The schools have comfortable, secure, well-supervised dormitories where young students live in safe and organized conditions. Many boarding schools have safe and attractive facilities that rival small universities. In today's world of advanced technology, most schools have invested in elaborate computer networks and hardware and require student competency in this area for their future use with computers. In addition to updated classrooms and modern science and teaching facilities, there are usually graphic and fine art studios, practice and performance music rooms and a theater stage for drama. All have excellent reference and study libraries.
Many libraries have book collections in the tens of thousands of volumes.
The architecture at boarding schools usually reflects their region. Eastern schools frequently reflect European or Early American design. Southwestern campuses often have a Mexican or desert style. Newer buildings everywhere tend to be more contemporary in design. Boarding schools consider sports for both boys and girls to be very important.