Best Iowa Boarding Schools (2025)

Sending your son or daughter to a progressive school sounds like a real leap of faith. It is until you look more closely at the kind of education your child will receive. Then you will understand the idealism in action which progressive schools embody.

We compare and contrast the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme and Advanced Placement. We also explore their distinct educational philosophies, curriculum structures, assessment methods, and global recognition to help students and parents make informed decisions about which rigorous academic program best suits their educational goals and learning preferences.

The concept of outdoor education dates back to the early 20th century as educators sought ways to engage students beyond traditional methods. Early efforts initially focused on direct, experiential learning in nature, but later evolved to incorporate academics, collaborative skills, and a focus on environmental responsibility. Outdoor education today equips students with critical life skills, preparing them for the world beyond the classroom.