I want to tell you about an exciting possibility that we are exploring at PA.  The possibility is of opening a fourth section of Kindergarten next year, to be housed in current facilities, if there proves to be sufficient interest among prospective families these next few months.

Kindergarten is PA’s biggest point of entry.  We have been thrilled that during these first seven years three sections have been filled, with waiting lists beyond that.  What if it turned out there were sufficient interest to fill a fourth—and then possibly, in following years, a fourth section of first grade, second grade, etc.?  Our strongest growth, at PA, into Middle and Upper Schools comes from our own Lower School.

To be clear: my announcement here is only about a possibility.  The Board of Directors will need to consider data about applicant interest, expansion feasibility, etc.  Indeed this conversation has already been begun, through an ad-hoc Board committee.  I have also had preliminary conversations with some parent leaders, administrators, and our Lower School faculty.  The general sense at this point is one of excitement.  

I intend to speak of this possibility at our first Admissions open house tonight, where more than 115 potential applicants are signed up to attend.