Stoneleigh-Burnham School - Review #15

SBS is small and girl-centered. The school shapes students for a life of good female friends, social/ philanthropic service, leadership, independent thinking, good communication and a career. I had several schools to choose from, having got accepted at every school in which I applied, but chose SBS. I visited and loved it. The girls are happy to be there and happy to have been there.

Most importantly is what I think now after having graduated 15 years ago.I met some friends that are still good friends after graduating 15 years ago.I remember much of what I learned.I never check my mind at the door.I always speak my mind.I have a good career.I serve others.And I am a proud Stoneleigh-Burnham School graduate. (I'll hope to send my daughter there someday!)

Take riding lessons...the school has an excellent equestrian program. Never miss a good thing (like I did).

I like most that it created a well-rounded individual - I took the usual academics, art, chorus, dance, debate, completed work study...

See it all, do it all and volunteer to help for Alumnae Reunion weekend! If you see us alumnae, you'll be proud at the type of woman SBS creates!

The small classes and personal attention helped me develop the confidence to excel in the 100+ student lecture classes in college. I graduated from SBS with a well-rounded education, familiarity with many cultures and superb writing and analytical skills.

The dance program was excellent even for a well-meaning, good hearted but not-born-with-a-dancers-body student like me.

Every student must participate in the arts program every year. And it is remarkable! The diversity of choices from vocal through instrumental, theatre, pottery, drawing, painting and everything imaginable brought out the creativity in everyone. Very few HS programs could be as good as SB's art program!

I was encouraged to participate in as many programs as possible. In fact the school staff spent time with every student to find their interests and encourage participation in appropriate activities.The debate program is one of the best in the nation and very good at developing independent thinking and self confidence. It aptly connects classroom learning to life skills. Many former debaters are now lawyers or politicians.

I was a day student but stayed overnight for intersession.

The food is excellent! Makes staying skinny difficult! But leave it to a girls' school to teach nutrition and healthy eating habits.

The city of Greenfield and Franklin County is rural but focused on education with numerous private schools and colleges.There are many artists in the local area as well as a symphony and ballet company.

We had lots of dances with other schools and participated in events with schools throughout MA & CT, including Northfield Mount Hermon, Deerfield Academy and Avon Academy.But you get to know your classmates very well and develop lifelong friendships.