What Does it Mean to Be a Military School

For many, “military school” evokes images of young boys in lockstep with someone akin to a drill instructor barking orders. Others envision a place where troubled boys go for their second or last chance. But, the truth is that military schools don’t generally look anything like what people imagine.

First and foremost, military schools are academic institutions, and they typically have rigorous educational programs that challenge their students. This can lead to better grades, test scores, and a good college or a service academy. In addition, military schools place a strong emphasis on character development. Many of the schools’ values, such as honor, respect, and discipline, are modeled after the values of the military but taught in a way that is digestible for a teenager.

The structure of a military school is also different from what many expect. While there is undoubtedly a level of discipline that exceeds what you’ll find in most public schools, it is not the oppressive, regimented environment that some imagine. Students spend plenty of time in clothing that is not a “uniform” per se, and there is plenty of time for extracurricular activities, such as sports and clubs, and for simply hanging out with friends.

Military schools offer a unique experience that can be beneficial for many different types of students. Suppose you are looking for a challenging academic program, a supportive environment, and the opportunity to develop leadership skills and lifelong friendships. In that case, a military school like Hargrave may be the right fit for you.