The Pros and Cons of Sending High School-Aged Children to Boarding Schools

When considering the education of your high school-aged child, one option that often comes up is boarding school. While some might see it as a straightforward choice for certain situations, it's important to weigh the benefits and potential drawbacks. This article explores the reasons why you might or might not choose a boarding school for your high schooler.

Why Boarding Schools Can Be Great Experiences for High School-Aged Students

While the article acknowledges that boarding schools are not suitable for young children, it highlights how they can be highly beneficial for older students. The author reflects on their own positive experience, stating that their boarding school education laid the groundwork for their academic success, even securing a place at Yale University.

One key advantage is the preparation for independence that boarding schools offer. High school students learn to manage their lives outside the family environment, developing crucial life skills such as time management, responsibility, and social skills. These experiences are integral to their overall development and can significantly impact their future success.

Biblical and Historical Support for Home Education

Home education, often discussed in the context of boarding schools, has historical and religious support. The article cites both The Bible and Malcolm X as endorsements for homeschooling. The belief is that parents, rather than teachers with advanced degrees, are primarily responsible for their children's education. This view contrasts with the idea that formal schooling should take precedence over parental influence.

The author mentions that it is the duty of parents to teach their children, emphasizing the importance of parents being the first educational mentors of their children. Additionally, the author suggests that interference from grandparents or other external parties should be minimized to ensure a healthy and nurturing environment for the child's upbringing.

Risks and Challenges of Sending Younger Children to Boarding Schools

While boarding schools can be positive for high school-aged students, the article cautions against sending younger children. The primary concern is that for younger children, boarding school can be a significant emotional and psychological burden. The author states that for very young children, boarding school is a very high dose of separation from parents and may not be appropriate for promoting their well-being.

The regime for younger children is often more restrictive and formal, which can lead to a sense of restriction and control. Additionally, the environment may lack the normal elements of a nurturing family home, such as a safe space for expressing emotions and receiving adequate parental care. This can result in a more stressed and brittle personality in the child.

Special Circumstances and Decision Making

The article acknowledges that there are specific circumstances under which sending a child to boarding school might be necessary or beneficial. For example, in war-torn regions or areas where leaving the country is not an option, families might choose boarding school as an alternative to homeschooling or public schooling.

However, the overall message is that not all children thrive in boarding school environments. The author suggests that children with more outgoing personalities tend to fare better. For children who are uncomfortable with the idea of boarding school, the author recommends finding an alternative educational arrangement.

There are also cases where children who would benefit from the structure and discipline of boarding schools are not sent due to the reluctance of over-controlling and domineering mothers. In such cases, the child might be more suitable for a structured environment that provides the necessary support and guidance.

Evaluating the Benefits and Considerations

Ultimately, the decision to send a high school-aged child to a boarding school should be based on a careful evaluation of the circumstances and the child's needs. While boarding schools can offer significant educational and social benefits, they should not be seen as a panacea for all educational challenges.

Parents should carefully consider the overall educational benefits of boarding schools versus other alternatives, such as day schools. It's important not to overemphasize the prestige of boarding schools and to recognize that day schools can also provide a high-quality educational experience. The primary goal should be to find an educational environment that best meets the needs of the individual child.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while boarding schools can offer crucial educational and social benefits for high school-aged students, they are not always the best choice for every child. Factors such as the child's personality, the family's circumstances, and the specific benefits of the boarding school all play a role in the decision-making process.

When considering boarding school for your high schooler, it's essential to strike a balance between providing a enriching educational experience and ensuring the child's emotional and psychological well-being. Careful consideration and open communication with your child can help navigate this important decision.