An independent school is:

• Committed to providing individual attention, small classes, high academic standards, and a strong, dedicated faculty
• Free to pursue excellence in education according to its individual philosophy.
• Dedicated to finding the best possible match between student and school and enabling each student to fulfill his and or her potential.
• A partner with parents in the education of their children. Parents are invited to become part of the school community and to support the school's values and goals.
• Responsive to the concerns of parents.
• Committed to enrolling students of every ethnic, cultural, and socio-economic background believing that diversity enriches the educational environment.
• Independent in governance and finance.

Why should I consider an independent school?
Independent schools offer a strong curriculum, small classes, individual attention for each student, dedicated teachers and advisors, the opportunity for parental involvement, a sense of community, and a wide range of extracurricular activities. The careful, personal guidance students and their families receive on secondary school and college placement is an added benefit. Families that value education should seriously consider independent schools.

How do I choose the right school for my child?
Finding a "good match" between student and school is an important goal for everyone. Each school is a unique community, and each student has different strengths, weaknesses, interests, and expectations. Your research should take into consideration such factors as the school's mission, size, curriculum, student-teacher ratio, leadership and extracurricular opportunities. Families are encouraged to visit several schools and to talk to admission directors.

Do independent schools provide a diverse community?
Independent schools seek a diverse population to provide the richness that a variety of backgrounds adds to the learning experience. Parents are often surprised by the socio-economic, ethnic, religious, and geographic diversity found at independent schools.

How much do independent schools cost?
There are many different types of independent schools - parochial, cooperative, day, boarding, and special needs. Tuition costs vary according to the type of school you choose. Parents of independent school children regard the cost of an independent education as an investment in their child's future.

Is financial aid available?
Parents are encouraged to explore options for tuition assistance. Need-based financial aid and merit scholarships are available at most NJAIS schools. Low-interest loan programs and convenient payment plans are often offered to help families finance tuition fees. Admissions directors can also provide information and answers to your financial questions.

Is transportation available?
In most cases, yes. Some schools own their own buses; others hire an off-site bus company. Many towns either provide a partial transportation rebate to families who send their children to an independent school or offer free busing to certain schools.

Can parents get involved in an independent school?
Absolutely. Parents are encouraged to participate in a wide array of activities designed to foster the sense of school community. Parents are also kept closely apprised of their child's progress and enlisted as important members of the educational "team."

How do independent schools accommodate working parents?
Most schools offer a variety of conference and meeting times to accommodate parents' full and varied schedules. Some schools also offer extended-day and after-school programs to give flexibility to working parents. Most schools have an active parent association that welcomes parental involvement.

How do independent schools provide a well-rounded education?
Along with an excellent academic curriculum, independent schools provide opportunities in many areas outside the classroom. Activities such as athletics, visual arts, drama, community service, student government, and clubs are considered a vital part of their program.

How and when do I apply?
Undertake your search in the September of the year prior to the date of your child’s enrollment. All NJAIS schools now have websites which can be accessed (insert web link) After reviewing the information on NJAIS schools, call or e-mail schools for their literature. When you have determined which schools seem most appropriate for your child, contact the admission office to arrange a tour of the campus or to attend an open house. Most schools begin accepting applications in the fall preceding the September of the student’s admission and continue to do so well into the school year. Consult the specific schools for their admissions deadlines.

Admission processes vary, but usually include:

• Application and fee submission
• A classroom visit and/or interview
• Standardized testing
• Receipt of transcripts
• Recommendations

Independent School Resources

Listed below are some references which may be helpful in researching independent schools:

Bunting and Lyon, Inc.
www.buntingandlyon.com

eschoolsearch.com
www.eschoolsearch.com

National Association of Independent Schools
www.nais.org

Peterson’s Guides
www.petersons.com

Porter Sargent Publishers
www.portersargent.com