Skip To Main Content

Toggle Close Container

Mobile Elements Wrapper

Mobile Main Nav

Header Holder

Header Top

Utility Nav Desktop

Toggle Menu Container

Colored Rectangles

  • Color 1
  • Color 2
  • Color 3
  • Color 4
  • Color 5

Horizontal Nav

Single Hero

Lorem Ipsum Dolor

The High School Placement Process is a personalized journey, and we support families every step of the way.


Our deep knowledge of each student – their academic pursuits, their passions, their strengths, and their challenges – allows us to guide them toward the right high school fit. With the support of a dedicated Director of High School Advising, students are empowered to voice their preferences and envision their next steps.

Our comprehensive support system, including a High School Advisory class, ISEE test prep, individualized family support, and summer enrichment guidance, ensures that students and their families are well-prepared and confident throughout the process.

Our intentionally designed process empowers students to not just enroll in a top tier institution – but to choose the one in which they will thrive.

Because St. Luke’s students are known as young leaders who are dedicated to their learning and to their communities, they are among the most sought after in NYC. St. Luke’s graduates gain admission to a wide variety of selective schools, including independent day schools, specialized and top-tier public schools, and boarding schools.

Colleen Vasey

COLLEEN VASEY

DIRECTOR OF HIGH SCHOOL Advising
The High School Placement Timeline


We begin learning about and tailoring to the needs of each student the moment they start their education at St. Luke’s. In this way, the path to finding the right high school for each child has already begun before the formal process commences. This more structured process begins in the spring of Grade 7 and continues through spring of Grade 8, when all children have received offers of admission from high schools. 

 

The Pillars of Our Process

Knowing Our Students

We take pride in knowing the whole student. At St. Luke's School, the Director of High School Advisory builds deep, meaningful relationships with students that extend far beyond the classroom. Serving as a Grade 5 advisor, the Director begins to get to know children as they enter the Upper School, engaging with them in a variety of settings to gain a well-rounded understanding of each student's unique talents and personalities. We’re there as students take charge and demonstrate leadership skills at various student events, show their creativity and dedication in musicals and dramatic productions, and exhibit teamwork and athleticism on the playing fields and courts. This comprehensive approach allows the High School Placement Team to truly know and support each child, fostering a nurturing and personalized educational experience. With this in-depth understanding, the Director of High School Advisory is uniquely positioned to offer insightful suggestions and guide families effectively through the high school application process, ensuring each student finds the best fit for their continued education and growth.

hs-process.png
Four students stand arm in arm smiling in front of lockers.

High School Advisory Class

The high school advisory class is the cornerstone of support for students. Meeting every week, it offers a comprehensive review of interview etiquette, covering the dos and don'ts crucial for navigating the competitive admissions landscape. The class further enriches the experience by hosting visits from esteemed high school admissions directors, providing invaluable insights and firsthand guidance. Through timed essay writing exercises, students refine their ability to articulate their thoughts with clarity and precision, preparing them not only for the ISEE essay but also for the broader demands of application essays. Additionally, students receive support in crafting their student statements and application essays, ensuring each individual's unique voice is amplified and ultimately aiding them in submitting the best possible application

A group of Grade 7 students sitting at desks in a classroom.

Individualized Support for Each Family

High school admissions support at St. Luke's School is designed to ensure a smooth and informed experience for all students and their families, guided by the expertise of the Director of High School Advising. Informative whole group meetings provide comprehensive overviews of the admissions process, key dates, and requirements, ensuring that all families receive the same foundational information. Personalized individual family meetings offer tailored guidance, addressing specific questions and concerns, and helping families navigate unique circumstances. Weekly updates from the Director of High School Advising keep everyone informed of important deadlines, events, and any changes in the admissions process, maintaining clear and consistent communication. Additionally, St. Luke's School’s interactive High School Admissions calendar of events allows families to easily track important dates, RSVP for events, and stay engaged with the admissions timeline, making the entire process more manageable and less stressful.

IMG_6577.jpg
A group of adults talking in a circle in the dining room.

ISEE Test Prep

At St. Luke's, ISEE prep is built into the schedule for Grade 7, allowing for a full year of preparation, and it is thoughtfully structured to ensure comprehensive readiness for the exam. During the first semester, the program places a strong emphasis on enhancing students' verbal reasoning and reading comprehension skills. Through a variety of engaging activities and targeted practice, students develop the ability to analyze and interpret complex texts, expanding their vocabulary and improving their critical thinking abilities. As the second semester commences, the focus shifts towards quantitative reasoning and the fundamental principles of Math 1 and Math 2. This period is dedicated to strengthening students' problem-solving skills, mathematical reasoning, and understanding of key concepts. Throughout the year, students also learn essential test-taking strategies and time management techniques, ensuring they can approach each section of the ISEE with confidence and efficiency.

Two students writing on a piece of paper at a desk.

Summer Enrichment Guidance

At St. Luke’s, we believe that children need time to relax and we encourage families to keep their summer traditions. This might include visiting family, attending favored camps, and enjoying lazy summer days. Before students leave for summer break, families are given information about many various academic programs offered by day and boarding schools in addition to a personalized plan for summer ISEE prep review based on the results of the mock ISEE.  We suggest that families plan ahead when children will be doing summer work and that it be completed in short, consistent bursts rather than cramming the week before school begins. When families follow this advice, their children return to school ready for the year ahead and more importantly, ready to begin the high school application process.

SLS_Spring_2024-467.jpg
Five students standing and sitting around a table writing on a piece of paper.