I grew up in a suburb in Western NY – I had a house with a basement and a swing set in the back yard. I went to public school with a wonderful music and theater program, beautiful library, lots of sports. Summers that I didn’t work at overnight camp, I did community and professional theater. I went away to Ohio for college and lived in Miami for my music therapy internship; then got my first full time job back at home. I always thought I’d raise my own kids there too. But I met my husband who was a New Yorker through and through. So I made the transition with uncertainty about what life as parents might look like in the city.
Have you wondered if you can raise your kids in NYC? We weren’t sure at first – and we were very close to moving out when we realized we weren’t ready. And then realized how much we just loved the city with kids. The park was our back yard. No need for a car. Friends everywhere, so easy to meet. But schools? We really weren’t sure – did we need the competition, the pressure? Honestly, NYC public schools have a lot to offer. A few teachers really stand out as key in my kids’ academic success. Our boys were in the same public K – 8 and went on to two different high schools, each just right for their very different learning styles. One now attends a wonderful SUNY school and the other is about to start a wonderful private college. Both with merit scholarship – their work was recognized, even though they weren’t coming from a specialized HS or going to an ivy league. They grew up in a way that no suburban kid will – street smarts, intuition, acceptance of (and friends with) people who are different, sense of direction, independence and yet a strong sense of community…
The city doesn’t have to mean pressure, even though the school process may feel like it! Still not sure? If you’re seeking guidance and answers, take a look at nycschoolsecrets. Alina is a great resource. She and I first met when she came to Baby Fingers classes with her 2nd child, and she has provided support to so many NYC families. Reach out to her – and feel free to ask me questions too! Including what are the benefits of signing with your child, and if I could do it all again, would I still choose NYC public schools? 🙂