tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83408125303033410762024-03-13T00:42:22.183-07:00Mead's MusingsA space where I write about educational topics important to me, things I want to learn more about and just a space to write so the people I work with and for get an idea of what makes me tick.
Please ask me questions or challenge my ideas by commenting below or sending me an email. These are my thoughts and not necessarily those of my employer.andrewmead73http://www.blogger.com/profile/02674066480142779717noreply@blogger.comBlogger12125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8340812530303341076.post-25970414553567740432020-06-09T17:08:00.000-07:002020-06-09T17:15:39.175-07:00Restoring Safe Services Together roadmap<div class="kvgmc6g5 cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: system-ui, -apple-system, system-ui, ".SFNSText-Regular", sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space: pre-wrap;">
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Phase 2 is still a proposal as far as I know it. The province wants feedback: <span style="font-family: inherit;"><a class="oajrlxb2 g5ia77u1 qu0x051f esr5mh6w e9989ue4 r7d6kgcz rq0escxv nhd2j8a9 nc684nl6 p7hjln8o kvgmc6g5 cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x jb3vyjys rz4wbd8a qt6c0cv9 a8nywdso i1ao9s8h esuyzwwr f1sip0of lzcic4wl py34i1dx gpro0wi8" href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fengagemb.ca%2Frestoring-safe-services-phase-two%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR1rO0JpKO8q8L0G_R5pSSieUN-57PgLuFGHWmU-DhNgBIpJp3hvDVmHvRg&h=AT3ob-hvosCpcgiJd_27h0Zo34qSfCpXA9gCQMFH6MTkzpO1espy31RlqPMI7DD3srZxJ8SJwWdTnDrFrS0erUACXUFmA9-zKJqwVQfdV21ABf6Ktek07jvBJ2vvcJGg_YSLuk9VCg&__tn__=-UK-R&c[0]=AT13T8VI6VRxTnGbinYvbv05sxypWMbku5Pwpl0H4mVBtktF-JykR70vxE7DaTHEgre6FuGLxbkgetbhiTIa_6jEMOdh1lJ0QIGtW6mHRVN8enUb8cInaSnwRkQ4a9ztKqd42eYKIirwkHCovJT9" rel="nofollow noopener" role="link" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; background-color: transparent; border-color: initial; border-style: initial; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; cursor: pointer; display: inline; font-family: inherit; list-style: none; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-align: inherit; text-decoration-line: none; touch-action: manipulation;" tabindex="0" target="_blank">https://engagemb.ca/restoring-safe-services-phase-two</a></span></div>
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The last question in the survey is: Do you have any additional comments on the draft plan for phase two of the Restoring Safe Services Together roadmap? </div>
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This is my response to that question:</div>
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The points below are from the Schools portion of Phase 2. My response to each point starts with a *</div>
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-Indoor occupancy limits of 50 per cent of normal occupancy levels or one person per 10 square metres will be in place. Teachers and students may meet in small group or one-on-one settings to conduct student assessments, provide clinical supports, administer recovery and remedial learning plans and provide therapeutic services. *The numbers don't add up. Most classrooms are about 700 sq ft. This allows for about 5 kids plus a teacher to be in a room at one time. Much less than 50% capacity in most schools. This will help some kids but schools won't provide transportation so this is inequitable for families. Many families who really need the extra support won't be able to access it especially in rural areas. The amount of time that this will provide for most kids will have little to no educational benefit to most students. </div>
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-Scheduled students can access school Wi-Fi and/or computer equipment. *Many schools are already doing this.</div>
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-Counselling access and emergency phone access may be provided for students. *Many schools are already doing this.</div>
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-Remote learning continues but will wind down throughout June as student assessment and transition planning begins. This planning may be done remotely or in person depending on local needs and individual considerations. *The expectation for teachers to continue online/remote teaching AND provide in school supports will create lots of anxiety and stress for teachers and families. Also, report cards still need to get done. It feels as if it is an optics move to make it look like teachers are working. They already are in the current model. Kids and families (and teachers) are in a good routine now and making another change will increase stress/anxiety in many cases.</div>
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-starting schools on August 31st, 2020 and re-purposing some of the non-instructional days throughout the school year. *I have had many families tell me they will not start their kids in school before labour day. This will potentially make things even more inequitable. Changing non-instructional days to instructional days will likely not have the impact it's intended for. Having long weekends for kids/families throughout the year is healthy. No breaks may increase anxiety/stress. Staff need this time to collaborate, plan and learn. This pandemic has been traumatic for some kids and families (and teachers). Teachers will need to continue to learn trauma informed practices and look at assessment and other data to ensure appropriate programming is in place for all kids. If this pandemic does change how schools are run/organized teachers will need time and PD in the new reality so we can continue to provide academic and social emotional support for kids and their families. This seems to be politically motivated and I question the cost/benefit ratio in terms of how this will really benefit kids. Next year we start the same we always do. We learn our kids early in the year, figure out what they need and then plan accordingly.</div>
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andrewmead73http://www.blogger.com/profile/02674066480142779717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8340812530303341076.post-42211334015881722662019-06-03T06:45:00.003-07:002019-06-03T06:46:12.279-07:00Manitoba Education Review - Written Response<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Hello,</span><br />
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Please accept my enclosed written response for the K-12 Manitoba Education Review. It is my hope that teachers are listened to first and foremost. It is also my hope that commission members take the time to visit as many schools in as many different areas as possible. This will give the commission members the best opportunity to see what really happens everyday in classrooms around Manitoba.</div>
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I do hope as that my letter is read and concerns/ideas are considered. After my experience at one of the consultation meetings and an interaction with one of the commission members I fear that this review is just a process to go through and the '“bold recommendations to ignite change” have already been decided.</div>
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Thank you for the opportunity to share my thoughts.</div>
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Andrew Mead</div>
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Oakbank, MB</div>
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<span id="docs-internal-guid-5d607cea-7fff-742e-bf08-3e322aaf2756"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Manitoba’s Commission on K-12 Education </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Winnipeg, Manitoba </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">May 31, 2019</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dear Commission Members,</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The K-12 education review is tasked with proposing a “renewed vision” for kindergarten-to-Grade 12 education to make “bold recommendations to ignite change” within existing systems and programs that will inspire excellence in teaching and learning. This review will concentrate on six broad areas of focus:</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Long-term vision</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Teaching</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Accountability for student learning</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Governance </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I am currently in my 22nd year of teaching. In that time I have had the opportunity to work in 7 different schools as a teacher, department head, vice principal, and principal in both urban and rural settings. I have served on many school based, divisional based and provincial committees throughout my career as well as spent countless hours outside the regular school day as a coach and club leader at every school I have had the opportunity to be a member of. I also have two young children who are about to enter the public school system so I am greatly invested in the direction of education in Manitoba, how it is funded and the supports that students, families, schools and divisions have access to. These are my thoughts on how Manitoba can make </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">a “renewed vision” for education in Manitoba.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">What should the goals and purpose of K-12 education be in a rapidly changing world? </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Manitoba students deserve an education system that ensures they learn the skills, dispositions, knowledge and values that will help them succeed in an ever changing world. Our students need to learn basic competency skills in the areas of: Critical Thinking, Communication, Collaboration, Creativity, and to exhibit good Citizenship and strong Character. This requires relevant and challenging curriculum with a focus on intellectual, social, academic and emotional growth. Our students and families deserve learning environments that are dynamic and inclusive. A space where every child can thrive. All of our schools require classrooms that have current technology that can be infused into learning opportunities for students and staff. This technology will break down the walls of the school giving students access to learning partnerships that enhance opportunities for students and teachers to learn and share their learning with the world.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">What are the conditions required to achieve excellence in student achievement and outcomes in Manitoba? </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">All students deserve access to equal and fair learning opportunities. With the high rates of child poverty throughout Manitoba baseline supports for all schools are needed. All schools require full time learning support teachers, guidance counselors and in the senior years, access to addictions services. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Families require access to social workers, school psychologists, language pathology, occupational therapists, and physiotherapists at minimum. Schools require access to healthy food for students who come to school hungry everyday. Students and families deserve access to assessments for children with cognitive challenges, so that those who qualify for a special education designation receive early intervention and the necessary supports, regardless of where in the province the student is attending school. Children with special needs, including behavioural needs, deserve equal and fair opportunities within the classrooms of their peers with adequate support. Manitoba students deserve access to a mental health curriculum that promotes mental wellness and a curriculum that helps reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues. Students and their families deserve mental health services are readily accessible in schools and increase the number of school counsellors and other specialist support teachers to address students’ mental health issues where necessary.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Classrooms need to be inclusive where all children feel welcome and feel they have the opportunity for success. This requires support and class sizes that allow for personal connections to be made between the child and the teacher. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How can teachers and school leaders become more effective?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Every staff that I have had the opportunity to work with has been full of dedicated and caring teachers and administration. There are many factors that impact a teacher’s or leader’s ‘effectiveness’. This is based on what the definition of effective is. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Principals and vice principals are first-and-foremost principal teachers and an integral part of the general body of the teaching profession. Ensuring that school based administration remain within the bargaining unit will further help school culture and relationships within school staffs. All teaching and learning is relationship based. Taking school based administration out of the association will create a fracture within a school which will limit risk taking, trust, and communication. School leaders and teachers must work together to ensure a safe and happy school culture exists. The best teachers must become school leaders. Creating the conditions where the best teachers want to become principals, is of utmost importance. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">We need teachers in settings (management class sizes) that allow them to connect with each of the children under their care. Teachers require ongoing access to professional development experiences that are adequately funded by Manitoba Education and Training so that teachers have opportunity to increase skills for their work in complex and diverse classrooms. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Accountability for student learning</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">How can the education system develop a stronger sense of shared accountability for student learning?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I believe the key word in this area is shared. Educating children is a shared responsibility between the home, school, community and government. Ensuring students and teachers have access to a relevant and rich curriculum. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The word “assess” comes from the Latin assidere, which means to sit beside. Literally then, to assess means to sit beside the learner. One and done standardized tests that rank students, schools and communities are not effective to ensure student growth and excellence. Assessments should be created and used to promote further growth and the data gained from standardized assessments is used to drive teaching and next steps in learning. This provides opportunities to schools and families to work together to build individual and personalized plans to ensure every child has the opportunity to meet their full potential. Data should be used to drive further curriculum development and to dedicate resources to support all children in the places where it’s needed the most.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Governance</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">What type of governance structures are needed to create a coordinated and relevant education system? </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I am in support of the current system of elected school board governance within Manitoba. School boards are the voices within the community when it comes to the programming, services and supports offered in local schools. The school board works with the community and for the community, to ensure that the schools provide what the community wants and needs. Schools in some Manitoba communities look different from schools in other parts of the province. Those differences are the result of choices local school boards have made on behalf of the community. Those differences are the result of grassroots democracy in action. Keeping a local voice in education ensures differentiated instruction on a systemic level.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Furthermore, Manitoba is a diverse province. This requires local control and decision making. Mandating a reduction in the number of school divisions in Manitoba will not enhance learning opportunities for students. A reduction in numbers means an increase in size, and an increase in size means that it will become more difficult for community members to have their voices heard. School divisions, and the boards that govern them, are already administered efficiently. Experience has shown that there are few, if any, savings to be found in amalgamating school divisions. Trading a voice in local schools for minimal or nonexistent savings is not worth it. Schools belong to communities and when it comes to education, it is important that communities have a voice to make choices that reflect the needs of the community. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It is also important that the following points are maintained:</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Teachers remain governed under the Labour Relations Act. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">MTS will bargain directly with the Province of Manitoba (the funder). </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Bargaining must be free, fair and with an open scope. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The mechanisms for dispute resolution, whether strike or interest arbitration, must be without limitation. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The best provisions from existing collective agreements should be the standard for the new contract. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The membership of MTS will remain, as it currently exists. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Funding</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">What actions are required to ensure that the education system is sustainable and provides equitable learning opportunities for all children and youth?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Every child in Manitoba is entitled to an education that meets the child’s needs and therefore</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">supports an education system where the provincial government is responsible for funding to support the necessary programs for students to achieve excellence and where funding is stable, adequate and sustainable to support student learning.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I am in agreement that reviewing the education system is important and necessary. This review will provide families, schools, communities and the government the opportunity to ensure that appropriate resources are in place to fully support every child within the public education system. In many cases, currently, schools and school divisions are inadequately funded to that we </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">inspire excellence in teaching and learning. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to give input in this extremely important process.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sincerely,</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Andrew Mead</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Oakbank, Manitoba</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">andrewmead73@gmail.com</span></div>
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andrewmead73http://www.blogger.com/profile/02674066480142779717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8340812530303341076.post-67099428427740910492018-02-15T18:12:00.001-08:002019-06-03T06:43:50.508-07:00Appreciation<span style="background-color: #fafafa;"><span style="font-family: "roboto slab" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; font-variant-ligatures: none; white-space: pre-wrap;">During a leadership program I am involved in within the Hanover School Division I was shown a video from Ben Zander called the Art of Possibility. So much resonated with me. Ideals such as joy, passion, leadership and all the things that matter when it comes to teaching and learning. The following clip isn't the video we watched but it contains some of the message (<a href="https://youtu.be/ZS-YYhoyBMo">Shining Eyes</a>).</span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #fafafa;"><span style="font-family: "roboto slab" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; font-variant-ligatures: none; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "roboto slab" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: #fafafa; font-size: 14px; font-variant-ligatures: none; white-space: pre-wrap;">One thing that Ben Zander said that resonated with me was the fact that the only person in an orchestra that doesn't make any sound is the conductor. To me, this is the same as the principal of the school. Without the staff, the principal is just a person waving his hands madly in front of an empty room. Without the teachers I get to work with, I'm not much use. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "roboto slab" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: #fafafa; font-size: 14px; font-variant-ligatures: none; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "roboto slab" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: #fafafa; font-size: 14px; font-variant-ligatures: none; white-space: pre-wrap;">I have always had the chance to work with a great group of teachers. Always. We may not always agree on everything but every person has always had something strong to bring to the table. Before Christmas I had the chance to thank my staff with a small gift of mittens (the whole warm heart, cold hands kinda thing)... I also thought of, and shared, one word for each staff member that I think of when I think of them. Below are those words. I am not sharing whose word is whose... because it was meant just for them. It's just one thing I value in each of them. It wasn't meant to define them. Just something I appreciate in each and everyone of them (EAs, teachers, office staff, student teachers and custodians)</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-family: "roboto slab" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: #fafafa; font-size: 14px; font-variant-ligatures: none; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: #fafafa; font-size: 14px; font-variant-ligatures: none; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.870588235294118); font-family: "roboto slab" , "times new roman" , serif;">Kind Hope Humour Care Creativity Artist Dedicated Faith
Advocate Positive Passion Imagination Leader Craftsman Integrity
Principled Service Energy Strong Selfless Honesty Courage Kindness
Brave Giving Optimism Perseverance Patient Hardworker Creative
Hardworking Diligent Fixer Tireless </span></span><span style="background-color: #fafafa; font-family: "roboto slab" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Energy </span><span style="background-color: #fafafa; font-family: "roboto slab" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Focused </span><span style="background-color: #fafafa; font-family: "roboto slab" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Ready </span><span style="background-color: #fafafa; font-family: "roboto slab" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">'Gentle'man</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #fafafa; font-size: 14px; font-variant-ligatures: none; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: "roboto slab" , "times new roman" , serif;">Natural teacher Imagination</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "roboto slab" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: #fafafa; font-size: 14px; font-variant-ligatures: none; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "roboto slab" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: #fafafa; font-size: 14px; font-variant-ligatures: none; white-space: pre-wrap;">These are the people in the school that make the music. Without their dedication and love of what they do, I would be lost. I very much appreciate each and every person I get to work with. I have always been lucky this way. This year is no different.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "roboto slab" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: #fafafa; font-size: 14px; font-variant-ligatures: none; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "roboto slab" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: #fafafa; font-size: 14px; font-variant-ligatures: none; white-space: pre-wrap;">After a brief conversation with one staff member who had been reflecting on the word that I thought she embodied I came to a realization. She told me that she didn't see herself that way. But after a couple conversations with colleagues she saw it too and she was very appreciative. It helped her feel good about what she does everyday. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #fafafa; color: rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.87); font-family: "roboto slab" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #fafafa; color: rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.87); font-family: "roboto slab" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Since then, what I’ve come to realize. Every quality shown above are all qualities that I need to grow in. These are all things I rely on others to help me be better. So, I appreciate everyone I get to work with. They help bring out my best and challenge me to get better at my worst.</span><br />
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andrewmead73http://www.blogger.com/profile/02674066480142779717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8340812530303341076.post-87130964030396692982017-11-08T19:00:00.003-08:002017-11-08T19:00:53.806-08:00Day 2 November 8, 20175:20 am Up before the cutest alarm clocks. Check email. Twitter.<br />
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552 am The littlest is stirring. </div>
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Dress her. Get her a bobble. </div>
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600 am outfit decided upon</div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">Yes. That’s an ostrich mug shot. </span></div>
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615 am breakfast with E. </div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">625 texts from a teacher who is sick. Emails with sub clerk to clarify what sub is needed</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">645 the boy is up. Momma takes care of him </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">715 reminders on phone to do some stuff later in the day. Update school blog. Get info out about day Wonder round 2</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">742 off to work </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">830 arrive at work. Erin bought me a hot chocolate at Tim’s!</span><br />
840 am respond to an email to a teacher. Clarifying my approach to a number of incidents. </div>
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845 welcome a sub to the building. Get them started. </div>
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846 helped our caretaker find the YouTube announcements. </div>
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847 walked around school confirming staff shirt orders. That’s done now. </div>
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850 am in halls welcoming kids</div>
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855 am drop in parent meeting with a student who is struggling. A good start to his day. </div>
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9:00 am ROEs done encouraging kids to get to homerooms. And saying goodbye to kids going curling for Day Wonder. </div>
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9:05 am respond to two text message for parents excising their child for the day. </div>
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918 am attendance follow ups with staff who haven’t done it yet</div>
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920 day Wonder is starting. My kids getting their ukuleles to get started. </div>
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922 am visiting each day Wonder session (17 of then) to say hi and take some pics to share on social media </div>
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935 Post Day Wonder quations on the Wonder walls. Asking kids what they learned during the first round of Day Wonder. </div>
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1000 am talk to a teacher about subs coming up. </div>
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1015 am playing ukulele with kids and watching them play in Day Wonder. Not a kid in the hallway during Day Wonder</div>
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1030 grade 7 microwave meeting. </div>
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1050 am send in golf shirt order for staff, approves invoices and sign cheques. In office now. Turning on computer for the first time today </div>
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11:00 am Post Day Wonder pics to social media feeds </div>
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1115 emails emails emails </div>
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1130 discussion with a teacher about school class culture. Importance of how we welcome kids back into class after an issue</div>
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1140 Chromebook malfunction. Explore ways to fix it. </div>
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1150 get ready for lunch. Get microwaves into place. </div>
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1155 supervise hallways at the start of lunch. </div>
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Noon grade 8 Boys Volleyball Practice </div>
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100 work with a student who had an issue at lunch. Resolved quickly. </div>
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105 visit 6 teachers to talk about attendance. </div>
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110 pack up clothing samples to get sent back to supplier. </div>
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115 fix Chromebook </div>
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120 lunch </div>
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130 begin visiting class. Post pics of kids engaged in work. Visited 11 classrooms. While walking in halls work with kids and discipline issues that have come up. </div>
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2:00 pm back in office looking at emails. </div>
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208 call to our learning coach about the agenda for our committee that meets tomorrow </div>
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210 more emails. Crossing off things on my ‘to do’ list in Google Keep. Got a few things done!</div>
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2:15 pm iPec coaching session. </div>
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251 pm done coaching call. Went better than expected. </div>
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255 pm recess issue clean up. Will try our restitution form. </div>
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325 two parent phone calls made. Meeting with students done. Meeting with one of the parents after school. </div>
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335 phys ed issue with subs. Meeting tomorrow to discuss with kids to figure it out. Will call home. X2</div>
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Meeting set up tomorrow with both kids to discuss. </div>
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348. Meet with a sub who will be here for a few days to talk about discipline. What are they expectations etc. </div>
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400 called both parents with kids with the PE issue </div>
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Meeting tomorrow am set up</div>
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415 adjusted meeting agenda for tomorrow’s meetings.</div>
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418 read a number of discipline referrals that were submitted. Student care team to respond. </div>
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420 cleaned up inbox and desk</div>
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435 just hit 10000 steps for the day</div>
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445. Heading home </div>
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535. Got home. Made calls to the vet and calls for a trumpeter for our Remembrance Day service</div>
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600 family supper </div>
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630 numerous phone calls to try and find trumpeter for our Remembrance Day service. No luck.<br />
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700 pm Bedtime for the little one.<br />
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7:30 - 9:00 pm Feet up. Going through emails. Creating forms for a restitution process for kids experiencing difficulty. Testing eventbrite for our Day Wonder set up. A couple of emails reviewed and sent.<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8340812530303341076.post-27867376211363134952017-11-07T20:03:00.000-08:002017-11-07T20:10:06.344-08:00A day in the life... part one. November 7, 2017Some days I get home and I think, what happened, where’d the day go? What did I exactly accomplish today?<br />
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I’ve seen some other administrators do this, so today, I’ve decided to keep track of my next two days.<br />
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This is more for me than anyone else. But to take the advice I often give my staff and students is, if it’s worth doing, it’s worth sharing, so I’ll share it.<br />
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I’m going to keep track of my next two days. From home to work and back again....<br />
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So it begins.<br />
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November 7, 2017<br />
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4:30 am World’s cutest alarm clock goes off. Quickly settle her. I’m up. Check emails and Twitter. </div>
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5:15 am Snooze button on the world’s cutest alarm clock goes off. Get milk and bring her to the big bed. </div>
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5:45 am Super mom takes over with Emilia (aka cutest alarm clock ever). I start this blog after looking for the Blogger app, which no longer exists? Download this app - wants me to pay $6.99. Uhm. No. Going with the free, limited version</div>
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6:00 am Time to get up. I’ll save the details. But two of my hardest decisions of each day were made. Which socks? which tie? </div>
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Tie in honour of Movember. Take care of yourself gents!</div>
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<img alt="" id="id_cc81_e8b1_fd4_dc8c" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UFv-IA4ypmo/WgHFvqNPQ5I/AAAAAAAAIHQ/BgjSoWJwcm8xHIq50W6YmhVl9BHesMjOgCHMYCw/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" style="height: auto; width: 152px;" title="" tooltip="" /><br />
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Socks in honour of our Winnipeg Jets who are flying high right now. Go beat Vegas on Friday!<br />
<img alt="" id="id_141f_d70e_eea1_e600" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DArntWp_Br0/WgHFv_07H5I/AAAAAAAAIHY/9tU4qgFSSxc4KdCIGPxksMk3uXYoRcoGQCHMYCw/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" style="height: auto; width: 146px;" title="" tooltip="" /></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">6:25 am Mom now resting with Bennett. Emilia slowly (and when I say slow, it’s not slow at all) pulls all of her toys out. So, it’s breakfast time in front of the news with me and Emilia (and Meeko, our ever so patient pooch). </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">6:30 am It appears our 3 year old is up. Nope. From his bed to our bed. It’s cold out. Who can blame him. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">6:45 am Post to our social media feeds the recess cancelling policy. We are a hardy people. Also set up a scheduled email to all families reminding to bundle up because it’s cold out! But not cold enough. It’s an outside recess kind of day. </span></div>
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7:20 am Find the boy in bed watching Paw Patrol. Accident in the bed. Him. Not me. Mom takes care of the kids. I throw a load of sheets in the laundry. Time to get ready to head to work. Start the car. Brrr. </div>
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7:31 am Out the door and off to work. Podcast on. Stopping for a Hot Chocolate on the way. Brr. Garage door remote not working. Grr. Really need to get winter/snow tires on. </div>
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8:22 am Arrived at school. Slow drive because of icy highways in parts. </div>
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8:35 am Run up to the roof to take a comparison picture of what the farmer’s field next door looks like to today compared to what it looked like on this day last year</div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">8:45 am Walk around school to say good morning to staff and confirm staff shirts sizes we are purchasing. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">8:50 am Welcoming kids as they come in. High fives all ‘round</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">8:55 am Welcome a new sub to our building and walk her classroom for the morning and help get her set up. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">9:03 am Quick hallway meeting with 3 students involved in a conflict yesterday. All did a good job reminding me what they will do to have a better day. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">9:08 am Write on the Wonder Walls - What’s the best part of winter? Positive comments only. Then on to the PA to remind teachers to do attendance. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">9:15 am Quick chat with a teacher to confirm that the app she requested is the one she wanted. It’s a flyer app for Unit Pricing in math. All is good. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">9:15 am Phone call coaching session with a principal who is doing the iPec coaching training with me. She is coaching me through an issue I need to work through.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">9:18 am Received a very kind email from my Superintendent about a newsletter we recently sent out. Nice that he reads it and takes time to send a message. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">10:15 am. Coaching call over. Positive phone call</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">10:16 am Student sent to the office for ‘not working’. Helped him get started. Finished problems easily and showed off how smart he was. Good way to connect with a kid who needs something extra.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">10:30 Met with all the grade 8s to go over microwave safety. New microwaves for student use starting today with grade 8s. Due diligence. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">10:40 am Began visiting classrooms. And posting to social media showing off kids learning. Visited 12 classrooms and posted kids learning from 5 different classes. Great stuff going on. Kids are making, hands on and making work public. This brings my class visits that I’ve logged to 99 visits for the year. </span><br />
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qw1bBqBTKxw/WgJ8bDQvBPI/AAAAAAAAIIk/Iw0nyJBhqgwkzsTDfJkw6mweMYeUPNYzwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-11-07%2Bat%2B9.38.15%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="269" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qw1bBqBTKxw/WgJ8bDQvBPI/AAAAAAAAIIk/Iw0nyJBhqgwkzsTDfJkw6mweMYeUPNYzwCK4BGAYYCw/s320/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-11-07%2Bat%2B9.38.15%2BPM.png" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">10:50 am Quick chat with a teacher who submitted a discipline referral. Confirmed that her response was perfect. Asked her to contact home. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">11:30 am Back in the office to look at emails. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">11:35 am Followed up on google doc of latest discipline referral so teacher knows how I responded. with the student </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">11:37am Same student back in office for not working will help him get started. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">11:43 am Walk Student back to class. Did great. Quick chat with teacher who has this child on his workload about how to support the teacher to best help the child to keep him in class. Dropped into one more class to see grade 5s in action. (French class) 100th classroom visit for the year </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">11:46 am Quick chat with a teacher who was given the morning to visit another teacher in the division about a Day Wonder project our school is doing. (Photography). He’s excited to get that started. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">11:50 am Approve invoices for purchases that were made for our Makerspace through an Imagination Grant. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">11:52 am Help our grade 8 helper get the microwave to its appropriate spot. Go through expectations of his new job. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">11:55 am lunch begins! Quick check in with all homerooms. Make sure microwave is being used well. It is. Kids are great.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">12:13 pm off to visit another principal in the division to have a coaching session. I’m coaching him (iPec coaching training). Working lunch. Picking up lunch along the way. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">12:38 pm Arrived at the other school. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">1:36 pm. Back in to the car. Chat was excellent. Good to see a new school (new to me). Off to staples to pick up a few items for teachers and secretaries. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">2:03 pm Back at school. A few notes about kids and discipline that need responding to on my desk from lunch time. Plus a couple of phone calls to return while I was out. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">2:07 pm Spoke with a person from the Pistons hockey club (Steinbach). Set up a meeting with 2 players that will visit MMS regularly to mentor some grade 5 students. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">2:10 - 240 pm spoke to 3 groups of students about incidents at lunch. Will call home to inform parents. Parent meeting set up for today to discuss one of the incidents. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">2:45 pm Parent phone calls x 5 regarding behaviour. Spoke to all 5 sets of parents. Excellent conversations and support. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">3:05 pm Finished phone calls informing about lunch behaviour. 87th phone call home logged this year.</span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tCSRhhi4C1k/WgJ9ROCAjWI/AAAAAAAAIIs/Ds9b7hCqfC4ussOi0xIUo5nsi4EIklIuwCLcBGAs/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-11-07%2Bat%2B9.42.36%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1130" data-original-width="1434" height="252" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tCSRhhi4C1k/WgJ9ROCAjWI/AAAAAAAAIIs/Ds9b7hCqfC4ussOi0xIUo5nsi4EIklIuwCLcBGAs/s320/Screen%2BShot%2B2017-11-07%2Bat%2B9.42.36%2BPM.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">3:10 pm Another student discipline issue. Good chat. Lots going on with this boy. Good chat and a plan made moving forward. Sending to fitness class to get a good run in. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">3:20 Another incident with a student. Will set up a meeting with a parent after details are sent to me. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">3:25 pm Parent meeting. Re: behaviour of child. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">3:50 pm. Parent meeting done. Positive outcome with a plan moving forward about how to connect the kid to school positively. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">3:55 pm Staff meeting in 5 minutes. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">4:00 pm - 5:00 pm. Staff meeting. </span><br />
<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">I've been so lucky to work with amazing teachers in my career. MMS staff is no different. Not afraid to have hard conversations for the benefits of kids. Conversations start with simple enough question but never simple solutions and staff get it. Staff get that it's messy and growth is what it's all about.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">518 pm. On my way home after a positive staff meeting with some good hard conversations about stuff happening at school. Meeting was done at 5:03. Didn’t get through entire agenda. Oh well. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">559 pm Arrived at my kids music class 30 minutes s late. Will be able to catch the last 15 minutes. Fun to watch them play,</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">9243 steps for the day. A bit shy of my 10000 daily at school step goal. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">625 pm. On the way home for supper with the family. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">6:32 pm </span>Erin (momma) makes a great supper in about 45 seconds for both kids before she has to run out for her curling game. I change out of work clothes. Supper time for the kids</div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">7:00 pm Bath time for the little ones. The littlest one is a trooper. Went to the doctor today with mom and big brother. Got 4 big shots. I don't know how Erin manages her job and everything the kids need. We are all lucky to she is who she is.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">7:21 pm Bath time done. The boy cleans up his room and then watches a show while I put the girl to bed. First, the girl attempts to sabotage the boys show. Bottle time for both. Bed time for the girl. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">752 pm. The littlest one is asleep. One of the best parts of the day. The littlest is such a snuggler. Such a happy little person.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">755 pm Make bed from the mornings mishap. The boys. Not mine. Throw in my supper into the oven. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">807 pm. The boy’s bedtime. A couple of stories the lights out. Amazing little man. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">825 pm The boy is asleep. Supper time for me while watching Life in Pieces. Then CNN. Should have stuck with Life in Pieces. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">915 pm Clean up kitchen after all the suppers. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">9:25 pm Make sure announcements for tomorrow are up to date. Look at Twitter for a bit while having a ‘coke’. Updating this blog.</span><br />
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">9:50 pm Get caught up on the world's events by checking Twitter. Part inspiring. Part terrifying. So many smart people out there... </span><br />
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">10:00 pm Bedtime soon. Will try and read 1 chapter of the book What Kind of Citizen for the HELP (Hanover Education Leadership Program) I'm in (being a new admin in the HSD). Great book and group to be a part of. Focus is ethical leadership. Definitely having an impact on what I think schools need to be for kids. Also re-affirming many of my thoughts.</span><br />
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">'til tomorrow...</span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8340812530303341076.post-27468821332770588042017-02-27T19:10:00.003-08:002017-02-27T19:10:47.172-08:00The Ultimate Warrior<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">An Introduction to ‘The Ultimate Warrior’</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">An educational system isn’t worth a great deal if it teaches young people how to make a living but doesn’t teach them how to make a life. ~Author Unknown</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">On Monday, February 27, 2017 we introduced something called ‘The Ultimate Warrior’ to all of MMS. These are grade level values that we will expect all of our Warriors to live up to daily to become ‘The Ultimate Warrior’.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><img height="451" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/Vans0WDOVYfZCVT6fjNj94rKoDwy-thotvmSP3Y7zJkIG35zaKCjAKtc3WSe7fsWBdIXSRWEn8t4I_9T-5HHltBxIGdIAv-ABComCrqb4dqo8PlXGsHbdsQmeeak5W5QzX8qn7NJ" style="-webkit-transform: rotate(0.00rad); border: none; transform: rotate(0.00rad);" width="333" /></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The core value for all grade 5 students is to be ‘</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">BE READY TO LEARN</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">’. We will talk with grade 5s about this in the coming weeks to determine what this exactly means at MMS. To me it means to come to school with an open mind, to try new things, have supplies, listen, and question and so much more. When talking with grade 5s we will focus the conversation on what it means to ‘be ready to learn’.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The core value of all grade 6s is to ‘</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">BE READY TO HELP</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">’. Since our grade 6s have been at MMS for a year they know the school expectations, rules, and the people. We will expect our grade 6s to help themselves, their classmates, their teachers and the environment in and around MMS. The grade 6 circle also includes the grade 5 value so this means our grade 6s will also be expected to be ‘ready to learn’. Again, we will speak with our grade 6s to come up with what this will look like at MMS.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The core value for our grade 7s is to ‘</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">BE READY TO PARTICIPATE</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">’. When our kids reach grade 7 a number of new opportunities open up. Grade 7s have more choice in their classes, athletics, arts and we will have a higher expectation for students to be active citizens in classrooms, school and community. Grade 7s will also be expected to ‘be ready to help’ and ‘be ready to learn’. Grade 7s will also be given the opportunity to help us define what this means at MMS.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Our last, and greatest responsibility lies with our grade 8s. Their value is ‘</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">TO BE READY TO SERVE</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">’. We will get our grade 8s feedback to what this will look like as well. The expectation will be for our grade 8s to serve our school, community locally and globally. Expectations for grade 8s will also include ‘be ready to participate’, ‘be ready to help’ and ‘be ready to learn’.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">School culture is of utmost importance to me. If we can get our students, staff, and community to be using common language as the year goes along, we all grow. In ‘edu-speak’, this is a variation of a PBIS or Positive Behavioural Interventions and Supports. The goal is to get our entire school talking about what we should be doing and what we want to see rather on what we shouldn’t be doing.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This may change and evolve over time. The goal is to positively an already great school culture. By using common language and focusing on positive behaviour we will make sure that everyone associated with MMS has the best chance to learners and thrive everyday.</span></div>
andrewmead73http://www.blogger.com/profile/02674066480142779717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8340812530303341076.post-56375549058092375572015-09-22T13:51:00.003-07:002015-09-22T13:53:30.685-07:00A day makerWe work hard at my current school to create an atmosphere where kindness and acceptance matter more than anything else. Some days are better than others but once and a while you are reminded that focusing on kindness and the positive stuff is the best way to go... A student who recently left to go to another school sent this email to our staff... This is a message the student wants me to share with the students currently at George Waters...<br />
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<i>George Waters Middle School is the best school I have ever been to and ever will have been to. I have never been excited for the first day of school until GWMS, I also have a better perspective of learning, and I think you will too. George Waters is such a different/amazing school. No school I have ever been to could even compare. </i><br />
<i>The teachers are so sweet and so awesome. The students, yeah there may be a couple you don't get along with but the substantial amount of them are really nice and once you get to know them, they make some pretty awesome friends if you ask me. Friends that you will have until your old and wrinkly!</i><br />
<i>Sometimes I don't even remember that George Waters is a school. The work is so fun, (if you understand and get invloved)! And the classes are great too. </i><br />
<i>Don't get me started on the principals! They work there Butt's off trying to make the school a better learning environment for all of us. They do such a good job! So don't forget to thank Mr.Mead and Mr. Abram, and dot forget about your teachers. (Maybe even your classmates) </i><br />
<i>Always try your best, if you don't succeed, don't give up! </i><br />
<i>Get involved, stand up for others, and be a Philanthropist. </i><br />
<i>and don't forget, Make someone else's day better because you never know what someone's going through and a nice compliment or even a smile in the hall could really put a smile on there face too. </i><br />
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I spoke yesterday at an Ignite Talk (see previous blogpost) on exactly this. What kind of school do I want for my kid? What an amazing email and gift to get from wonderful young person.<br />
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Humbled.andrewmead73http://www.blogger.com/profile/02674066480142779717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8340812530303341076.post-26297853275261010122015-09-22T07:16:00.001-07:002015-09-22T07:16:18.668-07:00Ignite Your Passion for Discovery<h2 style="background-color: white; margin: 0px 0px 12px;">
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<span style="font-size: small;">I got the chance, last night to do an Ignite Talk with a bunch of incredible educators from in and around Winnipeg. Listening to their stories was inspiring to say the least. I was asked to talk about what I am passionate and curious about… this is my slideshow followed by my notes that I didn’t really stick to… What are you curious about?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><strong><a href="https://www.slideshare.net/andrewmead73/ignite-sept-21-15" target="_blank" title="Ignite sept 21 15">Ignite sept 21 15</a> </strong>from <strong><a href="https://www.slideshare.net/andrewmead73" target="_blank">St. James-Assiniboia School Division</a></strong></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="355" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/embed_code/key/fTAXH1xRnXr1Xk" style="border: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); margin-bottom: 5px; max-width: 100%;" width="425"></iframe></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><strong><a href="https://www.slideshare.net/andrewmead73/my-ignite-notes" target="_blank" title="My Ignite Notes">My Ignite Notes</a> </strong>from <strong><a href="https://www.slideshare.net/andrewmead73" target="_blank">St. James-Assiniboia School Division</a></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">If you aren't sure what an Ignite Talk is all about check out this <a href="http://igniteshow.com/">link.</a></span><span style="font-size: small;">Thanks to Dean Shareski, </span><a href="https://twitter.com/amckiel" style="font-size: medium;">Andy McKiel</a><span style="font-size: small;"> and <a href="http://www.discoveryeducation.ca/Canada/">Discovery Education</a> for this chance . Congratulations to all the other speakers who did such an amazing job. This was the line up brilliant minds that spoke.</span></div>
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<li><span style="color: #404040; font-weight: 300; line-height: 30px;"><a href="https://twitter.com/MrBridge204"><span style="font-size: small;">Blue Jay Bridge</span></a></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #404040; font-weight: 300; line-height: 30px;"><a href="https://twitter.com/mgashyna"><span style="font-size: small;">Michelle Clarke</span></a></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #404040; font-weight: 300; line-height: 30px;"><a href="https://twitter.com/barry_dyck"><span style="font-size: small;">Barry Dyck</span></a></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #404040; font-weight: 300; line-height: 30px;"><a href="https://twitter.com/joevans"><span style="font-size: small;">John Evans</span></a></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #404040; font-weight: 300; line-height: 30px;"><a href="https://twitter.com/janmatthewman"><span style="font-size: small;">Janice Matthewman</span></a></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #404040; font-weight: 300; line-height: 30px;"><a href="https://twitter.com/MicaylaMcN"><span style="font-size: small;">Micayla McNaughton</span></a></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #404040; font-weight: 300; line-height: 30px;"><a href="https://twitter.com/shannonsiemens"><span style="font-size: small;">Shannon Siemens</span></a></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #404040; font-weight: 300; line-height: 30px;"><a href="https://twitter.com/shareski"><span style="font-size: small;">Dean Shareski</span></a></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #404040; font-weight: 300; line-height: 30px;"><a href="https://twitter.com/April_Waters"><span style="font-size: small;">April Waters</span></a></span></li>
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<span style="font-size: small;">If you get the chance to be a part of an Ignite or go watch one, take advantage!</span></div>
andrewmead73http://www.blogger.com/profile/02674066480142779717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8340812530303341076.post-26620604803644174222015-06-03T09:37:00.000-07:002015-06-03T09:37:01.115-07:00Reaching Every Student – Everyday<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">I was recently asked to write about this topic by <a href="http://www.cea-ace.ca/">CEA/ACE</a> - '</span><span style="color: #231f20; font-family: Arial;">Students
who leave school early are more disadvantaged now than ever before. What can be
done to improve graduation rates and better meet the needs of kids who are at
risk of dropping out?' <a href="http://www.cea-ace.ca/blog/andrew-mead/2015/06/3/reaching-every-student-%E2%80%93-every-day">Please check out the blog post here</a> on the CEA-ACE website. It is also below.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><b>Reaching Every Student – Everyday</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><b>Four essential factors for developing an alternative school for at-risk students</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">From 2005-2010, I was an administrator involved in developing and expanding an alternative program to support students who had either dropped out of high school or were on the verge of dropping out. My school district acknowledged the fact that there are situations when an alternative school is necessary to encourage students at risk to persevere and complete their diplomas. So <a href="http://alted.sjsd.net/">Jameswood Alternative School </a>(JAS) was developed and prides itself on making the school fit the child by trying to reach “every kid - every day" while maintaining high standards for all of its learners for daily attendance, academic performance, and appropriate behaviour.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">For at-risk students, the focus is often on their stresses and distresses rather than on their educational goals. A major reason why students drop out is due to a high absentee rate. The reasons for missing large amounts of school can be, but are not limited to illness, mental health (either their own or a family members), problems with the law, substance abuse, behavioural concerns that lead to suspensions, or just a disconnect to their school. Most often, the students who are most likely to drop out have a feeling that they’ve lost control of their education. Therefore, setting an appropriate emotional climate is essential for at-risk students.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Educators need to orchestrate learning environments that are emotionally safe, providing freedom from rejection and intimidation – a classroom that has a low student-teacher ratio (12-1) with students choosing a schedule and courses that best meet their pace of learning. Within one class, all students may be working on different subjects at the same time. For at-risk students to gain the confidence back in their learning, they need to feel that they have a sense of control, have sufficient time to learn, and the ability to deal with or get assistance with their stress. In these environments, they are more likely to be successful. To effectively support at-risk students, it’s important that programs have high academic standards and a culture of positive expectations. Learning is relevant and often occurred in conjunction with work experience opportunities.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">To provide students with a climate that gives them a sense of control and optimizes their learning, the development of the alternative school was based on these four factors:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><b>1. Learner-Centered Classroom</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">All people learn through experience and a learner-centered classroom pays close attention to the knowledge, attitudes, and skills that students bring with them. It respects cultural differences and provides an environment that challenges students with developmentally appropriate learning experiences. As much as possible, subject material should be personally relevant and just challenging enough to encourage risk taking, but not so difficult that it encourages avoidance. Teachers must work hard to reach every child every day. Student schedules are flexible and choice is provided in the manner in which students meet curricular outcomes. Two methods for ensuring that the classroom is learner-centered are a self-paced module style or a big picture project based style. The module style of completing a course is generally set up by the teacher, but the student chooses the pace and can even pick the order in which modules get done. In the project-based method, students complete big picture projects of interest to them and with the help of the teacher, determine how curricular outcomes are met while completing the project. Key in both of these methods is the teacher working hard to build a strong relationship with the student by ensuring they are in contact with them every day even if the student is not at school. [MC2] </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><b>2. Knowledge-Centered Classroom</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Our brains learn by making connections between what has been experienced and what that experience means to us. While student interest is important in the learning process, it should be a springboard for a deeper understanding. A knowledge-centered environment provides metacognitive strategies that further facilitate learning about things that matter to the student. Students should be encouraged to apply their learning to things beyond the four walls of the classroom. Encouraging students to engage in work experience, volunteerism and/or apprenticeship opportunities is important to help them realize that learning happens outside the school as well and is often just as – if not even more valuable. Classroom settings that provide ways to include the learning that happens outside of the classroom helps engage at-risk students and makes their learning relevant.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><b>3. Authentic Assessment</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Ongoing authentic formative assessment provides the most accurate picture of a student’s ability. While standardized tests cannot be eliminated, they’re not the only form of assessment that should be used in classrooms. Multiple methods of assessment should be used because behaviour is influenced by the setting in which it occurs and the skills that students possess may not necessarily be evident in a single test or assignment. Assessment should be learner-friendly; it should allow students to see their progress, and it should help the teacher identify problem-areas that should be addressed. Students must also be present in their own assessment. Ensuring students think about and are aware of where they’re at in their learning is key.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">For example, in the first years of Jameswood Alternative School, students wrote – with support from the teacher – their own report cards and kept track of their own marks. Students reported that knowing exactly where they were in the course, how they were doing and what they had left to do was very motivating to ensure successful completion.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><b>4. Community-centered Programs</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Finally, programs for at-risk learners should be community-centered. Learning should have a direct connection to life. Students need to own the learning by doing something meaningful with the knowledge that they’ve gained. The organization should provide a number of learning opportunities for each student inside and outside the school. This allows the student to learn how to work cooperatively in school and in the workplace. Providing students the support of different organizations to allow for different opportunities is key to help them find something they are passionate about.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">The location of Jameswood School was unique. Within the school there was an adult education program, daycare, a job finding program and many social services workers. There was always something for the student. If they didn’t finish their program at JAS, they could easily continue into a different program that fit their needs. So, instead of dropping out of a program, they simply drop into another one that works for them.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">A culture of care and support is necessary for the success of at-risk students. A comprehensive support system needs to be in place to respond to all of their needs.. Reaching every child every day is key to reducing the potential for students to drop out. An important message that staff at Jameswood Alternative School often spoke about was ensuring students, who had dropped out or were on the verge of dropping out, was the inherent value of ‘school’ in whatever form it takes. This, in turn, will have implications for these student’s siblings and or their children.</span></div>
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andrewmead73http://www.blogger.com/profile/02674066480142779717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8340812530303341076.post-58324623245747999492015-04-07T14:07:00.001-07:002015-04-07T14:14:34.767-07:00Canadian Educator's Association Blog Post - Five Ways for Teachers To Take Charge of Their Own LearningIN March I was asked to write a guest blog post for the Canadian Educator's Association Blog about Five Ways for Teachers To Take Charge of Their Own Learning. If you are interested you can find the blog post here:<br />
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<a href="http://www.cea-ace.ca/blog/andrew-mead/2015/03/1/five-ways-teachers-take-charge-their-own-learning">http://www.cea-ace.ca/blog/andrew-mead/2015/03/1/five-ways-teachers-take-charge-their-own-learning</a><br />
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Feedback is good!<br />
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A less fancy version is here:<br />
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">What is Effective Teacher Professional Development? </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Currently</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Schools across Canada have a small number of days devoted to professional development throughout the school year that are facilitated by guest speakers, division personnel, school based administration, or teachers. In Manitoba there are traditionally five provincially mandated professional development days per year. This year the topics for the first four of my school’s professional development days were ‘Cultural Proficiency’ (a division sponsored event), an ‘EdCamp’ (facilitated by division coordinators), a day where teachers work with others teachers from around the province in their teaching area, and a school based session on ‘Deeper Learning and Critical Thinking’ with support from a division coordinator. Our final day will be on the topic of ‘Positive Behaviour Interventions and Supports’. We will join one of our feeder elementary schools, and the day will be facilitated by divisional educational support services staff. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Although these sessions have all been of great value, and have resulted in many thoughtful conversations, the days are somewhat disjointed. The topics for each day are chosen by divisional administration or school based administrators, without the input of the teachers that will ‘benefit’ from the professional development sessions.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: red; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">To make these professional development days more valuable, teachers need opportunities for further discussions on these topics for deep learning to occur, or this ‘one size fits all’ model needs to be abandoned for a more teacher directed professional development model. If teachers are in charge of the topic of their personal professional development, they will be more likely to own this time and use the division sponsored professional development Days as a catalyst to deeper learning and connections to other professionals within their own building and beyond.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Personalized Professional Development</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Professional development for teachers need to be relevant, flexible and personalized for sustainable growth to occur for both new and experienced teachers. Technology can and should be a major driver of relevant and real time professional development. There should be an expectation that teachers are in control of, and responsible for, enhancing their practice during and after the school day. Administrators can set up schedules to encourage sharing and collaboration. No longer can teachers be isolated in their own classroom and keep with up with the demands of teaching in today’s world. Professional Development needs to be ongoing, job-embedded, and connected in a significant way and happen more frequently than the four or five division or school sponsored ‘PD Days’.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Teachers, as professionals and learners, need to be in charge of, and responsible for, their own learning. Opportunities can be provided by division and school based administrators for teachers to work together, learn together, and solve problems together. Technology is key to help connect teachers locally and globally. Using social platforms like twitter can provide teachers the opportunity and flexibility to collaborate in real time with educators from around the world in real time.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hands On Professional Development</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">To foster a culture of learning in a school, strong relationships need to be built which includes teacher to teacher relationships. New pedagogies for deep learning is a focus for many schools across Canada. </span><a href="http://www.newpedagogies.info/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/New_Pedagogies_for_Deep%20Learning_Whitepaper.pdf" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Deep learning</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> happens when teachers focus on skills like character education, citizenship, communication, critical thinking and problem solving, collaboration, and finally creativity and imagination. The same goes for teachers too. If teachers aren’t proficient in these areas, it’s hard to expect them to teach or assess students who are expected to learn these important skills as well. According to Evangeline Harris Stefanakis (2002), "The word assess comes from the Latin assidere, which means to sit beside. Literally then, to assess means to sit beside the learner." Teachers need to able to sit beside the learner and model these expected skills. Connected teachers, in effective PLCs, are more likely to grow their practice and attain a higher level of practice. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Using technology and social media are not silver bullets for professional development for teachers. Professional Development can and should happen within the school day as well. Scheduled times for teachers to meet, co-teach, visit other classrooms and schools are important aspects of professional growth. Encouraging teachers to share and collaborate will enhance teaching and learning in the classroom especially if it is done within a family of schools. This hands on approach while working directly with colleagues encourages further development of the skills that are being taught to students in the classroom.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Relevant Professional Development</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For teachers entering the profession, building a strong PLC and collaborating is the best advice I can give. Getting connected through the use of social media is an easy and effective way to consistently learn and grow, stay relevant and have fun. An example is by taking part in ‘edchats’ on twitter is a great way to build a PLC. There are many smart people out there and coming to an understanding that someone else is probably already doing it will help new teachers find new and interesting ways to engage students in their learning and find ways to become a champion for their students. Taking care of kids is our job. This is a </span><a href="http://www.ted.com/talks/rita_pierson_every_kid_needs_a_champion?language=en" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">great video</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> for all beginning teachers (and ones who have experience) as well. Building strong relationships with all of students is rewarding work and can be, at times, extremely difficult. New teachers need a support system to develop skills to be able to do this well. Supporting teachers new to the profession and encouraging them to build their own PLC will help them in all aspects of their job and meet the demands of their important job. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Opportunities to Build Relationships</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Social platforms like Twitter don’t provide the PD. Social platforms provide the opportunity to build strong relationships with people, which, in turn, provide the opportunity for real professional growth to occur. Twitter is the gateway to find articles, blogs, have discussions build relationships with other professionals with like (or unlike) views on similar topics. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Learning is social. It begins when a strong relationship is formed. The quote ‘You can’t take care of the Bloom’s stuff until you take care of the Maslow’s stuff’ also applies to teachers. Learning occurs when people feel safe. A teacher who is connected feels safe and therefore will likely be more open to and adept at taking chances allowing them to navigate the confusing and often times uncomfortable seas associated with professional growth.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Professional development for teachers should look similar to what good teaching looks like for students. It needs to be personalized, hands on, relevant and provide opportunities to build strong relationships with colleagues. Technology and social media can play a huge role in having all teachers build strong relationships with people within their own school and all over the world. Having a school filled with a group of connected teachers who are modelling learning, and continually sharing, helps to build a school’s culture of learning for everyone.</span>andrewmead73http://www.blogger.com/profile/02674066480142779717noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8340812530303341076.post-55576219785843478962015-02-23T19:27:00.000-08:002017-02-27T19:11:17.055-08:00Pink DayWednesday, February 25 is the <a href="http://pinkshirtday.ca/">Red Cross Pink Day</a>. This is a day where everyone dresses up in pink to create awareness to stop bullying. While I enjoy dressing up for school (some examples are below), I think anti-bully days and the word bully itself are and is a tad overdone.<br />
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Dress up days like this are fun, kids and staff both laugh and it's a good way for any student or teacher to get involved with the school in a positive way. Fun like this builds a positive school culture. I've been known to promote dress up days - most of my wardrobe is dedicated to fun days throughout the school year.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWlIwzWz8LV4YFCX-bgxOcQ_45yKd8UhCNkUzMDMwH270QThHt4ddn5BkfLF377a_R0-OUH8a8StVK-z6u6QH115sfyQUTeDme8Q8hK5-h5CHydIOCSTrjWCWFAkiFCiR0SXCMXm2QMWST/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-02-22+at+4.58.35+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWlIwzWz8LV4YFCX-bgxOcQ_45yKd8UhCNkUzMDMwH270QThHt4ddn5BkfLF377a_R0-OUH8a8StVK-z6u6QH115sfyQUTeDme8Q8hK5-h5CHydIOCSTrjWCWFAkiFCiR0SXCMXm2QMWST/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-02-22+at+4.58.35+PM.png" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQOK-A5GXbcfck8TMarkF3qdz8uRlAlA96j2JXX0xlLaRNtCGw_2SD5wv39xa_94QaIZZDzFP8S4CZsYF5JEBCk_ZMdt-V9SwhsPDn-kxS88Bh6Iad3M9n-dzkcRznT2bFhfu_KA-EMLYO/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-02-22+at+4.59.17+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQOK-A5GXbcfck8TMarkF3qdz8uRlAlA96j2JXX0xlLaRNtCGw_2SD5wv39xa_94QaIZZDzFP8S4CZsYF5JEBCk_ZMdt-V9SwhsPDn-kxS88Bh6Iad3M9n-dzkcRznT2bFhfu_KA-EMLYO/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-02-22+at+4.59.17+PM.png" width="101" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuRU2GEeg4b2yGwTPsSATP04WyVGyZcEUXm0eZh-bs6k0lozLh8FmJd0__yiEzF8i9QB-yX6XlJ_Tjny7xNfIqM5sb1f-1INuug-8k6sj2kGhJ8fKYkRz0gHHxMlw5BYTKvCKebuY2zPZq/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-02-22+at+4.59.35+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuRU2GEeg4b2yGwTPsSATP04WyVGyZcEUXm0eZh-bs6k0lozLh8FmJd0__yiEzF8i9QB-yX6XlJ_Tjny7xNfIqM5sb1f-1INuug-8k6sj2kGhJ8fKYkRz0gHHxMlw5BYTKvCKebuY2zPZq/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-02-22+at+4.59.35+PM.png" width="116" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibS5gUT0RMmM5-OqYZ_socs24t228iPr5l0ebJOoJfAyEUpoZuZXfAW0-a7GHy_iQLLLs7YCKCe0cDE_DnersNpaxPzMeFIGQKvz98wCnLM4BpWZXgGdFysvMmQGarnNGbAfToONQf6Qxz/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-02-22+at+4.59.50+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibS5gUT0RMmM5-OqYZ_socs24t228iPr5l0ebJOoJfAyEUpoZuZXfAW0-a7GHy_iQLLLs7YCKCe0cDE_DnersNpaxPzMeFIGQKvz98wCnLM4BpWZXgGdFysvMmQGarnNGbAfToONQf6Qxz/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-02-22+at+4.59.50+PM.png" width="104" /></a></div>
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<span id="goog_2087017592"></span>Pink Day is all about anti-bully. The Manitoba Government describes bullying <a href="https://web2.gov.mb.ca/bills/40-2/b018e.php">here</a>. This definition is not something I completely agree with and it can set schools up and kids up for failure <span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>(section </i></span><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">1.2(2) (a) characteristically takes place in a context of a real or perceived power imbalance between the people involved and is typically, but need not be, repeated behaviour;)</span></i>. Another definition is <a href="http://www.stopbullying.gov/what-is-bullying/definition/">here</a> <span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>(Repetition: Bullying behaviours happen more than once).</i></span><br />
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Although I agree with trying to get bullying out of schools. I would be a fool not to want that and to get it out of schools, the workplace, the community and... and... and... I do feel there is a problem with the whole notion of Pink Day because of how it began. The students involved in standing up for a classmate who wore a pink shirt to school got a group of other students to wear pink the next day. This is a story on how Pink Day began.<br />
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I'm not sure the act that prompted the students to wear pink is in itself bullying. It was incredibly mean. By definition, getting a group of kids to wear pink and excluding other students could be considered bullying itself.<br />
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When students are excluded (even the so-called bullies) no one wins. This creates a divisive culture and people are left out. A culture that promotes kindness that is inclusive for everyone is the best way to support every child at school. Do schools have bullies? Yes. I do find the word is placed on every mean act and is somewhat overused. More so, there is a general lack of kindness that is pervasive. Watch the news or read the newspaper. It's clear that people can be mean to each other. But, by calling everything 'bullying' I think creates a knee jerk reaction of punishment and exclusion where little or no teaching and learning takes place. It just upsets a lot of people.<br />
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Teaching kids to be accepting (not tolerant - I find that to be an arrogant word) and to have a strong character and sense of self is key to positive responses to acts of meanness or 'bullying'. Poor or negative responses to meanness usually just amplifies the problem. Teaching kids skills to respond in a positive manner often stops or changes the situation immediately.<br />
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Continuing to focus on the bully won't necessarily stop bullying in a school. Anti-bully days are nice and have good intentions I just feel there is a better way. We need schools that have cultures that include everyone (the 'bullies' are often victims of something from their past - these kids are generally trying to get some control in their life - everyone wants and needs that). Schools need to focus on kindness and promote a happy culture where every child feels a part of the school. <a href="http://www.ted.com/talks/rita_pierson_every_kid_needs_a_champion?language=en">Every child needs to have at least one adult who is their 'person'</a>. A child without a strong connection at school is a kid who will find attention. Often the kind of attention no one likes to see.</div>
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To read more about how teaching kindness is key to promote a safe school environment please take a moment to read this <a href="http://www.edutopia.org/blog/teaching-kindness-essential-reduce-bullying-lisa-currie">http://www.edutopia.org/blog/teaching-kindness-essential-reduce-bullying-lisa-currie</a> by Lisa Currie.<br />
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My school will continue to support Pink Day because it is a feel good thing for lots of kids and teachers. We will however, push the conversation away from anti-bullying to a message of kindness, empathy and acceptance.<br />
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Comments are nice and appreciated.</div>
andrewmead73http://www.blogger.com/profile/02674066480142779717noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8340812530303341076.post-36156472900378081842015-02-15T14:25:00.002-08:002015-04-07T14:19:13.516-07:00What will be the most significant classroom innovation in the next 10 years? <div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: x-small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">This blog post was featured on the Huffington Post Education Blog '</span></span></i><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 16.866666793823242px;"><i>The Global Search for Education: Our Top 12 Global Teacher Blogs'. To find this blog with other educator's ideas from around the world please visit: <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/c-m-rubin/the-global-search-for-edu_b_6728470.html">http://www.huffingtonpost.com/c-m-rubin/the-global-search-for-edu_b_6728470.html</a></i></span></span><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: x-small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">Andrew Mead – Andy is the
Principal at George Waters Middle School in Winnipeg, Manitoba. They are within
the St. James-Assiniboia School Division.
Andy was recommended to answer February’s question by Top 12 Teacher
Blogger Lisa Currie.</span></span></i></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: x-small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">What will be the most significant
classroom innovation in the next 10 years?
By Andy Mead<o:p></o:p></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: x-small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: x-small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In the history of schools there have been many
‘innovations’ that have claimed to improve teaching and learning. Even within
my own career over the past eighteen years I have been presented with many
different initiatives that were said to make me a better teacher or
administrator. What I have found is that these innovations are not sustainable
because they are always displaced by the next new shiny device or idea.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: x-small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The devices that are soon to be in the hands of
students (or on their clothing or around their wrists) will likely be amazing
tools to help young people and teachers create, share, and communicate. These
tools will continue to evolve and become more accessible and less expensive.
These technologies, however, don’t necessarily improve teaching and learning in
the classroom. Good teaching doesn’t depend on these tools; these tools just
enhance good teaching.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: x-small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Therefore, the
most significant classroom innovation will not be a gadget but rather, the
teaching of higher level thinking skills and a concerted effort to focus on
students as individuals. Schools and teachers will find new ways to foster
strong relationships with students that will create a culture of learning. This
will include ensuring that schools take into consideration how we approach
mental wellness and happiness of students. Lessons will be individualized and
have a hands on, project based, experiential approach. The teaching of lower
level thinking (knowledge and comprehension) will be a thing of the past.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: x-small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Furthermore,
this innovation will come in the way we engage young people in higher level
thinking skills (application, analysis, synthesis and evaluation). Schools will
ensure we teach young people to think, solve problems, ask questions, and
create – not just regurgitate information. Young people will be in charge of
their own learning by creating and learning through their own experience. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: x-small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Innovative practices in assessment will also be more
common. Skills like creativity, collaboration, communication, critical
thinking, citizenship and character are inherently difficult to fairly assess
or put a number or grade on. The focus of assessment will be on the learning
process, not the final product.
Assessment of these skills will be done by answering questions like: <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">What does the child know?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">How does the child communicate and share what he or
she knows?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">What must improve?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">What steps will be taken to ensure the child meets
the expectation or standard?</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">Although these things are currently happening in many
places, in ten years these will be the widespread norm. The device of the
moment will forever be changing - what won't is that schools are about people.
The biggest innovation in classrooms within the next ten years (I hope) will be
a change in how we teach young people how to think, take care of each other, and
take care of the world. To do this, schools must find ways to build strong
relationships with people to create a culture that focuses on learning in a fun,
caring, and collaborative environment. Schools will focus on learning, the
process of higher level thinking and questioning more than just the next big thing.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 24px;">Check out other big ideas on the educational innovation in the next 10 years here.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 24px;">The Global Search for Education: <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/c-m-rubin/the-global-search-for-edu_b_6728470.html?utm_hp_ref=teachers">Our Top 12 Global Teacher Blogs – What will be the most significant classroom innovation in the next 10 years?</a></span></span></div>
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