IBSC Ideas Lab
Professional Conversations for Directors of Student Affairs and Deans of Students in Boys’ Schools
Starting January 27, 2026
IBSC Ideas Lab invites directors of student affairs and deans of students in boys’ schools to connect virtually using Zoom. Limited to 14 participants plus the facilitator, this IBSC Ideas Lab includes three one-hour sessions for participants to discuss relevant topics.
Designed as an interactive exchange among colleagues, IBSC Ideas Lab engages dedicated educators who learn and grow together. Before each session, participants engage with relevant resources to provide a foundation for discussions. Together we surface fresh ideas and build mutual support structures and enduring professional friendships.
Available exclusively to IBSC member schools, first-time participants who can commit to joining all three sessions get preference in registration to support the success of each small group. No more than two participants from one school may register for an IBSC Ideas Lab.
In the spirit of open dialogue and collaboration, IBSC Ideas Labs are not recorded, allowing participants the freedom to express themselves openly and share their experiences candidly.
Who Should Attend?
Directors of student affairs and deans of students in IBSC member schools
Format
IBSC Ideas Lab attendees participate in three scheduled one-hour calls using Zoom. Luke Pearson, deputy head of St. Stithians Boys’ College (South Africa), facilitates each session.
Conversation Topics
Conversation 1
Cultivating Authentic Leadership in Boys
Tuesday, January 27, 7:00 AM EST, 12:00 noon GMT, 2:00 PM CAT, 8:00 PM AWST, 11:00 PM AEDT
Wednesday, January 28, 1:00 AM NZDT
Check the event time in your time zone.
60 minutes
How can directors of student affairs and deans of students strategically design and implement leadership development programs that empower boys to lead with integrity, empathy, and courage, moving beyond traditional models to prepare them for diverse leadership roles in a complex world?
Join this critical conversation to share your school's successful strategies and challenges. Collaboratively explore practical ways to build programs that resonate authentically with boys, moving beyond token roles to foster genuine character and responsibility. Learn from your peers how they are cultivating the next generation of empathetic and courageous leaders in their communities.
Conversation 2
Building a Culture of Respect and Inclusivity
Tuesday, February 3, 7:00 AM EST, 12:00 noon GMT, 2:00 PM CAT, 8:00 PM AWST, 11:00 PM AEDT
Wednesday, February 4, 1:00 AM NZDT
Check the event time in your time zone.
60 minutes
What proactive strategies can directors of student affairs and deans of students implement to foster a truly inclusive and respectful school community where all boys feel valued, safe, and celebrated and where harmful behaviors like bullying or discrimination are effectively addressed?
Engage in a dynamic discussion focused on action-oriented strategies for building a true culture of belonging. Share your experiences and learn from fellow deans about what really works in a boys' school environment to champion inclusivity, address difficult conversations head on, and ensure every boy feels seen and respected. Take this chance to candidly discuss challenges and discover proven solutions together.
Conversation 3
Advocacy for the Boy in the Faculty Context
Tuesday, February 10, 7:00 AM EST, 12:00 noon GMT, 2:00 PM CAT, 8:00 PM AWST, 11:00 PM AEDT
Wednesday, February 11, 1:00 AM NZDT
Check the event time in your time zone.
60 minutes
How can directors of student affairs and deans of students effectively advocate for the unique needs, behaviors, and developmental stages of boys within faculty discussions, curriculum planning, and disciplinary approaches to ensure school policies truly serve their best interests?
This conversation is dedicated to our vital role as advocates for our boys within our schools. Join your peers to discuss how to effectively communicate the "why" behind boys' behavior and development to colleagues, influencing school-wide policies from the curriculum to the code of conduct. Share your approaches for ensuring the faculty context is always informed by what's best for the boys we serve.
Registration
IBSC member rate: US $180
Cancellation Policy
If you are unable to attend, you must cancel your registration in writing by emailing IBSC@theibsc.org by January 13, 2026. IBSC will refund 90% of registration fees if a written request is received via email by this date. No refunds will be made for cancellations received after this date. Schools seeking to register an alternate to replace a participant unable to attend should contact IBSC@theibsc.org.
Please note: Watch your email for login information for this IBSC Ideas Lab by January 20, 2026. If you registered later than this date, watch for login information within 24 hours.
Participation certificates: Participants present for all three conversations will receive a certificate of participation within two weeks of the final session.
Facilitator
Luke Pearson