Students with ADHD, dyslexia, and other learning differences often have trouble “fitting in” in a standard classroom environment. But when they attend a boarding school with young scholars just like themselves, they can find a sense of belonging that they could never find in a public school setting.
Although there are not many boarding schools in Birmingham, AL, there are schools nearby that cater to students with learning differences. If you are a parent looking to immerse your child in a robust academic environment where the educators and student body are patient, persistent, and caring, then a boarding school may fit the bill.
Boarding Schools Offer Challenging Academics
One of the most important things about boarding schools for students with learning differences is that they offer a genuine academic challenge. This does not mean that the coursework is above grade level or overly aggressive. Instead, it means that each student’s specific learning style is recognized and understood and that they have the individualized attention to be provided challenges that foster a healthy learning environment.
Learning Differences Are Not “A Problem”
Students with ADHD and some other learning differences are often viewed as problem students. They may have issues sitting still while paying attention during long lectures. Boarding schools that cater to these individuals have experienced educators that embrace these differences. Students are not punished for their learning style but are instead taught with compassion and understanding; they are given the tools needed to find ways to overcome their unique challenges.
Smaller Class Sizes Foster A Sense Of Family
Because boarding schools are private schools, class sizes are much smaller. This gives students an opportunity to get to know each other at an intimate level, which can foster a sense of close knit camaraderie in the classroom. Plus, since these young adults live together, dine together, and enjoy recreational activities together, they have a chance to bond over their shared experiences.
Living On Campus Allows For Personal Growth, Independence, And Autonomy
Boarding school life means learning how to live independently and engaging in experiences that allow for personal growth and a sense of autonomy. Students at Currey Ingram Academy can choose extracurricular activities, outings, and more based on their own likes, dislikes, and academic and social goals. And although they are watched over by caring staff both in and outside of the classroom, they have more opportunities to make decisions independent of their parents, which can give them a head start once “adult” life begins.
Custom Learning Equals A Better Education
In a public school setting, students with learning differences may be given an IEP, and they may be treated differently than their peers. At boarding schools, everyone has their own independent learning program, and each student is encouraged and challenged to learn in their own way. There is no cookie-cutter approach to academics. Students may retain more information and may be able to better refine their skills because the classroom caters to them; they are not expected to fit into a one-size-fits-all mold.
Boarding Schools Focus On More Than Just Academics
Finally, boarding schools for students with learning differences teach more than just the basics. Students here have access to learning opportunities on everything from social and emotional skills to college prep. They are taught and coached in every aspect they need to move out of high school and into college in as seamless of a transition as possible.
Ultimately, boarding schools that cater to students with learning differences do more than just teach. They provide a sense of belonging in an environment built for them. If you live in the Birmingham, AL, area and are considering boarding school, contact Currey Ingram today and schedule a tour. We are less than three hours down the road, and we can be your child’s home away from home when they need an accepting and exceptional academic environment.
Currey Ingram Academy is a private day and boarding school in Brentwood, TN. As the area’s leading academic program for students with ADHD, dyslexia, and other learning differences, Currey Ingram Academy provides comprehensive education, social-emotional development opportunities, and more in a safe and nurturing environment. Currey Ingram Academy is located just a few miles outside of the greater Nashville area and is accredited by the SACS, CAS, and SAIS.
