Parent request for explanation of arts program admission denial

Dear ___

I sincerely appreciate the time your admissions committee has put into processing the numerous applications to (NAME OF SCHOOL). Understanding how competitive the pool of applicants would be, I do understand that not all will be granted admission. However, the letter we received offers no explanation as to why my daughter was denied admission to the musical vocals and visual arts departments. We kindly request an explanation offering specific reasons for the admissions committee’s decision. My daughter has proven herself an outstanding performer, having been selected out of two hundred students to be the lead singer in her middle school. She has received ongoing and rigorous training from the top vocal coaches in our area, and maintains a visual arts portfolio regularly, all without her sacrificing her core academic studies. Socially, she excels and has been celebrated at her school for her collaborative spirit and leadership. In fact, your school attracts exactly the type of person like (NAME OF DAUGHTER), who is grounded, balanced, and who is supportive of her classmates even while she understands the pressures of competition. There are no overt reasons I can think of as to why my daughter would not have caught the eye of your committee as someone who blends skills in two core areas your school represents: the visual arts and performance art. Her potential to contribute to the school community and to motivate and inspire her classmates is tremendous. Her audition for the school seemed to proceed seamlessly, and she herself believed that it went well, but if her performance was the issue, we would at least like to know. If it is her portfolio of self-portraits, stencil work, and painting, then we would like to know that as well. Even if your committee remains rigid in their decision, we would still appreciate an explanation if only to know what she can improve and how so that next enrollment period she can try again, and succeed. Similarly, we might also appreciate recommendations for alternative programs that offer the same quality of instruction and curriculum as yours. (NAME) longs for strong mentors who can guide her to the next step in her arts career. She possesses natural talent that needs to be honed and directed towards concrete goals and visions. Driven and dedicated, (NAME) is motivated to succeed at every stage of her academic and professional career. Your school’s reputation depends on graduating top students like (NAME), who can represent the name of (SCHOOL) with honor. While my daughter is devastated by the denial, she remains resolute and committed. She will use this as an opportunity for growth, knowing that all professional performers build their strength through learning how to fall. The pain of rejection becomes woven into the soul of every artist, and as her mother, I have helped her to see this. This letter is not written out of a sense of entitlement or anger, but out of a sincere desire to understand the committee’s perspective and the decision that was made. The generic letter we received does not contain any useful information for a student. Imagining your overarching goal is to promote young artists with passion and verve, I believe that you will also understand why I am writing. Thank you for your time and consideration. You can contact me any time at the number or email address above. I look forward to hearing from you soon.