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

School Reputation vs School Fit: Which Predicts Student Success Better?
School Reputation vs School Fit: Which Predicts Student Success Better?
Discover whether a boarding school's reputation or its fit for your child is the stronger predictor of long-term academic, social, and personal success.
AI in Admissions and Student Evaluation: Questions Parents Should Be Asking
AI in Admissions and Student Evaluation: Questions Parents Should Be Asking
Learn how AI is influencing boarding school admissions and student evaluation, and discover the important questions every parent should ask.
The Return Home Challenge: Helping Students Reconnect During Breaks
The Return Home Challenge: Helping Students Reconnect During Breaks
Learn how boarding school families can navigate school breaks, rebuild routines, and help students reconnect with home after time away.

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.