Why Junior Boarding Schools are a Smart Choice for Growing Minds
Junior boarding schools offer a unique environment that goes beyond academic preparation, giving students a chance to grow in ways many traditional settings cannot. These schools provide a safe and nurturing space where students are encouraged to try new things, expand their identity, and develop essential life skills that set them up for success in high school and beyond.
One client parent shared her son's transformative experience at Cardigan Mountain School (CMS), a junior boarding school in NH, highlighting the lasting impact of junior boarding on his growth, “We never expected to send any of our kids to boarding school, let alone to a junior boarding school, but for our oldest son, CMS has presented incredible opportunities to get to know classmates from all over the world and to grow as a person. At his junior boarding school he's gotten the support he needs to increase his executive function skills and has learned how to manage his time to an incredible degree -- skills which will serve him well wherever he goes from here, and whatever he chooses to do for work. He has gained a real sense of who he is and what his values are in a way that seems extraordinary for an 8th grader and has really come into himself as a person.”
This notion of growth is powerful from all I see in my junior boarding schools! For example, one key aspect where I always see this maturation is the development of executive functioning skills. At these schools, these skills are embedded into the daily routine—students aren’t just learning how to study or manage their time; they’re living it. Dorm parents and advisors play crucial roles, acting like second families, providing structure and guidance. This creates a sense of belonging and security for students, allowing them to focus on their growth.
The “triple threat” model, where faculty engage with students across multiple facets of school life (classroom, dormitory, and extracurricular activities), also fosters strong connections. When students see faculty members in different settings, they are motivated to succeed, not just for themselves, but also to impress the adults who care for them.
Additionally, the boarding environment teaches adaptability. Students who arrive at high school having attended a junior boarding school are often better equipped to handle challenges, including living away from home and managing their responsibilities. They’ve had the chance to practice these skills in a supportive environment, making the transition to their high school years smoother.
As Charles Brown, Director of Admissions at Indian Mountain School, a junior boarding school in Lakeville, CT so aptly shared with me, “Junior boarding schools also offer a refreshing "return to innocence," where the distractions of screens and social media are minimized, and students can engage fully in their surroundings. It’s a return to simpler times—a space where students can grow, explore, and prepare for the future.”
What fears or concerns are holding you back from considering a junior boarding school, and could those very things be the key to your child's growth and independence? Feel free to reach out as I’d love to help alleviate your concerns!