stay, one year off or transfer ?

par-3
Mon, 09 Nov 2009 13:44:26 +0000

Just wondering, why take a year off? If she really seems to be struggling in BS and you feel she would be better off in PS why not move right back to PS or a private day school? Can you arrange for her to visit a local PS for a few days before making any decisions? I wouldn’t worry about the testing, I imagine she will do fine. Or on the other hand, can she move from her current AP classes to a non AP course? She may feel less intimidated, start rebuilding her confidence, and make some friends.

What I would find worrisome about taking a year off under these circumstances (not thriving socially and academically) is that it may be very hard to return to HS --remember she will be a year older than everyone and will probably not know anyone–and it sounds like that could be another socially awkward time. Also, remember that with a new school, she will have new graduation requirements. She will be at the mercy of what the school district allows to transfer and she may end up taking classes that you/ she feel are fillers or repeats.

However, if you feel that for her well being your D needs time off, then do it…you know her best. Don’t worry about what colleges think about the time off–there are many ways to get to the college of your choice. Every student is unique and just because your daughter arrives having gone a different route doesn’t make her path any less valid.

I know you said you did not plan to homeschool, but it does sound like you will plan a variety of activities for your D. You may decide to look into homeschooling, as she could complete her HS requirements during that year. She will not get a diploma, but she could have test scores, a GED, and a portfolio that would allow her access to college.