Boarding Schools

Dr. Bryan taught English, coached and served as a dorm parent at The Hotchkiss School before becoming a Psychologist and thus knows first-hand about the unique culture of a residential school community. Boarding schools face particular challenges in addressing Gender and Sexuality Diversity. Is it possible to foster the healthy identity development of all students and maintain the community rules of conduct at the same time? The responsibility of acting in loco parentis means teachers, dorm parents, advisors and coaches are front line in conveying the values and guidelines of healthy, appropriate interpersonal and intimate relationships. Many of the old standard residential policies are insufficient in addressing the reality of having openly gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered community members. What should the new policies be? How do you determine the approach that will serve all community members most equitably? Dr. Bryan assists boarding schools as they navigate this new, complex terrain that is central to residential life.

…her intelligent wit, knowledge of child and adolescent development, earlier stint as a teacher, and experience in boarding schools all make her one of the best presenters around. Her delivery is professional, provocative and caring as she tackles the difficult topics of gender identification and sexual orientation. more
—Sally L. Mixsell, Head of School, Stoneleigh-Burnham School