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Thoughts From The Head

Small But Mighty

By January 29, 2025No Comments

I want to take a moment to reflect on something that has been on my mind and heart recently—and that is, the unique position of small boarding schools within the landscape of independent school education.

In a world that is driven by the superficiality of the vast majority of social media posts, we as a society have come to a point where we often equate size with success, where one’s number of “likes” defines his or her accomplishments, notoriety and popularity. As a result, authenticity, and being true to oneself, are difficult, if not impossible to maintain, which begs the question – how can we live a life of purpose and values? And an even more difficult challenge – how can we instill in our young people the desire to do the same?

Within today’s societal landscape (the thought of which keeps me awake some nights), it is easy to overlook the profound value that an intentionally “small” independent school can offer. While larger institutions boast vast resources and extensive programs, which may artificially enhance their “rankings,” these same institutions can sometimes miss out on the authentic elements that truly foster growth, learning, and community – elements that are foundational to the small boarding school experience, and for success in life in general.

One of the many beauties of small, independent school living and learning environments are the authentic connections that are able to be forged. Teachers and administrators, coaches and kitchen staff, and nurses and dorm parents alike, all take the time to understand each student’s likes, interests, strengths, weaknesses, and aspirations. They are educators, mentors, supporters, and advocates for every student. The relationships that are able to blossom within intentionally small learning communities – between students, between adults and students, and among families—are deeply meaningful and real. The sense of belonging we cultivate in small independent schools encourages our young people to take risks with purpose, explore their interests, and develop values and a love for learning that will follow them for the rest of their lives.

In our small communities, every achievement is celebrated. Whether it’s the senior who recently interviewed at Stanford and MIT, or the one who is preparing to attend the selective 2025 UK Literary Tour, whether it’s the Equestrian or Basketball team member who has just reached a milestone in his or her athletic career, or the artist whose work is displayed at the national level after being selected for an adjudicated exhibit, these moments resonate throughout our halls and remind us that every student, every teacher, every individual on our campus, contributes to the tapestry of our school. Our students support one another, fostering an environment rich in camaraderie and collaboration, which is often harder to cultivate in larger academic settings. Who wouldn’t want to attend a small boarding school given these characteristics?

Here at Knox, one of our most accomplished international students was recently accepted to a top 50, small private college through the early decision process. This is a student who was also accepted to a handful of other much larger and more “renowned” universities – but in her words: “I chose my ED school because of the strong business program, but mostly because I wanted a small environment so I would have the opportunity to engage more with the professors, just as I have been able to do here at Knox.” I think her words are as good as any.

We are small boarding schools.

Let us embrace our size as a strength. 

Let us continue to cherish the close bonds we’ve formed, the spirited discussions in our classrooms, and the laughter echoing through our hallways and dormitories. 

We are communities that thrive on connection, support, and shared purpose.

 

Our schools may be small, but they are undeniably mighty.

Virginia Riccardi

MA, Columbia University

Head of School, The Knox School