Table of Contents
Georgia, known for its rich history and southern charm, also offers several options for military boarding schools. These schools provide a structured environment focused on discipline, leadership, academic excellence, and personal development. For parents seeking a rigorous and supportive educational setting for their sons or daughters, military boarding schools in Georgia present an attractive option.
This guide offers a detailed overview of the top military boarding schools in Georgia, highlighting their academic programs, military training, and the unique benefits they offer.
Why Consider a Military Boarding School in Georgia?
Military boarding schools are designed to provide students with a disciplined environment that fosters personal growth, leadership, and academic achievement. These schools offer a unique blend of traditional education and military training, preparing students not only for college but also for leadership roles in their future careers. For families in Georgia, these institutions offer a strong sense of community, an emphasis on character development, and a supportive environment that helps students reach their full potential.
Military Boarding School in Georgia
1. Georgia Military College (GMC) Prep School
Location: Milledgeville, Georgia
Overview:
Georgia Military College Prep School is part of the larger Georgia Military College, which includes both a junior college and a prep school. Established in 1879, GMC Prep School is one of the oldest military schools in the United States and has a strong tradition of academic excellence combined with military training. The school serves students from grades 6 through 12 and is known for its commitment to developing leadership skills and character.
Academic and Military Training:
GMC Prep School offers a college preparatory curriculum that includes Advanced Placement (AP) courses, honors classes, and dual enrollment opportunities with the junior college. The academic program is designed to challenge students and prepare them for success in higher education. In addition to academics, students participate in Junior ROTC (JROTC), which includes leadership training, physical fitness, and military drills.
Facilities and Extracurricular Activities:
The school provides modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, science labs, and athletic fields. Students have access to a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, academic clubs, and community service projects. The school’s emphasis on teamwork and leadership is reflected in its strong athletic programs and JROTC competitions.
Why Choose GMC Prep School?
GMC Prep School is an excellent choice for families seeking a well-rounded education that combines rigorous academics with military discipline and leadership development. The school’s long history and commitment to character education make it one of the top military boarding schools in Georgia.
Learn More: Visit the Georgia Military College Prep School website for more information.
2. Riverside Military Academy
Location: Gainesville, Georgia
Overview:
Riverside Military Academy (RMA) is a premier military boarding school for boys in grades 7 through 12. Founded in 1907, RMA has a long-standing reputation for academic excellence and leadership development. The school’s mission is to prepare young men for success in college and beyond by providing a structured environment that fosters discipline, responsibility, and respect.
Academic and Military Training:
RMA offers a college preparatory curriculum that includes a wide range of AP courses, honors classes, and dual enrollment opportunities. The school emphasizes STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education, with advanced programs in these fields. The military training at RMA includes participation in JROTC, leadership courses, and physical fitness programs designed to build character and resilience.
Facilities and Extracurricular Activities:
The RMA campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, science and technology labs, and extensive athletic facilities. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and leadership clubs. RMA’s JROTC program is highly respected and provides students with opportunities to compete in national leadership and drill competitions.
Why Choose Riverside Military Academy?
RMA is ideal for boys who thrive in a disciplined environment and are looking for a school that offers both academic rigor and leadership training. The academy’s commitment to developing well-rounded individuals who are prepared for the challenges of college and beyond makes it one of the top military boarding schools in Georgia.
Learn More: Visit the Riverside Military Academy website for more information.
3. Benedictine Military School
Location: Savannah, Georgia
Overview:
Benedictine Military School is a private, Catholic military day school for boys in grades 9 through 12. Founded in 1902, the school is rooted in the Benedictine tradition and emphasizes academic excellence, leadership, and service. While primarily a day school, Benedictine Military School offers a structured, disciplined environment that is similar to that of a boarding school, making it a unique option for families in the Savannah area.
Academic and Military Training:
The academic program at Benedictine Military School includes a challenging college preparatory curriculum with AP and honors courses. The school’s military program is integrated into daily life, with students participating in JROTC, leadership training, and physical fitness activities. The military program helps students develop discipline, responsibility, and a strong work ethic.
Facilities and Extracurricular Activities:
Benedictine Military School features modern facilities, including well-equipped classrooms, a library, and athletic fields. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports teams, academic clubs, and community service opportunities. The school’s JROTC program is highly regarded and provides students with leadership opportunities both within the school and in the broader community.
Why Choose Benedictine Military School?
Benedictine Military School is an excellent choice for families seeking a Catholic education with a strong emphasis on discipline, leadership, and academic achievement. The school’s long-standing tradition of excellence in both academics and military training makes it one of the top military schools in Georgia.
Learn More: Visit the Benedictine Military School website for more information.
4. Military Magnet Academy (Out-of-State Option)
Location: Charleston, South Carolina (proximity to Georgia)
Overview:
While not located in Georgia, Military Magnet Academy (MMA) in Charleston, South Carolina, is worth considering for families near the Georgia-South Carolina border. MMA is a public, military-style school for boys and girls in grades 6 through 12. The school provides a rigorous academic program combined with military training, leadership development, and character education.
Academic and Military Training:
MMA offers a comprehensive academic curriculum that includes standard, honors, and AP courses. The school’s military program includes JROTC participation, leadership development courses, and physical fitness training. MMA’s goal is to prepare students for success in college, the military, or other careers by instilling discipline, responsibility, and leadership skills.
Facilities and Extracurricular Activities:
The MMA campus features modern classrooms, science labs, and athletic facilities. Students can participate in a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports, academic clubs, and leadership organizations. The school’s military program is central to student life, with daily routines and ceremonies that reinforce discipline and respect.
Why Consider Military Magnet Academy?
For families near the Georgia-South Carolina border, MMA offers a nearby option for military-style education. The school’s commitment to academic excellence, leadership training, and character development makes it a strong choice for students who would benefit from a structured, disciplined environment.
5. Junior ROTC Programs in Georgia
Location: Various high schools across Georgia
Overview:
Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) programs are available in many high schools throughout Georgia. These programs offer military-style education, leadership development, and community service opportunities as part of the regular school curriculum. JROTC programs are designed to instill discipline, respect, and a sense of responsibility in students, preparing them for future leadership roles in the military or civilian careers.
Academic and Military Training:
JROTC programs combine academic coursework with military training, including leadership exercises, physical fitness, and instruction in military science. Students participate in regular drills, community service projects, and competitions that help them develop leadership skills and a strong sense of civic duty.
Why Choose JROTC Programs?
JROTC is an excellent option for high school students who are interested in military service or who would benefit from a disciplined, structured environment. The programs help students develop leadership skills, physical fitness, and academic success, making them well-prepared for future careers in the military or other fields.
Learn More: Visit the National JROTC website to find a JROTC program in Georgia.
Conclusion
Georgia offers a variety of military boarding schools and programs that provide a structured, disciplined environment for students seeking a rigorous education. From the historic Georgia Military College Prep School and Riverside Military Academy to the Benedictine Military School and Junior ROTC programs across the state, these institutions emphasize academic excellence, leadership development, and character education.
For families in Georgia, these schools offer an excellent opportunity for their sons to grow academically, physically, and morally in a supportive environment that prepares them for success in college, the military, and beyond. Whether you are looking for a full-time military boarding school experience or a day school with military-style training, Georgia has options to meet a wide range of educational needs and goals.
