In the Loop – November 7, 2024
KEY RESOURCES IN LANGLEY
- Clickable PDF to Key Resources in Langley
- Instructional Services Website: For all your district-vetted resources K-12! Check it out!
- Aboriginal Resources vetted by the District
- TCS Sites (TCS SS-grade 3, 4-8, Secondary): Key resources are still being placed in these Teams. If you need access to one of these Teams, please email dzurbuchenjonker@sd35.bc.ca
- District Learning Commons is a lending library of classroom and teaching resources available to all school staff in the Langley School District. All of our items are available to view and book online through the Insignia Library system. Find instructions, an area to check out new resources, request new resources and report lost or damages kits here: https://sway.office.com/qbfcZW739otNIwLe?ref=Link
We deliver and pick up all the items you request through district mail twice per week (check with your admin assistant to see which days your deliveries are on).
MENTORSHIP PROGRAM
Interested in Becoming a Mentor?
We are in great need of experienced teachers with five or more years in the profession to support and guide newer educators as they transition into their roles.
We have many brand-new or early career teachers looking for a mentor. We need mentors at all grade levels but especially primary (K-5) and middle (6-8).
Time Commitment as a mentor: Mentors need to commit to ONE 45-minute learning-focused conversation every 3-5 weeks. There are optional workshops, networking and learning sessions available.
https://langleyteachers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Mentor-Info-Sheet.pdf
New to the District or a New Role?
If you’re a newer teacher looking for mentorship, please fill out the Mentee Information Sheet here. Once completed, email it to teachermentorship@sd35.bc.ca to join our program!
Upcoming events:
Ongoing: Classroom Library Kits – let us know if you would like one! Fill your classroom library by borrowing books from us – Kits for K-2, 3-5, and 6-8 available!
Mentor Learning Session: Nov. 14th, 3:30-5pm, SBO– for those who could not attend Harrison
Mentorship Session – all welcome – Early Literacy Part 1: strategies and programming – Nov. 19th – Wix-Brown Elementary School
HONOURING TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION
Beyond the Win | Supporting Truth and Reconciliation in the Classroom | More info
Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame is committed to amplifying the truths and experiences of Indigenous Order of Sport Recipients and Hall of Famers, and illuminating the invaluable lessons learned through sport. By celebrating the truths, stories and achievements of these remarkable individuals, we strive to create a lasting legacy of inspiration and understanding.
Click the link above to access 10 free educational activities developed to support discussions of Truth and Reconciliation in your classroom, aligning with subjects such as Physical Education, English Language Arts, Social Studies, Science, Mathematics, and Health Education.
UBC MOOC – Reconciliation Through Indigenous Education | More info
Enhance your understanding and knowledge of practices that advance reconciliation in the places where you live, learn, and work. This 6 week course will help you envision how Indigenous histories, perspectives, worldviews, and approaches to learning can be made part of the work done in classrooms, organizations, communities, and in everyday experiences in ways that are thoughtful and respectful. In this course, reconciliation emphasizes changing institutional structures, practices, and policies, as well as personal and professional ideologies to create environments that are committed to strengthening relationships with Indigenous peoples.
Early Learning Pro-D | UBC MOOC – Nurturing Childhoods Through Indigenous Ways of Knowing | More info
Explore teachings, strategies, and resources that guide the inclusion of Indigenous ways of knowing in early learning environments. This Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) is designed to empower and support educators, service providers and families to engage with Indigenous knowledges in early learning environments. The 6-8 week course offers a transformative learning experience, weaving together Indigenous worldviews and pedagogies with diverse perspectives. Co-created with community, educator and scholarly voices, this free, fully-online course is accessible to participants seeking to explore ways to enhance their practice and care environments through Indigenous ways of knowing. There are no admission prerequisites.
DISTRICT PROFESSIONAL LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES
To see our full calendar of offerings, visit www.thinklangley.com
Odyssey 2025 | Monday February 10, 2025 | Call for Presenters
The Langley School District’s annual Odyssey Conference will be held in-person on Monday February 10, 2025. Similar to last year’s event, the day will open with an Indigenous-focused presentation at the Langley Events Centre followed by breakout sessions at RE Mountain and Peter Ewart. We are in the process of building the program for the breakout sessions and are seeking Langley staff who would be interested and willing to offer breakout sessions on any topics relevant to both teaching and support staff. While there will be an emphasis on breakout sessions focused on Indigenous learning and pedagogy in keeping with our Odyssey theme, this is not a requirement for breakout sessions as we are also hoping to offer many different learning sessions that meet the need of staff across the district.
There will be two breakout sessions on that day and presenters can opt to present just once, or can offer the same breakout session two times, or even two different breakout sessions if they prefer. Also, please remember that offering a breakout session does not require you to deliver a formal presentation – leading a breakout session can include leading facilitated conversations around a specific subject area, grade group or topic with a group of educators. Each breakout session would run for 75 minutes long.
If you would be interested in submitting a proposal to present at this year’s Odyssey Conference, please use this link. The deadline to submit a proposal is Monday December 2.
Learning in the Primary Years: A Four Part Series | Dec 3, 2024 and Jan 20, 2025 I Register
Curious educators are invited to learn and think together about the newly released “Learning in the Primary Years” Ministry document with connections to playful practice. Register for one session or all, just select the appropriate pass during registration. Dinner will be provided to those who attend in person.
How to Become a Better Writing Teacher: Supporting Engagement, Composition, and Quality in Students | Nov 25, 2024, Jan 27, 2025, & Feb 10, 2025 I Register
Join Matt Glover in this incredible Zoom series hosted by the Provincial Outreach Program for the Early Years.
A Slow Walk Through the Literacy Block: Powerful Literacy Strategies for the K-7 Classroom with Shelley Hegedus | On-Demand Learning Feature
Help your students build strong skills in reading, writing, and communication, and engage them in the process. Beginning with the workshop structure, we will explore: + Vocabulary and Oral Language strategies + Comprehension strategies + Writing strategies You will leave with a better understanding of the interactions of these components of a strong literacy program as well as a handful of new strategies and games that you can begin using in the first week of school.
EXTERNAL PROFESSIONAL LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES
Teaching the Holocaust – Micro-Certificate for teachers | More info
The Continuing Studies Department at UVIC is offering a unique, 8-week online course for in-service and pre-service teachers to help prepare them to integrate Holocaust Education into their classroom with this now being mandated by the provincial government starting in 2025-2026. The course runs from January 13 to March 7, 2025, but interested learners also have the option to attend an in-person, one-day professional development workshop on Professional Development days. This workshop is designed to complement the online course and offers additional learning opportunities from leading experts in Holocaust education. The first session will occur on Friday, October 25, 2024 and the second will take place in Spring 2025 at the University of Victoria campus. Please see under October 25 Pro-D Day events above for more information on this event. For more information on the 8-week virtual course, please see the “More info” link above.
What’s the Story? Supporting Inquiry through Heritage Fairs | Canada’s History | Register
This online professional development series for history and social studies teachers is designed to provide teachers with tools and strategies for helping students undertake an inquiry project – including selecting meaningful topics, designing strong inquiry questions, and locating and analyzing relevant evidence. Teachers will also learn how to assess inquiry projects effectively. The series will feature four, 90-minute sessions from October–December. The series will be hosted online, via Zoom and is also available in French. The first fifty (50) paid participants will receive a Heritage Fair classroom kit, which includes print copies of What’s the Story? — a youth publication to support inquiry — classroom posters, and access to digital resources. Participants will also have access to any recordings, presentations, and resources shared during the series.
Network of Inquiry and Indigenous Education (NOIEE) | Deadline Dec 16, 2024 | Submit Inquiry Plan
For those BC Schools participating in a NOIIE Inquiry Project this year, Inquiry Submission forms are now open for acceptance. Additionally, you are invited to our first Learning Burst of the school year, scheduled for November 5th, where two BC schools will share their experiences and insights using the Spiral of Inquiry around Indigenous Education. To foster community and collaboration, Angela Stott and Rosa Fazio are hosting Inquiry Coffee Chats, a series of informal gatherings designed to encourage dialogue and idea-sharing among educators.
LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES FOR STAFF/STUDENTS/CLASSES
This Month in the Arts | Poster
The Arts are alive and thriving across many of our Langley Secondary Schools and each month there are many different events happening which are inspiring and engaging evenings for staff and family. Please see the flyer at the link above for a list of events happening “This Month in the Arts” across Langley schools.
Terry Fox Humanitarian Award | Deadline Dec 1, 2024 | More info
The Terry Fox Humanitarian Award, valued at $28,000, is one of Canada’s most established and prestigious awards for young changemakers. It celebrates students who demonstrate courage, perseverance, and a commitment to improving lives in their communities.
As educators, you play an important role in identifying and encouraging those exceptional students who might otherwise hesitate to apply. Many of these individuals lack support systems to step forward on their own. Your guidance and support can make all the difference in helping them realize their potential and take advantage of this incredible opportunity.
Christmas in the Country Field Trip | Dec 5-29, 2024 | More info
Join Thunderbird Show Park this December for Christmas in the Country! This indoor event offers a fun opportunity to learn about agriculture in the Lower Mainland. Get up close with an 800-pound Speckled Park cow and discover the chick hatching process through hands-on exhibits and workshops. Students can enjoy the hobby horse kids’ course and admire dazzling light displays, all while celebrating the holiday spirit!
Bring the World of Crows to Your Classroom | VARC | Book Now
Vancouver Aviation Research Centre is offering an immersive presentation for students in grades 4-7 called “Cool & Curious Crows”. This engaging session dives into the fascinating world of crows, covering their winter survival strategies, unique family structures, the difference between crows and ravens, and their incredible ability to use tools in the wild.
Vancouver Film School Program Offers
- Digital Design and VR/AR Design & Development | Nov 21, 2024 | Register
Discover how VFS’s industry-leading programs launch your career in the creative design industries. Programs can be completed in as short as 1 year (Digital Design) or even 8 months for the VR/AR Design & Development. - School of Animation & Visual Effects Program | Preview is Dec 5, 2024 | RSVP
Calling all animators! Learn how to launch a career in the entertainment & game industries in just one short year. Their three industry animation programs are: 3D Animation & Visual Effects, Classical Animation, and Animation Concept Art.
PNE Education Days 2025 Invite | Secondary Example | Elementary Example
The Education Days Program incorporates BC’s educational curriculum for both elementary and high school students with an engaging twist by using Playland’s exhilarating rides as the focus. The curriculum is designed to ease pressure on teachers with lesson guides, activities, and homework sheets for students to review throughout their time at Playland. They offer training sessions for teachers ahead of time and provide guidance on what their lesson plan and day look like during their time with us.
Standard curriculum is covered, including marketing, chemistry, physics, and biology for classes Grade 4 and above; the APP file is representative of what secondary schools receive, and the Science of Fun file is intended for elementary schools. During these dates, the park is only open to schools to ensure the safety of students and staff.
Discovery Farm Tours at Academy Farms – K to 12 | More info
Academy Farms is a local and one-of-a-kind farm that has been operating in the Township of Langley since 2021. In addition to raising unique animals such as bison and water buffalo, the farm also takes great pride in their innovative, sustainable and modern approach to agriculture. Academy Farms is now offering Discovery Farm Tours for classes at all grade levels – K to 12 – that is directly linked to the provincial curriculum. To learn more about the Tours and what is available as well as for information on the pre and post tour resources available to teachers, please check out the full Academy Farms brochure found at the link above under “More info”.
City of Burnaby School Canoe Program 2025 | More info | Request Form
The City of Burnaby, Outdoor Recreation department, is accepting applications for their spring School Canoe Program. The program is geared towards grade 5 to 12 classes, with a max of 30 participants per session and is running April 22 to June 20, 2025. Learn the basics of canoeing and beyond from certified RCABC canoe instructors on beautiful Deer Lake in the heart of Burnaby. This program meets the prescribed learning outcomes for the Physical Education integrated resource packages.
LEARNING RESOURCES
Classroom Resources for Winter Safety | Power Smart for Schools | More info
Winter is on the way and with it comes new safety challenges. Prepare your students for storms and power outages with our safety resources. Teach safety in the classroom with our ready-to-use activities that can be easily added to your lesson plans.
Economics Edukits | Fraser Institute | More info
We know that teachers spend countless hours outside the classroom and spend hundreds of dollars of their own money prepping for their classes, so we are here to help! Our Economics EduKits offers everything you need to deliver engaging economics lessons. Each kit includes detailed lesson plans, student handouts, and all the necessary materials for interactive activities. No extra costs or prep work needed just unpack the kit and dive into your lessons! Kits are FREE, shipping is FREE, and the materials are yours to keep.
TECH TIPS
MyEDBC Tips for Middle and Secondary Teachers
As Middle and Secondary teachers prepare to begin writing their first Formal Learning Update of the year on MyEDBC, here are a couple of very useful tips to make comment writing and copying and pasting of comments into MyEDBC easier:
- Use dashes (-) instead of formatted bullets when writing comments
- Use “Paste Special” if things are pasting from Word strangely or not at all
- On a MAC press: control, command, v – all at once
Media Smarts – What is Generative AI?
Media Smarts ( Canadian) has created a new guide which gives an overview of what AI is –in particular Generative AI – and gives two examples of main AI tools you are likely to encounter. Then it explains some key ethical and social issues related to Generative AI. What is AI Guide
Other Media Smart resources:
- Talking to Kids about AI: Tip Sheet for Parents
- Addressing AI in the Classroom: Tip Sheet for Teachers
AI Companion Chatbots – A 5-Step Parenting Guide | Podcast | Blog
The Screenagers Podcast, Episode 46 talks about kids using AI Chatbots and the risks parents can’t ignore. Communication science tells us that when we ask kids and teens questions because we really want to understand their points of view, they feel respected and thus more motivated to participate in the conversations.
The steps:
- WHY: Why might a person want to use a companion bot?
- RISKS: Serious risks–what are some of them?
- RULES: Family guidelines
- HELPERS: Commit to help others
- DEEP THINKERS: Commit to ongoing discussions
Screenagers YouTube – Latest Videos:
- A Skill To Help Youth Manage Their Emotions | Lizz Dexter-Mazza, PhD
- Examples of Consequences | Larry Rosen, PhD
MyBlueprint Resources
- November’s Monthly objectives
These objectives focus on supporting Career and Technical Education with digital documentation in SpacesEDU. You’ll also learn more about the improvements and updates included in our latest release! Please copy pertinent details from November’s Monthly Objectives and share with your educators. - Growth over Grades podcast | Podcast
This podcast prepares Future-Ready Students. In episode five, listen as SpacesEDU’s Jordan Lewis and educational leader Dana Addis dive into the topic of preparing students for a global future through Portrait of a Graduate initiatives.
- Implementation strategies for teachers
- Become a Certified SpacesEDU Educator
We are now offering FREE self-paced learning for teachers through OTIS for Educators’ Courses; individual modules can be completed in 30 minutes or less!
- Become a Certified SpacesEDU Educator
- Digital Documentation with Portfolios
Does your district use Portfolios in SpacesEDU to document student learning? Check out Introduction to Digital Portfolios Presentations& Family Digital Portfolio Guideto maximize student success when documenting in Portfolios.
- Digital Documentation with Portfolios
In the Loop – Oct 31, 2024
KEY RESOURCES IN LANGLEY
- Clickable PDF to Key Resources in Langley
- Instructional Services Website: For all your district-vetted resources K-12! Check it out!
- Aboriginal Resources vetted by the District
- TCS Sites (TCS SS-grade 3, 4-8, Secondary): Key resources are still being placed in these Teams. If you need access to one of these Teams, please email dzurbuchenjonker@sd35.bc.ca
- District Learning Commons is a lending library of classroom and teaching resources available to all school staff in the Langley School District. All of our items are available to view and book online through the Insignia Library system. Find instructions, an area to check out new resources, request new resources and report lost or damages kits here: https://sway.office.com/qbfcZW739otNIwLe?ref=Link
We deliver and pick up all the items you request through district mail twice per week (check with your admin assistant to see which days your deliveries are on).
MENTORSHIP PROGRAM
Interested in Becoming a Mentor?
We are in great need of experienced teachers with five or more years in the profession to support and guide newer educators as they transition into their roles.
We have many brand-new or early career teachers looking for a mentor. We need mentors at all grade levels but especially primary (K-5) and middle (6-8).
Time Commitment as a mentor: Mentors need to commit to ONE 45-minute learning-focused conversation every 3-5 weeks. There are optional workshops, networking and learning sessions available.
https://langleyteachers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Mentor-Info-Sheet.pdf
New to the District or a New Role?
If you’re a newer teacher looking for mentorship, please fill out the Mentee Information Sheet here. Once completed, email it to teachermentorship@sd35.bc.ca to join our program!
Upcoming events:
Ongoing: Classroom Library Kits – let us know if you would like one! Fill your classroom library by borrowing books from us – Kits for K-2, 3-5, and 6-8 available!
Mentor Learning Session: Nov. 14, 3:30-5pm, SBO– for those who could not attend Harrison
Mentorship Session – all welcome – Early Literacy Part 1: strategies and programming – Nov. 19 – Wix-Brown Elementary School
HONOURING TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION
UBC MOOC – Reconciliation Through Indigenous Education | More info
Enhance your understanding and knowledge of practices that advance reconciliation in the places where you live, learn, and work. This 6 week course will help you envision how Indigenous histories, perspectives, worldviews, and approaches to learning can be made part of the work done in classrooms, organizations, communities, and in everyday experiences in ways that are thoughtful and respectful. In this course, reconciliation emphasizes changing institutional structures, practices, and policies, as well as personal and professional ideologies to create environments that are committed to strengthening relationships with Indigenous peoples.
Early Learning Pro-D | UBC MOOC – Nurturing Childhoods Through Indigenous Ways of Knowing | More info
Explore teachings, strategies, and resources that guide the inclusion of Indigenous ways of knowing in early learning environments. This Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) is designed to empower and support educators, service providers and families to engage with Indigenous knowledges in early learning environments. The 6-8 week course offers a transformative learning experience, weaving together Indigenous worldviews and pedagogies with diverse perspectives. Co-created with community, educator and scholarly voices, this free, fully-online course is accessible to participants seeking to explore ways to enhance their practice and care environments through Indigenous ways of knowing. There are no admission prerequisites.
DISTRICT PROFESSIONAL LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES
To see our full calendar of offerings, visit www.thinklangley.com
We are having some technical difficulties with On-Demand learning, we are working with the site hosts to fix it as soon as possible. If you have registered for a session and receive an error saying that the workshop is sold out, please contact us at thinklangley@sd35.bc.ca , provide us with the session name and we will provide you with a direct link to the site.
Learning in the Primary Years: A Four Part Series | Nov 4, Dec 3, 2024 and Jan 20, 2025 I Register
Curious educators are invited to learn and think together about the newly released “Learning in the Primary Years” Ministry document with connections to playful practice. Register for one session or all, just select the appropriate pass during registration. Dinner will be provided to those who attend in person.
How to Become a Better Writing Teacher: Supporting Engagement, Composition, and Quality in Students | Oct 28, 2024, Nov 25, 2024, Jan 27, 2025, & Feb 10, 2025 I Register
Join Matt Glover in this incredible Zoom series hosted by the Provincial Outreach Program for the Early Years.
F & P Training – On Demand | Webinar
If you are new to completing F & P Assessments or need a refresher, there are training videos on how to complete the F & P Assessments available On Demand via the Think Langley website. These can be accessed via the link above.
EXTERNAL PROFESSIONAL LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES
SFU Med/MA in TEAL Info Session | Dec 4, 2024 | Info Session | More info
SFU is offering information sessions for those interested in applying for SFU’s MEd/MA program in Teaching English as an Additional Language for our Fall 2025 intake.
Designed for educators working with English Language Learners, this program provides students opportunities to advance their knowledge of theory, research, and practical issues in teaching ELLs at any level.
This program is well-suited for those already working with English language learners in K-12 school settings in BC, or those with experience and interest teaching English as a second or foreign language in international contexts, as well as those with experience and interest in EAL education in settings like language institutes, colleges, immigrant/refugee settlement services and related organizations. Both domestic and international applicants are welcome. Most applicants should have a minimum of two years of full-time teaching experience or equivalent related experience.
LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES FOR STAFF/STUDENTS/CLASSES
Christmas in the Country Field Trip | Dec 5-29, 2024 | More info
Join Thunderbird Show Park this December for Christmas in the Country! This indoor event offers a fun opportunity to learn about agriculture in the Lower Mainland. Get up close with an 800-pound Speckled Park cow and discover the chick hatching process through hands-on exhibits and workshops. Students can enjoy the hobby horse kids’ course and admire dazzling light displays, all while celebrating the holiday spirit!
NFB films to celebrate the French-speaking world | English French
To celebrate the French-speaking world in March, the National Film Board of Canada (NFB) joins force every year with the annual event, Rendez-vous de la francophonie (RVF). This will be their 20th participation in March 2025 and are offering six programs this year. Everything is free: films and promotional items. Screenings can take place in cultural organizations, associations, libraries, schools, government offices – in short, during the month of March, any group wishing to organize a screening of NFB films with one of the six programs can participate. Programs 4 and 5 are of interest to primary school students ( program 6 is rated from age 10, but its discussion potential makes it a very interesting program for high school students), and programs 1 and 2 are appropriate for high school and great for adults too.
Amazing STEAM opportunities for BC students | SHAD Canada | More info
Shad is a month-long summer STEAM and entrepreneurship program for grade 10 and 11 students that opens doors to post-secondary pathways. Each year, students from across Canada come together on Shad campuses from coast to coast to explore different parts of the country and make lasting connections. Hear from three alum from different provinces as they share insights from their incredible summer at Shad’s Thompson Rivers University campus exploring STEAM topics, meeting field experts, and immersing themselves in everything Kamloops has to offer.
Fall in Love with Learning: Get inspired With Farm Updates | Stable Harvest Farm | Register
Check out the latest updates from Stable Harvest Farm and get inspired for learning outside the classroom. Spots are filling up for the hands-on, educational farm experiences in Spring 2025. Book now for Grade 4-7 classes. Students will love exploring the stations in the marsh, wetlands, and wet grasslands at the farm, where they can spot frogs, birds, and unique plants while learning how these habitats protect wildlife.
PROFESSIONAL AND PERSONAL READINGS AND RESOURCES
“Assess THAT” Podcast on “Feedback” with Tom Schimmer and Natalie Vardabasso | Podcast
“Assess That” is an excellent ongoing podcast on assessment hosted by Tom Schimmer and Natalie Vardabasso. In one of their recent episodes, Tom and Nat explored the topic of feedback. In the podcast, they discuss feedback as both simple and complex and provide some excellent ideas and suggestions for helping teachers use feedback effectively to improve student learning. Without a doubt, this is one of the better podcasts out there when it comes to the topic of how to use feedback effectively in the classroom and definitely worth a listen!
Scary Snapchat AI and Other AI Chatbot Companions | Podcast
The market for AI-based companion platforms, which allow users to build personal, interactive relationships with virtual characters, is growing rapidly, and there are currently around 40 applications available. In today’s blog, Delaney Ruston (Screenagers’ Filmmaker) will break this all down for you. Be prepared to be sad, scared, and mad.
LEARNING RESOURCES
Veteran’s Week and Remembrance Day | More info
Time is growing short but we still have print copies of some of our 2024 Veterans’ Week learning resources in stock. Digital versions are always available on our website but if you order right now, you should receive hardcopies by Remembrance Day. Don’t delay, request yours today!
Looking for help to organize a commemorative event for your school or community? Let the Plan a Remembrance Day Ceremony resource centre come to the rescue! This new webpage offers a wealth of resources, including downloadable videos, music, readings, MC notes and a step-by-step presentation you can play at your event.
PHE Canada Podcast: Reframing the Sex Talk | Podcast
Reframing the Sex Talk: Let’s Talk About Teaching Sexual Health Education – Jessy Wollen
Last year each secondary school was provided with a complete ‘Sex Ed Circuit Kit’ and a formative assessment template to use with students in Grades 8 – 10. The founder, Jessy Wollen (from SHIFT Education) was featured in a PHE Canada Podcast last spring, and she provides some excellent insight and rationale for providing our learners with sexual health education. Have a listen and save the date! SHIFT will be introducing these kits to PHE teachers during a workshop on our Odyssey Professional Development Day in February. More details to follow!
BCTF Classroom Resources Website | Resources
The TeachBC website is your go-to site for free downloadable lesson plans, posters and classroom resources directly from the BCTF. These resources come directly from practicing teachers in BC and teachers are also encouraged to enter their classroom resources, lesson plans and activities to the site as well. To access it, please go to the link above.
TECH TIPS
Microsoft EDGE Browser
If you are not already doing so, we would highly recommend that all District Staff use the Microsoft EDGE browser as their default web browser. Microsoft EDGE is a Microsoft product that is provided to all Langley District staff as part of the Office 365 package that is part of our District system. As a result of it being a Microsoft product, it is therefore most compatible and easiest to use with all of the other Microsoft tools available for staff. It is also the safest and most secure browser to be using from a privacy and protection lens as well.
In the Loop – October 24, 2024
KEY RESOURCES IN LANGLEY
- Clickable PDF to Key Resources in Langley
- Instructional Services Website: For all your district-vetted resources K-12! Check it out!
- Aboriginal Resources vetted by the District
- TCS Sites (TCS SS-grade 3, 4-8, Secondary): Key resources are still being placed in these Teams. If you need access to one of these Teams, please email dzurbuchenjonker@sd35.bc.ca
- District Learning Commons is a lending library of classroom and teaching resources available to all school staff in the Langley School District. All of our items are available to view and book online through the Insignia Library system. Find instructions, an area to check out new resources, request new resources and report lost or damages kits here: https://sway.office.com/qbfcZW739otNIwLe?ref=Link
We deliver and pick up all the items you request through district mail twice per week (check with your admin assistant to see which days your deliveries are on).
MENTORSHIP PROGRAM
Interested in Becoming a Mentor?
We are in great need of experienced teachers with five or more years in the profession to support and guide newer educators as they transition into their roles.
We have many brand-new or early career teachers looking for a mentor. We need mentors at all grade levels but especially primary (K-5) and middle (6-8).
Time Commitment as a mentor: Mentors need to commit to ONE 45-minute learning-focused conversation every 3-5 weeks. There are optional workshops, networking and learning sessions available.
https://langleyteachers.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Mentor-Info-Sheet.pdf
New to the District or a New Role?
If you’re a newer teacher looking for mentorship, please fill out the Mentee Information Sheet here. Once completed, email it to teachermentorship@sd35.bc.ca to join our program!
Upcoming events:
Ongoing: Classroom Library Kits – let us know if you would like one! Fill your classroom library by borrowing books from us – Kits for K-2, 3-5, and 6-8 available!
Alternative Mentor Learning Session: Nov. 14th, 3:30-5pm, SBO– for those who could not attend Harrison
Mentorship Workshop: Rewiring Reading Routines – Nov. 19, 2024 3:30-4:40 @ Wix-Brown Elementary Mentors and Mentees Welcome | Flyer | Register
HONOURING TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION
UBC MOOC – Reconciliation Through Indigenous Education | More info
Enhance your understanding and knowledge of practices that advance reconciliation in the places where you live, learn, and work. This 6 week course will help you envision how Indigenous histories, perspectives, worldviews, and approaches to learning can be made part of the work done in classrooms, organizations, communities, and in everyday experiences in ways that are thoughtful and respectful. In this course, reconciliation emphasizes changing institutional structures, practices, and policies, as well as personal and professional ideologies to create environments that are committed to strengthening relationships with Indigenous peoples.
Early Learning Pro-D | UBC MOOC – Nurturing Childhoods Through Indigenous Ways of Knowing | More info
Explore teachings, strategies, and resources that guide the inclusion of Indigenous ways of knowing in early learning environments. This Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) is designed to empower and support educators, service providers and families to engage with Indigenous knowledges in early learning environments. The 6-8 week course offers a transformative learning experience, weaving together Indigenous worldviews and pedagogies with diverse perspectives. Co-created with community, educator and scholarly voices, this free, fully-online course is accessible to participants seeking to explore ways to enhance their practice and care environments through Indigenous ways of knowing. There are no admission prerequisites.
DISTRICT PROFESSIONAL LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES
To see our full calendar of offerings, visit www.thinklangley.com
We are having some technical difficulties with On-Demand learning, we are working with the site hosts to fix it as soon as possible. If you have registered for a session and receive an error saying that the workshop is sold out, please contact us at thinklangley@sd35.bc.ca , provide us with the session name and we will provide you with a direct link to the site.
Learning in the Primary Years: A Four Part Series | November 4, December 3 2024, and January 20 2025 I Register
Curious educators are invited to learn and think together about the newly released “Learning in the Primary Years” Ministry document with connections to playful practice. Register for one session or all, just select the appropriate pass during registration. Dinner will be provided to those who attend in person.
Connecting the Pieces: The Early Years Conference | October 25, 2024 I Register
Pre-Registration for the conference has closed. If you still wish to attend, you can on site at R.E. Mountain Secondary at 8:00am
Connecting the Pieces: Pre-K and Kindergarten Conference is our annual conference dedicated to professional development for kindergarten teachers and early childhood educators. Our workshop line-up includes local and internationally recognized experts selected to share their innovative and practical ideas for working with young learners.
Middle School Literacy Conference | October 25, 2024 I Register
Pre-Registration for the conference has closed. If you still wish to attend you can on site at Yorkson Creek at 7:30am
Come join your Middle School colleagues from around the District as we gather together to discuss best literacy classroom practices, resources, supports and intervention strategies for middle school learners! Literacy is the responsibility of everyone in a Middle School setting, but teaching literacy is also hard work. Let’s work together to explore how we do that together and what that looks like in our Middle School in Langley.
How to Become a Better Writing Teacher: Supporting Engagement, Composition, and Quality in Students | Oct 28, 2024, Nov 25, 2024, Jan 27, 2025, & Feb 10, 2025 I Register
Join Matt Glover in this incredible Zoom series hosted by the Provincial Outreach Program for the Early Years.
EXTERNAL PROFESSIONAL LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES
Network of Inquiry and Indigenous Education (NOIEE) | Deadline Dec 16, 2024 | Submit Inquiry Plan
For those BC Schools participating in a NOIIE Inquiry Project this year, Inquiry Submission forms are now open for acceptance. Additionally, you are invited to our first Learning Burst of the school year, scheduled for November 5th, where two BC schools will share their experiences and insights using the Spiral of Inquiry around Indigenous Education. To foster community and collaboration, Angela Stott and Rosa Fazio are hosting Inquiry Coffee Chats, a series of informal gatherings designed to encourage dialogue and idea-sharing among educators.
Teaching the Holocaust – Micro-Certificate for teachers | More info
The Continuing Studies Department at UVIC is offering a unique, 8-week online course for in-service and pre-service teachers to help prepare them to integrate Holocaust Education into their classroom with this now being mandated by the provincial government starting in 2025-2026. The course runs from January 13 to March 7, 2025, but interested learners also have the option to attend an in-person, one-day professional development workshop on Professional Development days. This workshop is designed to complement the online course and offers additional learning opportunities from leading experts in Holocaust education. The first session will occur on Friday, October 25, 2024 and the second will take place in Spring 2025 at the University of Victoria campus. Please see under October 25 Pro-D Day events above for more information on this event. For more information on the 8-week virtual course, please see the “More info” link above.
What’s the Story? Supporting Inquiry through Heritage Fairs | Canada’s History | Register
This online professional development series for history and social studies teachers is designed to provide teachers with tools and strategies for helping students undertake an inquiry project – including selecting meaningful topics, designing strong inquiry questions, and locating and analyzing relevant evidence. Teachers will also learn how to assess inquiry projects effectively. The series will feature four, 90-minute sessions from October–December. The series will be hosted online, via Zoom and is also available in French. The first fifty (50) paid participants will receive a Heritage Fair classroom kit, which includes print copies of What’s the Story? — a youth publication to support inquiry — classroom posters, and access to digital resources. Participants will also have access to any recordings, presentations, and resources shared during the series.
UBC MEd in Literacy Education – Applications Open | More info
The Masters of Education in Literacy Education is a new graduate program for working professionals. Applications for the next intake of the UBC Master of Education in Literacy Education program have opened! This fully online graduate program will support educators engagement in self-inquiry and critical reflection on current literacy practices, spanning from early childhood to adult education.
LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES FOR STAFF/STUDENTS/CLASSES
STEM Global Leadership Program | More info
STEM Canada is a federally registered not for profit program, operating in communities across Canada in partnership with Microsoft, Google volunteers and many post secondary institutions worldwide to provide STEM programming to students enrolled in public, private, catholic and/or home school. Our mission and focus is to help each child achieve academic excellence, master self-learning skills, and develop equal character while fostering self-discipline, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills in a STEM-based learning environment. Students enrolled in the leadership program will be exposed to unique national and international STEM opportunities by way of mentorship from STEM professionals, scholarships, peer interactions, training, and workshops. Our aim is to prepare children for future technological changes and innovations, where resources are not easily accessible in order for students to become globally competitive.
Notorious 2025 | Hip Hop Dance Competition for Students in Grade 8-12 | More info
Students are invited to participate in the 13th annual hip hop dance competition in Richmond, BC. The registration deadline is January 10, 2025 and the event will take place on March 7, 2025. All participants must be attending the High School they are registered with. Junior Division is open to those in grade 8-10 and the Senior Division is open to those teams with any member in Grade 11-12. Maximum team size is 20 members. Please see all the details at the “More info” link above.
LEARNING RESOURCES
Veterans Week | Veterans.gc.ca | More info
Resources are available to help students learn more about Canada’s military history and those who have served in the cause of peace and freedom over the years. There are free bilingual materials for ages 5-18 which can be ordered at the link above.
Book Creator – Getting Started | More info
Book Creator is a versatile digital tool that empowers students to create and read multimodal digital books. It significantly boosts student engagement through story creation and multimedia design. Students can generate their own content by typing, drawing, or uploading self-made videos, audio files, and images, or they can curate multimedia resources from the Internet. This tool is also perfect for project-based learning activities, as it supports real-time collaboration, allowing multiple students to work together on a single book. While designing their own books offers the greatest educational benefits, students can also enhance their knowledge by reading multimodal books created by others. Book Creator is available for free to all teachers in the Langley School District. Check out the handy PDF guide at the link above on how to get started with Book Creator.
Culture and Society Resources through CURIO | More info
Explore the Culture and Society themes listed below to elevate lesson planning. Curio is a free resource to all teachers in the Langley School District. New to Curio? You can access the Curio resources using the instructions found at the link here.
- Civics | All Ages | More info
What are our political rights and obligations as Canadians? What exactly is the electoral process and how do we as individuals participate? Find out how civics impacts our culture and what changes still need to be made. - Social Justice | Elementary (Ages 8-11), Secondary | Video
There’s growing frustration over social media companies shadow-banning platforms. Do these companies have the right to police the politics you see online? - Social Justice | Elementary (ages 8-11), Secondary | Video
It’s hard to track down exactly where the term BIPOC came from. Some people say that’s useful. Others? Not so much. Learn more. - Culture | Secondary | Video
Alexander Armstrong meets internet stars helping to keep Korea on the global map, including a record-breaking ‘bulk-eater’ who joins Alexander for noodles. *For BBC Subscribers. - Religion | Elementary (ages 4-11) | Video
Rama and Sita is one of the main stories from Hinduism and is connected with Diwali – the annual festival of light held every autumn. *For BBC Subscribers. - Indigenous Culture | All Ages | Series
Check out these all new shorts from the popular indigenous culture series Telling Our Story. 11 First Peoples, 11 cultures, 11 languages: a multi-millennial presence whose story remains to be told.
TECH TIPS
Microsoft EDGE Browser
If you are not already doing so, we would highly recommend that all District Staff use the Microsoft EDGE browser as their default web browser. Microsoft EDGE is a Microsoft product that is provided to all Langley District staff as part of the Office 365 package that is part of our District system. As a result of it being a Microsoft product, it is therefore most compatible and easiest to use with all of the other Microsoft tools available for staff. It is also the safest and most secure browser to be using from a privacy and protection lens as well.
Microsoft Accessibility Tools
Microsoft has a number of excellent accessibility tools available to District staff that are built directly into most of the Microsoft and Office 365 products that District staff have access to and use on a daily basis. These tools are great for both staff use but many of them are also useful and helpful when working with students. Below is information including a video link and a PDF resource regarding the Immersive Reader tools available to staff through the EDGE browser. Please do note that some tools are only accessible depending on which version of office you are using and some online tools are only available through the Microsoft EDGE browser – see item above for more information on why you should be using EDGE!
MyBlueprint Supports | October Highlights
- Take Our Kids To Work Day | More info
On Wednesday, November 6, grade 9 students across Canada will participate in Take Our Kids to Work Day. This opportunity provides students with hands-on workplace experience and encourages future career exploration. For more information access our helpful activity package at the link above. - Sign up for a webinar | Register
The 30-minute webinar sessions are an effective way to learn how to use myBlueprint with students. The team of experts will provide helpful tips, best practices, and guided demonstrations with time for questions throughout.