Small Boarding Schools: The Top 5 “Trends” We’re Seeing
We love attending professional association meetings, like the Small Boarding School Association (SBSA) conference last week! Such fun! More than that, these professional meetings provide numerous benefits for us, including education, networking, access to independent school industry experts, and exposure to new ideas and trends. These meetings are a valuable investment in our work at Hall Educational Resources and help us stay abreast of the enrollment management landscape!
Curious about some of the enrollment progressions we are seeing, and that were discussed, at our SBSA conference?
As you’d imagine, these “trends” in small boarding schools (schools that have a boarding program of 200 students or less) are evolving, reflecting shifts in demographics, technology, and educational priorities. Here are the top five areas driving enrollment interest at small boarding schools that we’re excited about:
1. Diversity and Inclusion:
Small boarding schools are increasingly focused on creating diverse and inclusive communities. This includes recruiting students from a variety of backgrounds, offering financial aid to ensure access to all, and promoting diversity and inclusivity within the school culture. Schools continue to recognize the value of a diverse student body and the importance of providing an inclusive environment for all students. And diversity, equity, and inclusion at small boarding schools is more than race, ethnicity or country of origin. These schools value neurodiversity, gender inclusivity design, Americans with Disabilities (ADA) inclusivity and building belonging communities of different political ideologies.
3. Globalization:
Boarding schools are attracting an increasing number of international students and small boarding schools are no different. Most small boarding schools have either maintained or increased their international student numbers. These students bring diverse perspectives and cultural backgrounds to the school community, enriching the educational experience for all students. Schools are offering specialized programs to meet the needs of international students, including language support, cultural orientation, and academic preparation. Vietnam, Canada, Hong Kong, Ukraine, and Afghanistan are countries with increasing representation at small boarding schools.
3. Alternative Learning Models:
Alternative learning is alive and well at small boarding schools! They continue to explore, innovate and excel with alternative learning models, such as blended learning, experiential learning, and project-based learning. These models allow for more personalized and student-centered learning experiences, which can lead to better academic outcomes and student engagement. The development of “signature programs” across many schools provides students with immersive hands-on, place-based learning experiences, preparing them for the challenges of secondary school and beyond! Signature programs may include outdoor experience programs, arts programs, farm programs or entrepreneurship offerings.
4. Technology Integration:
Technology is a constant! Small boarding schools are incorporating technology into their educational programs to enhance learning and communication. This includes using online platforms for coursework, virtual communication tools for collaboration, and digital portfolios for assessment. Schools are recognizing the importance of technology in preparing students for the digital world.
In small boarding school settings, technology can serve as a valuable tool to support and enhance the teaching and learning experience. However, it cannot fully replace the role of teachers in small boarding schools, given their wonderfully low student/teacher ratios. While technology can provide access to educational resources and content, it cannot replace the flexibility that their faculty provide. One of the best things about small boarding schools is how teachers can adjust their instruction to meet the needs of individual students, make real-time decisions about pacing and content, and respond to unexpected events in a way that technology cannot!
5. Focus on Student Well-Being:
Students and family systems are fragile following the throes of Covid. Small boarding schools are keenly aware of this and placing a greater emphasis on student well-being, recognizing the importance of emotional and social development alongside academic achievement. Schools are providing more resources and support for mental health, wellness, and community building, and are adopting programs that prioritize self-care and resilience.
There has also been a significant uptick in small boarding schools that have created a new faculty position specific to supporting student wellness! In small boarding schools, teachers can and do play a critical role in providing emotional support for their students. Teachers in small boarding schools often see themselves as more than just academic instructors; they also see themselves as mentors who help students as they navigate social and emotional challenges, provide mentorship, and build meaningful relationships that may be harder in other school settings.
One could argue that small boarding schools have always offered a more inclusive, personalized and student-centered approach to education. The enrollment trends in small boarding schools now reflect a definite shift with many schools adapting to changing times and priorities while still maintaining their commitment to academic excellence and creating a strong sense of community. It is for these reasons that we are so fond of a small boarding school experience for our clients and why we often refer our client families to the many wonderful small boarding schools that we partner with!