Author's posts
Jun 05
Breaking Absenteeism: Unveiling the Real Struggles Behind Student Attendance May 27/24
Student attendance is a Canadian Concern. Our podcast guest this week is Jennifer Dunkley, Superintendent of Education at the Northeastern Catholic District School Board in Ontario.Attendance is complex and is often overlooked in schools. With Jennifer, we explore the underlying reasons for student absenteeism, ranging from transportation challenges to familial struggles. By shedding light on …
Jun 05
School Attendance: Is It All About the Teacher-Student Connection? May 20/24
Why is student attendance dwindling across Canada and North America? How it can be turned around? In this podcast episode, Ted Fransen, retired superintendent of Pembina Trails in Manitoba, delves into the critical role that teacher-student relationships play in keeping students engaged and in the classroom. He also discusses broader societal factors contributing to the …
Jun 05
Part 2 of 2 Unlocking Attendance: How One School Division is Breaking Down Barriers to Bring Kids Back to School May 14/24
Struggling with student attendance? In our latest podcast episode, Reg Klassen, Chief Superintendent of Frontier School Division in Manitoba, discusses innovative approaches to tackling chronic absenteeism. Join us as we explore why traditional methods aren’t working and discover new strategies, including land-based education, that are making a real difference in student engagement and attendance. How …
Jun 05
Unlocking Attendance: How One School Division is Breaking Down Barriers to Bring Kids Back to School Part 1 of 2 May 13/24
Struggling with student attendance? In our latest podcast episode, Reg Klassen, Chief Superintendent of Frontier School Division in Manitoba, discusses innovative approaches to tackling chronic absenteeism. Join us as we explore why traditional methods aren’t working and discover new strategies, including land-based education, that are making a real difference in student engagement and attendance. How …
Jun 05
The Ripple Effect of Staff Absenteeism on Student Learning May 6/24
What’s the impact of staff absenteeism on students? The post-COVID environment has led to an increase in staff absences, affecting student learning and continuity. Our guest this week is Peter Jory, Superintendent/CEO of Qualicum School District in British Columbia.With fewer consistent adult figures, students may struggle to form stable relationships and stay engaged in their …
May 02
Leading with your own learning: advice for new principals and vice-principals May 1/24
As a new principal or vice-principal, you’re not just leading a school—you’re guiding an entire learning community. Amy Newman, Principal of Newport Elementary in Surrey, British Columbia, talks about how educational leaders can facilitate continuous learning among staff and students. She talks about best practices for sharing knowledge, connecting educators with resources, and fostering an …
May 02
From Teaching to Principaling: Advice for new principals on navigating the journey April 30/24
Transitioning from teaching to a leadership role like principalship is a pivotal shift, requiring a new set of skills and priorities. This week is part 2 of 3 conversations with Amy Newman, principal of Newton Elementary in Surrey, British Columbia. She explores this transition in depth, providing insights on balancing the diverse needs of students, …
May 02
Advice for new Principals on how to build a Collaborative School Community April 29/24
Effective school leadership involves intentional relationship building and community engagement. In our 3 part podcast, Amy Newman principal of Newton Elementary in Surrey , British Columbia, highlights the importance of principals creating space for professional conversations and modelling community-building activities. By facilitating collaborative discussions and engaging in group activities, school leaders can foster a sense …
May 02
Advice for new Ps and VPs: Lead with your Heart, Wisdom from a Circular Leadership Model April 22/24
Our podcast this week features Dawn Wemigwans Principal of St. David’s Catholic School in Sudbury, Ontario. In this entertaining conversation, Dawn shares invaluable advice for new principals and vice principals, shedding light on the evolving landscape of educational leadership. New school principals can learn how adopting a circular leadership style, prioritizing soft skills, and fostering …
May 02
Building Trust & Bridging Communities: A Conversation on Anti-Racism in Schools with VP Dave Johnson April 15/24
Welcome to our 10th Season of CircleForum(over 144 episodes so far) where we’re asking school leaders to share their advice for new principals and vice-principals. This episode we welcome Dave Johnson, VP of SD23 Watson Rd Elementary Kelowna, British Columbia, sharing his journey and wisdom gained from leading with empathy and humility. Dave tells the …