Tag: Academics

How to Make Reading Fun for Kids

What if I told you helping your child develop a love for reading is one of the best gifts you can give?

It will benefit your child throughout her life—teens who love reading have a better likelihood of getting into the college of their choice. (More on that later.)

One of the first questions I ask college-bound students is, “Tell me about the last book you read for pleasure.”

Usually, there’s a pause. Then they mention a book that’s clearly from a school reading list like “Catcher in the Rye” or “To Kill a Mockingbird”.

“Really? For pleasure?” I ask.

Once I call them out on it, they usually confess that the last one was a Harry Potter novel from several years ago.

My bolder students will come out and admit that they “hate” reading.

Over the years, about 25 percent of the students I’ve worked with have been avid readers who truly love diving into a good book.

Those are the students who’ve been admitted to the most selective colleges, like Stanford, Harvard, University of Chicago, MIT, and similar.

What’s interesting is that when I ask parents if their child is a reader, about 75 percent say their teen “used to be” a reader.

When I then ask them when their child stopped reading, the most common response is: “Sixth grade.”

Why teens stop reading in grade 6.

There are several reasons why teens stop reading:

Screen time
Pressure to “be cool”
Friends don’t read or talk about books
Parents stop reading aloud to them

Yes, I did suggest that parents should continue reading aloud even through high school!

Why parents should read aloud to their children (even when they’re teenagers!)

Reading aloud to your teen is a great way to model reading and expose your teen to an expanded vocabulary and important ideas.

It goes back to the James Baldwin quote: “Children have never been very good at listening to their elders, but they have never failed to imitate them.”

Middle School Reading List

To help your child develop a love of reading in middle school, try offering the following books.

6th	Inkheart Cornelia Funke	The Cay Theodore Taylor
	Hatchet Gary Paulsen	Among the Hidden Margaret Peterson Haddix and Cliff Nielsen
	Mysterious Benedict Society Trenton Lee Stewart
7th	Chains Laurie Halse Anderson	Chasing Vermeer Blue Balliett
	Al Capone Does My Shirts Gennifer Choldenko	Supernaturalist Eoin Colfer
	Code Orange Caroline B. Cooney
8th	The Secret Garden Frances Hodgson Burnett	Red Kayak Priscilla Cummings
	Hattie Big Sky Kirby Larson	Uglies Scott Westerfeld
	To Be A Slave Julius Lester

What is your teen reading this summer?

I understand that the school year is busy and your teen has a lot of homework.

That means summer break is a good time for your teen to read!

Many studies, including this article from The School Library Journal, have shown that students who don’t read consistently over the summer see their reading abilities stagnate.

Even worse, this effect grows more prominent as they advance into high school.

Not every child naturally loves reading. Sometimes you might need to help them along, and summer is a great time to do so!

Here are 5 tips on how to make reading fun for your kids this summer:

Have your teen set a summer reading goal and keep them accountable.
Have your teen choose their own book to read, whether it’s graphic novels, cookbooks, or romance novels about vampires. . .reading is reading.
Encourage your teen to read a book they enjoy for at least thirty minutes a day.
Model reading for your teen. The more they see you reading, the more likely they are to follow your example.
Have your teen sign up for the summer reading challenge at a local library. This could be a fun form of competition and a way to meet other teen readers.

It’s not too late! To help your teen pick out books to read this summer, we’ve compiled this list from several libraries and organized them by grade.

High School Reading List

9th	Drowned City: Hurricane Katrina and New Orleans Don Brown	We Were Liars E. Lockhart
	Midwinterblood Marcus Sedgwick	Between Shades of Gray Ruta Sepetys
	Code Name Verity Elizabeth Wein
10th	Ready Player One Ernest Cline	The Last Lecture Randy Pausch
	Into Thin Air Jon Krakauer	Six of Crows Leigh Bardugo
	Bone Gap Laura Ruby
11th	I’ll Give You the Sun Jandy Nelson	Debunk It!: How To Stay Sane in a World of Misinformation John Grant
	Defy the Stars Claudia Gray	The May Queen Murders Sarah Jude
	In the Shadow of Blackbirds Cat Winters
12th	The Short and Tragic Life of Robert Peace Jeff Hobbs	Enter Title Here Rahul Kanakia
	American Girls Alison Umminger	Dirt Bikes, Drones, & Other Ways to Fly Conrad Wesselhoeft
	Game Changers: The Unsung Heroines of Sports History Molly Schiot

[/mk_table][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Becoming a real reader can improve your teen’s vocabulary, make them a better writer, help them get into college, and enlarge their breadth of understanding of the world around them.

What books would you add to these lists? Let me know in the comments below.

Need a little more guidance?

For one-on-one support and other resources to help you or your child get into (or pay) for college click here.

If you’d like to learn more about helping your teen get into college, don’t miss these posts:

How to Save Time When Seeking Money for College
College Essay How-to: Who is someone you admire?
Get In and Get Money: 5 Tips for College-Bound Juniors

The Reason Behind Low Acceptance Rates

Top-tier colleges may get record applications, but why are college acceptance rates so low? The increasing difficulty of gaining admission into the most selective universities is a trend that continues to challenge college-bound students.

If you’re planning to apply to one of these highly selective colleges in the next year or two, it’s important to understand the reasons behind these low acceptance rates and remember that there are hundreds of other great colleges out there. The national admissions rate is about 65%, but this number drastically drops when you look at elite institutions.

The Intimidating Low Acceptance Rates

Harvard College, for example, has one of the lowest acceptance rates in the country. For every 100 students that applied to America’s most prestigious school, 94 were rejected. This year, Harvard had the country’s lowest acceptance rate reported so far—just 5.9%, offering admission to only 2,032 students out of the 34,302 who applied.

Last year, the rate was 6.2%. Despite the tough odds, Harvard ramped up financial aid, offering help to 60% of the students admitted, making the average cost for families around $12,000 per year for tuition, room, board, and fees.

Princeton University also saw a record low acceptance rate at 7.86%, down from 8.5% the previous year. With 26,664 applications, Princeton offered admission to just 2,095 students. Similarly, Yale University, which had a record-high applicant pool of 28,975, admitted only 1,975 students, resulting in a 6.8% acceptance rate, down from 7.4% last year.

Other prestigious institutions, like Cornell University and Johns Hopkins University, reported lower acceptance rates as well. Cornell’s rate dropped to 16.2% from 18%, while Johns Hopkins admitted only 17.7% of applicants, down from 18.3%.

Why Are College Acceptance Rates So Low?

One of the primary reasons why college acceptance rates are so low at top-tier institutions is the sheer volume of applications. More students are applying to more colleges, often through the Common Application, which makes it easier to apply to multiple schools with just a few clicks. However, this convenience has led to a surge in applications, including many from students who are not necessarily a good fit for the schools they’re applying to.

Another factor contributing to low acceptance rates is that many applicants disqualify themselves before they even submit their applications. Here are some common ways students inadvertently lower their chances of being accepted:

Not Meeting Minimum Criteria: Some students apply without meeting the required tests, such as SAT Subject Tests, or without completing necessary coursework. These applications are often automatically disqualified.
Poorly Written Essays: Submitting a poorly written essay or one that lacks authenticity can severely damage an applicant’s chances. Admissions officers are looking for essays that reflect the student’s true voice and potential.
Weak Recommendations: Asking a recommender who doesn’t know the student well or who doesn’t write compellingly can be detrimental to the application.
Lack of Demonstrated Interest: Not visiting the campus, contacting the college, or showing any interest can hurt a student’s chances, especially at schools where “demonstrated interest” is considered.
Inadequate Course Load: Dropping essential courses in the senior year can disqualify a student from meeting the admissions requirements.

The Impact of Low Acceptance Rates

The result of these factors is that a significant number of applicants are easily denied, leading to an increasingly competitive environment. This heightened competition not only affects the students applying but also skews the perceived selectivity of these institutions. When acceptance rates plummet, it can create an aura of exclusivity that may discourage some students from even applying.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that while top-tier schools are becoming more selective, there are many other excellent colleges with higher acceptance rates that provide quality education and opportunities. College-bound students should focus on finding the right fit for their academic, social, and financial needs, rather than solely aiming for the schools with the lowest acceptance rates.

Conclusion

So, why are college acceptance rates so low? The combination of increasing application numbers, the ease of submitting applications, and the disqualification of non-competitive applicants all contribute to this trend. While it can be daunting, students should not be discouraged. Instead, they should focus on strengthening their applications, meeting all requirements, and exploring a range of colleges that can offer them a fulfilling college experience.

Academics applying to college writing college application essays

Qualities of a Good Principal: Making a Difference

The recent headline about how effective principals make a difference in high poverty schools really resonated with me. My elementary school in Memphis, Tennessee would have been considered on of those high poverty schools, based on the high percentage of low-income families.

Joseph K. Carr, the principal at my elementary school, saved my life. He was known as a disciplinarian and no student wanted to get in trouble under Mr. Carr’s watch. We feared and respected him. His words of encouragement to all the students were “If not you, then who?” He challenged us all to reach our highest potential. Those words set me on my educational journey.

A new study on principal effectiveness focused on high poverty schools and found that:

. . . . high-quality principals—as determined by a value-added model that includes student achievement and school characteristics—had a large positive impact on their students’ achievement: “A principal in the top 16 percent of the quality distribution…will lead annually to student gains that are .05 standard deviations or more higher than average for all students in the school emphasis is the authors’.”

They also tended to be associated with teacher turnover in the lowest-performing grades in their schools—indicating, perhaps, that these principals are trying to replace low-performing teachers with more-effective ones.

via Study: Good Principals Make a Difference in High-Poverty Schools – Inside School Research – Education Week.

Based on my observations of schools over the past 15 years, I would argue that strong leadership makes a difference in any school, whether it is high poverty, low-poverty, independent, parochial, or other. The leadership sets the tone and culture of the school. A school is only as strong as its principal.

What difference has your principal made?

Academics

How Exercise and Academics Work Together

The connection between exercise and academics is a topic that has gained increasing attention over the years, especially as schools face mounting pressure to prioritize academic achievement. In the pursuit of higher test scores and better academic outcomes, many schools have made the difficult decision to cut back on physical education programs, extracurricular sports, and recess. However, emerging research strongly suggests that this might be a counterproductive approach. In fact, exercise and physical activity could be the key to enhancing academic performance, not detracting from it.

Exercise and Academics: A Symbiotic Relationship

One of the most important recommendations I give to my students on test day, whether they are taking the SAT, SSAT, ACT, or even a routine achievement test at school, is to engage in some form of physical activity before the exam. This advice stems from both personal experience and a growing body of research that supports the idea that exercise can significantly enhance cognitive function and, consequently, academic performance.

During the weeks when my kids would have achievement tests at school, we established a routine that included a nutritious breakfast—typically oatmeal, which provides sustained energy—and a walk to school. This combination of a balanced meal and light exercise helped them stay focused, energized, and ready to tackle the day’s challenges.

The Research Behind Exercise and Academic Performance

The idea that physical activity can boost academic performance is not just anecdotal; it is backed by a wealth of research. Earlier studies have found that exercising before an exam can enhance performance, likely due to the way physical activity stimulates brain function, improves mood, and reduces stress—factors that are critical on test day.

A recent study involving students aged 6 to 18 has further underscored the importance of physical activity during the school day. This study is particularly timely, as many schools have eliminated physical education classes or athletic programs to allocate more time for academic enrichment. However, the findings suggest that this trade-off may not be as beneficial as intended.

The researchers observed that children who participate in sports or regular physical activities tend to exhibit better behavior in the classroom and are more capable of focusing on academic tasks. The positive correlation between physical activity and academic performance was evident, although the degree of impact varied across different studies. These studies, which followed participants for periods ranging from eight weeks to over five years, consistently found that increased physical activity is associated with improved academic outcomes.

Why Does Exercise Improve Academic Performance?

The link between exercise and academics can be explained through several physiological and psychological mechanisms:

Enhanced Cognitive Function: Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, which in turn improves brain function. This includes enhanced memory, attention, and processing speed—all of which are crucial for learning and performing well on exams.
Stress Reduction: Exercise is a well-known stress reliever. By reducing levels of cortisol (the stress hormone) and releasing endorphins (the body’s natural mood lifters), physical activity can help students feel more relaxed and less anxious about their academic responsibilities.
Improved Behavior and Focus: Regular physical activity helps regulate behavior, leading to fewer disruptions in the classroom and better attention to academic tasks. This is particularly important for younger students who may struggle with sitting still for long periods.
Increased Energy and Stamina: Exercise boosts energy levels, which can help students stay alert and engaged throughout the school day. This is especially beneficial during long periods of study or when preparing for exams.

The Current State of Physical Education in Schools

Despite the clear benefits of physical activity, many schools have reduced or eliminated physical education programs to make room for more academic subjects. This shift is often driven by the belief that more classroom time will lead to better academic outcomes. However, the evidence suggests that cutting physical activity may have the opposite effect.

A meta-analysis of various studies indicates that physical activity remains a critical component of the school day, supporting not only physical health but also academic achievement. The review found a significant positive relationship between physical activity and academic performance, emphasizing the need for schools to reconsider the importance of physical education.

Rethinking School Policies: Integrating Exercise into Academics

Given the strong link between exercise and academics, it may be time to rethink how we structure the school day. Instead of cutting physical education to make room for more academic enrichment, schools could explore ways to integrate physical activity into the curriculum. Here are a few suggestions:

Extended School Day: Consider extending the school day slightly to incorporate physical activities without compromising academic instruction. This could include longer recess periods, additional PE classes, or structured sports programs.
Active Learning: Integrate movement into classroom activities. For example, teachers could incorporate short physical exercises or movement-based learning games that allow students to burn off energy while reinforcing academic concepts.
Mindful Breaks: Encourage students to take short, mindful breaks during long study sessions. Activities like stretching, deep breathing, or a quick walk around the school can help reset focus and reduce stress.
After-School Programs: Offer after-school sports or fitness programs that provide additional opportunities for physical activity. These programs can also foster social skills, teamwork, and a sense of community among students.

The Bigger Picture: A Holistic Approach to Education

It’s important to recognize that academic success is not solely determined by time spent in the classroom. A holistic approach to education—one that includes physical, emotional, and social well-being—can lead to better outcomes for students. Physical activity is a vital part of this equation, contributing not only to physical health but also to mental clarity, emotional stability, and social connectedness.

By acknowledging the role of exercise in academic performance, educators, parents, and policymakers can work together to create school environments that support the whole child. This means valuing physical education as much as math, science, or reading, and understanding that a balanced approach to education is key to helping students reach their full potential.

Conclusion: The Future of Exercise and Academics

As the conversation around education continues to evolve, it’s essential that we keep the relationship between exercise and academics at the forefront. The evidence is clear: physical activity plays a crucial role in supporting academic success. By prioritizing physical education and finding innovative ways to incorporate movement into the school day, we can help students achieve better academic outcomes while also promoting their overall health and well-being.

So, does your school still offer physical education? If so, what other programs have been adjusted to maintain academic quality while keeping physical activity in the schedule? It’s time to revisit these questions and ensure that our educational policies reflect the importance of exercise in nurturing well-rounded, successful students.

via Kids: Physical Activity and School Performance – The Doctor.

Academics

Salisbury, Indian Mountain, and Hotchkiss integrate world-class athletics and academic rigor

In Day 2 of my western Connecticut prep school campus visits, I’m admittedly overwhelmed by the diversity of program offerings in this region. Connecticut is not a big state but is dense with prep schools. Today I visited Salisbury School, Indian Mountain School, and The Hotchkiss School.

SALISBURY SCHOOL

Salisbury serves 300 male students from around the world. The science center included a wonderful library, a physics lab, a chemistry lab, and a separate biology lab. My tour guide expressed that he wasn’t too keen on attending an all-boys school but realized that girls would be a distraction. Besides that, the school hosts dance each week so he’s still able to intermingle with girls socially.

The first stop on my tour was the boathouse, which is a sight to behold. It’s big, clean, and houses all the boats rowed by their world-class rowing program. An administrator proudly stated that “We grow rowers!” highlighting that many young men join the team with little to no experience. However, many advances to D1 level crew teams. The other athletic facilities were just as impressive . . . squash courts, hockey rink, lacrosse fields. Not to mention that their football team is strong in its division.

Salisbury understands boys, how to teach, how to engage, and how to nurture them both academically and socially.

INDIAN MOUNTAIN SCHOOL

There are 85 guitarists among the 180 students in the upper school. 140 musicians overall!There are 85 guitarists among the 180 students in the upper school. 140 musicians overall! — There are 85 guitarists among the 180 students in the upper school. 140 musicians overall!

Indian Mountain School is a junior boarding school that I was excited to visit in person. In my prior conversations with administrators, I sensed that it was a special place for students to develop into their own. The lower school has students in grades PK-4, while the upper school ushers students in grades 5-9 through early adolescence. Students will typically board in grades 7th, 8th, and 9th. For the teachers, administrators, and other staff, this really is a life commitment/decision. The responsibility is even greater in supporting these youth.

The team of adults who work there, live on campus, coach, and organize activities provide all the support services imaginable. The support services are balanced with student leadership opportunities. Students are given just as many opportunities to take risks. Each class experiences an outdoor adventure that bonds them in unforgettable ways. The overall thrust of the community was character development.

An administrator shared a quote in his office, which speaks to the character and quality of Indian Mountain School: “In all things, a lesson.”

THE HOTCHKISS SCHOOL

The flags adorning the Hotchkiss dining hall showcase the 69 countries represented on campus.

Hotchkiss is a school that you have to see to believe. Admittedly, I was overwhelmed by its campus size, facilities, and student involvement. A surprise day-off was announced prior to my arrival, so, as you can imagine, the students were happy and taking advantage of the many opportunities to order food, leave campus, or play games on the field.

The students I met were involved in so many activities – athletics, theatre, community service, as well as AP coursework. There are about 500+ students at Hotchkiss but its size rivaled most small colleges I’ve visited. An administrator described it as a “small school within a large school.”

From the science center to the fine arts offerings to the radio station to the Olympic-sized swimming pools to the school-owned farm, students have unlimited opportunities to explore and discover their interests. The academic rigor at Hotchkiss is well-known so students must learn fairly quickly how to balance their coursework with all these other enticing offerings.

Academics Boys campus visits college prep boarding schools playing at division 1 level

How to Get into the University of Chicago

The University of Chicago is one of the most prestigious universities in the United States, and last year, it received far more applications than the 1,400 students it admitted. With such a competitive admissions process, potential applicants might wonder how hard it is to get into the University of Chicago.

While gaining admission can be challenging, it’s certainly possible if UChicago is the right fit for you. Visiting the campus and understanding its unique academic environment is a great first step to determine if it aligns with your goals.

As someone who has lived on the UChicago campus and recently revisited it to better understand it from a student’s perspective, I’ve gathered some valuable insights that can help you strengthen your application.

Here are four essential tips on how to get into the University of Chicago:

Getting into The University of Chicago

Understand the Importance of the Common Core
The University of Chicago is renowned for its rigorous academic structure, heavily influenced by its Common Core curriculum. Unlike other universities where you might have more freedom in choosing courses from the start, UChicago requires all students to engage deeply with the Core, which shapes much of the intellectual culture on campus. To improve your chances of admission, familiarize yourself with the Common Core and reflect on how this approach aligns with your academic interests. Demonstrating this understanding in your application can set you apart.
Complete the Chicago Supplement Thoughtfully
UChicago is a member of the Common Application, but it also has its own unique set of essay prompts known as the Chicago Supplement. Even if you are using the Common Application, it’s crucial to pay special attention to this supplement. The essays are your opportunity to showcase your personality, intellectual curiosity, and how you might contribute to the UChicago community. Avoid simply listing achievements or activities; instead, write engaging, well-structured essays that reveal who you are as a person.
Re-Take the SAT/ACT if Necessary
If you’re wondering, is UChicago test-optional?—the answer is yes, as UChicago has adopted a test-optional policy. However, if you choose to submit standardized test scores and believe you can improve your SAT or ACT results, consider re-taking the exam. UChicago superscores, meaning they will consider your highest section scores across multiple test dates. Submitting strong scores can still bolster your application, even though they’re not required.
Express Yourself Authentically in Your Essays
The University of Chicago places a significant emphasis on the essays in its holistic application review process. This is your chance to let your unique voice shine. Use this space to share your story, your passions, and what drives you. The admissions team wants to understand who you are beyond your transcript and test scores, so make sure your essays are personal and reflective of your individuality.

In addition to its academic rigor and distinctive Common Core curriculum, UChicago offers a vibrant campus life with over 400 student organizations. Whether you’re interested in joining the quirky Zombie Readiness Task Force, playing broomball, or perhaps starting your own quidditch team, there are countless ways to get involved and build a community.

By following these tips and presenting a well-rounded application, you’ll improve your chances of joining the intellectually stimulating environment of the University of Chicago. Good luck!

Academics campus visits college life

How Does Boarding School Work? My Reasons Against It

When it comes to the decision of whether to send your child to a boarding school, understanding how boarding schools work is crucial. Boarding schools are educational institutions where students live on campus during the school year. This setup provides a unique environment where academics, extracurricular activities, and social life are integrated into a structured setting. However, despite the benefits that boarding schools can offer, I’ve found myself grappling with the idea, especially when considering what boarding schools are like today.

The Evolving Perception of Boarding Schools

In recent years, there have been significant shifts in how boarding schools are perceived and chosen by families. Here are two key trends that highlight this change:

Student-Initiated Interest: Unlike the traditional notion where parents “send” their children to boarding school, many students today actively seek out these opportunities. For instance, I recently met a family visiting Phillips Academy Andover, where the middle school-aged daughter was the one driving the discussion about attending boarding school. The parents, unfamiliar with what a boarding school is like, were initially hesitant but were open to exploring the option due to their daughter’s enthusiasm.
Increased Awareness and Variety: Organizations like The Association of Boarding Schools (TABS) and educational consultants have played a significant role in educating families about the diversity among boarding schools. Families are learning that no two boarding schools are alike; each has its own unique culture, academic focus, and extracurricular offerings. As part of the application process, many boarding schools require campus visits and interviews, giving students firsthand experience of what boarding schools are like. For some students, these visits can affirm their desire to attend a particular school, while for others, it might lead to the realization that a specific school isn’t the right fit.

Why I Wouldn’t Consider Boarding School for My Child

As my own children approach high school age, the idea of boarding school has crossed my mind. The prospect of a boarding school education, with its rigorous academics, diverse extracurricular activities, and well-rounded social environment, is certainly appealing. Yet, I’ve identified several reasons why I would hesitate to send my child to boarding school:

Location Concerns: While New England is home to many prestigious boarding schools, there are also reputable schools in the Midwest and California. However, the thought of my child being far away from home is a significant deterrent for me. Despite the benefits of the boarding school experience, the geographical distance could make it difficult for my child to maintain close family ties and could add emotional strain.
Brand Name Over Substance: The reputation or brand name of a boarding school is often touted as a major selling point. However, I believe that a school’s name and history should not be the sole factors in the decision-making process. What’s more important is whether the school’s current programs and campus culture align with my child’s specific academic, social, and developmental needs. A prestigious name doesn’t guarantee that it’s the best environment for my child.
Peer Influence: Another reason I would not consider a boarding school is the influence of my child’s friends. While having a friend at the same school might ease the transition, every child is unique. The reasons that make a boarding school appealing to one family may not apply to ours. My decision must be based on my child’s individual needs rather than on social factors.

The Broader Considerations

With these points in mind, the possibilities for my child’s education remain wide open. I must critically evaluate how to support my child in finding the best educational environment that meets his learning, social, and developmental needs. There are additional questions to consider, such as my child’s readiness and maturity level for the boarding school experience. Ultimately, I need to weigh these factors against my personal feelings about having my child stay close to home.

Boarding schools, by their nature, are designed to foster independence, resilience, and a strong sense of community. Students are immersed in a structured environment that promotes both academic and personal growth. However, as a parent, the thought of being apart from my child during such formative years is challenging. Would it be selfish of me to prioritize my desire to have my child nearby over the potential benefits of a boarding school education? This is a question that many parents grapple with, especially when considering the long-term impact on their child’s development.

What Boarding Schools Are Like Today

Today’s boarding schools are vastly different from the traditional images many people hold. Far from the rigid, isolated environments of the past, modern boarding schools are vibrant communities that offer a wide range of activities, from arts and sports to leadership and service opportunities. These schools emphasize holistic development, ensuring that students are not only academically prepared but also socially and emotionally well-rounded.

For example, many boarding schools now offer specialized programs in STEM, the arts, and global studies, allowing students to pursue their passions in a supportive environment. Additionally, the close-knit nature of boarding school communities means that students often form strong, lifelong friendships and build networks that can be beneficial throughout their lives.

The facilities at these schools are often state-of-the-art, with campuses that resemble small colleges. Students have access to resources that may not be available at local public schools, including advanced laboratories, art studios, and athletic facilities. Moreover, the presence of highly qualified faculty who live on or near campus ensures that students receive personalized attention and support.

Conclusion: Is Boarding School the Right Choice?

Deciding whether to send your child to boarding school is a deeply personal decision that depends on many factors, including your child’s personality, maturity level, and academic and social needs. Understanding how boarding schools work and what boarding schools are like today is essential in making an informed choice.

While there are many compelling reasons to consider boarding school, it’s important to remember that this option is not for everyone. Some students thrive in the structured, immersive environment that boarding schools provide, while others may find the distance from home and the intensity of the experience challenging.

As a parent, it’s crucial to weigh the benefits against the potential drawbacks and to consider your child’s unique needs and circumstances. Whether you ultimately decide in favor of boarding school or opt for a different educational path, the goal should always be to provide the best possible environment for your child’s growth and success.

If you’re considering boarding school for your child, take the time to visit campuses, talk to current students and parents, and reflect on what you hope to achieve through this educational experience. With careful thought and consideration, you can make the decision that is best for your family.

Academics high school students