Why You Might Consider a Boarding School Now
There’s a lot of uncertainty right now about what schools and universities are going to look like in the future. As online learning becomes more common, one of the key aspects of attending local schools and colleges is socialization, and this may be greatly reduced. Our children will be challenged to develop the critical social skills that are an integral part of their growth during their time at home, their time in a college environment, and later will influence their ability to have a successful career, part of which is getting along with others.
Parents are realizing that it might be time to consider boarding schools as a way to slowly and calmly open the door to the future. It’s possible that, at least for the next few years, boarding schools can begin the development of social pragmatics and more. Is it possible that those “dreams” of sitting together in the cafeteria, joining social groups, attending get togethers, meeting students from all over the country and the world, and simply hanging out can happen on a boarding school campus? The answer is yes.
What does a Boarding School offer? This is just a short list of the many possibilities for your child:
Class size is round 10 – 12 and “student centered.”
Teachers adapt classwork around passions that stimulate the discussion.
Faculty teachers are available for students outside of office hours.
Dorm friends walk for meals together.
Clubs and activities during the day.
Communities with a commitment to service.
Faculty and staff invested in students’ outcome sometimes serving multiple roles, teacher, coach, and dorm parent.
Afternoon programming supports interests in sports, arts, music and awakens interests not available at home.
Meal times allow socialization with friends.
Free time is about connecting with friends, speaking with parents or catching up on homework.
Study Hall provides a consistent and dedicated time to focus on academics.
Dorm parents are available to talk, assist with conflict resolution and answer homework questions, among other things.
Meet other students from across the country and from around the world.
Experience sports not tried before, sing in a choir, try acting in a play, TRY NEW THINGS
Don’t have to take transportation to go from one activity to another.
It’s possible for some students when they first arrive at boarding schools to experience home-sickness, but it ebbs pretty quickly with the support of the Dorm Parents and peers. The “mini” college appeal of a boarding school may be a very effective way of giving our children a place to find less stress and greater self-discovery.