“The student is at the heart of the high school process; their voice is so important,” says Sophia’s Director of Enrollment, Guidance & Graduate Support, Angie Duran. “We offer support through the transition and ideas on where they might be successful, but ultimately it is a matching process guided by the students’ values, skills and personal goals rather than a ‘placement’.”
Choosing a high school is an exciting moment in each student’s educational career. It is also the first time that most students will make a complex decision about their future. Students and families must probe what high school experience is best for them academically, socially, and culturally; they must weigh important factors such as tuition, financial aid, specialized programs, and diversity at the schools they consider. Ms. Duran engages each student and family in a months-long process that guides them in lessons on self-discovery and communicating one’s strengths; there are deep conversations about the environments in which they will be supported and feel a sense of belonging.
Starting in seventh grade, students begin the process of understanding options, attending open houses, preparing for entrance tests and interviews, and working on admissions and financial aid applications.
All students sit for the Classical High School exam, and many take the SSAT and Catholic high school placement test. Ms. Duran personalizes the process for each student, assisted by SophiaCorps member Diamond Rivera ’12 and Sara Poulard, a Providence College intern. These two young women, both first generation college graduates (as is Ms. Duran), bring their own experiences to their guidance of Sophia’s eighth graders. Head of School Maura Farrell and Director of Middle School Melissa Moniz also support the process, particularly during the decision-making phase; ultimately, the choice belongs to the family and student.
Empowered by the knowledge of their opportunities, active in the process, and closely supported in choosing their best option, Sophia students practice being discerning advocates for themselves.
Once in high school, Sophia graduates stay in regular communication with Sophia Academy faculty, sharing updates on their lives, academic journeys, and supporting younger generations of Sophia students – like Latsany Lopez, Class of 2015, and Yeisha Bautista, Class of 2008, who spend an hour each week mentoring a current student.
Last year, the Class of 2021 decided to continue their educational journeys at Blackstone Academy Charter, LaSalle Academy, Lincoln School, The MET, Providence Country Day School, Rocky Hill Country Day School, St. Mary Academy - Bay View, St. Patrick Academy, and School One. The opportunities abound for the Class of 2022!
Jayda Santana and Yarielys Lantigua, both Sophia Class of 2021 (second and third from left, respectively), recently returned to Sophia Academy as ambassadors of St. Patrick's Academy.