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In the Loop – February 14, 2025

KEY RESOURCES IN LANGLEY

DISTRICT LEARNING COMMONS

The DLC is your one stop shop for useful resources to enhance your teaching available to all school staff in the Langley School District. You don’t need to buy everything for all of your lessons yourself! You can check it out in person in the basement of the School Board Office or have kits and resources delivered directly to your school! We deliver and pick up all the items you request through district mail twice per week (Tuesdays and Thursdays). Links to all the info below:

  • View and book online through Insignia Library system | Here
  • Find instructions, an area to check out new resources, request new resources and report lost or damages kits | Here
  • Sign out instructions | Here

Featured DLC Resource:

New Rubiks Cube Kit | More info

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.

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! 

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!

HONOURING TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION

Free Indigenous Education Resources
Thank you for being part of the Think Langley Odyssey 2025 Conference and for your commitment to Truth & Reconciliation! In case you missed Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame’s session on Indigenous Education through the Lens of Sport, we’ve got you covered. You can access all of our FREE education programs and resources at no cost at the links below.

All of our virtual live and on-demand education programs are available at no cost and can be accessed through a free membership.

Exclusive GIVEAWAY for Odyssey 2025 Delegates! | Enter by TODAY February 14, 2025 | Register
Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame is offering two $100 Amazon e-gift cards to teachers who sign up for their free membership by Friday, February 14, 2025. Simply register for your free membership at https://beyondthewin.ca, and you’ll automatically be entered! Winners will receive their e-gift cards via email the following week.

DISTRICT PROFESSIONAL LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES
To see our full calendar of offerings, visit
www.thinklangley.com

Words Matter #getliterate  l On-Demand Learning Feature
Just as language literacy and numeracy are important, so is mental health literacy. The goal for school mental health is to improve mental health literacy among students, school staff, and parents.
The focus of the workshop is to: introduce a common language around mental health; promote the reduction of stigma; increase knowledge around what is/what is not a mental illness; provide an overview of the more common mental health concerns and disorders encountered in a school setting; and begin a conversation around good mental health practices, which includes seeking help when appropriate.

First people’s principals of learning included are:  
•  Intercultural understanding, empathy, & mutual respect.
•  Exploration of identity.
•  Generational roles & responsibilities.
•  Holistic, reflexive, reflective, etc.
•  Knowledge is sacred.
•  Patience & time.
•  Recognizing consequences of actions
•  Well-being of self, family, community, etc.

Setting up an explicit Literacy Program in the Primary Classroom: Part 3: February 19,2025, Part 4: February 26, 2025 I Register
Are you looking to set up an evidence-based literacy program but unsure where to start or how to support small groups? We will start with discussing the Scope and Sequence to guide your instruction, then look at assessment tools that will inform your practice and allow for creating groups based on targeted skills. Then, we will go over ways to support instruction in the different areas such as decoding and fluency. Finally, we will have a check in to see what has worked and what next steps could be.

Building Thinking Classrooms – Session Canceled on Feb. 18, 2025

EXTERNAL PROFESSIONAL LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES

Advancing Anti-Racism and Resilience through Mentorship and Leadership: A BCBELA Black Leaders Symposium | February 15, 2025 | Register
This one-day professional development symposium in partnership with UBC Connects and the BC Black Educational Leaders Association will bring together racialized leaders, community advocates, and allies from diverse sectors and communities to engage in impactful conversations about equity, inclusion, and leadership.

Through keynote addresses, breakout sessions, and networking opportunities, it will:

  • Empower racialized leaders to share their experiences, insights, and strategies for success.
  • Build a supportive network that fosters collaboration, mentorship, and resource sharing across sectors.
  • Advocate for change by addressing systemic challenges faced by racialized professionals and communities and promoting equitable policies and practices

LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES FOR STAFF/STUDENTS/CLASSES

Join SENgage to mark Black History Month | February 20, 2025 | Registration closes TODAY Feb 14, 2025 | Register
This virtual event is taking place on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at 1 p.m. ET. to celebrate Black History Month. This one-hour event, open to students between the ages of 10 and 17 from across Canada, will focus on this year’s national theme: “Black Legacy and Leadership: Celebrating Canadian History and Uplifting Future Generations.” With senators present to share their stories, the event promises to be an engaging and inspiring conversation for the next generation of leaders — your students! Simultaneous interpretation will be provided during the event, allowing participants to listen in either French or English. Participation is free. Please contact SENgage@sen.parl.gc.ca if you have any questions.

Interactive, Fun & Free! Register for High School Economics Field Trips Now! | Grade 8-12 Students | Deadline today February 14, 2025
Turn textbook concepts into real-world experiences with our FREE one-day High School Economics Field Trips! Through interactive, hands-on activities, students will see economics in action—making learning engaging, fun, and unforgettable. These field trips are open to students in grades 8-12 and applicable to a variety of courses like Business Studies, Career Education, Entrepreneurship, Economics, Social Studies and more.
Make sure your students don’t miss out on this great learning opportunity! Registration for Burnaby Field Trips closes February 14 and limited spots are available.
Program Dates:

This Month in the Arts | February 2025 | More info
The Arts are alive and well in Langley Schools!  Please check out the poster at the link below for a quick glance and overview of all of the amazing Arts events and activities happening across schools in the Langley School District in February!

Virtual Family Math Day | February 22, 2025 | More info
The Department of Curriculum and Pedagogy in the Faculty of Education at UBC is hosting a virtual Family Math Fair on Saturday February 22 from 10:00 am to 11:30 am. UBC Faculty of Education Graduate Students and Teacher Candidates will engage students, teachers and parents in Hands-On, Minds-On Math Activities for all ages.  Click on the link to the poster above for more information.

LEC Wellness Event | February 26, 2025 | More info
Langley Education Centre is hosting its 6th annual wellness event, known as #thatwellnessthing on Wednesday, February 26, 2025 where you can learn about mental health and wellness. It is an open house and community resource fair.

2025 Governor General’s History Award for Excellence in Teaching | Deadline March 24, 2025 | More info
Each year, Canada’s History Society recognizes six teachers for innovative and impactful approaches to teaching Canadian history through the Governor General’s History Award for Excellence in Teaching. The award places a spotlight on teachers that foster a deep understanding of the past and actively engage students in historical work through meaningful projects and initiatives.

The 2025 recipients will be awarded:

  • $2500 for their school
  • $1000 individual cash prize
  • A medal
  • Travel and accommodations for two from a major city to attend the award ceremony

If you or a teacher you know makes history come to life in the classroom, submit a nomination or apply online today! Stage 1 applications are due March 24, 2025.

WorkSafeBC Student Video Contest | Grades 8-12 Students | Skills Competences Canada | More info
The theme for the 2025 Student Safety Video Contest is Show up, speak up for safety. When you are new to work, some things may feel beyond your control. But you have the power to make your workplace safer and healthier. Show up and speak up when something feels unsafe. Take part in health and safety activities in the workplace.
Tell us how young workers can do more than just show up at work. What can you and other young workers do to improve safety at work for everyone by showing up and speaking up? Submit your original production for a chance to win cash!

PROFESSIONAL AND PERSONAL READINGS AND RESOURCES

“Assess THAT” Podcast with Tom Schimmer and Natalie Vardabasso | Listen Here
“Assess That” is an excellent ongoing podcast on assessment hosted by Tom Schimmer and Natalie Vardabasso. Please check out their latest podcast that has just been released – “3 Year Checklist for Implementing Standards-Based Grading.” In this episode, Tom and Nat share a three-year checklist for implementing standards-based grading. Of course, every checklist must be checked against the culture and nuances of each specific situation but generally, this checklist will provide a road map that can at least initiate the journey.

Feeding Futures Newsletter | Read It Here
Below please find the link to the District’s January Feeding Futures Newsletter – the Feeding Futures Program is an important program in our District to support students and families in need. The purpose for sharing the newsletter here is to help spread the word and information about the Feeding Futures Program. Please feel free to share with families as well.

LEARNING RESOURCES

Black History Month Resources & Podcast | More info

  • MYLEGACY Podcast | Listen Now
    Step inside the lives of extraordinary individuals with My Legacy, the podcast and syndicated radio show defining what it means to create a Living Legacy. Hosted by Martin Luther King III, Arndrea Waters King, Marc Kielburger, and Craig Kielburger, each episode features incredible guests like Mel Robbins, Billy Porter and Martin Sheen—along with their “plus one,” a loved one or trusted confidante offering rare insights into their trials, triumphs, and truths behind their incredible journeys.
  • Lesson Packages for Grades K-12: With PowerPoints to help guide your instruction | Lesson Plans
  • Issue Cards | Spark essential conversations among students | Download Action Cards

New Units to celebrate women in STEM | Power Smart for Schools | More info
Organizations around the world recognize February 11 as the international day of women and girls in science. This day is an opportunity to acknowledge the contributions of women in STEM and encourage more girls to pursue their passion for the sciences.

To support this effort, we are releasing two new units:

  • Women in STEM, then and now (Grade 5)
  • Women in STEM, past and present (Grade 8)

These units feature activities that explore women’s scientific innovations and empower all students to pursue their passion for science. Learn more on the Power Up Blog at the link above.

TECH TIPS

Microsoft EDGE Browser
If you are not already doing so, the District 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.

Raising Digitally Resilient Kids – Parent Workshop/Resource | Resources
The Raising Digitally Resilient Kids parent workshop outlines how parents and guardians can support children’s well-being and help them balance the risks and benefits of digital media. Based on insights from MediaSmarts’ research with youth, the workshop provides an overview of online risk categories and provides resources and essential strategies that participants can take to manage these risks. You can find all of these resources at the link above.

SD35 Inclusive Technology Resource Hub | HUB
The SD35 Inclusive Technology Resource Hub is a brand new District Resource Hub that is available to all staff across the District. The resource hub provides access and information to staff on the various Inclusive Technology tools that are included in our Microsoft Office tools that all staff have access to and are available to use these tools with students to help with their learning. These tools include things like Immersive Reader, Dictation, and Translation. The Resource hub provides both written instructions and video tutorials for staff on how to access the tools with things like Microsoft Word or Power Point and also how to effectively use these tools to assist students who would benefit from having access to these tools to enhance their learning opportunities. The hub also includes an Accessibility Guide which is a great starting point for educators on how to create a more inclusive learning environment that provides access for all learners.
Above is the link to the Hub – more resources and tools will continue to be added to the Inclusive Technology Resource Hub over the coming weeks and months.

In the Loop – February 6, 2025

KEY RESOURCES IN LANGLEY

DISTRICT LEARNING COMMONS

The DLC is your one stop shop for useful resources to enhance your teaching available to all school staff in the Langley School District. You don’t need to buy everything for all of your lessons yourself! You can check it out in person in the basement of the School Board Office or have kits and resources delivered directly to your school! We deliver and pick up all the items you request through district mail twice per week (Tuesdays and Thursdays). Links to all the info below:

  • View and book online through Insignia Library system | Here
  • Find instructions, an area to check out new resources, request new resources and report lost or damages kits | Here
  • Sign out instructions | Here

Featured DLC Resource:
Four of our newest additions to the DLC! These literacy kits are a collection of stories written and told by authors from Canada’s Arctic, Cree, Metis, and Anishinaabeg regions. These stories are beautifully illustrated and guaranteed to provide poignant life lessons and exposure to Indigenous language. Check them out at the links and order them now for use in your classroom through the DLC!

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.

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! 

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!

HONOURING TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION

Centering Indigenous Pedagogies in Mathematics Education: Assessment | Edith Lando Virtual Learning Centre | February 26 & April 16, 2025 | More info
This series focuses on assessment practices in math education guided by Indigenous pedagogies and perspectives such as Indigenous Storywork, teachings from the land, and culturally responsive mathematics education. The target audience is teachers and TOC’s and will be done virtually. There is no cost involved.

DISTRICT PROFESSIONAL LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES
To see our full calendar of offerings, visit
www.thinklangley.com

Career Spotlight – Business and Entrepreneurship l On-Demand Learning Feature
Learn about different careers in the business and Entrepreneurship industry! Presenters with backgrounds in Real Estate, Digital Marketing and Entrepreneurship will talk about the occupation/role as well as their career journeys.

Odyssey – Monday February 10, 2025 Pre-registration is closed
The Langley School District’s annual Odyssey Conference will be taking place on Monday February 10, 2025 at the Langley Events Centre, RE Mountain Secondary and Peter Ewart Middle School.  All District Staff are invited to attend and participate in this wonderful day of learning! If you still wish to attend or change your breakout sessions, please arrive at the Langley Events Center at 7:00am to register. The Odyssey help desk will assist you.

Setting up an explicit Literacy Program in the Primary Classroom: Part 3: February 19,2025, Part 4: February 26, 2025 I Register
Are you looking to set up an evidence-based literacy program but unsure where to start or how to support small groups? We will start with discussing the Scope and Sequence to guide your instruction, then look at assessment tools that will inform your practice and allow for creating groups based on targeted skills. Then, we will go over ways to support instruction in the different areas such as decoding and fluency. Finally, we will have a check in to see what has worked and what next steps could be.

EXTERNAL PROFESSIONAL LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES

The Anxious Generation: Learning Forward BC Book Club: Session Two | February 10, 2025 | Register | Book Summary
In the Anxious Generation, Jonathan Haidt examines the detrimental effect of excessive screen time and social media has on the healthy development of young minds. In the book he explores how it hampers crucial childhood experiences like unstructured play and face to face social interaction while amplifying harmful tendencies like cyberbullying and social comparisons. He lays out four points as being a starting point to address the problem:

  • No smartphones before high school. …
  • No social media before age 16.
  • Phone-free schools. …
  • More free play and responsibility in the real world.

Digital Classroom Webinars | Focused Education Resources | February 14, 2025 | More info
On Friday, February 14th, 2025, Focused Education is offering a variety of virtual sessions to explore Digital Classroom, and other resources. Learn more about the quality resources available to you now. Guide your students in the use of safe, quality resources to support their research, critical thinking, and content creation. These resources support:

  • Science and Math
  • Inquiry/project-based learning
  • French Immersion
  • Cybersecurity awareness
  • Access to Canadian- and BC-created content

Early Screening and Interventions Clinics: Removing Barriers and Providing Support | Feb 14, 2025 | Register
Join this Pro-D Opportunity  and learn how to jumpstart reading levels and intervene for struggling readers in Grades K to 3 with specific strategies.

    • An easy, new, Skill-screening Tool that will help organize small group interventions.
    • A downloaded Treasure Chest for each participant: Hundreds of playful games and activities that reinforce essential skills.
    • A research-based rationale for each essential skill.

Engaging All Learners in the Middle Years | Edith Lando Virtual Learning Centre | February 20, 2025 | More info
Educators in BC are invited to a webinar series exploring the engagement of middle years learners in multi-age and multi-grade classrooms. The next session is  called “Pedagogy of Voice” on Thursday February 20. The target audience is educators working with students in grades 4-9, TOCs and Teacher Candidates. The format is virtual and there is not cost involved.

Virtual Leadership Workshop Opportunities
Langley School District Graduate Shaliza Jamal is the founder and Executive Director of Curated Leadership. Her company is offering these online workshops throughout the month of February.

  • Black Excellence and Navigating Anti-Black Racism in the Workplace (Pay what you can options ranging from 5.00 to 50.00) More info
  • Master DEI Fundamentals to Amplify Your Leadership | Free | More info

AVID Summer Professional Learning Offerings | AVID Summer Institute 2025 | More info
AVID’s professional learning is built around high-quality communities of practice designed to meet the diverse needs of educators, incorporating multiple learning styles and schedules. Two engaging formats are offered. Both experiences are designed to give educators the skills, inspiration, and actionable strategies to transform their teaching and drive student success. Early Bird Registration opens February 11, 2025.

  • In-person AVID Summer Institute | More info
    AVID Summer Institute is a 3-day, high-touch, interactive community experience featuring a rigorous curriculum that promotes student achievement at the highest levels and lays out a pathway to student success. Collaborate with educators nationwide and experience dynamic, hands-on sessions.
  • Virtual AVID Ignite | More info
    Experience AVID’s high-quality virtual professional learning and spark inspiration campuswide. Join live, interactive sessions and a Community of Practice to gain strategies you can apply all year. Perfect for educators new to AVID who want to expand their toolkit, or for those unable to attend in-person training.

Institut de francais | UBC a Quebec | Apply by Mar 1, 2025 | More info
Step into a summer of opportunity with this immersive three-week program designed to empower K-12 French educators. Program Highlights:

  • Hands-on Language Development: Morning classes and afternoon workshops tailored to your teaching needs, with opportunities to explore communicative methods and differentiated instruction.
  • Cultural Integration: Discover the charm of Québec City through community visits and cultural activities.
  • Expert Guidance: Learn from experienced language instructors who are dedicated to supporting your growth both inside and outside of class time.

LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES FOR STAFF/STUDENTS/CLASSES

This Month in the Arts | February 2025 | More info
The Arts are alive and well in Langley Schools!  Please check out the poster at the link below for a quick glance and overview of all of the amazing Arts events and activities happening across schools in the Langley School District in February!

Virtual Family Math Day | February 22, 2025 | More info
The Department of Curriculum and Pedagogy in the Faculty of Education at UBC is hosting a virtual Family Math Fair on Saturday February 22 from 10:00 am to 11:30 am. UBC Faculty of Education Graduate Students and Teacher Candidates will engage students, teachers and parents in Hands-On, Minds-On Math Activities for all ages.  Click on the link to the poster above for more information.

LEC Wellness Event | February 26, 2025 | More info
Langley Education Centre is hosting its 6th annual wellness event, known as #thatwellnessthing on Wednesday, February 26, 2025 where you can learn about mental health and wellness. It is an open house and community resource fair.

Student Opportunities | Fraser Institute | More info
Encourage students to participate in these enriching opportunities and deepen their understanding of economics. Two opportunities are highlighted below:

  • High School Economics Field Trip | More info
    Give your students the opportunity to engage with economics in a fun and interactive way! Our free High School Economics Field Trips bring economic concepts to life with hands-on activities, pop culture videos, and collaborative learningEncourage your students to participate in these enriching opportunities and deepen their understanding of economics. 
  • Student Essay Contest | More info
    Students can further their learning by entering the Fraser Institute’s 2025 Student Essay Contest—an opportunity to showcase their writing skills and economic understanding, as well as explore the Essential Scholars series.

PROFESSIONAL AND PERSONAL READINGS AND RESOURCES

Exploring Equitable Grading Practices Podcast | Listen Now
Education leaders Peter DeWitt and Michael Nelson delve into equitable grading with renowned expert Thomas Guskey in one of the latest “Leaders Coaching Leaders” podcast episodes. Guskey, author of 27 influential books on education, including his newest release, “Grading With Integrity,” challenges longstanding assumptions about grading systems. In this engaging discussion, Guskey sheds light on common frustrations voiced by parents, the complexities faced by educators, and the path to developing grading practices that effectively inform schools, teachers, students, and families. His insights aim to support educators in fostering clarity and fairness in assessment. Tune in to learn how grading can become a tool for meaningful communication and improvement.

LEARNING RESOURCES

PLAYBuilder Opportunity | School Physical Activity and Physical Literacy (PAPL) | More info
If you are a K-7 PHE teacher interested in teaching side-by-side with a PLAYBuilder Ambassador to learn more about this fantastic resource, and ways to use it for planning and lesson delivery, please contact Kim Haber (khaber@sd35.bc.ca) for more information.

In the Loop – January 30, 2025

KEY RESOURCES IN LANGLEY

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!

Date TBD | Part 2 – Rewiring Reading Routines @ Wix-Brown

February 26, 2025, 3:30-4:30 | Part 2: The Anxious Generation Book Club – on TEAMS

April 7, 2025, 3:30-4:30 | Part 3: The Anxious Generation Book Club – on TEAMS

HONOURING TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION

Odyssey | Monday February 10, 2025 I  Pre-registration is closed
If you wish to attend or change your breakout sessions, please arrive at the Langley Event Center at 7:00am to register. Odyssey help desk will assist you.
The Langley School District’s annual Odyssey Conference will be taking place on Monday February 10, 2025 at the Langley Events Centre, RE Mountain Secondary and Peter Ewart Middle School.  All District Staff are invited to attend and participate in this wonderful day of learning!

DISTRICT PROFESSIONAL LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES
To see our full calendar of offerings, visit
www.thinklangley.com

Career Spotlight – Business and Entrepreneurship l On-Demand Learning Feature
Learn about different careers in the business and Entrepreneurship industry! Presenters with backgrounds in Real Estate, Digital Marketing and Entrepreneurship will talk about the occupation/role as well as their career journeys.

Setting up an explicit Literacy Program in the Primary Classroom: Part 3: February 19, 2025, Part 4: February 26, 2025 I Register
Are you looking to set up an evidence-based literacy program but unsure where to start or how to support small groups? We will start with discussing the Scope and Sequence to guide your instruction, then look at assessment tools that will inform your practice and allow for creating groups based on targeted skills. Then, we will go over ways to support instruction in the different areas such as decoding and fluency. Finally, we will have a check in to see what has worked and what next steps could be.

EXTERNAL PROFESSIONAL LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES

Building the Future Workforce through Durable Skills in K-12 | SpacesEDU by myBlueprint | February 12, 2025 | Register
Join this special webinar for school and district leaders highlighting how to integrate durable skills into curriculum and instruction. Expert panelists Ann Nakaska (Constructive Career and Life Designs), Sabba Quidwai (Designing Schools), and Michael Crawford (America Succeeds) will share:

  • Insight into workforce trends across Canada and the US and how education can respond to evolving employer expectations
  • Why durable skills enhance long-term success and practical ways to foster development in K-12 schools
  • How to assess and measure durable skills to ensure students are career-ready

Early Screening and Interventions Clinics: Removing Barriers and Providing Support | Feb 14, 2025 | Register
Join this Pro-D Opportunity  and learn how to jumpstart reading levels and intervene for struggling readers in Grades K to 3 with specific strategies.

  • An easy, new, Skill-screening Tool that will help organize small group interventions.
  • A downloaded Treasure Chest for each participant: Hundreds of playful games and activities that reinforce essential skills.
  • A research-based rationale for each essential skill.

STEAM Teachers Café: AI in the Classroom | More info
In today’s world of rapidly advancing technology, understanding Artificial Intelligence is essential for educators! Join Science World and co-presenters UBC Geering Up as we explore all things “AI in the Classroom.” You’ll receive resources, fresh ideas, and even be entered for the chance to win a free guest admission to Science World! This workshop is open to all K-12 educators in BC.

LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES FOR STAFF/STUDENTS/CLASSES

Curiosity to Career: Girls and STEAM International Women’s Day Livestream | March 7, 2025 | More info
Turn curiosity into careers! Join our Girls and STEAM International Women’s Day Livestream, presented by STEMCELL Technologies to meet inspiring women who transformed their childhood passions into thriving STEAM professions. Open to all genders—students and classrooms eager to explore the exciting possibilities of STEAM and to celebrate women’s achievements in these fields.

Sikh Heritage Month & Author Visit | Canadian Children’s Book Week April 27 – May 3, 2025 | More info
Kuljinder Kaur Brar is passionate about diverse representation in books and education. She is an elementary school teacher in Abbotsford, B.C. and is currently on a leave to spend time with her children. Kuljinder is the picture book author of My Name is Saajin Singh (Annick Press, 2022) and Mandeep’s Cloudy Days (Annick Press, 2024).
She will be touring with the Canadian Chilren’s Book Centre in the month of April, which is also Sikh heritage month. See the “More info” link above for requesting a booking.

Beyond the Win Education Programs | Resources to Kickstart 2025 | Book Your Free Program
Happy New Year from all of us at Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame! We know the start of the year has been busy, and now that you’re back in full swing, we’re here to support you with new opportunities and resources designed to enrich your students’ learning experiences. Whether you’re looking for engaging stories to inspire resilience or fun activities to energize your students, we’ve got you covered.

  • Hall of Famers on Tour with Cindy Klassen
  • Artefact Talks: Follow Your Dreams
  • Artefact Talks: Taking the Higher Ground

Group Visit Opportunity on Tuesdays and Thursdays | BC Sports Hall of Fame | Book Now
Looking for a team-building experience, school outing, or group day trip? Our group booking option is perfect for schools, sports teams, and other organizations looking to enjoy a memorable experience at the BC Sports Hall of Fame. Plan Your Group Visit! Bookings take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Group Booking Highlights:

  • Expert-Led Tours: Learn the stories behind the exhibits, the athletes, and the achievements that shaped BC’s sports landscape.
  • Customizable Experiences: Tailor your visit to meet your group’s interests.
  • Special Rates for Groups: Affordable pricing for schools, sports teams, and large groups to enjoy a memorable experience at the Hall.

PROFESSIONAL AND PERSONAL READINGS AND RESOURCES

 

LEARNING RESOURCES

Explore, Engage, Inspire: Learn with the Royal BC Museum | More info
The Learning and Engagement team is here to help you create meaningful connections between your curriculum and the rich history, culture, and nature that shape our world.
New French Programs are now available:

  • Explore the Gold Rush of BC (delivered in French) | Designed for Grades 4-6 | Book Now
    Transport your class back to 1858, when gold fever gripped the Fraser River and transformed British Columbia forever. In this engaging program, students will uncover the unique properties of gold, explore the diverse motivations of prospectors, and examine the lasting impacts of the gold rush on BC’s people, land, and economy. Through historical insights and interactive discussions, your students will connect to key curriculum goals and gain a deeper understanding of colonialism, migration, and resource-driven change. After your session, dive deeper into the Gold Rush of BC with our free resources on the Learning Portal.

Free Resource Outreach Kits:

  • The Writing on the Wall: Chinese Historical Wrongs | Designed for Grade 5 and 10 Social Studies | Learn More
    Explore big ideas in your classroom with our engaging Outreach Kits! In The Writing on the Wall, students will engage with historical evidence to think critically about how we understand history and its impacts today. This free resource is designed to support teachers in meeting curriculum goals and inspiring meaningful conversations about inclusion, resilience, and social justice.

Free Resource Learning Portal:

  • Diversity in Early Black Communities | More info
    Uncover the rich histories and identities that shaped early Black communities in British Columbia! This engaging pathway explores the lives of leaders and settlers who came to BC. From the first governor of BC to pioneers in education, dentistry, and law enforcement, these individuals greatly contributed to the province’s development. Through photographs, stories, and historical accounts, students will learn how early Black settlers overcame challenges and enriched the cultural fabric of BC. Celebrate the diversity and achievements of these trailblazers in your classroom!

Monthly Live Online:

  • Meet the Mammoth | February 18, 2025 | Register
    Our learning team educators will dive into the fascinating world of the Ice Age and the Woolly Mammoths that roamed it. Through images, videos, and objects, we’ll explore how these incredible creatures adapted to survive in such a harsh environment. This interactive session offers plenty of opportunities for questions and engagement.

TECH TIPS

MyBlueprint | SpacesEDU

  • Winter Training Opportunities | February 5, 2025 | Register
    SpacesEDU’s 30-minute webinar sessions are the perfect quick refresher to get you on track for effectively using SpacesEDU! Join the Getting Started with SpacesEDU: Your First Class Webinar on Wednesday, February 5th. Be sure to sign up to join live and receive the recording afterwards!
  • Growth Over Grades Podcast | Listen Here
    In episode nine, The Road to Future-Ready with Michael Crawford, Jordan Lewis sits down with Michael Crawford, Vice President of Strategic Initiatives at America Succeeds, to discuss prioritizing durable skills in teaching and learning. Listen to hear Michael’s advice for adopting a skills-based approach in your school or classroom!
  • Implementation Strategies for Teachers
    1. Canada Skills Resource: Resource
      Check out the brand new skill documentation resource to support you with practical ideas as students share their skill development in SpacesEDU!
    2. Teacher Checklist: Creating Quality Posts in Student Portfolios | Checklist
      Are you a teacher using Portfolios to document student competencies and skills? Use this checklist to ensure student Posts meet all the required components for effective documentation and reflection, an exemplar is also included!
    3. Descriptive Feedback | Resource
      Support students in their skill development with ongoing feedback! Gain practical insights and helpful sentence starters and examples in this comprehensive resource on mastering the art of descriptive feedback.
  • Newsletter: Building Skills & Documenting Process | More info
    Skills are a key currency for success in school, career, and life. Building transferable skills is an important component to being ‘future-ready’ for the various pathways that students take post-high school. As students are entering an ever-changing and dynamic workforce, they need to be thoroughly prepared to face the challenges and opportunities ahead. Building and subsequently documenting skills is an important part of this journey to ensure students are equipped and ready to successfully take on their next steps.
    Using SpacesEDU is an amazing way to effectively track skill progression and reflect along the way:
    1. Does your school district implement (or is thinking about implementing) a Portrait of a Graduate? Learn more about leveraging SpacesEDU to bring your Portrait of a Graduate to life!
    2. You may have come across the term ‘Durable Skills’ before – this new guide helps to unpack what these entail and how SpacesEDU can support your students as they build Durable Skills in your classroom and beyond!
    3. Looking for ideas about which skills to focus on with your students? The America Succeeds Durable Skills Wheel and the Government of Canada Skills for Success Framework are great starting points!

Instructional Services | #Think35

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