Utilizing over 12 years of experience as both an educational consultant and as a school based Secondary School Advisor, Cecelia McNally successfully guides students, each with unique dreams and goals, to schools where they are seen, known and truly thrive.

Cecelia’s student-centered, family-first approach empowers families and students to make clear, confident, and informed decisions every step of the way as they explore the academic landscape and ultimately choose their academic destination. Whether your student is seeking rigorous academics, robust extracurriculars, exceptional academic or executive functioning support or programming tailored for language-based learning differences or neuro-divergent learners, Cecelia brings not only a a deep understanding of K-12 schools, their communities and their cultures, but also a genuine love for her work and respect for students and families.

“I see each student as a whole person — not just a transcript or application. I’m here to help you find a school where your child will be understood, challenged, and supported.”

  • "Cece was born to work with students and families. She is such a natural with her rapport and does an amazing job of setting students at ease in order to dive deep into the work of determining the best fit for their overall needs. I have known her through my work in secondary schools and even before meeting Cece, my colleagues at numerous secondary schools told me that she is the most authentic and honest counselor out there who always puts fit for the student as the primary goal. Admissions folks, parents, and most importantly students feel seen, understood and valued by Cece McNally. Two words that always come to mind when I think of her are dignity and professionalism."

    — Kevin Ramos-Glew-Former Admissions Associate-Governor’s Academy, Director of Enrollment-Kimball Union Academy, Founding Director of Admissions-NEIA, Director of Admissions Planning-Dartmouth College

  • "Cece was our partner throughout the secondary school placement process. She invested the time necessary to cultivate a meaningful relationship with our daughter to better understand her strengths, weaknesses and interests for high school. In addition, Cece listened to and incorporated our insights and perspectives as well. Cece has intimate knowledge of both the local secondary schools and regional boarding school opportunities. Her knowledge combined with the picture she framed of our daughter’s goals were woven together to form a comprehensive list of choices that could position our daughter for continued success. Cece was a wonderful sounding board when we needed to ask the tough questions. She was honest and genuine in her assessments and her input was invaluable in helping us reach our decision."

    -Nikki and Harry N.

  • “Cece was with us every step of the way, providing excellent information and guidance-we were able to make a full and informed decision and our child is thriving.”

    -Michael and Maureen S.

  • “Cece McNally helped empower us and our child to work through all of the information and manage the process. Excellent experience all around.”

    -Susan and Peter M, parents of a transfer student

  • Thanks for all of your great help the the girls this year. I think they both found really great schools and are going to be successful at each. Your guidance was essential!

    Anonymous-Parent of twins

  • Thank you for all the work you put into finding a good placement for our son. We are feeling very positive about high school and we believe that going through the full year process with you, looking at all of the websites and information, touring the schools, and then ultimately deciding which schools to apply to, helped our son understand himself better-a challenging process but worth it.

    -Madeline and Joe K.

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Let’s get started

We can start with a thirty minute initial consultation at which time you can get to know me and I can learn about your student.

Let’s make a plan together!