Why Avon?

All-boys prep schools are just as much fun as public or private high schools. In all honesty, you’ll probably make closer friends at boarding school because you do everything together – from classes to meals to sports to hanging out on the weekends. And, don’t worry, Avon is located close to two all-girls schools, so you’ll interact with students from other schools frequently at dances, weekend activities, and games.

Yes. While we do require all students to be involved on one team per school session, the good news is that you can try a lot of different activities. For example, theater and robotics count as teams, as do strength & conditioning, yearbook, and tech crew. And, more good news is that in the fall and spring, our weekly schedule includes a Club Period. There’s really something for everyone.

At Avon, teachers often live in the same building you do. Entire families may live in your dormitory, and they are there for you, like a family. You’ll also eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner with your teachers and coaches in the school Refectory, so you see them every day, many times a day. Avon also offers an Enrichment Hour: After dinner from 6:45 - 7:45 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, teachers are available in their classrooms to answer questions and give students extra help. That’s a big difference!

Absolutely. Boarding school students spend about six hours per week on creative endeavors, like performing music and painting, compared to four hours by private day and five hours by public school students.

For most students who go to boarding school, homesickness does not last very long, if it even shows up at all. At the beginning of the year, Avon does a really good job of making sure students meet one another, participate in fun activities to break the ice, and get comfortable in their new surroundings. If you are homesick, there are always older students who know the ropes, and adults who are there 24/7 looking out for you to make sure that you’re okay. In the end, homesickness is totally normal, but it usually only lasts for a little while.

If you feel like it might be hard for you to make friends, remember that there are lots of other new students just like you who feel the same way, and are likely just as nervous as you. Generally speaking, students at boarding schools are eager, open-minded and adventurous. Most students at Avon find it very easy to make new friends as they begin the adventure of their life.

Students and faculty work hard to create great options for students on campus each weekend. From dances and mixers, to movies, games, and other activities, Avon makes sure that weekends are action-packed on campus. Weekends are also a time for students to go home, or visit the homes of friends who live nearby. And, weekends are also a great time to relax, take a nap, watch TV, and hang out with friends.

Whether it’s the arts, athletics, or another activity, boarding school students are often at their busiest after school. Avon offers a wide variety of options, from traditional sports and arts to Nimrod Club, community service and much, much more.

Nothing compares to home cooking, but the cooking staff at Avon is an extension of our family. At breakfast, lunch, and dinner, you’ll find lots of options, and you’ll never go hungry. Many students also order out in the evenings after study hall for a late-night snack!