About This Episode

Season 7. Episode 2.

In this episode of Education Insight, we examine a growing national conversation: why boys are struggling in school and whether gender-specific education can offer meaningful solutions. Host Lacey Kendall is joined by President Barry Shreiar of Army and Navy Academy for an in-depth discussion about how intentionally designed learning environments can better support boys who may be disengaging from traditional education settings.

President Shreiar shares insight into how Army and Navy Academy approaches educating the “whole boy,” emphasizing not only academic achievement but also social and emotional development. The conversation explores how structure, routine, and mentorship—often associated with military-style schools—can provide stability and clarity for boys who have struggled with focus, motivation, or confidence elsewhere. Importantly, the episode also addresses common misconceptions, highlighting how discipline can be paired with care, connection, and encouragement rather than pressure or shame.

Listeners will also learn how research into how boys learn differently informs classroom practices, daily routines, and student support systems at the Academy. From helping students connect learning to purpose and real-world goals to fostering self-control, communication, and respect, the episode offers a nuanced look at how an all-boys boarding environment can create space for growth and belonging. While not every student follows the same path after graduation, the Academy’s model focuses on preparing young men for a range of futures—college, careers, and beyond—by helping them build confidence, responsibility, and resilience.

This conversation invites educators, families, and community leaders to reflect on how schools can better meet the needs of boys at a time when engagement and completion rates continue to lag—and what intentional, student-centered environments can teach us about supporting all learners.

Featured Guest

Barry Shreiar

Academy President

Biography

Barry served for 13 years on the Army and Navy Academy Board of Trustees and was chairman for 11 years before assuming the role of Academy President in 2025.

Mr. Shreiar spent his early career as a merger and acquisition attorney and the latter part of his career as a Managing Director and founding member of Prism Advisers, where he guided emerging growth companies through strategic development and investment. He was also the Managing Director of  Global Resource Management, which specialized in operational security. With degrees in philosophy and law, Barry brings deep expertise in corporate law, venture consulting, and protective intelligence.

A longtime Newport Beach resident and former five-year Academy parent, he remains committed to supporting the Academy’s mission of forging virtuous young men for life.