Tilden or Westside?

[grapetomato]

We have been fortunate to be accepted at Tilden and Westside for kindergarden in the Fall. We really like both schools and are having a hard time choosing! Are there any parents of current students at either school who would be willing to weigh in on what they like and what they’d like to see improved about their school? Your experiences there? We’re just looking for some additional personal experiences as we think about where would be best for our child. I do feel like we’d be happy at either place. Also, please let me know if you’d rather I email you off-forum. Thank you!

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[Irukandji]

Both schools have a lot to offer your stbK. Some things to think about:

How’s the commute?

Do you need before/after programs?

Do you prefer larger or smaller community?

Do you like fundraising?

Our answers to those questions led us to go to Tilden, and we’ve been really happy with what a positive match it’s been for our kid. We have neighbors whose kids are at Westside, and they are equally as happy with their choice.

Assuming a base-level quality of education, care and experience at both schools, go with what’s a better fit for your family and lifestyle.

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[DBurns]

I would also agree that these are both great school choices so now it can come down to logistics and “feelings”.

I always look for “like parenting” situations; are there families like yours? Diversity is equally important but at the same time it’s nice to have your values supported by other parents.

Also when looking at schools I always look at the oldest kids and the programs and curriculum offered to them. What are they learning in the 5th grades at these schools? Where are the kids ending up for middle school and high schools?

Whatever you decide is the best match, keep in mind that it is never a permanent decision. Schools change, classes change, and your kids will change too. Go with your gut and see how it goes!

Best of luck!

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[PLS]

The most major differences to me, and we faced the same choice, are:

– school size: Tilden is more intimate, which can be good and bad

– after hours: Westside offers it, Tilden doesn’t

– middle school: Tilden stops at 5th

Then there’s smaller plus/minus things that may be important to you or not, like

* there is a real playground at Westside

* Westside’s near-future facility change (again)

* fund raising activities at Westside

* Westside has some accreditations.

All in all both are good schools and will prepare your kid well. Which fits into your life best and feels more like home to you and your child is the biggest question, I think.

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[IronBear]

Westside has been a great school for my children. Been there from PK and now we’re into middle school. We like Westside because it is an independent non-profit school and it is accredited. (PNAIS) I like that the school goes through the rigorous accreditation process. I think it keeps them up to date and on their toes.

The community is great. Good connections to be made that will last a lifetime. Play dates, family functions, theater performances, halloween festival, and talent shows. Just to name a few.

I love the Chinese and Spanish program, the art and the great new music teacher. — My older child even learned how to ski this season in the Middle School program, which I think is great fun. The teachers are happy and want to be with the kids.

The building situation has had some changes, but soon they will have an amazing new building that will be it’s forever home. It’s going to be spectacular. Grass play fields, gardens, play ground equipment, all new classrooms and a full-sized gym. Everything a growing kid needs! (And the current building is great, too!)

Hope this helps!

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[Julie]

Do keep in mind that both schools have long waiting lists of families who were not as fortunate as yours to be offered places at both schools–once you’ve chosen either school as the best fit for your family, don’t feel shy about letting the other school know right away. They will appreciate it, and so will the waitlisted families!

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[grapetomato]

Thank you so much, everyone, for taking the time to post thoughtful comments! Hopefully, this thread will also help others facing the same choice. Thanks again.

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