Students have learning to do beyond academics and college is the perfect environment in which to do it. College allows students to live away from home without being completely out in the world. It is the perfect transition. At least, this is what college should be. En loco parentis prevents this gradual freedom.
Parents are right to want to know who is teaching their children and what they are paying for.
It is a benefit of a small school that parents can meet those responsible for their children's education. But en loco parentis goes beyond that at Hillsdale.