FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Harley School Names Dr. Seth O’Bryan as Head of Middle School
ROCHESTER, NY — The Harley School is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Seth O’Bryan as Head of Middle School. After successfully serving in the interim role, Dr. O’Bryan officially steps into permanent leadership with a vision centered on student agency, restorative practices, and the integration of academic depth with social-emotional well-being.
Since joining The Harley School in 2010, Dr. O’Bryan has held several strategic leadership roles across campus, including Transition Team Chair, Professional Development Director, Digital Learning Coordinator, and Co-Director of The Commons—Harley's award-winning hub for sustainability, civic engagement, and maker education.
"The Harley Middle School takes a remarkably collaborative approach to supporting the academic and emotional needs of every student," said Dr. O’Bryan. "Our mission is to bridge the whole-child philosophy of the Lower School with the rigorous academic focus of the Upper School through intentional exploration. By providing students with meaningful opportunities to explore new interests and bold ideas within a supportive structure, we create an environment where they can safely take risks, learn from mistakes, and grow into independent thinkers."
A dedicated educator with experience spanning nursery to adult learners, Dr. O’Bryan brings a deeply rooted understanding of Harley's mission to his appointment. He earned a B.A. in Mathematics from Hamilton College, as well as an M.S. in School Administration and an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership from the University of Rochester.
About The Harley School
Founded in 1917, The Harley School is an independent, co-educational college preparatory day school in Rochester, NY, serving students from Nursery through Grade 12. Harley is dedicated to fostering academic depth, mindful balance, and a diverse, inclusive community sparked by curiosity. For more information, visit www.harleyschool.org.
