Private School Interview

My children were 6,8 and 11 in the spring of 1997 when we decided to apply to a small private school for our eldest daughter. Part of the private school application process involved a family interview. So one Saturday morning I spiffed up my family in their nice,but casual attire, combed the sweet boy childs hair, put a bow in my darling 6 year olds hair, and oohed and aahed over the wonderful outfit my precious 11 yr. old had chosen. Off we went to the office of the headmaster where the five of sat in the 5 leather chairs lined up in front of the headmaster's large desk.

Most of the interview involved questions for my hubby and I and our 11 year old daughter. The 6 yr old and 8 yr old spent the time swinging their legs as they sat perched on those big leather chairs. Towards the end of the interview the headmaster asked each family member "What do you like about the school you are going to ?"

11 yr old : " I like the beautiful new library ."

8 yr son : " uh.... I like playing with my friends "

DH: " I think that is a well run school and the teachers work hard. "

Moi: "(suck-up) I like that our school has enriched the curriculum with a Spanish program . Our children have had Spanish since kindergarten with a teacher who really tries to make learning Spanish fun. "

6yr old : Yeah... and we just HATE her. Her name is Senora Smith ... do NOT hire HER "

Headmaster: " I cant wait to have that child in my class ! "

After the interview we had a family discussion about using the word HATE . It didnt work... not then and not now. I have consoled myself with the fact that maybe she just lives life large.... large and in charge !