Boarding schools have received a bum rap, inheriting an unjust legacy of strictness, coldness and cruelty. Books and movies, like Dead Poets Society and Catcher in the Rye have painted a less than appealing portrait, which has endured among generations of parents and students. But today's college-prep boarding schools do not resemble these negative portrayals of the past. They are havens of learning, excellence, and opportunity.. Students who graduate from boarding schools generally exude pride in their alma mater and in the sense of shared community found within its walls.

College-prep boarding schools, as opposed to therapeutic boarding schools, are aimed at bright, motivated students. These students stand to benefit from an educational atmosphere that offers a broad range of coursework and activities designed to foster maturity, independent living and responsible choices. Students from diverse racial, cultural and economic backgrounds live and learn together, generating an openness to new experiences and an appreciation for one another's differences. Whereas students that participate in online education tend not to benefit from this arrangement.

But why would parents or students choose a boarding school experience over public or private school options closer to home? Truthfully, local schools within the student's geographical area may offer an excellent education. But boarding schools could offer advantages that cannot be ignored:

-Boarding schools usually offer small classes with generous individual attention.
-Boarding schools tend to offer courses and activities not available at other schools.
-Boarding schools usually require advanced degrees from their faculty.
-Boarding schools tend to have outstanding libraries and college counseling.
-Boarding schools tend to foster life-long, quality friendships.
-Boarding schools can usually offer comprehensive financial aid packages.

Choices for boarding schools include those with a military, religious, or arts emphasis. But along with a rich heritage of pride, history and tradition, you will find a universal mission to turn out highly educated, well-rounded and socially astute young adults.