About South Kent School

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Who We Are

Discover South Kent School

South Kent School is a leading all-boys boarding and day school located in South Kent, CT. Guided by 100 years of academic, athletic, and student traditions, we work together to develop thriving young men. Using our contemporary expertise in male adolescent education, we are constantly evolving and adapting to ensure we are providing students with the skills and developing the character they will need to succeed in college and the world beyond.

100 Years of Excellence

Designed for Boys

South Kent School stands as the premier institution for boys’ education, uniquely tailored to meet the distinctive needs and aspirations of young men. With over a century of history dedicated to fostering excellence, South Kent has honed an unparalleled approach to cultivating successful individuals and implementing design thinking models like Futures Literacy. By providing an environment designed specifically for boys, the school offers tailored programs and support systems that recognize and celebrate their unique strengths and challenges. Through a curriculum infused with tradition, innovation, and a commitment to character development, South Kent School empowers young men to thrive academically, socially, and personally. This legacy of excellence is a testament to the school’s unwavering dedication to shaping the next generation of leaders, instilling in them the values of integrity, resilience, and compassion.

Mission & Philosophy

South Kent School prepares young men to succeed in college and thrive as thoughtful and engaged citizens in a rapidly changing and intensely competitive world. For over a century, South Kent School has been steadfast in its mission to prepare young men for success in college and beyond. Central to our ethos is the belief that education extends far beyond the classroom, shaping individuals who are not only academically proficient but also compassionate and engaged citizens.

In a world characterized by rapid change and fierce competition, we equip our students with the tools and skills needed to navigate challenges with resilience and integrity. Our commitment to fostering thoughtful leadership and active participation in society underscores every aspect of our educational approach. At South Kent School, we are dedicated to empowering young men to excel academically, contribute meaningfully to their communities, and thrive in an ever-evolving global landscape.

Trinity of Values

In 1923, when South Kent School was founded one hundred years ago, the School’s first headmaster Samuel S. Bartlett introduced the guiding principles, known as the Trinity of Values.

Trinity of Values is encapsulated in our motto—Simplicity of Life, Directness of Purpose, Self-Reliance. These principles serve as a guiding light in our mission to educate students intellectually, socially, ethically, and spiritually. Rooted in these values, we cultivate a community where students are encouraged to embrace simplicity, focusing on what truly matters in life. With a clear sense of purpose, students are empowered to pursue their goals with determination and integrity, guided by a commitment to making meaningful contributions to the world. Through fostering self-reliance, we equip our students with the skills and confidence needed to navigate life’s challenges with resilience and grace. By embracing these core values, we prepare our students not only for personal success but also to become compassionate, responsible global citizens dedicated to serving the common good beyond the gates of South Kent School. Learn more about South Kent School History.

simplicity
of life
self-
reliance
directness
of purpose

These fundamental principles, along with the lessons and traditions passed down by our earliest leaders, form the foundation of the School. Throughout the years, as the School has changed and grown, our Values and Mission remain relevant and continue to serve as a guide for all we do.

Guided by our Mission, South Kent School’s academic, athletic, and student life programming work together to develop thriving young men. Using our contemporary expertise in male adolescent education, we are constantly evolving and adapting to ensure we are providing students with the skills and developing the character they will need to succeed in college and the world beyond.

“Experience here at South Kent has shown me that a boy will generally produce that which is expected of him. Expect him to be honest, fine and decent and nine times out of ten, he will.”

– Samuel S. Bartlett, Founding Headmaster