As an expert in the field of education, I have had the opportunity to visit and evaluate numerous boarding schools across the United States. From my experience, I can confidently say that there is no single "best" boarding school in America. However, there are several exceptional institutions that stand out for their academic excellence, diverse student body, and unique programs. One such school is Phillips Academy Andover, located in Andover, Massachusetts. Founded in 1778, it is one of the oldest boarding schools in the country and has a long-standing tradition of academic excellence.
Notable alumni include former U. S. President George W. Bush.
The school's rigorous curriculum and high acceptance rate of only 23% make it a top choice for many families. The Governor's Academy, founded in 1763, is another prestigious boarding school with a rich history. Located in Byfield, Massachusetts, it is the oldest boarding school in the United States and boasts a diverse student body from 19 different countries. With a highly selective admission process and a team of dedicated counselors who focus solely on university admissions, The Governor's Academy prepares its students for success beyond high school. Webb Schools, located in Claremont, California, is unique in that it houses both a boys' and girls' school on one campus. With an acceptance rate of 22%, Webb offers a challenging academic curriculum and a variety of experiential programs that allow students to explore their interests and passions.
The Holderness School, located in Plymouth, New Hampshire, also offers unique experiential programs during its two-week March period. These programs range from outdoor exploration to community service and provide students with hands-on learning opportunities. Northfield Mount Hermon, located in Gill, Massachusetts, is known for its experienced and dedicated staff. The average teaching experience of the faculty is an impressive 21 years. The school also prides itself on its down-to-earth and welcoming atmosphere, making it a great fit for families looking for a solid and genuine school environment. Another top boarding school is the Connecticut School for Girls, located in Greenwich, Connecticut.
This school stands out for its atypical grading scale, which ranges from A to E. It also combines technology with a liberal arts curriculum to ensure that students are well-rounded and equipped with 21st-century skills. With a 23% acceptance rate, this all-girls school offers a variety of advanced education classes, from biology to Mandarin Chinese. The Madeira School, located just seven miles from Washington D. C., offers a unique blend of academic rigor and extracurricular opportunities.
With 24 advanced learning courses and 28 athletic teams, students have plenty of options to explore their interests and passions. The school also has a high acceptance rate of 25%.Lake Forest Academy, located in Lake Forest, Illinois, is another top boarding school that values diversity and global pluralism. Every year since 2002, the school has organized an annual symposium for school principals where students and teachers engage in conversations, presentations, and trips centered around these important topics. With a focus on ethical leadership and decision-making skills, Lake Forest Academy prepares its students to become responsible global citizens. The Master's School, located in West Simsbury, Connecticut, offers a unique program called the Ethical Leadership Project.
This program provides students with the opportunity to develop ethical leadership skills through hands-on experiences and real-world challenges. With a diverse student body and an acceptance rate of 47%, The Master's School is a top choice for many families. Choosing the right boarding school for your child is a big decision, and it's important to do thorough research and visit the schools in person. Each of the schools mentioned above offers a unique and enriching experience for high school students. Whether your child is interested in advanced academics, experiential learning, or a diverse and welcoming community, there is a boarding school that will meet their needs. In conclusion, while there is no single "best" boarding school in America, there are several exceptional institutions that stand out for their academic excellence, diverse student body, and unique programs.
From the oldest boarding school in the country to schools that value diversity and global pluralism, there is a boarding school that will be the perfect fit for your child.
