At The Green Vale School, the secondary school placement process—known as “Exmissions”—starts early and is built on partnership. Families, students, and a dedicated team work together to identify the schools where each child will continue to grow and thrive.

Nearly 90% of Green Vale students are accepted into their first-choice schools—remarkable in one of the country’s most competitive independent school markets.

“It’s not just about where they’ll get in,” said Head of School Dr. Jesse Dougherty. “It’s about finding the right fit—academically, personally, and socially.”

The process is led by three key figures:
• Head of Upper School Cathy Iannotta builds students’ confidence and readiness.
• Dr. Dougherty offers strategic guidance, informed by years of admissions experience.
• Director of Exmissions Theo Dellicicchi supports students and families through interviews, applications, and logistics.

Teachers also play a vital role, writing meaningful, detailed recommendations that speak to students’ academic and personal strengths.

In the spring or early fall of 7th Grade, families meet with Dr. Dougherty to start an open conversation: Who is your child? What kind of school would suit them best?

A personalized list of school options follows, shaped by factors like size, academics, athletics, and culture. Green Vale offers in-house SSAT prep and encourages visits to schools and open houses.

Dellicicchi gets to know students early—informally over lunch and in small groups—building a foundation of trust before 8th Grade begins. In fall, preparation ramps up with mock interviews, individualized coaching, and support from an outside consultant to sharpen communication and public speaking skills.

Green Vale’s longstanding relationships with top-tier schools also give students an edge. “These are trusted partnerships,” said Dr. Dougherty. 

By early December, families finalize their school lists. Dellicicchi helps manage the application process—guiding families through forms, deadlines, and supporting documents like transcripts and teacher recommendations. Dr. Dougherty remains in close contact with admissions teams, offering personal advocacy as decisions approach.

Early notifications may come in December, with most results announced between January and March. Families are supported through the final steps, including campus revisit days and Accepted Students events.

Green Vale’s Exmissions process is distinguished by personal attention, deep relationships, and a team that truly knows and champions each student.

One parent shared:

“As first-timers in this process, we found the support invaluable. While our son’s hard work earned his acceptances, the advocacy from his teachers and the Exmissions team made all the difference.”

In a competitive landscape, Green Vale students succeed—because they’re known, prepared, and supported every step of the way.