Once upon a time a military school was only for boys and nearly always for young men who were off to join the military. That is no longer the case. Military schools are as much for girls today and many graduates go out into the world in a field other than the military. But military schools certainly have much to offer young teens today.

The discipline program is strict but fair. Students learn to follow orders and quickly adapt to developing self-discipline. The whole thrust of the school's discipline policy is to help student's build self-esteem and take pride in their achievements.

There is the right kind of pressure in a military school in that each student must work hard and stay out of trouble. There are appropriate punishments for those who break the rules and the ultimate punishment is expulsion. This type of schools are not there to pamper lazy or disobedient kids. It's definitely a case of shape up or be shipped out.

The physical education program is wide-ranging and ideal for young growing bodies. Kids are too tired to get up to mischief because they have participated in so many interesting and challenging physical exercises and activities.

Academic standards are very high in a military school. Students attend classes with low numbers and have after school study sessions which are compulsory and staff controlled. Student graduates often win a place in a high-ranking college or university.

Responsibility for one's actions is a theme every parent would like to instill in their son or daughter's life. Taking responsibility is one of the major teaching goals in every military school. Their students face up to the consequences of their behavior and take this attitude throughout their life. It means that any troubled teen who is accepted will grow as a person as well as a student.

While a military school is a boarding school, which in itself has many benefits, the students are encouraged to be part of their local community. The school allows students to attend local churches and become involved in helping community groups.

Good moral values are a major part of every military school. They are not religious institutions as such but there is a major emphasis on national pride, civic duty and strong moral character. Parents are often delighted with this aspect of their child's military school education.

While many students do not go on to a career in the military, for those who are interested in such a path, their time in a military school could not be better spent. Military recruiting officers look favorably on young men and women who are graduates of military schools.

Academically, military schools do very well but there are a number of other subject options available. Sports, outdoor education and the performing arts are often available and students at a military school are guaranteed an all-round education.

Parents, if your teen is troubled or needs a push to do well at school, there are many military schools which could well be the answer to your prayers.