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[quote=pbraverman]I worked for five years in a solid second-tier boarding school in the Midwest. My impression was that most parents were very pleased with the school and their kids' experience, but I think the answer to the question depends more on the particular parents than the schools (which the OP may already be implying).

Contrary to movie myths, most boarding school kids are normal, happy, and motivated. Of 300 students at the school where I worked, I can think of only a tiny handful whose parents seemed disconnected or aloof. Did they miss their kids? Sure, but most parents, especially those without great local school options, also saw the benefits of a challenging education, great athletics, a tight community, and staff who cared deeply about teaching.

To gain more insight, you might visit a few close-by schools and speak to the parent representatives. (Every admission office has a list. It's obviously stocked with their most ardent supporters, but it's not necessarily just a cheerleading squad, especially if you ask directed questions, like "What was the hardest thing for YOU to adapt to?")

If you conclude that it would be too much for you to have your child attend a full-time boarding school, you could look for a nearer-to-home option with a five-day boarding program where students return on the weekend. There are a handful of those schools around, though, in candor, they are not always the most academically demanding. (Some are, most aren't.) And remember, it's a [i]process[/i] of adjustment for parents as well as kids. What troubles you two weeks in may resolve after a semester. If you commit, give it time.

Good luck!

_____________________

Disclaimer: The anonymity here makes me uncomfortable; it's easy to write uninformed, personal, or mean-spirited posts when posters don't identify themselves. I have an account so you know whose words you're reading. I have more than 20 years' experience as a teacher and administrator in independent schools. I have read hundreds of admission files, and I have counseled hundreds of students in finding their next schools in the DC area. If you disagree with something I've written, you're in good company — there's a long line of past students and parents ahead of you. :) If you want to chat further, please feel free to contact me offline: peter <at> peterbraverman <dotcom>[/quote]

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