About The Author

When I underwent the admissions process, it was an overwhelming experience. I hardly thought then that my research would lead to an independent career in educational consulting and journalism, countless columns, articles and books, culminating in seven editions of the Manhattan Family Guide to Private Schools and Selective Public Schools, the only guide to independent schools in New York City in which the text is not controlled by the schools. Touring the schools and scrutinizing brochures, annual reports, handbooks, curriculum guides and student publications became routine and I interviewed admissions directors, heads of schools, educators, IQ test administrators, child psychologists, students, alumni and parents. Originally, a letter and questionnaire was mailed to all of the heads of schools describing the project. Now, updated information is requested and, in most cases, promptly sent; when appropriate school visits and revisits are made. It should not surprise parents that the schools that were most open to questions are also the most secure about their missions and the directions in which they are moving, and are the most welcoming to the parents in general. While it is easy to understand the reluctance of the schools to disclose their inner workings of their admissions decision-making process, many heads of schools, admissions directors and administrators continue to be very generous with their time and advice and I thank them for their cheerful cooperation.