What places do you think a consultant would work in helping families. Do you know of specfic programs. Did you know there are boarding school which help students? Would you contact a consultant for this type of placement.

Extending the School Year- Will This Help or Hurt Students?

The recent controversy by President Obama concerning increasing the school year by extending the year for students has raised both critcism and comment by parents. Reducing summer vacation for millions of students in public schools may force having limited options for their child. While many consultant are aware of this trend, it has now become a discussion among both educators and parents.

Mr. Obama says" we need a longer school year to improve the aacademic sucess of our children" -the 21st Century". While much of the discussion is about improving our schools. The other issue is funding for schools, which appears to be at an all time low. Many parent's are now raising the question: whether they can afford to pay for school, or whether there are any options avaiable to famlies who come from low to middle income parents.

The president's intent, although well meaning, seems to have turned a deaf ear to the real change needed, is finding jobs for teachers, and secondly having teachers who will work in a year around program. Budget cuts continue to loom the education industry, with lay offs being more common, than full time positions. Many public school teachers are leaving the field, and more often private schools are doing quite well.

Many parents feel that summer is already too short, while other feel there are not enough school days to educate our children. Some parents say " it will eliminate the core family values, of spending time together in the summer with their children". School administrators, seem more concern about the cost of funding this project, rather than the need to improve performance in underachieving students in public schools. Mr. Obama, says " this is likely not to make parents or student happy, however it is needed to have our kids compete in the 21st Century".

Many parents are afraid, this change, will increased cost for schools and the cost will be passed on to parents, causing greater hardship on families, who are already unemployed. Many students fear this change will further decrease motivation of underachieving students, despite school days. Some students understand the need for having an extended school year, while others are opposed".

Would the decision by the President, also affect summer boarding schools, which already see an increase in cost ? Since the extended school year would not be affected by private school, would summer boarding school programs be appealing? Would attending summer boarding school be forcing parents to enroll their child in a already voluntary program. Would summer and work schedules be changed in a summer boarding school due to this mandate?

Many public school students are already scoring lower on standardized test, despite having been prepared during the regular school year. Many educators, believe increasing the school year will increase test scores, also improving students academic performance. while providing a safe enviroment for students on the weekends.

While many summer boarding student do not attend public schools will this have any affect summer boarding school programs. Summer boarding schools, already have a higher education expectation or curriculum. Many summer boarding schools like Wolfboro Summer Boarding School, in New Hampshire, have a strong programs, which are designed to prepare students for college, are at full capacity.

This past summer, we spoke to Dr. Joyce Ferris, Academic Dean, at Wolfboro Summer Boarding School, about the trend in summer boarding schools. Dr. Ferris is very knowledgable of the trends in the summer boarding school community. She has worked for many years helping families. She states: "While the cost of summer boarding school continues to go up, "-"Parents are still looking for a summer boarding school program, to help their child, entering or preparing for college".

"Schools like Wolfboro, provide thr preparation students need for college, which many parents are keenly aware are not available in public schools. While many parents may question the value of sending their son or daughter to a summer boarding school, most will say the experience has been invaluable for their children". Many more affluent familes continue to send their children to high end boarding schools or summer enrichment programs, simply because they realize college is an essential to future.

As a consultant, we help these parents understand the importance of private education, helping parents sort out, the various programs. and those focused in regular public summer school or community colleges. We help parents examine, by there needs to be an extending school year and what effects it will have on the future of their children.

We help underperforming students achieve sucess and gifted student achieve even greater sucess. Will helping parents understand the importance of test scores improve performance of students? What do you think? Is attending a summer boarding school an option you would choose for your child? What would happen if we did not extend the school year to public schools? How would we prepare students for the 21st Century, not extending the school year? Would summer boarding school continue to show sucess?