For SAT and ACT preparation, we have partnered with the Summit Educational Group for a number of years. We chose Summit after examining other test prep agencies and concluded that we liked the educational philosophy and financial aid available at Summit. Summit offers two courses a year at Brimmer: one beginning in early January to prepare for the spring testing dates, and another shorter course in the fall that is more of a "refresher" before the fall test dates. Summit also offers one-on-one tutoring for the SAT, ACT, and all academic subjects. Although we have tried to schedule the classes at a time most convenient for students--which has been on Sunday mornings--we realize that time does not work for everyone. 

 

We encourage students to utilize free test preparation on websites, especially Kahn Academy, which is now partnered with The College Board. (Students received information about this when they took the PSAT) We also discovered a new program called Testive, a Boston-based online SAT and ACT prep company founded at MIT. They offer 1-1 online coaching programs and free, unlimited access to their software content. According to Testive, their coaching program increases scores by an average of 3-4 points on the ACT, and 150 points on the SAT. Coaches meet with their students weekly via video chat and review the students' work, assign personalized curriculum, and keep them motivated. Brimmer students will receive a 25% discount on any coaching package by using the promo code: bam25!

 

To register for a free Testive account, you must sign up on our school page at schools.testive.com. contact Scott Staiti, Director of School Outreach at scott@testive.com for more information. 

Financial Planning for College

Todd Weaver, Senior Director

This presentation focuses on long and short-range planning for your child's college or university education. Parents of students from the Middle School through Upper School are invited. 

Colleges That Change Lives Reception at Renaissance Boston Waterfront Hotel 

 

One of my favorite books to recommend to students and parents is Colleges That Change Lives by Loren Pope. As an outgrowth of the book, the 40 colleges described in it formed an organization that travels across the country to proclaim how their colleges have changed so many lives. Admission directors from the 40 colleges will be in Boston on Saturday, May 14 at the Renaissance Boston Waterfront Hotel. The program will begin with a 30-minute session on the college search process followed by a college fair when families will have the opportunity to meet with the representatives from the colleges. I encourage you to read the book before you attend the program. This is a not-to-be-missed event.

 

Inside the Application Process at Boston University

 

What: Inside the Application Process

Where: Boston University College of General Studies, 871 Commonwealth Ave. Boston, 02215
When: Wednesday, May 18 Registration and refreshments at 6:30 p.m. Presentation at 7:00 p.m.

In a flyer advertising this event, Boston University poses the question about 3 students--"Which student did we accept?" One student had straight As; one student had enrolled in 4 AP classes; one student was a National Merit Scholar. If you are curious to know the answer, the admissions staff at BU will explain how they make their decisions. This program is open to parents and students. Please RSVP to admissions@bu.edu 

College News Board

 

Students should check the College News board in Almy frequently for information about spring open house programs at colleges as well as local information sessions and receptions. New opportunities are posted daily. This is an excellent time for juniors to explore opportunities available to them.