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23 | Thursday, January 22, 2015 | OAKVILLE BEAVER | www.insideHALTON.com Making choices for your child's education can be a very challenging task. Just as every child is unique, each school is unique. Understanding the range of choices, the admissions process, and the school's expectations are key to gaining entry at your school of choice. Independent Schools look for students who will fit with its unique philosophy, mission, vision and values, and are selective in evaluating each applicant to ensure the student is mission-appropriate and admissions-ready. Even with the breadth of choice available at the 11 schools represented by the Oakville Independent Schools, space is often limited. Therefore, it's important for families to do their homework, understand the process and remain open and transparent throughout. Each school has its own admissions procedures and requirements, which vary depending on the age and grade level of the child, and may include the following: · Application fee Independent Schools: Understanding the admissions process · Application for admission · Student questionnaire or writing assignment · Student transcripts, standardized testing scores · Interview with parents and students · A visit, or shadow day, by student while school is in session · Entrance assessment Some schools have online applications, while others have digital forms or prospectus packages to be completed and returned to the school. Families interested in financial aid options should also note application deadlines and requirements. Admissions staff are also important resources and are there to answer questions and provide clarification as needed. On Saturday, January 24 the Oakville Independent Schools are holding an Open House Day from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. To learn more, and to access a map with school locations, visit www.educationoakville.com. Advertorial ChoiCe, Diversity, innovation, exCellenCe, Personalization The Oakville Independent Schools represent 11 of the area's most highly acclaimed independent pre-kindergarten, elementary and secondary schools. Each shares a commitment to academic excellence in safe and supportive environments where personal development is valued, encouraged, nurtured and celebrated. Each school offers innovative and engaging programs and extensive extracurricular opportunities that go beyond the classroom. Athletics, the arts and community service -- the possibilities are limitless! We invite you to join us during our joint Open House to visit the schools and discover what each has to offer your child. A great school is waiting for you. To learn more, and to access a map of school locations, visit www.educationoakville.com Saturday, January 24, 2015 | 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. oPen hoUse www.educationoakville.com