Boarding schools are increasingly casual and friendly environments.
Over the years, the education and environment present at academic boarding schools has evolved and adapted to meet the needs of an increasingly diverse student population. According to the Association of Boarding Schools, as of 2010, there are approximately 300 member boarding schools in the U.S. and Canada. Parents and students can choose from a wide variety of educational programs ranging from the strictly military to more liberal, progressive programs.
Types of Academic Boarding Schools
The two main types of academic boarding schools are college-preparatory boarding schools and junior boarding schools. College-prep boarding schools are for high school students; junior boarding schools are for eighth-grade and younger. Some schools offer both programs. Within the general heading of academic boarding schools there are single-sex, military, fine arts, religious and progressive institutions Some also accept day students and many of these schools are equipped for special-needs students as well.
Advantages to Academic Boarding Schools
The high academic standard at boarding schools is seen as an important reason to attend. Most of these institutions feature smaller class sizes and greater interaction between teachers and students. Teachers are often highly qualified, with undergraduate degrees in their subject. Furthermore, many boarding schools offer a wide variety of coursework in subjects that may not be available in other secondary institutions. The Association of Boarding Schools says this live-in educational environment can help prepare students for the social and academic challenges of college by giving them the independence and responsibility they need to prepare for adulthood.
Disadvantages to Academic Boarding Schools
The biggest disadvantage to attending boarding schools for many families is the overall cost. Though a few institutions, like the Hershey School, are free and most offer financial aid, the average cost of attendance at boarding schools is about $39,000 per academic year. Another disadvantage for some students is location. Apart from the physical distance from family and friends, when attending a boarding school far from home, travel expenses can add up quickly.
Misconceptions and Myths
The concept of boarding schools communicated in literature and films can be misleading. New York Times reporters Victoria Goldman and Catherine Hausman wrote a Nov. 12, 2000, article called "Less Austerity, More Diversity at Prep School Today," in which the Groton School was described as a friendly, casual environment where students can enjoy parties and get-togethers, debunking the misconception of a strict environment where students don't have any fun.
While tuition at boarding schools continues to be expensive, the myth that a student must be wealthy to attend is easily discredited by the amount of financial aid and scholarships available to low-income students. About 30 percent of boarding school students receive financial aid from their schools, and the average financial aid grant is about $17,000 per academic year. As of early 2011, some schools, such as Philips Exeter Academy, have pledged to waive tuition for students from families with a yearly income of $75,000 or less.
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