For the 2025 school year, there are 117 junior boarding schools serving 40,028 students located throughout the United States and Canada.
Junior boarding schools offer boarding opportunities for students grades 8 or lower.
Note that some boarding schools focus exclusively on the junior boarding experience (and offer only junior boarding grades), while other schools offer both junior and college-prep boarding grades.
The concept of outdoor education dates back to the early 20th century as educators sought ways to engage students beyond traditional methods. Early efforts initially focused on direct, experiential learning in nature, but later evolved to incorporate academics, collaborative skills, and a focus on environmental responsibility. Outdoor education today equips students with critical life skills, preparing them for the world beyond the classroom.
This article highlights the diverse range of sports offered in boarding schools, emphasizing how athletics are an integral part of a comprehensive educational program. It explores various sports such as crew, football, field hockey, golf, ice hockey, lacrosse, indoor racquet sports, riding, soccer, swimming, and track, showcasing the opportunities available for students to develop physically and emotionally.
Explore the distinguished world of America's top Catholic boarding schools, where academic excellence, athletic achievement, and Catholic values create a transformative educational experience. This comprehensive overview highlights ten institutions that exemplify the finest in Catholic secondary education.
