The Eagle Flyer – October 2025

Dear Future Eagle Families,

Last month, we sent you a chart to help compare schools by academics, activities, values, location, and cost. Many families told us it helped them see what really matters most. By now, you may have narrowed your list—maybe to private schools, single-gender options, or Catholic schools. Each path has its own strengths for your son’s growth.

Now is the next step: moving from research to action. October and November are ideal for school visits and starting applications. Encourage your son to picture where he wants to spend the next four years—letting that vision guide your research will simplify every step of the process.

We will review three key areas to help your son find his future home and stay on track with deadlines. If you take it step by step, you still have time.

Finding His Voice

Shadow visits and group tours help your son get a real feel for a school—he’ll sit in classes, meet students, and picture himself in the community. These experiences clarify his choices, making it easier for him to decide where to apply and proceed confidently. They also provide stories for his student statement or interview, helping his voice sound authentic.

Action Item: After each visit, ask your son to share one moment that stood out. Record these notes together so he can use them later in applications or interviews.

Know His Strengths

Admissions committees want to see the whole student. A one-page resume highlighting academics, activities, leadership, and service will be helpful. Even if not required, it’s a useful note sheet for interviews and helps him focus on interests at his chosen schools. Start now by listing accomplishments from clubs, church, volunteering, or hobbies. Starting early reduces stress later and builds a solid foundation for when schools request this information.

Action Item: Start a shared document where you and your son can add activities as they happen, big or small.

Get Ahead with Applications

Starting the application process this month unlocks each school’s admissions checklist. You will be able to see what is required: resumes, student statements, transcripts, standardized test scores, and recommendation forms. Even if you do not finish everything right away, having access to the checklist keeps you organized, prevents surprises, and helps you track important deadlines.

Action Item: Begin at least one application this week so you can see the full checklist and map out a timeline for each requirement.

For a more detailed look at this process, we encourage you to read our full article: Navigating the Private School Admissions Process.

October is the time to move from thinking to doing—here’s a quick checklist to keep your son’s admissions journey on track.

October Checklist

  • Schedule at least one shadow visit or group tour
  • Record impressions and key takeaways from each visit
  • Draft a running list of your son’s activities and awards
  • Begin an application and review the admissions checklist items and deadlines
  • Inform your son’s school and his Math and English teachers which high schools he will be applying to
  • Explore financial aid options and note important deadlines

By working through the October checklist, you will bring your son’s school options into focus and help him begin shaping a voice that is authentic and confident. Getting started now also ensures that important admissions items, such as transcripts and essays, are not left until the last minute.

We are here to walk with you through every step of the journey.

Sincerely,
The St. Thomas Admissions Team