Choosing a private high school can feel like a monumental undertaking, especially in St. Louis, which boasts more than 50 private schools across the metro area. These institutions span a range of approaches: religious and non-sectarian, single-gender and co-ed, boarding and day schools. ¶ “In St. Louis, where we have a wonderful selection of school options for families, it can get a little complicated and overwhelming, especially for people who are newer to the area,” says Sharon Conley Spellman, director of admissions at Visitation Academy. Spellman suggests that students find the right fit by thinking about their “needs and what’s best, instead of getting caught up in where your friends are going and making a decision based on friendship.” ¶ It’s important to do your homework, weigh academic needs and priorities, and consider what makes the most sense for your family. Such a seemingly daunting task becomes much easier, however, by taking a step-by-step approach.
1. Assess your options.
While beginning your research, take stock of your needs and values. If you want to pursue a religious-based education, for instance, there’s no shortage of Catholic, single-sex high schools. Co-ed day and boarding schools, such as Thomas Jefferson School and Principia School, are options for those seeking an immersive educational experience.
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City Garden Montessori School CEO/executive director Christie Huck, whose three children attended high school in St. Louis, encourages parents to start the process early and to involve their children. “They know what’s best for them,” says Huck, “if we let them guide in some ways and be part of the process of visiting schools and thinking about what’s important to them.”
2. Determine your goals.
Consider which subjects excite you. “Go to a school where you feel you are challenged to think critically and can gain a better understanding of topics you’re passionate about,” says John Kelly, a teacher at Chaminade College Preparatory School.
Do you want to attend college, or are you set on pursuing a different path, such as a trade school or an arts academy? Contemplate your long-term dreams—to the best of your knowledge at the moment—before choosing a high school. A person who wants to pursue a career in dance might opt for an affordable school with an emphasis on performing arts and invest in pre-professional training and traveling to auditions. Those hoping to attend a prestigious university might select an academically rigorous college preparatory high school. Surrounding yourself with fellow students and educators focused on like-minded ambitions can help you achieve your goals.
3. Research admissions criteria and processes.
Ann Murphy, director of admissions at St. Louis University High School, advises students to research the schools online first, before visiting a school’s campus. “Look for opportunities to grow inside and outside the classroom,” she says. “Also, understand the admissions criteria.” At SLUH, for instance, prospective students must submit report cards, standardized test scores, and attendance and discipline records, in addition to completing an online application and undergoing a formal interview.
4. Research tuition and crunch the numbers.
While tuition is often substantial at private schools, many offer need-based scholarships for families who can’t make the financial commitment. Visitation Academy, for instance, gives $1.2 million in tuition assistance each year, which includes tuition as well as laptop fees, textbooks, and school dances. “We try to make it a thorough support system, not just for tuition but extras, too,” says Spellman. Don’t let money stand in the way of pursuing the school you want—there’s sometimes a way to make it work, even if it seems financially out of reach on the surface.
Students from low-income households and those with special needs may also be eligible to participate in MOScholars, a new statewide program offering private-school scholarships worth up to $6,375. Run by the Treasurer’s Office, the program provided aid to more than 1,300 Missouri students during its inaugural year. “From tuition and tutoring to books, transportation, and even therapies, MOScholars ensures that no child is left behind due to financial constraints,” says Laura Slay, executive director of the Children’s Education Alliance of Missouri.
5. Look at the school’s culture.
While looking at prospective schools, consider their community and culture. “It’s important to look at the community and the learning environment that accompanies that education,” says Spellman. At Nerinx Hall High School, for instance, the arts are celebrated, and there’s a beautiful theater space. Beyond such areas as arts and sports, think about the school’s mission or ethos. If you’re not particularly religious, then you may want to consider a non-sectarian school. If you are seeking a faith-based institution, however, many religious schools offer compulsory religion classes and Mass services.
6. Talk to current students and graduates.
Most schools will help facilitate a student-to-student connection. Many high schools also have “visiting days,” when prospective students can get firsthand experience with the buildings, teachers, students, and staff.
7. Tour the school.
Along with “visiting days,” you may be inclined to tour the school independently, which the admissions office can likely arrange. Be proactive about schools you’re interested in. Murphy encourages students to attend visiting days. “Look for opportunities to be on campus and see what it’s like. That’s the biggest way to assess [a school],” she says.
8. Prepare your application.
Private high schools have a standard application process, which can vary from school to school. At Visitation Academy, for example, the application process involves “filling out an application that includes general information, as well as open-ended questions about successes, struggles, and why they believe Viz is the right fit for them,” says Spellman. Then there’s a meeting with the parents, student, and an admissions team member. Applications are due mid-November, and “decision day” for St. Louis Catholic high schools comes in late January, when admissions decision letters are mailed to students.
9. Work with a tutor if necessary.
Seeking help when you need it is a hallmark of bravery and confidence. So if you struggle with certain subjects but want to attend an academically rigorous private high school, seek extra support from a tutor or your current school. Boosting your grades will broaden your options. And if you’re not immediately accepted to your school of choice, remember that there’s typically an option to reapply later.
10. Go with your gut.
As with any major life decision, what looks perfect on paper might not be right for you. Don’t worry about what other people think or where your friends are going. Above all, think about the best fit for you—academically, socially, and culturally.
