Why Boarding School
Considering Boarding School for Your Child? Start Your Journey Here.
Boarding school is more than just incredible academics. (Although academics are a big part of it too!) It’s a supportive, immersive environment where students have the opportunity to grow, to build community and to gain independence. For many students, boarding school is the key that unlocks doors they never even dreamed were possible.
You probably have a lot of questions–and we’re here to help. Read on for honest answers, real stories, and resources tailored just for parents like you.
7 Reasons Boarding School Could Be the Right Choice for Your Student
Your Student is Ready to Gain Independence—Without Being Alone
Boarding school gives students the space to grow into responsible, confident, self-sufficient young adults who are able to manage their own time and workload…while still offering the structure and support of a caring residential community and 24/7 expert staff.
Your Student Thrives Around Motivated, Like-Minded Peers
Boarding school students are often driven, curious and excited to learn. It’s no surprise that many academically-driven students excel in this type of environment. Plus, with classmates from around the country (and the globe!), your student will develop an expanded viewpoint of the world.
They’re Looking for a School That Provides Academic Rigor
With small classes, dedicated faculty, robust course offerings and advanced classroom facilities, boarding schools challenge students while also giving them the tools that they need to succeed.
Your Student Excels in a Safe, Structured Environment
At boarding school, students have 24/7 supervision, clear expectations and a strong support system, while also having room to grow and explore their interests.
They Want to Be More Than “Just a Number”
With small class sizes, involved faculty and a tight-knit community, your student will never be “just a number” at boarding school. Teachers and staff typically live on campus, and they go out of their way to make real connections with students, both academically and personally.
Your Student is Ready to Dive Deeper into Their Passions (or Explore New Ones!)
Whether it’s robotics, drama, debate or they just aren’t sure yet, boarding school provides students with a place and the tools to explore their interests, or maybe to uncover totally new ones.
They’ll Be Part of a Tradition of Excellence
From world leaders to best-selling authors to Nobel Prize winners, boarding schools have a long history of nurturing future leaders. Your child will join a network of alumni who have made their mark in every field imaginable—and will have access to a robust community that’s ready to help them succeed in the next stage of their life.
FAQ’s for Parents
Get Answers to Your Biggest Questions about Enrolling Your Student in Boarding School
While every student is unique, boarding schools have dedicated staff and support teams to make the transition to living on campus smooth. Their goal is to help students not just adjust to their new school, but to thrive there. This caring team of adults lives on campus, and they’re there to monitor your student’s wellbeing, and to step in if they need any extra support.
Plus schools typically plan orientation events at the beginning of the student’s first year to help them immediately make new friends and feel at home. Many parents are surprised at how quickly their student adjusts!
Safety is a top priority at boarding school. Schools have 24/7 supervision, health services, and counseling — all designed to keep students safe, supported, and thriving.
As a parent, will I have the opportunity to be involved with my child’s education and community, even if they are far away?
Absolutely. Each school has different programs for parental involvement and interaction, but all schools recognize the critical role that parents play in their child’s development during their school years.
Additionally, just because your student is at boarding school doesn’t mean that your relationship with them changes! All schools offer opportunities to visit campus, breaks for your student to come home, and many relaxed periods where they can call or FaceTime you.
Many boarding schools offer financial aid and scholarships to make it attainable for all different types of families. Each school has its own process, so it’s best to check directly with schools you’re interested in.
Without parental supervision, do boarding school students get more involved in drinking and drugs than kids who live at home?
Actually, 95% of boarding school students say that their social lives do not revolve around drugs or alcohol—compared to 82% of private day and public school students. Many boarding schools also have ethics standards and codes of honor, and experimenting with drinking or drugs is not tolerated.
While every student is unique, boarding schools have dedicated staff and support teams to make the transition to living on campus smooth. Their goal is to help students not just adjust to their new school, but to thrive there. This caring team of adults lives on campus, and they’re there to monitor your student’s wellbeing, and to step in if they need any extra support.
Plus schools typically plan orientation events at the beginning of the student’s first year to help them immediately make new friends and feel at home. Many parents are surprised at how quickly their student adjusts!
No! In fact, many schools designate financial aid budgets in order to accept students from families who may not be able to pay the full tuition on their own. Be sure to ask about financial aid options for your family during the application process. If you do need assistance, they will help you ensure that you qualify by each school’s posted deadlines for submitting the required paperwork.
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