15 Best Boarding Schools In Florida

Florida is renowned for its world-class education, and it's no surprise that the state is home to some of the best boarding schools in the country. These institutions offer students a comprehensive education with an emphasis on academic excellence, personal growth, and character development.

Whether you're looking for a school that focuses on the arts or a school that has a strong athletic program, Florida has something to suit every student's needs. In this article, we'll explore some of the top boarding schools in Florida.

We've researched and analyzed each institution to provide you with an objective overview of what makes them unique. From The Bolles School to The Academy at Saint Mary, we'll highlight their academic programs, extracurricular activities, campus facilities, and more.

So whether you're a parent searching for quality education for your child or a student looking to further your academic journey, this article will provide valuable insights into the best boarding schools in Florida.

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15 Best Boarding Schools In Florida

#1. The Bolles School

The Bolles School, located in Jacksonville, Florida, is an esteemed institution that offers a comprehensive education program to students from pre-kindergarten through twelfth grade.

This school has a reputation for providing high-quality education and producing successful graduates. The Bolles School's boarding options provide students with the opportunity to live on campus and immerse themselves in their studies.

The curriculum focus at The Bolles School is on providing students with a well-rounded education. Students are taught critical thinking skills, problem-solving techniques, and effective communication strategies. Additionally, the school provides its students with opportunities to explore different fields of study through elective courses and extracurricular activities.

The Bolles School's boarding options provide students with a supportive environment where they can develop independence and responsibility while receiving guidance from experienced staff members.

Students have access to academic support services such as tutoring programs and study groups. Furthermore, boarding residents are encouraged to participate in various clubs and organizations that promote personal growth and social development.

#2. IMG Academy

Located in a state known for its sunny climate, IMG Academy offers a comprehensive educational program designed to help students improve their athletic abilities. The academy has a reputation for being one of the best boarding schools in Florida, and it's not hard to see why.

With a range of sports training programs available, students have access to world-class coaches and state-of-the-art facilities. One of the key benefits of attending IMG Academy is the opportunity it provides for students to take their athletic skills to the next level.

Whether they are looking to excel in football, basketball, tennis, or any other sport, there are specialized programs available that cater to individual needs.

Students can choose from a variety of training options including strength and conditioning sessions, mental toughness coaching, and injury prevention training. Apart from sports training, campus life at IMG Academy is nothing short of exceptional. The school offers modern student residences equipped with all necessary amenities such as laundry rooms and recreation areas.

Additionally, students have access to on-campus dining facilities serving nutritious meals tailored towards athletes' dietary requirements. Overall, attending IMG Academy means not only receiving top-notch sports education but also experiencing an enjoyable campus lifestyle that promotes holistic growth and development.

#3. Florida Prep Academy

Florida Prep Academy offers a rigorous academic program and a range of extracurricular activities for students to develop their skills and interests.

The school aims to prepare its students for success by providing them with the necessary tools to excel academically, socially, and emotionally. Additionally, Florida Prep Academy boasts an impressive campus that features state-of-the-art facilities which enhance the students' learning experience.

One of the benefits of attending Florida Prep Academy is that it provides personalized attention to each student. The school's small class sizes allow for individualized instruction which allows teachers to identify areas where students may need extra help or support.

Furthermore, the school's faculty members are highly qualified and experienced in their respective fields, ensuring that each student receives a quality education.

The unique curriculum at Florida Prep Academy emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving skills, creativity, and innovation. Students are encouraged to explore various subjects outside traditional classroom settings through programs such as the robotics club, Model United Nations (MUN), drama and theater arts club among others.

This approach fosters a holistic development of the student's abilities beyond academics while preparing them for future career paths in diverse fields.

In conclusion, Florida Prep Academy stands out as one of the best boarding schools in Florida due to its dedication to providing quality education while nurturing all-rounded individuals capable of achieving excellence both academically and in life.

#4. Saint Andrew's School

Saint Andrew's School is a prestigious and highly-regarded boarding school located in Boca Raton, Florida. The institution provides a comprehensive education program that emphasizes academic excellence and character development. It has an outstanding faculty who are dedicated to helping students succeed in their academic pursuits.

One of the unique aspects of Saint Andrew's School is its emphasis on extracurricular activities. The institution offers various opportunities for students to participate in sports, clubs, and community service.

These activities help students develop leadership skills, teamwork, and a sense of responsibility toward their community.

Another notable feature of Saint Andrew's School is its campus diversity. The institution attracts students from all over the world and provides an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome. This diverse student body exposes students to different cultures and perspectives, which helps them develop empathy and tolerance for others.

Saint Andrew's School is an excellent choice for parents who are looking for a top-notch boarding school that offers both academic rigor and character development.

With its emphasis on extracurricular activities and campus diversity, the school provides a well-rounded education that prepares students for success in college and beyond.

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#5. The Sagemont School

The Sagemont School boasts a rigorous academic program that prepares students for success in higher education and beyond. The school's focus on college preparation is evident in its Advanced Placement (AP) courses, which are offered in subjects such as calculus, biology, and psychology.

Additionally, the school offers a Dual Enrollment program with Broward College where students can earn college credits while still attending high school.

Exploring extracurriculars is an important part of the student experience at The Sagemont School. Students have access to a variety of clubs and organizations that cater to diverse interests such as Model UN, Robotics Club, Student Government Association, and more.

Athletics are also an integral part of the school's culture with teams competing in sports like basketball, volleyball, soccer, and tennis.

The Sagemont School places great emphasis on creating a welcoming environment through its campus diversity and inclusion initiatives. The school has a Diversity Council made up of faculty members who work closely with students to create programming that celebrates cultural differences.

Additionally, students participate in annual events like Cultural Day where they showcase their heritage through dance performances or food tastings.

These efforts help foster a sense of community among students from different backgrounds and promote understanding and empathy for others' experiences.

#6. Admiral Farragut Academy

Moving on from The Sagemont School, we turn our attention to Admiral Farragut Academy, one of the best boarding schools in Florida. Founded in 1933, this co-educational institution is located in St. Petersburg and offers a rigorous academic program coupled with leadership development and STEM education opportunities.

At Admiral Farragut Academy, students are encouraged to develop their leadership skills through various programs such as the Naval Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (NJROTC) and the Leadership Development Program.

These programs provide students with a solid foundation in leadership principles and practices that they can apply both inside and outside of the classroom. Additionally, students have access to a wide range of extracurricular activities that promote teamwork, problem-solving skills, and effective communication.

In terms of academics, Admiral Farragut Academy offers a challenging curriculum that emphasizes STEM education opportunities. With state-of-the-art facilities such as a robotics lab and an engineering lab, students are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in fields such as science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

The school also offers advanced placement courses for those who wish to further challenge themselves academically. Overall, Admiral Farragut Academy provides its students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for success not only in college but also in their future careers.

Pros	Cons
Excellent Leadership Programs	Expensive Tuition Fees
State-of-the-Art Facilities for STEM Education	Limited Extracurricular Activities compared to other schools
Challenging Curriculum including Advanced Placement Courses	Boarding Life may not suit everyone's preferences

#7. Montverde Academy

Founded in 1912, Montverde Academy is a prestigious independent school located in Central Florida that offers a comprehensive college preparatory program.

The academy has established itself as one of the best boarding schools in Florida and prides itself on providing students with an enriching residential experience. Students live on campus and benefit from a diverse student body from over 90 countries.

Montverde Academy offers an exceptional academic program for students in grades PK3 through 12th. They have an extensive curriculum that includes Advanced Placement courses, honors classes, and collaborative learning experiences to prepare students for higher education.

Additionally, the academy has state-of-the-art facilities that are equipped with cutting-edge technology to enhance the learning experience.

The boarding experience at Montverde Academy is designed to provide students with a supportive and nurturing environment. The academy's residential life staff oversees every aspect of student life outside of the classroom, including providing after-hours academic support, organizing extracurricular activities, and ensuring student safety and well-being.

With five dormitories on campus, each housing up to 80 students, Montverde Academy provides comfortable living arrangements that feel like a home away from home.

Overall, Montverde Academy is an excellent choice for families looking for a top-notch academic program coupled with a vibrant boarding community.

#8. The Vanguard School

Located in Lake Wales, The Vanguard School is a private, non-profit institution that caters to students with learning differences. It provides education for students from kindergarten through 12th grade and offers individualized academic programs designed to meet the needs of each student.

The school's mission is to provide quality education and support services that enable its students to achieve academic success.

The Vanguard School has a comprehensive range of academic programs that cater to its diverse student population. Its curriculum includes core subjects such as English, Math, Science, Social Studies, Foreign Language, and Fine Arts.

In addition, the school also offers vocational training and life skills classes for high school students who are preparing for post-secondary education or employment opportunities.

The faculty at Vanguard specializes in working with students who have learning differences and they employ innovative teaching strategies to ensure each student's success.

Campus life at The Vanguard School is engaging and promotes social interaction among its students. The school has various clubs and organizations that cater to different interests such as sports teams like basketball and volleyball or groups for music enthusiasts or robotics enthusiasts.

Additionally, the campus provides extracurricular activities such as field trips, community service projects, and cultural events throughout the year which further enriches the student experience at Vanguard.

Overall, the combination of excellent academics along with an engaging campus life makes The Vanguard School an exceptional educational option for those seeking specialized instruction in Florida.

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#9. The Canterbury School

The Canterbury School in Florida emphasizes community service and civic engagement among its students. Through various programs and initiatives, the school encourages students to engage with their local communities and make a positive impact on society.

Additionally, the school offers Advanced Placement (AP) and Dual Enrollment Programs to challenge students academically and provide them with college-level coursework opportunities.

The campus also boasts state-of-the-art facilities and amenities, including athletic fields, science labs, performance spaces, and more.

Emphasis on Community Service and Civic Engagement

With a strong focus on fostering a sense of social responsibility and community involvement, Florida's top boarding schools prioritize civic engagement as an integral part of their academic curriculum.

Service projects and leadership opportunities are often incorporated into the school's curriculum to encourage students to take an active role in their communities.

Through these programs, students develop a deeper understanding of the social issues affecting their communities and learn ways to address them. Boarding schools in Florida offer various opportunities for students to engage with their local communities through community service projects.

These initiatives allow students to work together towards a common goal while promoting teamwork, communication skills, and leadership qualities.

Additionally, by participating in such activities, students become more aware of the challenges faced by underprivileged populations and learn ways to help alleviate those problems.

Overall, community service initiatives form an essential part of Florida's boarding schools' academic program that prepares its graduates not only for academic excellence but also instills core values like compassion and empathy towards others.

Advanced Placement (AP) and Dual Enrollment Programs

Advanced Placement (AP) and Dual Enrollment programs offered by Florida's top boarding schools provide students with exceptional opportunities to challenge themselves academically and earn college credits while still in high school.

AP courses are designed to give high school students a taste of college-level coursework, preparing them for the rigor of higher education. These courses culminate in an exam that can lead to earning college credit if the student achieves a passing score.

On the other hand, dual enrollment allows students to take actual college courses while still enrolled in high school, earning both high school and college credit simultaneously.

The benefits for students who participate in these programs are numerous. First off, it allows them to get a head start on their college education by taking advanced classes that could translate into actual credits toward their degree program.

This means they can potentially graduate from college early or have more flexibility in their course load during their undergraduate years. Additionally, these programs can help boost a student's GPA and improve their chances of getting accepted into competitive universities or receiving scholarships.

Overall, Advanced Placement (AP) and Dual Enrollment programs offer unparalleled academic opportunities for motivated students at Florida's top boarding schools.

Campus Facilities and Amenities

Coming to the facilities and amenities of boarding schools in Florida, students can expect state-of-the-art infrastructure that caters to their academic as well as personal needs.

Boarding schools in Florida offer a range of facilities, from spacious classrooms and laboratories to modern sports complexes, dining halls, and residential halls. This ensures that students have access to all the necessary resources to excel academically while enjoying a comfortable living experience.

Apart from providing top-notch academic facilities, boarding schools in Florida also prioritize campus sustainability efforts. These efforts include recycling programs, energy-efficient buildings, water conservation measures, and eco-friendly transportation options.

This not only helps create an environmentally conscious community but also instills values of sustainability among students.

In addition to this, boarding schools in Florida host various student life programs and events throughout the year. These programs aim at promoting cultural awareness, leadership skills development, community service opportunities, and extracurricular activities such as sports clubs and art societies.

All these features together make for an enriching educational experience that prepares students for success beyond the classroom walls.

Boarding schools in Florida offer a wide range of amenities that cater to both academic requirements and personal preferences of their diverse student bodies.

With extensive sustainability initiatives and engaging student life programs on offer alongside advanced infrastructure facilities – it is no surprise why so many families choose boarding schools in Florida for their children's education needs!

#10. The King's Academy

The King's Academy in Florida stands out among the best boarding schools for its commitment to providing a rigorous academic curriculum alongside comprehensive athletic and extracurricular programs.

The school is distinguished by its Christian educational approach, which emphasizes character development and spiritual growth. This focus on values-based education equips students with a strong foundation that prepares them for success beyond graduation.

One of the advantages of Christian education at The King's Academy is that it fosters a sense of community among students, faculty, and staff.

Students are encouraged to participate in chapel services, Bible studies, and service projects that promote teamwork, empathy, and compassion. These experiences help shape their worldview and deepen their understanding of the world around them.

In addition to its academic rigor and faith-based emphasis, The King's Academy offers a wide range of extracurricular activities that cater to diverse interests. From athletics to fine arts to robotics clubs, there is something for everyone at this school.

These programs provide opportunities for students to develop leadership skills, explore new talents or hobbies, and build lasting friendships with peers from different backgrounds.

Overall, The King's Academy provides an environment that challenges students academically while nurturing their personal growth through meaningful relationships and opportunities beyond the classroom.

#11. The North Broward Preparatory School

Emphasizing diversity and global awareness, North Broward Preparatory School offers a wide range of academic programs that prepare students to become responsible citizens of the world.

With over 80 clubs and organizations, there is a place for every student to find their niche within the campus culture. The school's Global Scholars Program allows students to engage in intercultural exchanges with partner schools around the world.

North Broward Preparatory School has an impressive list of academic programs, including International Baccalaureate (IB) courses, Advanced Placement (AP) classes, and Dual Enrollment opportunities with local colleges.

The school also offers unique programs such as the Center for Leadership and Entrepreneurship and a rigorous STEM curriculum. Students are encouraged to pursue their passions through experiential learning opportunities like internships and service-learning projects.

The campus culture at North Broward Preparatory School emphasizes collaboration, critical thinking, creativity, and character development. The school's Honor Code promotes integrity and ethical behavior among its students.

With a diverse student body representing over 50 countries worldwide, North Broward Preparatory School provides a multicultural environment that prepares students for success in an increasingly interconnected world.

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#12. The Pine School

With a commitment to personalized education and a focus on developing well-rounded individuals, The Pine School offers a range of academic programs and extracurricular activities that cater to the diverse interests and needs of its students.

This co-educational day school in Hobe Sound, Florida is known for its small class sizes, individualized attention, and nurturing environment. The school's mission is to inspire lifelong learners who are responsible global citizens.

The Pine School places great emphasis on community involvement. Students are encouraged to participate in volunteer work, service projects, and leadership opportunities that benefit not only their local communities but also the wider world.

Through these experiences, students develop empathy, social awareness, and civic responsibility. Such initiatives include beach clean-ups, food drives for the needy, and fundraisers for charitable organizations like the Red Cross or UNICEF.

In terms of academic programs, The Pine School offers a challenging curriculum that prepares students for success at top colleges and universities. Advanced Placement courses are available in a variety of subjects including calculus, biology, physics, and psychology among others.

Honors courses are also offered across all departments ranging from humanities to STEM fields. Students can choose from various electives such as creative writing or robotics clubs as well as participate in unique experiential learning opportunities like internships with local businesses or research projects with faculty mentors.

#13. The Bolivar School

Located in Bolivar, Missouri, the Bolivar School offers a comprehensive academic program that includes both traditional and vocational courses. With a student-to-teacher ratio of 14:1, students receive personalized attention from their instructors to achieve academic excellence.

The school is accredited by the North Central Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement (NCA CASI) and provides an education that prepares students for college and career success.

In addition to its rigorous academic program, the Bolivar School also offers extracurricular activities that promote leadership skills and community involvement. Students can participate in clubs such as Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), National Honor Society (NHS), Student Council, and more.

These clubs provide opportunities for students to develop their leadership skills, connect with peers who share similar interests, and give back to the community through volunteer work.

Community involvement is an important part of life at the Bolivar School. The school encourages its students to be active members of their community by participating in events such as food drives, blood drives, charity walks/runs, and more.

Through these activities, students learn about civic responsibility and how they can make a positive impact on those around them.

Overall, the Bolivar School provides a well-rounded education that not only focuses on academic achievement but also promotes personal growth through extracurricular activities and community involvement.

Extracurricular Activities	Leadership Opportunities	Community Involvement
FBLA	Student Council	Food Drives
NHS	Debate Team	Blood Drives
Robotics Club	Peer Mentoring	Charity Walks/Runs
Drama Club	Volunteer Work	Environmental Cleanup

Table: Examples of extracurricular activities at the Bolivar School

#14. The Master's Academy

Moving on to another top boarding school in Florida, we come to The Master's Academy. This institution has garnered a reputation as one of the best schools in the state, with a focus on academic rigor and community involvement.

At The Master's Academy, students can expect to be challenged academically while also being encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities and give back to their community. The academic programs at The Master's Academy are designed to prepare students for success in both college and beyond.

With small class sizes and dedicated teachers, students receive personalized attention that helps them excel academically. Additionally, the school offers a range of Advanced Placement courses that allow students to earn college credit while still in high school.

In addition to its strong academic program, The Master's Academy places a strong emphasis on community involvement. Students are encouraged to participate in service projects both locally and globally, helping them develop empathy and compassion for others.

Through these experiences, students gain valuable leadership skills that will serve them well throughout their lives.

Overall, The Master's Academy is an excellent choice for families seeking a rigorous academic experience coupled with opportunities for personal growth and development through community involvement.

#15. The Academy at Saint Mary

The Academy at Saint Mary is a prestigious educational institution in Florida that offers a well-rounded academic program and opportunities for personal growth and development through extracurricular activities.

The school prides itself on its community involvement, encouraging students to take part in volunteer work and service projects. Additionally, the curriculum approach at the Academy emphasizes holistic education, focusing not only on academics but also on character development.

One of the key aspects of the Academy's approach to education is its emphasis on community involvement. Students are encouraged to participate in service projects both within their local communities and beyond.

This not only helps them develop valuable skills such as leadership, communication, and teamwork but also fosters a sense of social responsibility that will serve them well throughout their lives.

In terms of academics, the Academy takes a holistic approach to learning. While academic rigor is certainly emphasized, there is also a focus on character development and personal growth through extracurricular activities such as sports teams, clubs, and other organizations.

This allows students to explore their interests outside the classroom while developing important life skills such as time management and goal setting.

Overall, the combination of academic excellence and personal growth opportunities make the Academy at Saint Mary one of the top boarding schools in Florida.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Florida is home to some of the best boarding schools in the country, offering top-notch education and a variety of extracurricular activities.

The Bolles School, located in Jacksonville, provides students with a personalized approach to learning and offers programs such as marine science and aviation.

Meanwhile, IMG Academy in Bradenton has world-class athletic facilities and top-tier sports training programs.

Other notable boarding schools include Florida Prep Academy in Melbourne, which boasts a diverse student body and a challenging academic curriculum.

Saint Andrew's School in Boca Raton offers an International Baccalaureate program and focuses on holistic education.

The Sagemont School in Weston emphasizes technology integration into its curriculum while offering competitive athletics.

The Pine School in Hobe Sound has a strong STEM program and encourages experiential learning through outdoor activities.

The Bolivar School in Lutz provides students with individualized attention through small class sizes while emphasizing character development.

The Master's Academy in Oviedo promotes Christian values alongside rigorous academics.

Finally, The Academy at Saint Mary's in Raleigh teaches girls to become leaders through its all-female environment.

In conclusion, Florida is home to some of the best boarding schools that cater to various interests and skill sets. These institutions provide high-quality education coupled with immersive experiences that prepare students for their future endeavors.

From marine science to Christian values, there is something for everyone at these exceptional institutions.

As poet Robert Frost once said: ‘Education is the ability to listen to almost anything without losing your temper or your self-confidence.'These boarding schools equip their students with not only knowledge but also confidence so they can tackle any challenge that comes their way.

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