Headmaster Kidd Returns to the Classroom with Grade 12 Elective

Headmaster Kidd is back in the classroom co-teaching a Grade 12 elective that’s quietly been shaping minds since its launch at Ridley last year. The Examined Life, now in its second year, is a unique offering that invites students to explore what it means to live well and think deeply about the human journey.

Developed and taught by Ridley faculty, Dr. Justin Baird, the course blends sociology, psychology, philosophy, and critical thinking into a Socratic-style learning experience. With a small class size and a strong emphasis on discussion, students are encouraged to engage, reflect and challenge ideas.

“The idea of creating this class emerged from our strategic priorities. Its intent is about teaching students how to flourish — how to lead a meaningful life,” Mr. Kidd says. “We want to introduce them to ideas from the past; concepts, tools and ways of thinking they can take far beyond their time at Ridley.”

As headmaster, his teaching days are rare, but Mr. Kidd considers the opportunity to return to the classroom a real delight.

“I spent over 15 years as an English teacher and miss the days of real engagement with student learning,” he says. “It’s a privilege to be part of these conversations. Teaching was my foundation, and I’m grateful for the chance to step back into it, even in a small way.”

During a recent class, he led a discussion on Stoicism, guiding students through the Meditations by Marcus Aurelius. The conversation explored themes of resilience, virtue, and self-awareness — timeless ideas that continue to resonate with young people navigating an increasingly complex world.

As The Examined Life continues to evolve, Mr. Kidd and Dr. Baird are already considering how to expand the course and offer it to more students in the years to come.