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Expelled for Smoking Pot: What Parents Need to Know
We explore the consequences of marijuana use in private schools, discussing expulsion policies, legal implications, and impacts on college admissions. This Q&A format article provides insights for parents navigating disciplinary actions and offers advice on prevention and support for students.

Expelled for Smoking Pot: What Parents Need to Know

Most private schools have Codes of Discipline that will not tolerate substance abuse. Smoking pot or drinking alcohol are common examples of substance abuse. I am bringing this up because many parents think that they can appeal disciplinary action a school brings against students. The problem is that students attending a private school are covered by what is known as contract law. In a public school they would have rights. That is not the case in a private school. Students' rights are clearly spelled out in the contract parents and the school sign.

Here, then, are some common questions parents have about private school discipline and how infractions of the school's discipline code are usually handled.

Parent: My child has been expelled for smoking pot at their private school. I'm shocked and don't understand why the consequences are so severe. Can you explain?

School: We understand this is a difficult situation. Private schools have strict policies regarding substance abuse, including marijuana use. When students break these rules, they face immediate consequences, often including expulsion. This is because private schools operate under contract law, which allows them to take action in disciplinary matters compared to what can happen in public schools.

Basically, it means that if you go to a private school, you are not covered by the same laws as you were when you attended public school. Private schools are covered by something called contract law. It

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U.S. Private Schools: A Guide for International Students

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U.S. Private Schools: A Guide for International Students
Dive into the nitty-gritty of attending U.S. private schools as an international student. From tackling the admissions maze to conquering the TOEFL, this guide's got you covered. We'll walk you through visa hurdles, financial realities, and even virtual campus tours. Buckle up for an insider's look at making your American education dreams a reality!
iStock Photos/Alexandr Lukin

Why Do You Need A Guide for International Students?

So, you're thinking about shipping your kid off to an American private school? And all you have to do is apply and write a check? Well, buckle up, because we're about to take a wild ride through the world of admissions, student visas, and yes, even the dreaded TOEFL. Don't worry, though – I've got your back. Oh, sometimes I will refer to you as the parent; other times you will be the student. It'll be easy to figure out. Let's dive in, shall we?

The Lay of the Land

First things first: American private schools are a whole different ballgame. We're talking day schools, boarding schools, and everything in between. These places are like mini-United Nations, with international students making up about 15% of the population in private schools. Pretty cool, right? Now, if you have just started looking at American private schools, most international students will want to attend a boarding school. There are about 400 of those, so you'll have lots of choices. After you read this blog, have a look at the schools we have listed for you over on our sister site, Boarding School Review. If you have family in the town with a day school you like, then you're all set. Your child can live at home and attend school just like a local. The big hurdle with this approach is making sure the school you want

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Early Childhood Education: A Guide for Parents of 1 and 2 Year Olds

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Early Childhood Education: A Guide for Parents of 1 and 2 Year Olds
In this article we explore three popular approaches to early childhood education: Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and Waldorf. It provides parents of toddlers with essential information about each method, helping them make informed decisions about their child's early education.

Introducing Three Early Childhood Education Approaches

As parents of 1- and 2-year-olds, you embark on an exciting early childhood education journey. This guide will explore three popular and innovative approaches: Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and Waldorf. Each method offers a unique perspective on young children's learning and development, emphasizing child-centered, experiential learning. By understanding these approaches, you'll be better equipped to choose an educational path that aligns with your family's values and your child's needs. All three approaches offer advantages you probably won't find elsewhere. Indeed, you will find that other early childhood education approaches have adopted bits and pieces of these. But if you want the real thing, explore Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and Waldorf before committing.

Disclaimer: my eldest daughter attended a Waldorf school. All these years later, I remember how happy she was in an environment where she could explore to her heart's content. Music, math, language arts - all the subjects were interwoven in the most satisfying way for her young inquisitive mind.

So, whether you're considering preschool options or want to incorporate these philosophies into your home life, this guide will provide valuable insights into nurturing your toddler's growth and development.

Chapter 1: The Montessori Method
The Montessori approach, developed by Dr. Maria Montessori in the early 20th century, focuses on fostering independence, self-directed learning, and respect for a child's natural development.

Widespread Adoption
There are over 8,000 Montessori schools in the U.S., making it a widely available option for parents. Most belong to

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Making the Right Choice: A Parent's Guide to Private School Selection

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Making the Right Choice: A Parent's Guide to Private School Selection
We explore the reasons to consider private school education, compares boarding and day school options, and outlines essential factors in choosing the right school. It provides parents with valuable insights to make informed decisions about their child's education, drawing from real-world scenarios and expert advice.

Making the Right Choice

Choosing the right educational path for your child is one of the most significant decisions you'll make as a parent. I have compiled this guide to help you navigate the complex, often confusing, world of private school education. I want you to understand why it might be the right choice for your family. I'll show you how to weigh the pros and cons of boarding schools versus day schools. Then, we'll identify the key factors that should influence your decision. Drawing from my years of experience in the private education sector, we'll explore real-world scenarios, expert insights, and practical advice to empower you in making this crucial choice.

Whether you're just beginning to consider private school or are deep into the selection process, this booklet will provide you with the tools and knowledge to make an informed decision that aligns with your family's values and your child's needs and requirements.

Chapter 1
7 Reasons Why Private School May Be The Right Choice
As parents, we all want the best for our children, especially when it comes to their education. Many of us who choose private schools share common goals: we want our children to think critically, analyze information, and read widely. My late wife and I, for instance, wanted to stretch our girls academically, which led us to private school. Our backgrounds - her passion for literature and languages and my career in church music - shaped our educational priorities. Likewise, your own personal

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Navigating Private School Finances: A Parent's Guide

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Navigating Private School Finances: A Parent's Guide
This comprehensive guide explores the intricacies of private school tuition and financing options. Divided into three chapters, it covers understanding private school tuition, various payment methods, and seven specific options for managing educational expenses. The article aims to provide parents and guardians with valuable insights and practical strategies to make private education more accessible and affordable.

Private education is a significant investment in a child's future, but the cost can often seem daunting to many families. I can attest to this personally when I opened the invoice from my eldest daughter's preschool. "How am I going to pay this?" was my first reaction. I had similar reactions over the years as both daughters attended private schools before heading off to college. Disclaimer: I am not a Boston Kennedy! Simply a middle-class Kennedy of Scottish ancestry.

Anyway, I have assembled this compilation of my articles to help demystify the complexities of private school tuition. I also wanted to give you some practical strategies for making a private school education more accessible. From understanding the factors that influence tuition costs to exploring various payment methods and financial aid options, I've mapped out a comprehensive overview of how to pay for a private school education. So, whether you're a parent considering private school for the first time or seeking ways to manage existing tuition expenses, hopefully, I can help you make informed decisions about financing your child's education.

Chapter 1
Understanding Private School Tuition

Private school tuition is a complex topic beyond a simple price tag. Each school's tuition is unique, reflecting its specific expenses and revenue sources. To truly understand tuition, we must delve into the factors influencing it and what it covers.

The Basics of Tuition Calculation
At its core, tuition is the amount a school charges for educating a child. It's a crucial part of a school's

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