The input has been great, but nobody has addressed how missing dozens of days of school at the 16AAA level in California has affected grades? That is the big selling point for prep school. Virtually no missed school...far better school with 1-8 teacher/student ratios, no wasted time on TV and video games and a culture that education comes first, though at a hefty price unless you get financial aid. I remember a few years back, SCAHA gave a patch for good grades, but then the patches weren't distributed until season's end. What a joke. Tell me...when has your kids coach EVER asked to see a report card? I can tell you that in 10 years, I have never had a coach ask for that, both here and in No Cal. That would indicate they simply do not care. All colleges say that hockey talent is important, but so are your grades. What is the minimum..2.7? But they tell you, that is only the worst of the colleges with most demanding upwards of 3.5-3.8 and higher. Did you take a look at the U17 National Team just announced? One California kid and many of the others? Yep. Prep schools. I know I don't want to lose my kid at 16, but when do you put school above west coast hockey? Seems like a bit of a bait and switch...promises of glory if you pay for a lot of clinics, but still, most of those kids might play a little juniors and then settle down and realize they will have to find real jobs. As for those prestigious camps? Yes...the top kids get recognized and move on, but we all know that a number of those kids move on because of the names on their jerseys. I do not have any advice but "buyer beware". D3 and club hockey is great for those not moving on to the NHL and at least you get to pick your college instead of hoping to get drafted and being told where you are going to play. Of course, if you truly have what it takes, go for it! You don't want to look back and say "what if?" In the end, this is a huge decision year for many. Junior year grades, along with SAT/ACT prep is extremely important. If your kid isn't going to the NHL, is it really worth the sacrifice to miss that much school and bring As down to Bs and Cs?