Every year, the families of more than half a million students in America choose independent schools (nonprofit schools governed by boards of trustees and supported by tuition revenue, endowment interest, and charitable gifts).

There are more than 1,200 independent schools in the country that belong to the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS). Each has its own mission and culture. There are boarding and day schools, urban, suburban, and rural schools. Some are traditional and others more progressive. Some serve gifted students and others serve students with learning challenges.

Most independent schools are like Harrisburg Academy – they offer rigorous academic courses within close-knit communities. This environment helps children and adolescents develop into adults who are well-prepared to face the challenges of college and adult life. Many independent school graduates credit their schools with instilling a love of learning that lasts a lifetime. Graduates also cite the work ethic common at many independent schools as the foundation for their success in college and in their careers.

Through a partnership between NAIS and the Higher Education Research Institute, researchers studied attitudes and aspirations of recent independent school graduates as they compared to their larger peer group. The findings:

• Independent school graduates are committed to achievement. They have high educational aspirations and work hard to achieve their goals.
• Independent school graduates are comfortable working closely with teachers and are more engaged in class.
• Independent school graduates are engaged in civic life. They are far more likely to vote in elections and to volunteer in their communities.
• Independent school graduates pursue active and educational leisure-time activities.

“Families across the country strive to provide their children with the best opportunities in life,” says NAIS President Patrick F. Bassett. “Helping children get a high-quality education is one of the most important gifts parents can give their children.”