Q&A: Getting to Know Head of School Sue Bosland

Why did you become an educator, and specifically a science teacher?
Sue Bosland: I became a teacher because I love working with children. I also love the outdoors, animals, and the medical profession, all interests that drew me to the field of science. The summer before my freshman year in college, I helped teach educators how to test streams in Yellowstone National Park. That summer of teaching confirmed my interest and showed me the power of experiential learning, a technique I used in my own classroom.

What prompted your move into administrative roles?
SB: I was interested in how all parts of a school interconnect and in working strategically to create a top educational community. Plus, I enjoy working with all grade levels and constituents: students, teachers, staff, parents, alumnae, trustees, and the greater community.

What drew you to independent education, and girls’ schools in particular?
SB: I went to an all-girls school (Laurel School in Ohio), and it changed my life. From that experience, I gained confidence and learned to explore new interests, take calculated risks, and appreciate multiple perspectives. The smaller classes, strong academics, and the fact that excellence was individually defined inspired my overall educational experience. Laurel is where my interest in leadership began.

What from your 18 years at Kent Place makes you most proud?
SB: My time at Kent Place School was extraordinary because of the dedicated professional team I worked with and the students who attended the school. In addition to integrating leadership skills throughout our school program, we launched a Leadership Institute that helped girls and young women develop their leadership skills. We wanted to prioritize ethical thinking and discussion in our school community, so we created the Ethics Institute, “to promote the process and practice of ethical decision-making in primary and secondary school communities.”

We worked intentionally and with focus to weave diversity, equity, and inclusion into the fabric of the school. We also designed new teaching and learning spaces and new buildings (Center for Innovation being the most recent), collaboratively with faculty and staff, in which learning could expand and thrive.

What element of being a Head of School came as the biggest surprise to you?
SB: There really was no one surprise. Every day is different, and I never stop learning. One big lesson I’ve learned is that it is important as a head to remain flexible, listen to all perspectives, work collaboratively, and communicate frequently and effectively. 

What is your favorite part of your job?
SB: That’s easy—the people.

What attracted you to NCS?
SB: NCS is a top school with a great reputation, and I appreciate its academic programs; its core values of excellence, service, courage, and conscience; the traditions; and the all-girls’ environment. Also, I was interested in the collaborative nature of the Close, working with St. Albans, Beauvoir, and the Cathedral. Being a Head of School is the best job in the world! 

What did you imagine as a girl that you would do as an adult? Why did that appeal to you?
SB: I always wanted to be a teacher, but there was a short time when I was on track to go to medical school. I was getting ready to take the last courses I would need to apply for medical school when Kent Place called and offered me the Middle School director position. I couldn’t say no, and when I started that job, I wondered why I ever thought about doing anything else.

Where is your favorite place to spend free time?
SB: Vermont and Chautauqua, N.Y. In Vermont, I spend time hiking in the mountains and doing outdoor sports. Chautauqua is where I do a lot of reading and writing, but I also get to hear from interesting and inspiring speakers from across the world. It is a cultural mecca on a beautiful lake in western New York. It is also a great place for family time. We take long walks and play golf.