Peddie or Madeira

LionsTigersAndBears
Mon, 24 Mar 2025 15:25:17 +0000

I’m not discounting that there can be toxic hierarchies in schools of all kinds (single-gender, mixed-gender, high school, middle school, public, private, whatever), but I thought this thread from DCUM — Which all-girls school does NOT have a mean girl problem? — from a few weeks ago was interesting. The very first answer is “100% Madeira”. The second one says “Madeira. Friends shift; groups change; people get upset with other people; people find new close friendships. You know, like life. But there isn’t a “ruling” class or popular crowd that determines the social scene, and everyone finds a friend group that fits.” The third says “+1 for Madeira. It’s been a great fit for my daughter. I agree completely with the post above, describes the school really well.” Pretty much every comment that mentions Madeira after that only reinforces that. And DCUM isn’t, like, a Madeira booster forum.

I think being aware of how social dynamics play out is important, but would encourage you (@SmartInSF) to focus on actual reports from current students, parents, or people who have actually visited the schools in question. (Note! I’m not one of the above! At least not recently!) Agree with @Patriot6 that I hope you love the school you end up choosing!