School Life

For boarding school students, and many teachers, the campus is home. Explore dormitory living, get expert advice on learning and living away from home and learn more about what can be done to help your child transition to and succeed in boarding school. Find resources for parents, teachers and students. We’ll cover sustainability, boarding school jargon, and corporal punishment. Read first-hand accounts from parents of boarding school students, find graduation gift ideas, and learn why small classes are effective.

View the most popular articles in School Life:

The Boarding School Glossary

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The Boarding School Glossary
Boarding schools have their own jargon just like any activity or affinity group has.

The Boarding School Glossary

Boarding schools have their own jargon, just like any activity or affinity group has. Here are some of the more common terms and acronyms that you are likely to encounter as you explore boarding schools.

ADD/ADHD

ADHD or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, was previously known as ADD or Attention Deficit Disorder.

  • In all probability, you won't notice signs of ADHD until your child starts school.
  • If he exhibits any symptoms of ADHD, the school will bring it to your attention.
  • The next step is to have him evaluated professionally.
  • The syndrome is treatable.
  • There are hundreds of private schools that have experienced, professional staff who can work effectively with children who learn differently.
  • Explore that option thoroughly.

This video shows the Forman School's approach to teaching students with learning differences.

ACT

ACT is an acronym for the American College Testing program.

  • ACT and the SAT are the two most common college standardized tests of academic readiness for college-level studies.
  • Most private schools offer test preparation for the SAT.
  • If you prefer to have your child take the ACT, make sure that you advise the school as soon as you can.

Crew

Crew is the ancient sport of rowing.

  • Rowing in shells is a popular sport in many boarding schools.
  • Typically, crew is offered in the fall and spring.
  • Schools participate
. . .read more

Boarding School Pictures

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Boarding School Pictures
What does boarding school life look like? View photos from a variety of boarding schools and see if you can also picture yourself there.

Recent Articles

Boarding School Student Leadership in Residential Life
Boarding School Student Leadership in Residential Life
Explore how boarding school student leadership builds responsibility through residential life, mentorship, and real-world accountability in 2026.
Boarding School Scholarships & Financial Aid Guide 2026
Boarding School Scholarships & Financial Aid Guide 2026
Updated boarding school financial aid guide for 2026, with costs, scholarship strategies, planning timelines, and expert insights for families.
Corporal Punishment in U.S. Boarding Schools: 2026 Update
Corporal Punishment in U.S. Boarding Schools: 2026 Update
Current policies, trends and parent guidance on corporal punishment in U.S. boarding schools, legal status, alternatives to physical discipline and planning advice.

Featured Schools

Featured Schools

School Life

FOR PARENTS
This section covers issues and concerns for parents of boarding school students. Explore corporal punishment, get expert advice on preventing hazing, and read first-hand accounts from parents. Learn what to do if things go wrong, see what boarding school students do in the summer, and get words of wisdom from a reluctant parent.
FOR STUDENTS
Here you’ll gain knowledge about student life at boarding school. User our glossary of terms to learn boarding school jargon, discover the importance of a partnership between school, parent and child, and find great gift ideas for the boarding school graduate.
FOR TEACHERS
The articles in this section are related to teaching at a boarding school. Learn more about what is being taught, why small class sizes work, and the impact of sustainability on boarding schools. You’ll find a list of eBooks about boarding schools, be able to view pictures of boarding school life, and explore course offerings.