As admissions decisions for the upcoming school year were released on Friday, March 3, many applicants and families waited anxiously for the email that would determine their next chapter. While students spend months preparing applications, essays, and interviews, very few understand what happens after they click “submit.”
According to Director of Middle and Upper School Admissions Blake Howard, the admissions process is designed to be holistic and personal. “We’re really trying to get to know each student as fully as possible, both as a learner and as a community member,” he said.
Admissions committees for each division typically consist of six to ten administrators, faculty members, and admissions staff. Every member reads each application before the group discusses candidates and makes recommendations. Final decisions are then made while considering factors such as spots available, balance within each grade, and overall diversity.
Rather than focusing solely on grades or test scores, Howard said admissions officers often begin with notes from campus visits and Shadow Days to better understand how students interact with the community. Academic records, teacher recommendations, and admissions test results are then reviewed. The admissions team looks for students who are enthusiastic about learning and eager to participate in the classroom. “We’re looking for students who are engaged learners and who have a strong sense of themselves as individuals,” Howard said, adding that collaboration and community involvement are also key.
Howard also noted that many families misunderstand the admissions process. “One of the biggest misconceptions is that you need connections or recommendations from current families or alumni,” he said. “It’s just really not the case.” Another misconception is that admissions decisions depend mainly on test scores. Instead, the committee focuses on students who are motivated to learn and contribute to the school community.
Admissions Associate Maddie Williams, who taught at PCDS for nine years before joining the admissions team, said her classroom helps her evaluate applicants differently. One of the most rewarding parts of the job, she said, is seeing the excitement of newly admitted students.
For future applicants, Howard gave some simple advice: “Just be yourself. A lot of applicants feel like they have to give polished or packaged answers, but we really just want to get to know them.” As another admissions cycle concludes, the admissions team continues to build the next generation of Eagles.
