Overview of Elite Boarding Schools and Old Money Influence

Introduction

• Exploration of the world's most exclusive schools.
• Schools serve as finishing institutions for future leaders.
• The appeal of schools from pop culture (Hogwarts, Dead Poet Society).
• Importance of tradition, exclusivity, and social grooming.

The Significance of Elite Schools

• Networking and Social Connections:
  • Students interact with future power players.
  • Builds bonds that translate into business, political alliances, and marriages.
  • Example: Franklin D. Roosevelt and Joseph Alsop at Groton School.
• Leadership and Public Service:
  • Schools instill critical thinking, social responsibility, and duty.

The Exclusivity of Admissions

• Selection Process:
  • Schools seek well-rounded individuals, not just academic excellence.
  • Character, leadership, and multilingual skills are emphasized.
• Cost:
  • Tuition can exceed $130,000 annually.
  • Considered a worthwhile investment by old money families.
• Legacy and Tradition:
  • Alumni include many prime ministers and royals.

Characteristics of Elite Schools

• Facilities:
  • State-of-the-art facilities including observatories, recording studios.
  • Offer experiences like skiing, horseback riding.

List of Prominent Elite Schools

1. Chote Rosemary Hall (Wallingford, Connecticut):
   • Alumni include the Kennedys, JFK.
   • Tuition around $63,000 annually.
2. Harrow School (London, UK):
   • Founded in 1572, alumni include Winston Churchill.
3. Institute auf Dem Rosenberg (St. Gallen, Switzerland):
   • Tuition over $150,000, focus on global citizenship.
   • Alumni include heirs to Fiat automobiles.
4. Lycée Louis-le-Grand (Paris, France):
   • Alumni include René Descartes, Voltaire.
   • Offers preparatory classes for France’s higher education.
5. Lawrenceville School (New Jersey, USA):
   • Founded in 1810, alumni include Malcolm Forbes.
   • Unique house system promoting community.
6. Eton College (UK):
   • Established in 1440, alumni include 20 British prime ministers.
   • Strong emphasis on intellectual challenges.
7. Institute La Rosey (Switzerland):
   • Known as the "School of Kings."
   • Alumni include Rockefeller and Rothschild families.
   • Focus on multilingual education and diverse activities.

Conclusion

• These schools represent a blend of tradition, prestige, and luxury.
• Question of which school individuals would choose if financially possible.
• Encouragement to participate in conversation about elite education.