Getting into a Good School

We all want the best for our children: good health, love, happiness, and, of course, good schools.

So when Varsha and Kamal Patel decided to move from Norman, Oklahoma to London, England, they were nervous.  Would their daughter Simren (a Kumon of Norman student) be able to get into a good school in London's very competitive environment?

They decided to apply to the prestigious Herschel Grammar School, one of the most sought-out schools in all of England.  It is ranked in the top 10% of all British schools for children 11-18 years old.  But they knew it would be a huge challenge.  Simren would have to take an entrance exam and there were only 110 open spots for over 1,400 applicants.  Even worse, they found out that she would only have 3 days to prepare before she had to take the exam!

But they went for it.  With a mix of their strong determination and that Oklahoma grit that they had acquired in so many years living in Norman.

Mom and Dad did their best to help Simren review and study in the few days that they had, and to their amazement, SHE GOT IN!   Simren astounded them all with her ability and determination.

Their joy was overwhelming.  In fact, secretly, mom and dad had even discussed not staying in London if Simren was not accepted.

The Acceptance Committee at Herschel had been greatly impressed with Simren's ability, especially her strong foundation in Mathematics.  But that was no surprise for her mom.  Simren had been doing Kumon Math for over five years.  She had developed into a strong and disciplined student.

I cannot tell you how proud I was when both Varsha and Kamal thanked me for helping Simren succeed.  I threw it right back at them.  They were the ones who out of pure love had brought Simren to Kumon religiously for those five years.  They had determined her success.  The credit was all theirs.

So, Simren, I am so proud of you for all that you have accomplished so far.   You are an excellent 6th grader who loves music and science.  Your parents and I can glimpse a beautiful and bright future in front of you because you have developed strong character traits like discipline and determination that no one can take away.

Thank you for letting me be a part of your life.  I cannot wait to hear what the future has in store for you.   Keep us posted here in Norman  :-)

Mauricio Maruri
Kumon of Norman  


P.S.:    So, it is true, that Amazing things happen... when parents tap into their children's true potential.