Blog Posts

Since Spring 2023, our Digital Learning department has been diligently keeping abreast of all new developments in AI (Artificial Intelligence) and its impact on teaching and learning in K-12 education. We have been participating in various professional learning events, collaborating with Districts across the province and the country, and researching AI tools that could be responsibly and ethically leveraged by Abbotsford educators to enhance the learning experience for our K-12 students.

Many years ago, as I trained for my first marathon, one of my mentors—a seasoned runner with countless marathons behind him—shared invaluable wisdom about the importance of finishing strong. He emphasized the need to maintain enough energy to cross the finish line with a smile and a strong pace, regardless of how the race began.

I can still recall his words echoing in my mind: “Remember, it’s not about how you start the marathon; it’s about how you finish. Finish strong.”

The Sheltered Instruction Observation Protocol (SIOP) is a powerful instructional model designed to support English learners (ELs) in their academic journey. Developed by Jana Echevarría, MaryEllen Vogt, and Deborah J. Short, SIOP provides educators with a comprehensive framework for creating inclusive and effective classrooms.

In my role as the Numeracy Helping Teacher, students and teachers alike often tell me that they are not a “math person” when we’re working together. I’ve learned that this means they likely haven’t had many opportunities to experience math with a focus on numeracy. But what is numeracy? Isn’t it the same thing as mathematics? Not quite…

I think it is important for a Superintendent to try and stay connected to what is happening across the district and the broader community. While there are never enough hours in the week, I do my best to make regular rounds and to take in community events. And wherever possible, I like to share the good things I see.

There are no guarantees in life, but wherever you want to go or can imagine going, education is probably the best way there. How does a child in Kindergarten one day become an architect? How does a grade nine student become an arthroscopic surgeon or an agriculturist? How does one become an electrician or a chef? You guessed it - education. This is why I often describe education as the bridge to anywhere.

Recently the helping teachers and administrators from the Curriculum, LSS and Indigenous departments came together to experience and discuss the assets within our community. When we view diversity and culture through an asset-based lens, we work toward ensuring equity for all. Asset-based mindsets focus on the background, skills and knowledge that individuals and communities bring to each other. You may ask, why does an asset-based approach matter? Our district is becoming more and more diverse.

With my last blog post as superintendent (I still have a few more to write in my retirement), I would like to close with gratitude and appreciation for the many people with whom I have travelled this thirty-six-year path. I mentioned in my last post that it was because of the inspiration and encouragement of teachers, and one in particular, why I chose to become an educator. The journey to finding and fulfilling my purpose, particularly in leadership, has been filled with meandering adventures and learning. What resonates most with me are the people who have been on the journey with me.

With all the recent retirement festivities I have had cause of late to reflect on my journey in the education system.  One of the frequent questions I have been asked is why I decide to become a teacher “all those years ago.”  I have had occasion over the years to mention it on World Teacher Day, but for me, the decision had everything to do with my school experiences, and a challenge extended to me by a very special human being.