Thomas Jefferson School

There are the typical larger boarding schools (of which there are many), and then there is TJ. It is excellent is so many ways. The rigorous, traditionally classical curriculum provides a timeless education without scattershot electives which lack an incorporation into the core. There`s no underwater basket weaving class at TJ. The faculty carry advanced degrees from leading universities, and an amazing commitment to developing the critical thinking skills of their students. No single moral or political philosophy is considered "correct" at TJ; intelligent and respectful debate is encouraged. And the school doesn`t slam the kids by booking every minute of their day with too heavy an emphasis on sports, clubs, and extra-curriculars. The students at TJ can do those things, but they are also given adequate open time to process what they read and really learn. This is so often lacking in other top-tier schools. The results speak for themselves: leading test scores, impressive college placements, and - most importantly - articulate, literate, ambitious, deeply thoughtful, rational, and competent graduates. A++