Author's posts
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 …
Apr 01
3 Strategies for Easing Teacher Stress using trauma informed restorative practices. Feb 26/24
Principals can ease teacher stress by discovering the importance of curiosity in conversations with staff. Restorative questions can be as simple as: “What’s been happening with……?How’s that affecting you? What’s been the hardest thing for you? How can I help? What’s needed next?” Have the next staff meeting in a circle. Find out more …
Feb 16
3 ways to ease stress with Principals and Vice-Principals Feb 12/24
Director’s and superintendent’s support for school based leaders like principals and vice-principals can do a lot to ease their stress. Consider how those regular principal meetings can be a catalyst for stress relief? Restorative questions can be a simple and effective way to check in with principals. Take a trauma informed restorative practice into intentional …
Feb 16
3 ways for school leaders to ease teacher stress
What can school leaders do to alleviate the immense stress on our educators? This episode explores the power of listening, asking great questions, and creating a space for teachers to share their experiences. Discover 3 of the HOW TOs of restorative practices and a trauma-informed approach that can transform your school Find out more about …
Feb 16
New 2023 research and a New Theory on Teen Mental Health – activities apart from adults Jan.22/24
New research and a new theory highlighting the pivotal role of independence in the mental health crisis among teenagers. The conversation revolves around the challenges adolescents face when it comes to decision-making and autonomy. Join us as we explore the impact of persistent helplessness, hopelessness and the crucial role restorative practices can play in reshaping …
Jan 15
Gallup Survey: 4 ways to build staff excitement in school districts – Jan. 15/24
Trust, compassion, stability and hope. These are 4 ways school superintendents built excitement in a recent Gallup poll of over 1,800 U.S. superintendents. Implementing these pillars is possible with the HOW TO of restorative practices. In this podcast we discuss this Gallup study, delving into the crucial elements that drive excitement, engagement and retention of …
Jan 15
Top 3 concerns facing school district leaders in 2024 – Jan.8/24
Tune in to our podcast as we delve into the top concerns capturing district leaders’ attention in 2024. The challenges are undoubtedly familiar: student well-being teacher turnover, Student academic recovery and educational data interpretation There is transformative potential in restorative practices as it amplifies student voices and addresses teacher retention concerns, shaping a more inclusive …