Shadow Day
Experience the Trinity Difference
At Trinity, shadow days give students the chance to belong, while helping us ensure they are prepared to pursue excellence in mind, body, and spirit.
At Trinity, the admissions process is about more than test scores and report cards. After we receive a student application, we invite applicants to join us for a shadow day. This experience allows both the school and the student to gain a more complete picture of what it means to be part of the Trinity community.
Shadow days help us see beyond academic records and assessments. They give us the opportunity to learn how a child engages socially, emotionally, and academically within our environment. At the same time, students experience the joy of a Trinity day firsthand, helping families discern whether Trinity is the right place for their child to learn, grow, and thrive.
Reflecting on Shadow Day
For our youngest applicants, the shadow day is a big and exciting milestone. At Trinity, we understand that stepping into a new building and meeting new people can feel both thrilling and a little overwhelming at first. Talking about their big shadow day ahead of time can help build their confidence and excitement for the experience.
The most common thing we hear from young students after their shadow day is, “I want to go back tomorrow!” While this response warms our hearts, it also means that the wait between their visit and the start of school can feel long to them. You can help by reminding them that this is just the beginning of their Trinity journey and by celebrating the courage and joy they showed during their visit.
For many of our elementary and middle school applicants, we often hear that a day at Trinity feels very different from what they experience at their current school. Students notice right away that our classrooms are quiet yet full of activity, that everyone stays on task, and that learning here is both engaging and fun. They move throughout the day to a variety of vibrant specials classes, and they are welcomed by teachers who smile, show kindness, and create a warm environment.
We encourage you to ask your child about their shadow day to gain valuable insight into their experience. Some good questions to ask include:
- What friends did you make today?
- What was your favorite class you attended?
- How was Trinity different or similar to your current school?
These conversations can help your family reflect on whether Trinity feels like the right fit, and ensure that your decision is as informed and thoughtful as possible when the time comes.
We are here to support you and your child every step of the way. Please reach out if you have questions about what comes next after the shadow day.
— Kailey Leske, Enrollment Director
Shadow Day FAQs
What should I send with my child?
- For K3 & K4 (morning shadows): Please send a snack and a refillable water bottle.
- For K5–8th grade: Please send a snack, a refillable water bottle, and a healthy packed lunch.
What time should we arrive?
Most shadow days begin at 8:00 am unless another time is determined during your appointment setup.
Where do we check in?
Check in at the front office when you arrive. Parents are invited into the main hallway to give warm wishes and hugs before the day begins. The Enrollment Director will meet you there, answer any questions you may have, and escort your child to class.
Where and when do I pick up my child?
Pick up also happens at the front office at the time determined during your appointment. Typical pick-up times are:
- K3: 10:00 am
- K4 & K5: 12:00 pm
- 1st–8th grade: 3:00 pm (scheduled before dismissal procedures begin)
We are so excited to welcome your child for their shadow day and look forward to sharing what makes Trinity such a special place. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions before, during, or after your visit. We are here to support you every step of the way.