College Counseling

The High School Journey: Depth, Originality, and Purpose

At Slate School, students are boundless in their learning, and they dive deeply and joyfully into their pursuits inside and outside of the classroom. Guided by a dedicated, experienced college counselor as well as by their educator mentors, students are nurtured and supported in their talents, interests, and areas of growth. They think about their future plans beyond Slate School as they build out their Mastery Transcript, which includes foundational and advanced competencies.

Slate School graduates are prepared not just for college admissions, but for success in college and beyond. Our opportunities for interdisciplinary coursework and independent research nurture students’ intellectual curiosity, communication skills, problem-solving ability, and independence and initiative. Depth, originality, and purpose are central to a Slate School education.

College Counseling at Slate School

College counseling is a thoughtful, individualized process that supports each student in identifying colleges and pursuits that best align with their strengths, passions, and goals. Our students’ portfolios and transcripts demonstrate depth, originality, and real-world understanding.

College Counseling

A Different Kind of Transcript

As a member of the Mastery Transcript Consortium, Slate School replaces traditional grades with a richer, more meaningful portrait of student learning. Students build a Mastery Transcript and portfolio that demonstrate:

  • the full range of courses they complete in Grades 9-12

  • their level of mastery in each course (Exceeds Expectations, Meets Expectations, Not Meeting Expectations)

  • their growth, strengths, and areas of deep expertise

Slate School’s Mastery Transcript shows what students actually learn and do, as opposed to reducing learning to a GPA. With more than 700 universities and colleges accepting students with Mastery Transcripts, colleges understand and value this transcript as a more holistic view of student learning and achievement. Graduates of Slate School are well-prepared to apply to a wide range of selective colleges and universities, supported by a strong academic foundation and a distinctive portfolio of work.

Students also have opportunities to pursue advanced courses of study in each course, working closely with educators to go beyond the honors-level curriculum. For students seeking further depth and breadth of understanding, they may pursue any interdisciplinary course as an “Advanced” course.

Advising Through High School

In 9th grade, students pursue their passions and grow their deepening learning. They challenge themselves every step of the way. They begin mapping out their academic goals and imagining possible paths for high school and beyond.

In 10th grade, students grow their confidence and independence as learners. Students engage more closely with a college counselor, and more comfortably and confidently navigate their path. With guidance, they begin exploring internships, projects, and enrichment opportunities aligned with their emerging interests.

In 11th grade, a college counselor guides students and families through the college application process, beginning with how to research schools and extending to how to write college essays. Students are also supported in college visit considerations, ideas for colleges that may be the best fit, as well as SAT or ACT testing.

Students in 12th grade are fully supported in their college application process, including managing the details of the college and financial aid application process. Our college counselor works closely with each student to ensure that their Mastery Transcript, portfolio, and narrative clearly articulate their learning story.