May be I am over thinking this but in my DC’s private high school application, I (parent) have to answer the following question:
What are some areas in which the applicant may need support. (100-150 words max)?
By support do they mean, her weaknesses (like lack of organizational skills/time management etc) that the school can help with or lack of knowledge in academic subjects that the school can help with (Like she doesn’t know subject xxxx or could use so and so class to boost her knowledge etc)?
I’m inclined to think it’s the first one, but really this is the “What’s your greatest weakness?” question in disguise. They’re looking to see if you can honestly assess your child as being anything other than a perfect snowflake.
Thank you. That’s what was my initial thought too but, when they ask where does she need “support”, I was unsure, a) if they mean things that School can help with or b) even if they can’t help but just want to know the weaknesses to know more about the applicant.
But I think I will go with the later which is things (weaknesses) that she could improve on even if the school can’t help in those areas.
I think that question is there (and open-ended) if there’s something you think you need to communicate along either line – academic or behavioral. If you don’t have something that needs to be said, I wouldn’t answer it. I don’t think it’s a version of the “greatest weakness” interview question, as a backdoor way to get information about your child’s personality and yours.
The best thing may be to contact the school’s admissions department and ask if they want everyone to answer this question or if you should leave it blank if there isn’t any area where special support may be necessary.
In the public school world, “support” means reading and math help. Not exactly special needs…maybe the child needs to work at a slower pace. I would ask the school specifically what they are looking for.
Thank you JHS & twocollegekids for the pointer. I called the admissions office and they said if the child needs any special support that’s out of ordinary. So if none are needed they said just answer “No”.
@EduSeeker456 - you might also try posting on the Prep School Parents subforum here for private HS-related questions… there are a lot of parents over there with knowledge and experience to share regarding this process. Good luck!
