I recently joined educators from across the province to participate in ETFO’s powerful four-part webinar series called, “Anti-Racism and the Fight for Black Lives”. It was an amazing professional learning opportunity, and it should be mandatory for all ETFO staff and members. The program involves watching a short video clip each week, and engaging in […]
M is for Mindfulness
My inbox and social media feeds are filled with reminders to take care of myself and to focus on the mental health and wellness of my students and community, and I am trying. This month, I felt the phunk of COVID fatigue. I am working hard to create playful moments of joy, and generate my […]
Progressing With Difficulty
As the deadline for completing Progress Reports approaches, I am reflecting on the word “evaluation” and thinking critically about the ways educators and schools “value” knowledge and measure “success”. Despite the challenges and loss created by COVID-19, my young students continue to demonstrate compassion and resiliency. They are actively engaged in learning and happy […]
Write On!
I love to write, and I hope that my enthusiasm for the writing process inspires and encourages my Grade 2 students to write on! VIP: At the beginning of the year, we are working together to create a brave and inclusive community where everyone is recognized as a “very important person”. The VIP program celebrates […]
Community Immunity!
COVID-19 has turned everyone into a first-year teacher. It doesn’t matter how many years of experience you might have, because this year is unlike any other that we have ever experienced. All of us are re-imagining new ways to connect with students, whether you are learning together on-line or in-person. It is a very humbling […]
Teaching Beyond the Land Acknowledgment
In order to minimize exposure to COVID-19, many educators will be teaching and learning outdoors. This is a wonderful opportunity to re/connect with land, explore environmental justice through inquiry, and integrate First Nations, Inuit and Metis peoples’ knowledge and perspectives throughout the curriculum. As a non-Indigenous ally and accomplice, I am learning about the critical […]
#ETFOProud
Full Disclosure: I am a proud and active ETFO member who feels grateful every day for the privileges I have as an elementary educator. In the last 17 years, I have met educators and activists from all over this province who are passionate, committed, smart, innovative, creative, and brave. I am inspired by the collective […]