Government funded boarding schools initially began as a way to assimilate Native Americans into the culture of the United States by reinforcing English language skills, American history and social practices. In 1870, the government began sending Native Americans from ages eight to 18 years to schools like Stewart Indian School in Nevada. These students, who had previously lived on reservations, were educated in Christianity and learned skills to help them find employment. Today, a small number of American Indian boarding schools operate with the cooperation of individual tribes, including Sherman Indian High School in California.
Founded in 1997, the SEED Foundation caters to urban communities with at risk youths, or a low percentage of college bound teens. SEED's public boarding schools emphasize rigorous academic training and college preparatory classes. They also include other aspects like physical health seminars for a well rounded approach to education. Over 90 percent of SEED students are minorities who are the first member of their family to ever attend college. Students begin their week on Sunday and are exposed to a 24-hour learning environment before returning home for weekends and holidays. To gain admission, students must be entering the sixth grade and meet a number of "at-risk requirements," like coming from low income or single parent households.
The Carolina School of Science and Mathematics was opened in 1980 as first state funded residential high school. Located in Durham, N.C., it has served as a model for other states that are committed to developing similar institutions. Through out the United States, there are over 18 residential high schools for gifted students. Admission is highly selective. Above average scores on standardized tests, a writing sample, the ability to function in a residential environment, recommendations and an entrance interview are all required. Most of these schools focus on specific subjects like math or science, and are usually reserved for students in their junior or senior year of high school, although some do cater to younger children.
Students who want to gain job skills while earning their Graduation Equivalency Diploma (GED), can apply for admission to the residential program at any one of the Job Corps locations across the country. The program is designed for young men and women from 16 to 24 years old and is structured to give them the vocational, academic and life skills needed to help them become responsible citizens who are also employable. The curriculum is divided into three sections: career development, career preparation and career transition. These include courses in automotive repair, finance and healthcare. Male and female students are housed in separate dormitories, and in some cases receive a stipend.