<p>I am getting more negativity from friends who send their kids to the same local school. My friends/good acquaintances who send their kids to different schools seem happy for our family with the acceptance of D to excellent b-schools, but those who have kids attending the same schools find it, well, they find it kind of insulting. </p>
<p>I think I know why they are feeling this way. It is all somewhat symbolic. I think that leaving a local public school and going to private DS or BS is perceived as a gesture, indicating that this school is not good enough for my" child. </p>
<p>In reaction, my friends, feeling the symbolic slight, need to let me know that they believe in our community school and the importance of connecting (in person) on a daily basis with their kids. This kind of stuff is supposed to prove their commitment and question mine because I am messing with the status quo. Many of them have said that kids at b-schools depend far too much on peer groups rather than their parents because they are not sleeping under the same roof. Research indicates that the peer-group phenomena happens no matter where teens live. In addition, my friends have promoted the notion that BS parents miss the impromptu deep discussion, the hanging out, and even the fighting that is a part of the typical parent-child day. Do I think I will miss out on some of this? Yes. Do I think that we will find new moments for the deep discussions and hanging out? Yes. </p>
<p>I understand their perspective and I do believe that it is something like a defense mechanism. This doesnt mean that I dont get annoyed or defend my positionactuallyI am thinking about giving up on that onethey are not interested in examining the logical fallacies of their claimsthey are just trying to defend what they are doing. I am doing that, too! Therefore, I am expanding the old adage never discuss religion and politics to never discuss religion, politics or boarding schools. </p>
<p>I do believe in public schools and the excellent education my daughter received K-8. We have been fortunate to live in an area that supports an excellent education system. My personal reasons for allowing my daughter to apply/attend BS are related to matters that are specific to her academic and athletic accomplishments as well her demonstrated school/community engagement. I believe she would have been very successful if she went to our local public high school, but I also believe (and I am hoping that I am right) that she will benefit the most from the opportunities that are created by the BS experience.</p>