Recent Posts

  • Active Listening: What the Ontario Curriculum Actually Says
    In elementary, we spend time during the beginning of the year setting expectations and norms to build a healthy and welcoming classroom community. Best practice tells us to continue to reinforce these norms throughout the year—not just in September. We often focus on oral communication early on, particularly active listening, as a means to ensure … Continue reading Active Listening: What the Ontario Curriculum Actually Says
  • Try Anyway
    Some time ago, I received a book of quotes and poetry by Maya Angelou.  It’s a lovely, little green display book that stands on its own like a flip chart and each page has a quote or idea inspired by Maya Angelou.  This book has sat on my desk and followed me around from school … Continue reading Try Anyway
  • Books to Read for Orange Shirt Day
    Our classrooms today have a strong emphasis on feeling safe and welcome in September.  I remember feeling intimidated and overwhelmed on the first day of school. However, when I compare my childhood experience to the stories told by residential school survivors I am deeply saddened and want to support Indigenous Peoples by sharing the truth … Continue reading Books to Read for Orange Shirt Day
  • Summer Reflections and September Goals
    This summer, I basked in the Ontario sun, enjoyed lake walks and quality family time. I listened to novels for fun, caught up with friends, and snuck in a little Netflix marathon. Like many of us, I treasure summer as a chance to rest, recharge, and spark new creativity. Still, it didn’t take long before … Continue reading Summer Reflections and September Goals
Heart and Art of Teaching and Learning book cover


The book, The Heart and Art of Teaching and Learning: Practical Ideas and Resources for Beginning Teachers, is meant to be the beginning of sharing and learning with each other, which includes practical tips on setting up your own classroom, building inclusion, working with parents and more.

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