The residential program continues to evolve into a dynamic and invested social program that reflects Kildonan’s interest in holistic education. At Kildonan, we firmly believe in and value the education that takes place outside the classroom. Kildonan is invested in establishing a community that emphasizes respect for the individual and tolerance of diversity and difference. In addition to meetings twice each month designed to challenge, edify, and discuss the social and moral beliefs of our students, residents enjoy outings, athletic activities, dinners, games, and movies with residential faculty on the weekends. The residential program affords faculty and students alike the opportunity to live and work together and to establish a lasting connection that extends beyond their time here on campus.
The residential curriculum facilitates social learning and provides our students with an opportunity to raise and address personal or community concerns in a safe, comfortable environment. It is also an opportunity for the school to invest in its students a sense of community and individual responsibility; we strive to establish effective communication skills within the group as well. Residential curriculum meetings are administered in small groups consisting of seven to eight students. Each group is assigned two to three faculty members who oversee each session and facilitate healthy discussion and role-playing. Students are encouraged to relate personal experiences and honest opinions in regards to subjects ranging from racism to hazing to resolving conflicts with peers. A number of faculty living outside of the residence halls volunteer their time and effort to the residential program as it is viewed as an important aspect of education and key to molding our students into well rounded and conscientious members of society.
Kildonan is located in rural Dutchess County, the heart of the Hudson Valley. As Kildonan’s students come from all over the United States and the world, many of our students are seven-day boarders. Students and faculty alike may suggest weekend trips. Generally, weekend activities take advantage of the cultural and environmental diversity of the area, including New York City, which is a short train ride away. Ball games, broadway shows, and trips to art museums are offered from time to time; trips to the mall, movies, and local shops are staples of the weekend schedule.
