Life After Levine
2022 - 2023
Preparation and Readiness for High School
1. GETTING STARTED
1.1 Life After Levine Forward 1.2 Life After Levine – The Road to High School 1.3 Public School Information 1.4 Keep Your Perspective 1.5 Info from the Independent Schools Association of the Southwest/ISAS
2. RÉSUMÉ
2.1 Directions to Access Forms Online 2.2 Résumé Deadline Notice 2.3 Résumé Preparation Tips 2.4 Sample Résumé
2.5 Sample Personal Statement 2.6 Interview Preparation Tips 2.7 Sample of Common Private School Interview Questions
3. ISEE TESTING
3.1 ISEE Testing
4. PRIVATE SCHOOL ONLINE APPLICATIONS
4.1 Important Private School Information on Ravenna and other online application systems 4.2 Ravenna/School Registrar 4.3 Important Ravenna Information
5. SCHOOLS / MAGNET PROGRAMS
5.1 Supplemental Jewish Education Choices after Levine Academy 5.2 Alphabetical Listing of Schools 5.3 Supplemental School Information
Dear Parents,
We are excited to embark on the journey toward high school with you and your children via o ur “Life After Levine” program. “Life After Levine” will help guide the process for entering public and private schools. This will include application and testing procedures for private schools, and information on honors/magnet opportunities in public schools. We are proud to announce that we are continuing to offer a special high school preparation course for our 8th graders, to take place over the first trimester. Taught by Head of School Elieff, Language Arts teacher Joanie Geffen, Director of Admissions Nicole Solman Rosenbaum, Counselor Suzie Hacker, and Principal Liz Lawlor, students will prepare personal statements, create résumés, learn interview skills, and discuss what to expect during the high school years. We believe this is an integral part of our 8th grade curriculum. Many schools will ask for faculty recommendations. These recommendations are an extremely important part of the application process. Private schools usually require letters from English and Math teachers, plus an evaluation form from the Head of School or Principal. Public schools may require recommendations from teachers and staff for special programs and honors classes. Other commentary may be requested from additional school professionals as well. Please note that in the interest of being able to devote the proper amount of time to each student recommendation, all requests will require a minimum turnaround time of three weeks after the applications and résumés have been received by Levine Academy. Parents, be sure to check individual high school application deadlines for prompt delivery of all necessary paperwork. Forms and/or requests may not be given directly to the teachers, nor should students be the ones to handle the paperwork. All forms should be emailed to Shirley Green at sgreen@levineacademy.org. There may also be some schools that send all forms through the Ravenna System, or through similar types of online application systems. After all school forms and résumés have been completed and submitted to Levine, please have your child email Judy Glazer at jglazer@levineacademy.org to schedule an interview with Mr. Elieff. Note: All required student and family documents must be shared directly between you and your high schools of choice. All teacher recommendations, school transcripts, résumés, and required school – to – school information will be sent as a complete packet by Levine Academy, directly to the schools of your choice.
We look forward to our continued partnership with you all and to a wonderful year ahead.
Sincerely,
Nicole Solman Rosenbaum Director of Admissions
Tom Elieff Head of School
Liz Lawlor K - 8 Principal
LIFE AFTER LEVINE The Road to High School
PUBLIC SCHOOL PROCESS Make sure your child knows that public school is a wonderful option.
Call the administrative office of the public high school in your school district, after winter break in January, to get a hard copy of the school course schedule. It is also available online at the high school’s website . Also, many schools offer complete course schedule, books and registration online. Inquire about the registration process, a visit with the counselor, and a tour of the school. Be sure to ask what legal documents and health forms are necessary for registration. You may wish to have some of these forms with you at the meeting with a counselor. Items to discuss include:
Registration packet Course Schedules
Four-Year Plan
Special Programs (honors, yearbook, etc.) Electives Athletics Band/Choir Extracurricular Activities School Clubs and Organizations College Counseling Resources School Tour School Visitation
Schedule meetings during mid to late spring with the Counselor, Assistant Principal and the Principal, for the purpose of establishing a connection between the school and your family.
If necessary, parents should deliver teacher recommendation forms and résumé to Shirley Green. Remember, there is a three-week turnaround time after the applications and résumé have been received. Students who are applying to special programs, such as International Baccalaureate and other public school magnet programs, should schedule an interview time with Mr. Elieff. Students must contact Judy Glazer for scheduling. This is an essential part of the process. Note: Many schools have spring and summer programs and practices, for rising 9 th graders, in athletics, band, choir, cheerleading, dance team, etc. There may also be special application procedures for programs such as newspaper and yearbook. Please inquire about requirements and establish communication with the directors/advisors of these programs.
PRIVATE SCHOOL PROCESS
Complete the entire Public School process.
Contact the Admissions Office of your choice schools as soon as possible. A great way to enter their systems is by completing an online inquiry.
Discuss and/or request:
Application packet or online application instructions Application fee Dates of Open House/Campus Preview School visitation and interview Ravenna System applications/other online application systems, plus any additional documents required by an individual school
Proceed as directed by each school.
Students must schedule an interview time with Mr. Elieff. Students must contact Judy Glazer for scheduling. This is an essential part of the process. Final résumés must be completed and turned in to Levine Academy, along with teacher recommendation forms, before an interview may be scheduled. Parents, NOT STUDENTS, must email teacher and staff recommendation forms and résumé directly to Shirley Green at sgreen@levineacademy.org. If your child is applying to a school that uses Ravenna or another web-based application process, you must notify Shirley once you have released the online teacher, Principal or Head of School recommendation forms. Please remember, there is a three-week turnaround time after the applications and résumé have been received. Forms will not be given to the teachers without a completed résumé attached.
Mr. Elieff and Mrs. Rosenbaum will be personally visiting with the admission directors at each school to which our students apply.
LEVINE ACADEMY WILL E-MAIL, USPS MAIL OR HAND-DELIVER TRANSCRIPTS, RECOMMENDATIONS, ETC. TO ALL SCHOOLS.
If there are any questions, please contact Nicole Solman Rosenbaum, Director of Admissions at 972-248-3032 x 151 or nsolman@levineacademy.org.
WHILE WE HAVE MADE EVERY EFFORT TO ENSURE THE ACCURACY OF ALL INFORMATION, PLEASE RECONFIRM ALL REQUIREMENTS AND DUE DATES WITH EACH SCHOOL TO WHICH YOUR CHILD IS APPLYING.
Keep Your Perspective
PLEASE REMEMBER: THE BEST SCHOOL FOR ANY STUDENT IS THE SCHOOL THAT IS THE BEST FIT.
While researching a school, you can start to determine whether the school is a place where you will grow into the person you want to be at the end of high school.
Think seriously about the things in your life that help you feel capable, confident and successful in your academic classes.
Consider the kind of friends that you like to surround yourself with, those who are a positive influence on you.
Imagine the extracurricular school activities that you truly enjoy, which bring you feelings of happiness and a sense of both calm and excitement.
REGISTRATION FOR PUBLIC SCHOOLS
The following items are required before you can be enrolled:
1. Proof of Residency – ABSOLUTELY REQUIRED a. Current Utility Bill – water, gas, electric
b. Apartment lease or home mortgage papers c. Must have name of parent/guardian on bill/contract d. Address must be within proper school district 2. Photocop y of Driver’s License of parent /guardian of enrolling student
3. Copy of student’s Birth Certificate 4. Social Security Card of student
a. Passport or Visa if not U.S. citizen 5. Immunization Records (i.e. – shot records, signed by a physician) 6. Name, address, telephone and fax numbers of previously attended school for requesting official student records 7. Copy of student records (transcript) and most recent report card
PLEASE NOTE: The above information is basic for each school district. Please check with the Administration office of your public school district for additional requirements.
Consider reaching out to a high school counselor. Typically, they are assigned by grade level or first letter of enrolling student’s last name.
Think about starting to attend high school sporting events, music and theater productions and other programs which will give you and your child a sense of the school community.
Information from The Independent Schools Association of the Southwest (ISAS) http://www.isasw.org FAQs for Prospective Parents What is an Independent School? Independent schools are "independent" because they have distinct educational missions, are independently governed and incorporated as 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, and are supported by tuition payments, charitable contributions and endowment revenue rather than by taxes. They share a commitment to achieving excellence and inspiring innovation. As part of the private school community, independent schools include co-educational, single-sex, and special-focus institutions, as well as boarding and day schools. Each school meets high accreditation standards and is held accountable by its Board of Trustees. What advantages does an Independent School offer my child? Independent schools offer smaller class size, allowing teachers to give each student more time, more challenging work, and more individual attention. Independent schools offer greater communication among faculty, students, parents, and the faculty and administration of such schools are generally more accountable and responsive to their constituent families. How can I find the Independent Schools in my community? The following websites will launch your exploration. After narrowing your search based on your family’s needs and interests, contact the admissions offices at specific schools. Independent Schools Association of the Southwest (ISAS) can assist with contact information and an instructive overview of the accreditation standards required of member schools.
The Texas Private School Accreditation Commission (TEPSAC) website offers links to recognized accrediting agencies and member schools.
The National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) website offers a wealth of informative articles and helpful school-specific information.
What is the best advice for parents looking into Independent Schools for their children? Like each child, each school has unique qualities. Parents should not seek the "best school," but rather the "best school for our child." The search requires keen insight and honest assessment regarding a child’s strengths, needs, and preferences. All parents want their child to live and learn in an environment of high expectation and effectiveness. The school that meets this measure can be different from child to child. Give your child the gift of searching for this "best" place together. How do I find the Independent School that best fits the needs of my child? First, parents must define the ch ild’s needs as distinct from their own. It is paramount to keep the child’s needs in mind throughout the process. Next, examine each school’s mission. Be sure you understand the mission statement, and ask for specifics as to how that mission is implemented.
Look beyond the school’s reputation when making this important decision. Ask about specific programs and where students go after they graduate or leave the school. What scores did students earn on the SAT or other standardized tests? Schools should publish this summary data. The child should have the opportunity to visit the school before any final decision is made. Depending on the size of candidate pools, many schools encourage a potential student to come to visit for a day. If your child is accepted, it is reasonable to request a visit, especially if you have doubts. What are the most common mistakes parents make during their search? The most common missteps concern parents’ reasons for selecting or getting their hearts set on certain schools based on name recognition, being with friends, or on cost alone. A school search is successful when it discovers the school that is right for the child. Many parents do not visit schools that might be perfect for their child because they are initially intimidated about inquiring about potential tuition assistance and creative financing plans that may be available. You never know until you ask! In ISAS, we regard our accreditation process as our central purpose. The rigorous standards and best practices to which member schools are held are critical influences on excellence. Sometimes parents overlook a school’s accreditation. In 1986, The Texas Private School Accreditation Commission (TEPSAC) began reviewing and approving independent school accrediting agencies for the Texas Education Agency. If a school is approved by one of the twelve agencies listed at www.tepsac.com, it is recognized by the TEA and its academic credits have the same full faith and credit as state public schools. What questions should I ask during the interview? Consider in advance all you want to know about the school in order to feel both comfortable and glad to make the investment and to entrust the school with a portion of your child’s education. Be sure to visit the school’s website. Then , use your time wisely during the interview to ask those more personal questions which have not yet been addressed through your research.
The National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) proposes this list of questions to consider:
Are there high quality and committed teachers? Is there a low student-to-teacher ratio? Do students feel challenged by their school?
Are there strong partnerships among parents, teachers and students? Does the school have a climate that supports achievement?
Where can I find infor mation to understand and evaluate the schools’ answers? In the course of visiting and evaluating private schools, you are bound to learn a great deal. Comparison shopping will help you ascend the learning curve quickly. There are excellent books on independent education, of course, but the best place to go for answers and explanations will be other people. These might include friends or business associates who are familiar with local private schools, who have attended or enrolled their children in local private schools, and who have perhaps already done much of the research you may be contemplating. Ask those who work at the schools themselves to help you understand anything that may be confusing. Start with the school’s admissions office, but, if you have t he opportunity to meet and visit with the people who would be your child’s teachers, don’t pass it by.
Finally, there are consultants who specialize in helping parents find the right school for their children. They can be enormously helpful to you.
How do I apply to an Independent School?
Call the admissions office to request information. Make an appointment to visit the school. Make a list of questions you want to ask and specific programs or facilities you wish to see. After you visit, be sure you have all the necessary information about application deadlines and admission testing. Complete all forms and send them in promptly. Schools need time to obtain records or to talk with you about special circumstances. Do not hesitate to call the admissions office to double-check on requirements or to discuss any concerns you may have. The admissions directors want to help you make the best decision for your child.
When is the best time to apply?
Parents may begin researching whenever they become interested. It is necessary to contact prospective schools during the year prior to the school year for which a child is applying. Admissions schedules vary. However, most schools begin the process in early fall of the year preceding enrollment. Testing at individual schools is usually conducted during January and February, though some schools conduct fall testing or schedule several test dates because of larger candidate pools. Dates for national tests required by many schools for Middle School and Upper (High) School applicants are set a year in advance by the Educational Records Bureau, not the schools. Most schools make admission decisions in March and April. Application deadlines vary but are usually in December, January, or February. Be certain to check and adhere to all deadlines. While admissions decisions are based on many factors, it is always helpful to a child’s candidacy if parents follow the process and demonstrate that they are going to be part of developing a strong collaborative relationship with the school.
How can I help my child through the admission process?
Perhaps, the best help you can give your child through "admissions" is to help yourself first. Relax, enjoy the process of learning about schools, and sharing and discussing information, and be confident together that the right match for your child and family will ultimately be made. Affirm your child's gifts and help her or him to understand the evaluative purposes of the admissions process. Middle and Upper School students should be active participants in the research and admissions process and should be encouraged to join in a well-informed choice. When schools and families with a shared sense of purpose "find" each other, it is all worth the effort.
What factors do school administrators consider when determining whether a child is a good candidate?
First and foremost, they want to be able to answer the following questions with a resounding “YES”:
"Is our school the school that can best serve this child’s needs and talents?" "Will the student be a highly contributing member of this community?" Evaluative testing is considered in two ways. First, testing allows a school to compare a student against minimum benchmarks for success in its program. Second, test scores allow for a comparison against other candidates. Past academic performance, actual grades showing how the child has done in school, is considered. This factor is probably more important than testing. Implicit in a child’s past performance are his or her academic characteristics, whether or not the student applies himself or herself, and the child's work habits. Further, schools may require recommendations from past teachers. Most schools will also require some form of interview or observation. Preschool and kindergarten applicants are often evaluated in small groups. Older students usually have individual interviews. The interview allows admissions committees to garner important insight into a child’s interests and personal qualities. S chools endeavor to be as family-friendly as their mission will allow. When it comes to the issue of giving siblings and legacies preferential consideration, these factors may be considered only after all other admission information has been evaluated. Typically, a school will not accept a sibling or alumnus over a candidate who is more qualified. Indeed, schools try to allocate a portion of each class for new students.
How can I prepare my child for any necessary tests?
Schools work very hard to make entrance testing/readiness assessment a positive experience for students. Some schools administer aptitude tests. Most assess skill level for mathematics and language arts. While most testing takes written form, some assessment is oral. In the near term, parents can ensure their children’s success by encouraging them to ha ve an open, positive frame of mind, to get a good night’s sleep, to have a good bre akfast or lunch, and to be well-hydrated. Children pick up on parental anxiety and will, naturally, feel pressured by it. Parents should think positively and keep it all in perspective. Over a lifetime, parents can prepare their children for the educational test of life by modeling passion for learning and making reading, both aloud and individually, a family priority.
What options do I have if my child is not accepted?
Most admissions offices are available to discuss the decision-making process and to show you how your child compared to the rest of the candidate pool. During this discussion, if your child has been offered a place on a wait-list, ask for an assessment of chances for later admission, including enrollment for the following year. If an admissions director does not feel the school is a good fit for your child, he or she may make alternative recommendations.
Directions to Access Life After Levine Documents
You can use your Levine Parent log-in and password
All forms can be found on the school website: https://www.levineacademy.org/parentresources
login to your account Or log-in with: LEVINE (all caps) PW: levinerocks (lowercase, all one word) Click on Life After Levine
You will see all of the necessary forms contained in this packet.
If you have any questions regarding accessing the website, please contact: Courtney Hensel at chensel@levineacademy.org.
RÉSUMÉ
CHECK-INS AND DEADLINES
To avoid last- minute frustration on everyone’s part, follow these deadlines to keep you and your child on a positive path.
October 21, 2022 By this date, your child should have made much progress toward completion of the résumé template and the personal statement. November 4, 2022 By this date, your child should have made significant revisions to the résumé and personal statement, sought guidance from the Levine staff, pursued direction and guidance from parents and is moving into the final stage of completion. November 18, 2022 By this date, your child should have the final résumé and personal statement completed and ready to send out to schools or to keep in a home file for future needs.
NOTE: It is both the parent’s and student’s responsibility to make all final format and content decisions.
Final Résumé and Personal Statement Completion Date : November 18, 2022
Please email final copies of the résumé to Shirley Green at sgreen@levineacademy.org, or leave them at the greeter ’ s desk and email Shirley letting her know copies have been dropped off. *Remember that Judy Glazer, jglazer@levineacademy.org, must be emailed a copy of your final résumé and personal statement before you are scheduled for an interview with Mr. Elieff.
If you have any questions or need guidance on the final format or content of the résumé, please see Principal Lawlor no later than November 4, 2022.
The résumés must be printed on paper of your choice and in the final format that you wish to present to the schools. We will not reprint your résumés.
You must provide the appropriate number of copies for the schools to which you are applying.
It is the parent’s primary responsibility to provide input and guidance on the résumé as students are preparing them. Please pay special attention to the résumé timelines that we present to you. It is extremely important that you and your child adhere to all guidelines in order to assure that his/her application packages are completed in a timely manner.
Résumé Preparation Tips
Use the template we have provided or find another professional résumé form. Your parents, family friends, teachers or school counselor might have some suggestions.
Make a list or outline to help you organize information. Include all your appropriate activities from grades 5-8. You can determine the best language to use after you have completed your list/outline.
Take the time to format your résumé. You should use a plain font, bold headings, and leave adequate white space. Keep it simple and easy to read.
Begin each category with the most current information. Be consistent; either select the year/years or the grade/grades of your involvement. If you have no information to include under a specific category, omit that category heading.
Carefully proofread each draft of your résumé. Try to catch your typos. Be aware of proper grammar.
Have your parent review the résumé several times.
Keep your résumé up-to-date and save it to a résumé file on your personal computer. You also need to email a copy to your parents so they can review it. This is also for back-up security.
Always tell the truth.
Add new items to the appropriate categories or sections of your résumé as they happen.
You may also want to add an appropriate professional-looking photo of yourself (many students like to use their Bar or Bat Mitzvah photo) with your name in bold letters on the first page of your résumé. Often it is placed in the upper left corner of the page, however, you can decide where it looks best with the particular template you are using. Schools are looking at your résumé to get a sense of your interests, character, skills, scholarship, commitment to community service, and personality. If you need to include a description of a particular activity or achievement, use action verbs such as “organized, led, se rved, played, trained, created, ” etc.
Consider using heavier weight white or cream paper to print copies of your résumé.
The “Personal Statement” category, the final section of your résumé, is extremely important. This paragraph should include approximately 10 sentences and is the place to highlight a special aspect of your personality.
“What makes you, YOU!” Your voice needs to shine through, not anyone else’s. Think about the question, “What makes me unique, or at least different from, any other student applicant?” You can describe yourself in a creative manner or perhaps you would like to mention a particular passion. Create sentences that you would enjoy reading. Use detailed, descriptive words. Be authentic and honest, especially in this section. The goal is to create a personal “snapshot,” a memorable description of you – something that makes you stand out from the crowd.
Photo Résumé For
_______________________________________ Full legal name
Date of Birth:
Number of Years at Levine Academy:
School Activities/Organizations:
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Religious Activities/Organizations:
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Athletics/Extra-Curricular Activities:
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Awards/Honors:
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Community Service:
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Hobbies/Special Talents:
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Travel/Camp Experiences:
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Personal Statement:
*NOTE: This résumé, in its final fo rm, will be included in student’s application packets sent from Levine Academy to the designated schools. A copy of the résumé will also be used by teachers as they complete recommendation forms, and for the interview with our Head of School.
THIS FORM CAN BE DOWNLOADED FROM THE LEVINE ACADEMY WEBSITE.
FINAL RÉSUMÉ DUE NOVEMBER 18, 2022.
A Sample Personal Statement
**** THERE ARE MANY WAYS TO CREATE THIS STATEMENT****
Am I Sam?
After sixth grade, I felt like I was really starting to figure out who I was. Playing basketball, breezing through work, having a good time with my friends. Schoolwork was easy, playing sports was allowed, and hanging out with my friends was part of my everyday life. Then, within six weeks I suffered two concussions, which made a huge impact on my life. They changed my perspective as well. Interacting with people became more difficult so I kept to myself. I found schoolwork and test taking to be more challenging and sometimes impossible. Some of the scariest things were that my writing speed decreased and I had trouble remembering things. Playing basketball was no longer an option, according to my doctor. These concussions left me wondering about myself. I have had to change the ways I have approached schoolwork, including taking tests and quizzes. I also had to change the way I connected with other people. I had to find new things to do to fill the time I spent playing basketball. I have slowly started to figure out a new way to study and to organize my tasks. I started running more to try and take my mind off of not playing basketball (until I found out that I have a stress fracture in my heel and a problem with an extra bone in my foot!). I have also made a huge effort to become more social and have really decided to have a few close but fun friends instead of going with the pack. I have learned a lot about myself and there are still more processes I need to figure out. I don’t know what the final product will be, but I know that I have grown up a lot and faced a lot of things that will help me when I am adult. I have become closer to my family and have relied on them a lot more than I did in the past. I also have become more understanding about others who face challenges. I would definitely not have chosen this situation, but it sure has taught me a lot about myself and what I can do. I used to think I knew who I was, but now, I sometimes stop and think, am I really Sam?
***(Permission given by Sam Weinstein and his mother, Margie Weinstein, to use as a sample personal statement for Life After Levine.)
*** (The content of your personal statement should reflect unique aspects of who you are and your passions/it does NOT have to reflect a problem or injury which you have had.)
INTERVIEW PREPARATION 1. Find out everything you can about the school you are considering.
2. Read carefully through the website. Consider your strengths and interest areas. Figure out how those tie in with details about the school community.
3. Practice for your interview. Ask a parent, sibling, best friend or your school counselor to be the interviewer.
4. Body language is very important. Hand and arm movements should not be too large. Don’t fiddle. Your posture should be relaxed, but alert. Sit up straight. Appear interested. Be yourself!
5. First impressions count. Look well-groomed and dress up a bit. Try to arrive at the school 15-20 minutes early for your appointment.
6. Greet your school host, admission personnel, and interviewer with a firm handshake and always maintain eye contact. Be enthusiastic, positive, confident and outgoing. Show a sincere interest in all of the people you meet. Ask good questions that reflect some of the school research you have done or things you have heard about from current or former students, neighbors and friends.
7. Be your real self. Interviewers can tell if you are not genuine. Be proud of who you are!
8. You are going to be asked some questions… Give short answers with strong points.
Look the interviewer in the eye when you are answering. Think about the question before answering it. It’s okay if you need them to explain it a little more.
9. Usually at the end of an interview, you will be asked if you have any questions. If you don’t , it can look like you are not very interested. Prepare some questions in advance 10. Before you leave the school office, try to make some positive comments about things you enjoyed or noticed in their school community, such as…. “Today I really enjoyed ….” “I was so impressed with …”
“When I toured the classrooms, I noticed …”
“When I saw the students at their passing period/lunch, I liked …”
11. Your interview isn’t over when you walk out the door of the school. As soon as you get home, write a short thank you email or letter to your interviewer and host. Mention that you appreciated the time they spent with you. If you would like to add something you forgot to say, this is the time. End your thank you note with a positive comment or compliment about their school community.
A Sample of Common Private School Interview Questions
1. What has happened recently in current events which interests you?
2. What do you read outside of school?
3. Tell me a bit about your family/friends.
4. Why are you interested in our school?
5. Tell me more about what you do outside of school.
6. What is your favorite subject, and why do you like it? What is your least
favorite subject, and why do you not like it?
7. Who are the people you most admire?
8. What questions do you have about our school?
9. Tell me 3 things you would bring to this school (in terms of who you are
as a person or your personality).
10. If you could meet one person from history, who would that be and why?
11. Are you involved with community service projects? What has been
the most significant experience?
12. What do you see yourself involved in, if you were to come to this school?
ACADEMIC COUNSELING RESOURCES
ISEE TEST PREPARATION Academic Bridges
972-404-9522 (Dr. Arlene Sachs)
Rabbi Joe Hirsch Arlene Molohon
214-437-9919 972-380-5671 972-867-6544
Dillard’s College Prep
(Karen Dillard multiple locations) Mrs. Hyla Swesnik (What’s the Word )
888-445-3276 214-691-2868
The Study Hall
Huntington Learning Center
214-363-9500 (Renee Roth - multiple
locations) Academic Solutions Kaplan Test Centers Perfect Placement
972-758-1909 800-KAP-TEST
214-403-1401 (Waverly Ware Wilson) 972-755-3508 (John / Lori Karp)
TLC Tutoring / Learning / Counseling
Varsity Tutors Slingshot Prep Wyzant Tutoring
214-206-7940 972-991-6288 877-999-2681
COLLEGE COUNSELING/SCHOOL SELECTION CONSULTING Academic Bridges
972-404-9522 (Dr. Arlene Sachs) 214-350-8581 (Dr. Catherine Marrs ) 214-356-0529 (Marilyn Kaufman) 817-933-2274 (Natalie Lundsteen) 678-613-3466 (Casey Gendason ) 972-998-5810 (Peggy Amdur )
Marrs College Admissions Advisors College Admissions Consultants Capital College Consulting Casey Gendason Guidance Peggy Amdur College Choices
Application Edge
214-783-6574 (Jenn Zigler)
COMMUNICATION SKILLS (Interview preparation ) Communication Innovations
972-754-1234 (Shani Romick)
**This is only a partial listing of many wonderful resources. Please check all resources carefully and match them with your child’s needs. Levine Academy offers these names as a service but does not guarantee or endorse the services of any of these consultants.
ISEE (Independent School Entrance Exam)
What is the ISEE? The ISEE is the entrance exam required for many independent schools. There are three options in taking the ISEE. The first is the traditional paper test options during which you select a testing date and location and are proctored the exam in person. The second is the Prometric option, where you schedule an individual testing time at a Prometic testing location and your child takes the exam in a setting just like one would take the GMAT or LSAT. The third option is to take the ISEE virtually, using the ERB solutions online system. You can learn more about each testing option, register for the exam, and schedule your test here: https://www.erblearn.org/parents/isee-overview
Testing Seasons: Students are eligible to take the exam once each season. There are a total of three testing seasons per year.
You can learn more about the testing seasons here: https://www.erblearn.org/parents/isee- overview#testing-seasons
You can look for available test sites and dates here: https://iseeonline.erblearn.org/Search
Test Preparation: https://www.erblearn.org/parents/isee-preparation IMPORTANT: Yavneh offers a SUNDAY test date. This year the Sunday date is January 8th. Register ASAP to secure a Sunday (paper) test date; space is limited! Accommodations: ERB will make every effort to accommodate students who are unable to take the ISEE under standard conditions due to a documented learning difference or physical challenge. Any accommodations that your student receives are not flagged on score reports.
Eligibility Students who are eligible for accommodations must:
Have a diagnosed disability that necessitates accommodation(s). Have complete and current documentation that establishes a need for the requested accommodation(s). Due to a disability, be granted and utilize the requested accommodation(s) on a regular basis in his or her current academic setting as a necessity for demonstrating true aptitude. Registration: We recommend registering as early as possible in order to secure your ideal date, as test dates fill up quickly. Registration closes two weeks before a test date. We also recommend that you verify any application deadlines with the schools to which your student is applying to ensure that score reports are received in a timely manner. Use this link to create an account and register for the ISEE: https://iseeonline.erblearn.org/
Score Reports: You will receive a full score report following your child’s test. The testing is scored and given a rank stanine ranging from 1-9, with 9 being the highest score possible.
IMPORTANT PRIVATE SCHOOL APPLICATION INFORMATION
Many private schools, such as ESD, Parish, Alcuin, Jesuit, Bishop Lynch and Ursuline are using a web-based application called Ravenna for the submission of online applications and registrations to visit schools. Through Ravenna, you will be able to manage your applications online and complete the preliminary application, as well as common supplemental forms, such as essays, teacher recommendations and parent statements. If you have questions or need help with Ravenna, please email help@ravennasolutions.com Other private schools, such as Greenhill, Hockaday, St. Mark ’ s and Yavneh have their own online application process which is not a part of the Ravenna system. These online applications will have to be created and submitted through each individual private school. It is also possible, for application to some schools, to choose a common application. Check with the individual schools which you are interested in.
RAVENNA SYSTEM/SCHOOL REGISTRAR
The Ravenna System, which is used by many private independent schools, requires you to submit the name and email of the current middle school registrar of Levine Academy. This is for the purpose of signed parental permission for the transcript and records release.
For Levine Academy, Shirley Green is the school Registrar. Please input her name to Ravenna when you set up your account and send it to: sgreen@levineacademy.org.
In addition, please send Shirley Green an email stating that the records release form has been submitted to Ravenna.
Other online application systems may need to have the records release form downloaded, printed and hand-delivered to Levine, or scanned and emailed with the parent’s signature.
This can be given directly to Shirley Green or emailed to her.
This process allows us to stay very organized with all of your required information for multiple schools.
Information about Ravenna
Ravenna is a web-based admission system that allows you to efficiently apply to PS-12 private schools. From exploring schools through decisions, you can track the status of your applications online. Some schools may use Ravenna for their entire application, while some may ask you to complete certain application materials with Ravenna, and others in another system. Other Ravenna features include event scheduling and decision notification.
Log in to Ravenna
How to start To begin your family’s application, g o to www.Ravennasolutions.com and create an account. Be sure to create this account using an email address you will have access to throughout the entire admission season, as this will be your primary email contact with the school(s). Select your school(s) After you have created your account, you can view a list of schools in your area using Ravenna. If you would like to explore a school, you can view its application process and sign up for events. If you are in a region with multiple schools, you can choose to apply to one school now and add other schools later. Note that once you have chosen to explore or apply, the school will be aware of your interest. Shared forms In some regions, schools choose to share forms. These shared forms, such as essays or teacher evaluations, make the process easier for you and reduce the amount of time needed to complete an application. Shared (or common) forms are clearly marked so be sure not to use a specific school’s name in any of the answers to those questions. Teacher evaluations and other delegated forms With Ravenna, you can easily send forms electronically to those who will complete the form on the applicant’s behal f. The most common form is a teacher evaluation or recommendation. Simply enter the teacher’s name and email address in Ravenna, and the teacher will receive an email with a secure link to the form. You can also print a copy of the form if the school requires it. Support or Help If you ever have a question about Ravenna and your application, please contact help@ravennasolutions.com. While happy to answer your inquiry by phone, Ravenna does require that all support inquiries come first via the email address you used to create your Ravenna account. It is important for Ravenna to validate access to student accounts to protect your privacy. This will ensure your family’s information remains secure.
Jewish Educational Choices After Levine Academy
Options for Jewish education during high school years abound in our community. Don’t allow your child’s formal Jewish education to end simply because he/she is graduating from Levine Academy. Imagine the world of knowledge lost to them if they were to end their secular studies at the end of 8 th grade! Please allow your children to continue to grow in their Jewish knowledge as they become young adults - a strong faith identity will give them confidence and comfort in the years to come.
Congregational Programs:
C ongregation Anshai Torah- meets Sunday mornings DeReKH, Hebrew for pathway, is a collaboration between Congregations Anshai Torah, Beth Torah, and Shearith Israel offering our 7th-12th grade students a top-notch educational experience and meaningful opportunities to create friendships and memories they will cherish for a lifetime. Each Sunday morning, they will share as a group of more than 100 fellow students from our three congregations and beyond. More than a high school program, it is a kehillah - a community of bright, committed, young hearts and minds - dedicated to building a vibrant Jewish future for the next generation. Temple Shalom- meets Sundays and Wednesdays 8th through 12th graders are invited to attend our Next Dor drop-in learning classes. In 12th grade, students will prepare for Confirmation. Teens are encouraged to come to any and all sessions that are of interest. We also invite teens to bring their friends to join them! Details about specific sessions coming soon to the Temple Shalom website. Temple Emanu-El Youth engagement programs through Youth Emanu-El and Teen Emanu-El give students the chance to build relationships, grow Jewishly and continue their involvement in Jewish life. Jewish Youth Programs: BBYO USY/United Synagogue Youth (all Conservative congregations have a chapter) DAFTY (all reform synagogues have a chapter) NCSY (Shaare Tefilla has a chapter) Jewish Student Union (offered at many local High Schools; such as JJ Pearce and Plano West)
OTHER DALLAS AREA CONGREGATIONS THAT MAY HAVE STUDENT PROGRAMS NISHMAT AM
2113 W. Spring Creek Pkwy., Plano 972-618-2200, https://nishmatam.org/
ACHDUT ISRAEL [Seph-Isr] 5747 Charlestown, Dallas 972-661-8577, https://www.achdutisraeldallas.org/
CHABAD OF ARLINGTON 2136 Lindblad Court, Arlington 817-451-1171, www.arlingtonchabad.org CHABAD OF DALLAS 6710 Levelland, Dallas 972-818-0770, www.chabadofdallas.com
KOL AMI 1887 Timber Creek Road, Flower Mound 972-539-1938, www.kolami-tx.org NER TAMID 751 Hebron Parkway, Suite 340, Lewisville 972-416- 9738, www.congregationnertami d.org SHIR TIKVAH 7700 Main St., Frisco 469-269- 0718, www.shirtikvahfrisco.org TIFERET ISRAEL 10909 Hillcrest Road, Dallas 214-691- 3611, www.tiferetdallas.org
CHABAD OF PLANO/COLLIN COUNTY Lang Chabad Center 3904 W. Park Blvd., Plano 972-596-8270, www.chabadplano.org DATA OF FAR NORTH DALLAS 7130 Campbell Road #204, Dallas 214-987-3282, www.datanet.org DATA OF PLANO 3251 Independence Pkwy., Plano 214-987-3282, www.dataofplano.org MAGEN DAVID [Seph] 17631 Hillcrest Road, Dallas 972-386-7166, www.magendaviddallas.org
OHEV SHALOM 6821 McCallum Blvd., Dallas 972-380-1292, www.ohev.com
OHR HATORAH 6324 Churchill Way, Dallas 972-404-8980, www.ohrhatorahdallas.org SEPHARDIC TORAH CENTER OF DALLAS [Seph] 6715 Levelland Road, Dallas 917-678-0385, www.sephardictorahcenter.org SHAARE TEFILLA 6131 Churchill Way, Dallas 972-661-0127, www.shaaretefilla.org YOUNG ISRAEL OF DALLAS 6504 Dykes Way, Dallas 214-774-9223, www.youngisraeldallas.org ADAT CHAVERIM 6300 Independence Pkwy., Ste. A, Plano 972-491-5917, www.adatchaverim.org BETH EL BINAH John Thomas Gay and Lesbian Center 2701 Reagan St., Dallas 214-500-8304, www.bethelbinah.org CONGREGATION BETH ISRAEL 6100 Pleasant Run Road, Colleyville 817-581-5500, www.congregationbethisrael.org
BETH SHALOM 1211 Thannisch Drive, Arlington 817-860-5448, www.bethshalom.org
INFORMATION INCLUDED FOR THE FOLLOWING SCHOOLS:
This is a partial listing of schools based upon past interest of Levine Parents
ALCUIN SCHOOL BISHOP LYNCH
DALLAS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL DISD - BOOKER T. WASHINGTON HIGH SCHOOL FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS DISD – HILLCREST HIGH SCHOOL MAGNET DISD - SCHOOL FOR THE TALENTED AND GIFTED (TAG) DISD - TOWNVIEW MAGNET CENTER EPISCOPAL SCHOOL OF DALLAS (ESD) FAIRHILL SCHOOL GREENHILL SCHOOL THE HOCKADAY SCHOOL JESUIT COLLEGE PREPARATORY SCHOOL JOHN PAUL II HIGH SCHOOL LAKEHILL PREPARATORY SCHOOL MESORAH HIGH SCHOOL FOR GIRLS PARISH EPISCOPAL SCHOOL PLANO ISD ACADEMY HIGH SCHOOL “STEAM”(Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math) PLANO ISD HEALTH SCIENCES ACADEMY PLANO ISD INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE PROGRAM (IB World School) RISD - RICHARDSON HIGH SCHOOL ARTS, LAW AND SCIENCE MAGNET RISD – BERKNER HIGH SCHOOL SHELTON SCHOOL ST. MARK’S SCHOOL OF TEXAS TEXAS ACADEMY OF MATH AND SCIENCE TEXAS TORAH INSTITUTE THE WESTWOOD SCHOOL THE WINSTON SCHOOL URSULINE ACADEMY OF DALLAS AKIBA YAVNEH ACADEMY OTHER NON-TRADITIONAL SCHOOLS (FUSION and EINSTEIN)
ALCUIN SCHOOL A Montessori International Baccalaureate Education IB Diploma Programme/IB World School ADDRESS: 6144 Churchill Way, Dallas, TX 75230 PHONE: 972-239-1745 or 972-980-6377 EMAIL: admissions@alcuinschool.org WEBSITE: www.alcuinschool.org
HEAD OF SCHOOL: Walter Sorenson DIRECTOR OF ADMISSIONS: Annie Villalobos annie.villalobos@alcuinschool.org ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF ADMISSIONS: Karla Gross
APPLICATION PACKET/DUE DATE: January 20, 2023
PROSPECTIVE PARENT MEETING: Call 972-980-6377 to register for a Prospective Parent Meeting
OPEN HOUSE/CAMPUS PREVIEW: TBD
STUDENT VISITS and ASSESSMENTS: Call school to schedule full-day visit
FAMILY INTERVIEW of PARENTS/STUDENTS: Director will call to schedule.
ENTRANCE EXAM: ISEE and last two years of standardized tests
LEVINE RECORDS/TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS DUE BY: January 31, 2023
ADMISSION DECISION: March 2023
NOTES: Start admission process as soon as possible Ravenna Application System
BISHOP LYNCH HIGH SCHOOL Faithful to Catholic Tradition and to our Dominican heritage of scholarship and service, Bishop Lynch High School promotes the development of the total person by bringing together a diverse community in a rigorous, college preparatory environment where students are taught to strive for excellence, seek truth, and work for justice in the world.
ADDRESS: 9750 Ferguson Rd, Dallas, TX 75228 PHONE: 214-324-3607 x 4127 WEBSITE: www.bishoplynch.org
PRINCIPAL: Chad Riley DIRECTOR OF ADMISSIONS: Molly Carter molly.carter@bishoplynch.org
APPLICATION PACKET/DUE DATE: January 13, 2023
OPEN HOUSE: TBD/Tour in-Person by creating a Ravenna account and beginning your application
FAMILY INTERVIEWS: February 2023
ENTRANCE EXAM: ISEE (Last day to take ISEE is February 1, 2023)
LEVINE RECORDS/TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS DUE BY: January 20, 2023
ADMISSION DECISION: letters mailed March 10, 2023
NOTES: All application materials are online. Call Bishop Lynch to have application materials mailed. Ravenna Application System September 15, 2023 – Application opens online 8 th grade visits – TBD
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