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Last week, Aralia invited a former Head of English and Academic Advisor at the prestigious Indian Mountain School, to provide an in-depth discussion on all aspects of junior boarding schools in the US.
As a hallmark of elite education, junior boarding schools are often regarded as the “gateway to boarding high schools.” They typically cater to students from grades 4 to 9, offering rigorous academics, vibrant extracurriculars, and a strong sense of community. Indian Mountain School is one of the 10-member schools of the Junior Boarding School Association (JBSA) and is an excellent option for middle school boarding.
In this article, we’ve distilled key insights from the webinar, making it an excellent resource for families planning to send their children to U.S. middle or high schools.
What you will learn:
- Academic, social, and lifestyle expectations at junior boarding schools
- Common rules, discipline, and support systems
- A day in the life of a student at Indian Mountain School
- Practical advice for thriving in a junior boarding school environment
- Guidance on planning a productive summer for future junior boarding students
1. Academic, Social, and Lifestyle Expectations at Junior Boarding Schools
Academics:
- Curriculum Structure: Junior boarding schools generally offer similar courses across institutions, including math, science, history/social studies, English, language arts, world languages, computer science, and extracurricular activities like clubs. While the subjects are similar, schools vary in teaching methods, course topics, and available options.
- Class Sizes: Junior boarding schools focus on small class sizes, usually with no more than 12 students per class. The teacher noted that that classes can be as small as 2-3 students or as large as 14-15 students.
- Homework: The amount of homework increases by grade. For example, grade 6 students typically have about 6 hours of homework per week, grade 7 students have 7 hours, and so on. Schools emphasize independence, expecting students to manage their assignments and time efficiently.
- Assessments: Assessment methods vary widely. Some teachers assign a few major projects per term, while others split into smaller and more frequent assignments. Tests and quizzes may be common in some classes, while others rely on a single final exam.
- High School Applications: Junior boarding schools often have a dedicated department to guide students through the high school application process. Staff and advisors provide resources and assistance with application materials.
Social and Lifestyle:
- Dorm Life: Dorm life is a major focus. The teacher recommends researching the school’s dormitory environment and daily schedule in advance. Many schools collect students’ electronic devices during the first two weeks of school to encourage face-to-face interactions and immersion in the school environment. Dorm parents and Residential Advisors (RAs) provide guidance to help students adjust.
- Sports and Extracurricular Activities: Common sports include soccer, baseball, hockey, tennis, squash, and swimming. Activities like drama, arts, and orchestra are also popular and typically take place in the afternoons. Schools emphasize “community spirit” and often host events and encourage participation in community service.
- Health and Wellness: Schools have health centers staffed by nurses and doctors available 24/7. Psychological health is also prioritized, with counselors and advisors providing support.
- International Students: To integrate into the school community, it is advised that international students connect with peers and older students from similar backgrounds for advice and support.
2. Common Rules, Discipline, and Support Systems
- Student Code of Conduct: Junior boarding schools have strict codes of conduct based on principles like honesty and mutual respect. Schools enforce academic integrity, with strict rules against cheating, plagiarism, and unregulated use of AI tools.
- Discipline Procedures: Minor conflicts are often resolved through peer mentorship, while serious violations are handled by a committee comprising teachers and administrators.
- Advisory Programs: Students are assigned advisors who meet with small groups (4-5 students) twice weekly for 30-45 minutes. These sessions allow students to discuss concerns, share experiences, and build connections.
- Parent Involvement: Advisors act as the primary point of contact for parents looking for updates on their child’s performance.
3. A Day in the Life of a Junior Boarding Student
Using Indian Mountain School as an example, the teacher shared a detailed daily schedule. From waking up to lights out, students follow a packed 14-hour routine.
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4. How to Succeed in Junior Boarding School: 3 Tips
Effective Time Management: Using a planner to organize daily tasks is critical. The teacher shared examples of students who initially didn’t stand out when entering junior boarding school but made significant progress later through effective time management.
Building a Support Network:
During their time at junior boarding school, students will undoubtedly face various challenges and difficulties. Teachers recommend that students establish their own social support network by finding 4-5 trusted individuals (such as friends, classmates, or teachers and mentors) and maintaining open communication with them.
Establishing such a support network is not only vital for life at a junior boarding school but also remains invaluable as students advance to high school and college and even navigate the broader world in the future.
Balancing School and Life: Teachers advise students not to dedicate all their time to studying but instead learn how to balance work and leisure. Knowing how to enjoy personal downtime ensures a happy and fulfilling junior boarding school experience.
5. Summer Planning Tips for Aspiring Boarding Students
When it comes to summer planning, teachers have provided suggestions in three areas: academic preparation, social preparation, and personal preparation.
Academic Preparation
- Review core subjects like math, science, and English. Create a daily study plan to improve areas of weakness.
- Develop effective study habits and time management skills. Make this a priority by trying to establish a daily schedule and practicing time management.
- Complete summer assignments early instead of waiting until the last minute. If you encounter any academic challenges, you can address them promptly by discussing them with teachers or classmates when the new semester begins.
Social Preparation
- Use social media or school forums to connect with future classmates, roommates, or dorm parents in advance. Early communication can help you learn what you need to prepare before the semester begins and plan accordingly.
- Familiarize yourself with your school’s culture and extracurricular activities by following its official social media channels (e.g., Instagram, TikTok).
Personal Preparation
- Develop independent living skills. Laundry, time management, and personal care are essential skills for dormitory life.
- Set academic, social, and personal goals for the school year. It’s crucial to set goals before the semester begins. Break a large goal into smaller, actionable steps, and work toward achieving them one by one to eventually reach your big goal for the school year.
Preparing for the upcoming school year at a junior boarding school is a journey that requires thoughtful planning and a proactive approach. By focusing on academic preparation, building social connections, and honing personal skills, students can confidently step into the new semester ready to thrive. Remember, the summer break is the perfect time to strengthen your foundations, establish meaningful goals, and prepare for an enriching school experience.
Take Your English Skills to the Next Level with Aralia
At Aralia, we understand the challenges students face when adjusting to junior boarding school life, especially in mastering English for academic and social success. Our English Improvement Classes are designed to help students enhance their reading, writing, and communication skills. Whether you want to boost your grammar, expand your vocabulary, or feel more confident in class discussions, our expert teachers are here to support your journey.
Ready to make the most of your summer? Join Aralia’s English Improvement Classes and step into the new school year with confidence and skills that will set you apart. Explore our courses today and take the first step toward academic success!
