I'm not quite sure military school is right for my child.

Sending their child to a new school is not something any parent takes lightly.  In admissions, I am often asked if there is a way to "just try" the program to see if it will work.

My answer is: "Have you though abut summer school?"  Most boarding schools offer a summer session in which students can come in and either repeat classes they have already taken or new, and sometimes unique offerings.  Our school offers a leadership class, ESL and a variety of standard coursework.

Why summer school?  Well, the initial investment is relatively minimal when compared with a full year's tuition, and the the time commitment is much shorter.  Be sure to get good details on the structure of the program you are looking into.  For instance, at Fork Union Military Academy, structure and discipline are key components, but we do not utilize a military uniform like we do in the school year.  However, the classes are offered by our own experienced teaching staff and the sports camps are coached by our coaches.  

Sending your son to a summer program offers them a chance to get a feel for the campus, the teaching styles implemented, and start to develop some friendships with other students he may be enrolled with in the fall.  

I must add a word of caution:  changing habits takes time.  One month of summer school cannot be expected to have a "miracle" effect on a child.  While he is enrolled, he will be held to a specific standard, and that accountability will have an impact on his level of success.  If you think it is working well, I would say you have a good indication that the school is a good fit, and it might be time to consider that school as a solution for the next school year.