Elementary boarding school is a delicate situation for many young students. While students are sent to boarding schools for a variety of reasons, the reality stands that it is normally more difficult for children of elementary school age to be away from home for long periods of time. Students as young as 7 years old attending first grade at boarding school will be looked after by teachers and staff. Meals are prepared and served on campus, and daily classes and breaks are prescheduled and guided by adult staff. Teachers and staff typically live on campus with the students during the semester so that boarding school resembles a regular home living situation for young students.
Some elementary boarding schools exist for all types of students, and others specialize in a particular field. English as a Second Language (ESL) boarding schools are intended for students who speak another language, like Spanish, as their first language. Students are typically sent to ESL boarding schools if they have come from another country and wish to learn the language and customs of the U.S. so that they can participate in American society and the American work force with more ease. Sending your child to ESL elementary boarding school can be beneficial at this age, as new languages are learned better with exposure at a younger age.
Many elementary, middle and high school boarding schools are religiously based. Catholic and Christian boarding schools are particularly common. Parents and students of any faith, creed, religion or belief can attend religiously based boarding schools. Parents should be aware, however, that students are most likely required to attend church services, religious classes and other religiously based ceremonies as a student at a religious boarding school. Classes, church services, school meetings and dormitory maintenance are often guided by members of that particular faith or church, such as priests, nuns or missionaries.
At the elementary level, children may be sent to boarding school if they are considered at-risk or troubled. These terms can take on many meanings, including escaping an abusive home, threatening self-destructive attitudes or behaviors, or expressing violent feelings or behavior toward others. Elementary boarding schools for troubled children will have a therapeutic overtone to the curriculum. All students may be required to attend general therapy sessions, physical and emotional health classes, or individual therapy sessions with an accredited child psychologist or therapist.
Almost all boarding schools cost money to attend, even if they are public institutions. Tuition will cover not only the education received, but the meal plan, lodging and essential materials such as toothpaste, toilet paper and soap. Parents can often sign up for a monthly, multi-monthly or yearly payment plan. Tuition help can also be sought through the financial aid department of that boarding school. If the parent or guardians of the student meet a school's financial aid requirements, they may be awarded with a partial or full scholarship.