Hale School in Mpls Private Vs. Public

Hey S.. Hale is our school also. My daughter is only 3 1/2 so we won't be starting at the same time. I've heard good things about the school but no experience with them yet. My neighbors are a teacher and school counselor and they send their daughter to Hale.

Our daughter is less structured so we may explore Seward.

You can visit and tour schools.

I have heard good things about the academics at Burroughs.

Good luck.

If you want to connect at all, send a message.

You probably already know this, but please keep in mind the deadline for getting in choice cards. I believe it is Feb. 28. If you miss that, you greatly reduce your chances of getting your daughter into a good school for K.

Hale has a good reputation, although I don't know much about it personally. You should visit the school, hang out in the kindergarten classes, and also talk to the gifted and talented teacher.

You should also visit Barton (which, as a magnet, would provide transportation) and Burroughs (you'd have to drive her). Both have very strong programs and more than the average number of gifted kids.

I'm a strong believer in public schools. But really, it comes down to the classroom teacher, the school culture, and the peer group. These can be great or terrible at either a private or a public. Visit as many schools as you can to learn more.

Public School depends on the school. Kids can very easily fall through the cracks. I've seen gifted children like my daughter do horrible in school and fail because her teachers don't see it. I've also see children who need help not get it.

I took my daughter out of public school a week or so ago and were trying private. So far were all happier!

I think you'd be happy with Hale school. My 2 daughters go to Hale, one in kindergarten and one in 2nd grade. We have had the best kindergarten teacher ever both times, Ruth Lotzer. Have you visited the school? I would recommend making an appointment to do so and especially to visit Ruth's class. Bob Brancale is the principal, and he's a great guy, always going above and beyond the call of duty. He really cares about the Hale community, the school, the kids, et cetera.

I'd certainly be willing to talk to you anytime if you have questions and concerns. You can e-mail me back if you want to continue a conversation.

G., a Hale mom and neighbor