The Unique World of Boarding School Teaching
Teaching in a boarding school is quite unlike any job in a day school. Why? Because in most schools you will live above the store, as it were. Most faculty, deans, and heads of school, as well as some key support staff such as the admissions and development directors, are housed in school accommodations as part of their conditions of employment.
I know what I have written to be true because I have had many friends and acquaintances over the years who have taught at boarding schools. I always came away from my conversations with them impressed by their love of teaching their subject at a high academic level to young people who were generally very keen to excel. As a parent, I was also impressed by the superb facilities at the schools my daughters attended. Libraries, classrooms, sports facilities, chapels, and a tremendous sense of history were part of the mix of memories I have from those years. My point is that if you want to teach at an institution where your work will be respected, you owe it to yourself to investigate teaching at a boarding school. Here's how to make that happen.
Home and School Intertwined
Boarding schools are self-contained communities. Students and faculty eat together. They share relaxing times watching TV and playing games together. That is because teachers and staff in a boarding school function in loco parentis. They take the place of parents, literally and figuratively. They play a powerful role in shaping and guiding their young charges while they are at school. Because the students cannot escape at the end of classes, they cannot avoid teachers' strong influence on them. This is a major reason many parents send their sons and daughters off to boarding school.
A Multi-Faceted Job
If you're looking for a 9-5 job (well, strictly speaking, 8-3, but let's not quibble), teaching in a boarding school is probably not for you. Boarding school teachers wear many hats:
- They teach their subject area
- They coach sports teams
- They manage clubs and activities
- They supervise dormitories
This multi-faceted approach aligns with boarding schools' commitment to educating the whole child, encompassing academics, sports, and extracurricular activities.
This video offers a look at Salisbury School in Salisbury, Connecticut.
Qualifications and Skills
Academic Credentials
Boarding schools generally want teachers who have solid credentials. You should offer a first degree in your subject. For example, if you are applying for a position as an English teacher, you should have a Bachelor's degree with a major in English Language and Literature or American Language and Literature. If you graduated summa cum laude, that would be impressive. Many schools will encourage you to earn your Master's degree, and a Doctorate can be an impressive addition to your resume, especially if you intend to pursue administrative positions in education.
Personal Qualities
Beyond academic qualifications, boarding schools look for educators who:
- Love teaching AND love being around young people 24/7
- Are adaptable and willing to take on various roles
- Can work well within a close-knit community
- Have strong interpersonal skills
This video offers a look at The Orme School in Mayer, Arizona.
Finding and Applying for Jobs
Job Search Strategies
- Use your network. Alums, colleagues past and present, friends, and family can be valuable resources.
- Check school websites. Many schools advertise openings directly on their sites.
- Monitor regional and state association websites.
- Be aware of timing: December to March tend to have the most openings.
Application Tips
Tailor your application: Customize your resume and cover letter for each school.
Highlight relevant experience: Emphasize any experience with extracurriculars or residential programs.
Showcase your passion: Ensure you get across your love of teaching and working with young people.
Be prepared for a thorough vetting: Expect multiple interviews with various staff members.
Ask questions: Show your interest by asking thoughtful questions about the school and position.
The Interview Process
If you are invited to the school for an interview, expect a serious vetting process. Schools are extremely particular about hiring new faculty. They will most likely send you around to several people, including a dean, a head of school, her assistant, and your future department chairperson. Be prepared for a thorough grilling if the powers that be decide you are a serious contender for the position.
Be Honest
Are you gay? Be honest about your lifestyle. In many schools, it will not be an issue. The key is to be authentic and upfront about who you are.
Compensation and Benefits
Salaries for boarding school teachers vary greatly but are generally competitive in many states, especially when the school includes housing. Most schools will offer benefits, including health insurance and contributions to a retirement fund. Additional perks often include:
- Free or reduced tuition for faculty children
- Meals
- Housing on campus
The Rewards of Boarding School Teaching
While demanding, teaching in a boarding school can be incredibly rewarding. You'll have the opportunity to:
- Teach your subject in small classes with students who want to learn
- Build deep, meaningful relationships with students and colleagues
- Be part of a close-knit community
- Shape young lives both in and out of the classroom
In conclusion, teaching in a boarding school offers a unique blend of challenges and rewards. It's not just a job, but a lifestyle that requires dedication, versatility, and a genuine love for education and young people. If you're ready for a career that goes beyond the classroom and allows you to make a profound impact on students' lives, boarding school teaching might be the perfect fit for you.
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