In the Loop – November 7, 2024

November 7, 2024

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!

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:

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:

  1. WHY: Why might a person want to use a companion bot?
  2. RISKS: Serious risks–what are some of them?
  3. RULES: Family guidelines
  4. HELPERS: Commit to help others
  5. DEEP THINKERS: Commit to ongoing discussions

Screenagers YouTube – Latest Videos:

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!

Instructional Services | #Think35

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Phone: 6045347891
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