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NBTA NewsNew Brunswick Teachers’ Association
October 4, 2006Vol. XLIX, No. 2
INSIDE:
4Skills for AdministratorSeries
Pre-RetirementSeminars 2006-07
Importance of Detail
Classroom ManagementInstitute
School-Based LearningTeams Grants
G. Forbes Elliot Award
8
Keswick Ridge SchoolMakes the Grade
9
5
Next Final Copy DeadlineFor NBTA News:
Friday, October 20
10-11
20
eswick Ridge School, which isa small rural school just westof Fredericton in SD 18,started the school year withquite an honour. The school
was named as one of Today’s Parentmagazine’s Top 30 Schools inCanada for 2006. This year therewere over 500 nominations acrossCanada from which 30 were selectedby a panel of 60 education expertsincluding teachers, guidancecounselors, principals and parents.The school was nominated by PSSCChairperson and parent, Mrs.Rhonda Baker-Gordon, in the area ofInnovative Core Programming for itsmultiage approach to teaching andlearning.
Multiage at Keswick Ridge is awhole school effort. Students at K-2share multiage classrooms, while the3-5 students are regrouped into themultiage setting for science andliteracy initiatives. The 53 MiddleSchool students share one commonclassroom and are team taught. Attimes, students participate in school-wide multiage activities, thusbuilding a sense of community. Themultiage learning environment ismore reflective of real-life workingrelationships where people ofvarious ages and skills come togetherwith a purpose. Children areencouraged to work at their ownpace and to develop their personalstrengths. All teachers work in
K
2 NBTA NEWS
teams andshare the valuesof professionallearningcommunities.As schoolprincipal, Ms.Barb Corbett,stated inToday’s Parent,“Teachers, whowork togetherin teams,specialize intheir areas ofexpertise andcan’t help butpass on theirpassion topupils.”
The multiage approach at KRSbegan in the early 1990’s with theMiddle School and has grown toembrace the entire schoolcommunity. Aside from the benefitsof teamwork for students and staff,multiage provides opportunities forpeer leadership, the looping of
students, teachers and parents so asto build strong long-termrelationships and the ability forstudents to be viewed and taught asindividual learners. The latterrequires that teachers have profoundknowledge of each child’s capabilitiesand a commitment to multiage.
The schoolcommunity hasenjoyed the mediacoverage from CBCradio/TV and localnewspapers. OnSeptember 7, 2006the school hosted itsannual SchoolCommunityCornboil for over 500people and receivedcongratulatorygreetings from thePremier and theLeader of the OfficialOpposition. Acommemorativedisplay of the Today’sParent achievement
was unveiled and will remain in theschool. As District 18Superintendent Alex Dingwall statedin The Daily Gleaner, “We have a lotof excellent schools in our district.This is just recognition for theunique approach (the) KeswickSchool has to education.”
ISSN 0317-5227NBTA News is published ten times ayear. Opinions expressed are those ofthe authors, not necessarily the NBTA.Editor: Jim DysartEditorial Assistant: Loretta ClarkeGraphic Artist: Christy PricePrinted By: NBTF Printing ServicesMember: CEPAAddress all correspondence to:The EditorP.O. Box 752, Fredericton, N.B.E3B 5R6Telephone: (506) 452-8921FAX: (506) 453-9795E-mail: [email protected]: www.nbta.ca
School Bus Safety WeekOctober 15-21, 2006
Linda Bateman (Home & School Assocation), presents NBTAPresident, Indu Varma, with a copy of this year’s School BusSafety Week Poster.
Happy
Halloween!
OCTOBER 2006 3
implementation of this blueprint forinclusive education.
A truly inclusive education systemneeds to be adequately funded,resourced and supported in order toeffectively meet the needs of ourchildren. It is heartening that in theLiberal platform a pledge was madeto endorse the MacKay Report andfully implement itsrecommendations respecting alltimelines. This acknowledges thereality teachers face daily in theirclassrooms, i.e., meeting the diverseneeds of children given thecomposition of classes we presentlyhave is a formidable task. Followingup campaign announcementsregarding funding for special needschildren and establishing a fundingformula to better address their needswould be a good starting point.
As we progress towards creatingthe best education system, the firststep in this journey could then beginby significantly improving thecurrent level of educational fundingin New Brunswick. We have a longway to get to the top spot in thisarea. According to the latest StatisticsCanada figures (2003-04), currentlyNew Brunswick is the second lowestin terms of per pupil operatingfunding.
Increasing the funding levels toapproach the Canadian average, asrecommended by the MacKay Report,would allow for the creation ofsmaller classes while giving theneeded flexibility in restructuringchallenging classes throughadditional teachers. Fortunately, theneed for more teachers in the systemhas been acknowledged and was verymuch a part of the Liberal platform.
During his campaign our newly-elected Premier, Mr. Shawn Graham,repeatedly stated his desire to support
teachers and give them what theyneed to do their job effectively. Agood start in this area would be byproviding sufficient instructionalresources, establishing integrateddelivery of services through thecollaboration of various governmentdepartments, enhancing the existingprofessional developmentopportunities, and providing relevanthands-on programs to meet thediverse needs of our children, suchas, Music, Fine Arts, Phys Ed.,Vocational courses, etc.
Creating the best educationsystem also means strengthening andbuilding on the successes of the past.While it is understandable that thenew government would want tobring a fresh approach and create itsown mark, let’s hope that changewouldn’t occur for the sake of changeand due recognition would be givento the successful initiatives andprograms that have been runningeffectively
Existing professional developmentopportunities for teachers(Curriculum Delivery Days) and theservices of certain professionals, suchas literacy mentors and behaviorinterventionists, are examples ofsuccessful initiatives that need to bemaintained and enhanced.
The prospect of having the besteducation system in our province isexciting and one we all want to worktoward. Let’s work together to createan education system which is thepride of New Brunswick and the envyof all. Our goals are common and theresolve is strong. We believe thatthrough collaboration and teamworkwe can do it!
Our children are worth it!
Office (506) 452-8921 • FAX (506) 453-9795 • E-mail [email protected]
Indu Varma
President’s Message
First Steps Towards Creating theBest Education System
reating the best educationsystem in Canada is thepromise made by our newly-elected Liberal government.
Teachers, parents, and the children ofthis province can hardly wait to seethis become a reality.
Good education is the foundationon which everything rests. Theincoming government has declarededucation to be one of its toppriorities, realizing that goodeducation is a crucial factor in jobcreation and is the steppingstone toeconomic prosperity. Investing in agood education system, therefore,has immediate and long-termbenefits.
Rich opportunities, highexpectations and sound preparationfor the future for all individuals, asstated in the above quote by LowellMilken, would be among theessential elements of this besteducation system our governmenthas pledged to create. This wouldundoubtedly mean having a trulyinclusive education system where allchildren can be educated to reachtheir full potential and be productiveand responsible citizens whocontribute to the prosperity of ourprovince.
This would require significantchanges and investments in ourcurrent inclusive education system.The MacKay Report, released inMarch 2006, has done an indepthstudy of the New Brunswick inclusiveeducation system and has madeninety-five main and several subrecommendations. This reporteliminates the need for any furtherstudies in this area. It is now time for
C
"There is an equation at the center of the proposition of education that is as appealingas it is basic: All we have to do is think about what we want for every child, and we shallknow what to provide every teacher—rich opportunities, high expectations, and soundpreparation for the future. This is what every child needs and this is what all teachersdeserve." (2006)Lowell Milken on Educational Reform, Chairman and Co-FounderMilken Family Foundation http://www.mff.org/about/lmilken.taf?page=quotes
4 NBTA NEWS
Skills for Administrator Series:A Workshop for School-Based Administrators
Sponsored by the NBTA, School Districts and the Department of Education
Using Student Work to Inform Instruction
Date: November 21 and November 22, 2006 (9 am - 4 pm)Location: NBTF Building, FrederictonFacilitator: Marcella (Marcy) Emberger, Atlantic Canada Connected
Community (ACCC – an ASCD affiliate)Participants: Open registration — Limit 40
Teachers examine student work every day, but the process of assigning and evaluating student work istraditionally a solitary practice. Professional development for assessment requires shifting this solitarypractice toward a collaborative one. Leadership teams can foster the understanding of the central roleof student work in informing instruction by helping staff members learn to work collaboratively as theyexamine student work. In this two-day workshop, participants will learn the processes forimplementing the collaborative sharing of student work, and they will be provided with tools andstrategies for leading this shift in their schools.
The Facilitator: Marcella Emberger has recently moved to New Brunswick from Maryland where sheserved as the Director of the Maryland Assessment Consortium. She is a veteran presenter at theNational ASCD Conferences where she has co-presented with Carol Ann Tomlinson and Jay McTighe.She has recently published articles in Principal and Principal Leadership journals.
There is no registration fee for the workshop and attendance will be limited to 40 participants. Luncheswill be provided both days. Participants are required to make their own arrangements for release timeand travel costs with District Offices.
Registration Deadline: Wednesday, November 14
Please fax the registration form to:Nancy Roach, Director of Professional Development, NBTA, at 506-453-9795.
Skills for Administrator Series:Using Student Work to Inform Instruction
Name: __________________________________________________________________________________________
School: _________________________________________________________________________________________
Email: __________________________________________________________________________________________
You will be emailed with a confirmation of your seat.
OCTOBER 2006 5
2006-2007 NBTA PRE-RETIREMENT SEMINARSREGISTRATION FORM
Please accept my application to attend the NBTA Pre-Retirement Seminar to be held on (check one):
DATE OF SEMINAR DEADLINE FOR REGISTRATION_____ October 21 - Bathurst, Terry Fox School October 13_____ November 4 - Moncton, Riverview Middle School October 27_____ NNoovveemmbbeerr 2299 -- BBrriissttooll,, CCaarrlleettoonn NNoorrtthh SSeenniioorr HHiigghh NNoovveemmbbeerr 2211_____ December 2 - Saint John, Simonds High November 24_____ January 13 - Fredericton, NBTF Building December 22_____ January 27- Miramichi, Dr. Losier Middle School January 19_____ February 10 - Sussex, Sussex High School February 2
Name of Teacher: ___________________________________________________________________ S.I. No. ______________________
Mailing Address: ____________________________________________________________________________Dist. _________________
____________________________________________________________ Name of Spouse (if attending) ________________________(If spouse is a teacher, please fill out a separate form)
No. of pension years you will have accumulated to June 2007 _______________ Certificate Level: ________________
Are you planning to buy back time? ______________ If “yes”, how much time? ________________________________
Do you have Responsibility Allowance? Yes _______ No ________ (If “yes”, contact your payroll officer at your District
Office and have your last 5 years’ salary history faxed to Karen Vautour, 453-9795)
I am enclosing a cheque in the amount of $5.00 / $10.00 (please circle one) to cover the cost of registration; nutrition break,
and materials to be supplied. Please make cheque payable to New Brunswick Teachers’ Association.
II hheerreebbyy aauutthhoorriizzee tthhee NNBBTTAA ttoo oobbttaaiinn iinnffoorrmmaattiioonn ffrroomm tthhee PPuubblliicc SSeerrvviiccee EEmmppllooyyeeee BBeenneeffiittss DDiivviissiioonn ppeerrttaaiinniinnggssppeecciiffiiccaallllyy ttoo mmyy ppeennssiioonnaabbllee sseerrvviiccee rreeccoorrddss.. TThhiiss iinnffoorrmmaattiioonn wwiillll bbee uuttiilliizzeedd ttoo pprreeppaarree mmyy iinnddiivviidduuaall ppeennssiioonneessttiimmaatteess ffoorr rreettiirreemmeenntt ppuurrppoossee oonnllyy..
YES NO Signature: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________
The following guidelines should be noted for participation inthese seminars:1. All participants must pre-register.2. A registration fee of $5.00 for each participant must
accompany the application; however, cheques will notbe cashed until after the workshop.
3. Travel and accommodation costs are the responsibilityof the participant.
4. A nutrition break will be provided.5. Questions relating to these seminars should be directed
to: LLaarrrryy JJaammiieessoonnDDiirreeccttoorr ooff TTeeaacchheerr WWeellffaarree SSeerrvviicceessNNeeww BBrruunnsswwiicckk TTeeaacchheerrss’’ AAssssoocciiaattiioonnPP..OO.. BBooxx 775522FFrreeddeerriiccttoonn,, NN..BB.. EE33BB 55RR66 ((TTeell.. 445522--11772222))
6. Any interested teachers are eligible to attend.7. All workshops begin with registration at 8:30 am and
sessions at 9:00 am until 1:00 pm. (Except Bristol, whereregistration will begin at 5:00pm -- Seminar at 5:30pm)
8. Detach and return the registration form as soon aspossible.
PLEASE NOTE: YOU WILL RECEIVE CONFIRMATION WITHIN ONE WEEK OF CONFERENCE.
SEMINAR GUIDELINESPROGRAM• Teachers’ Pension Act• The Canada Pension Plan• Pension Records (will be available at meeting if possible)• Pension Calculations• Old Age Security• Retirement Allowance• Pre-retirement Vacations• Deferred Salary Leave Plans• Financial Planning for Retirement:
- RRSPs- Annuities- Registered Retirement Income Funds
• Individual Consultations
� �
6 NBTA NEWS
By Nancy RoachDirector of Professional Development
I seem to recall an old TV showcalled Kids Say the Darndest Things.The premise was that the naturalcommentary offered by youngsterswould be entertaining, and as Iremember (it was a long time ago), itwas. Those of us who work withchildren, or who have experiencedthe first-hand joy of parenting, willall have a story about somethingthat a little onesaid that wasprofound,amusing oroutrageous.
Listening,really listening,to our studentscan offer usinsights intohow theyperceive ourwork, what theyvalue and hope for in their teachers.I was fortunate enough to have aglimpse of some of their thoughts asa result of a student survey I sent toa number of teachers last June. Ofcourse, these busy people hadnothing else to do in June (!!), but,God love them, many of them didadminister the survey and sent meback the results. I received morethan 700 of them, in fact, fromstudents in Grades K-12, and it madefor fascinating reading.
Although my primary reason forasking for students’ opinions was fora keynote address I was preparing, Ifound the words and thoughts of thekids were so powerful that I wantedto share them with more of you.
I asked them a series of fivequestions. The answers wereinteresting, to say the least, and Ihave recorded them exactly aspresented. (Special thanks to thosepatient K and grade 1 teachers whodid the survey orally and recordedthe children’s words. The first was
“What is the mostimportant thing fora teacher to knowor be able to do?”
One grade 5 girl gavea cryptic response:“How to teach, DUH!”Others reflected theirown realities:“Multiplcation because itcomes upmost in life”.(grade 5 boy)“The date/the calendar”.
(grade 1 girl/boy)A grade 2 boy indicated the most
important thing was for the teacherto “know what the hunsers are on thesheets,” while a grade 2 girl thoughtyou should be ‘able to spell aneawrod.”
Some of the older students werevery explicit in their responses. Themost important thing, according toa grade 7 boy is “to be funnysometimes. It is easyer to understandewhen they put humeur in it.” (Think
he might be in FrenchImmersion?) A grade 8girl reminds us “not topick favourites. Sometimesothers feel inadequate evenif they are doing theirbest.” Personalperspective peeksthrough the comment ofa grade 9 boy who saysthat teachers need toknow “how to teachstudents that learndifferently than normalstudents.”
The senior students were notwithout their opinions. A grade 10girl gives this advice: “Know yoursubject and love it, know that all kidsare different, accept that we can’t NOTtalk!” The concept of active engagedlearning came up over and over,perhaps best expressed by this boywith one year left to go beforegraduation. He says you need to“know how to do your job and makeclasses more hands-on and moreexciting than just sitting there listeningto something we don’t care about.”Then he went on to add, “If it wasexciting we still wouldn’t care but atleast we will learn what you are tryingto teach!” How’s that for honesty?
The second question I ask thestudents was also related to theirlearning and your teaching. WhenI am trying to learn, I hope myteacher will…
These responses were equallythought-provoking. Paramount totheir concerns was what happenswhen they are struggling to ‘get it’.
A grade 2 boy is specific: “Teachme til I get it.” Three years later, thesentiment is still the same: “Not giveup on me.” (grade 5 boy) A grade 4girl want to be left alone: “Let me domy work and jus let me learn,” shewrites. “I apriciate my space.”
By Middle School, students arefeeling their insecurities even more.A grade 7 girl reminds us to “not askme to answer a question when my handis not raised.” A boy of the samegrade reiterates the theme: “Explane
PPoottppoouurrrriiP.D.Through Their Eyes
“Know yoursubject and loveit, know that allkids are different,accept that wecan’t NOT talk!”
because sometimes we are scared to askquestions in front of the class.” Agrade 8 girl wants us to “understandthat I might not get it the first time.”
Older students have somevariations on this theme. Often theyneed to “understand WHY. SureE+MC2 but tell me how come”,challenges a grade 10 boy.
Students clearly look to theirteacher to help them when they areexperiencing difficulty.
“Help me when I do not understandand go over it with me until I do. Alsowhen I ask the teacher for help I hopeshe/he will not complain, because thatis what they are here for.” (grade 11girl)
“Mybe help by explaning it otherways and not sut repeating it the sameway. That won’t help any more than itdid the first time.” (grade 7 girl)
We also get advice from both ouroldest and youngest students. It isnot new to us, but it bears repeating.A grade 12 girl reminds us to “Bepatient. Not everyone learns the sameway or at the same rate.” And one ofour youngest, a Kindergarten girlsays that when she is trying to learnsomething, she wants her teacher to“say congratulations.”
The educational experts couldn’thave said it better.
If you are curious about some ofthe other questions and how ourstudents responded, you can findmore Through Their Eyes in nextmonth’s column.
Field Trip TipsTaking students out of the school
building into the community atlarge has long been considered avaluable approach to learning. Arecent article by one of my favouriteauthors, Rick Wormeli (MakingField Trips Matter, Middle GroundAugust 2006) challenges teachers toask questions about the real learningthat is taking place on the trip. Hemakes a number of practicalsuggestions to maximize what yourstudents will get from the field trip.
Homework Anyone?Homework is another of those
‘institutions’ that have been part ofschools since the dark ages. In thisthoughtful article, Homework That
Helps (Principal Leadership,September 2006) the author offersinsight into one school’s focus onthis subject. Changing attitudesfrom parents make it important tohave conversations among staff todetermine the school’s approach tohomework, ensuring that it is bothproductive and reasonable.
Middle and High SchoolLiteracy
The newest issue of PrincipalLeadership (September 06) is athemed issue based on the topic ofLiteracy. It features articles from anumber of schools who share someof the approaches to school-wideliteracy that have worked for them.I particularly liked Getting School-Wide Literacy Up and Running forits practical suggestions from theschool’s literacy action plan. It alsooffers a Check List for teacherscentered on the Four E’s(Environment, Engagement,Expectations andEncouragement/Support) whichmust be present in schools if aliteracy plan is to benefit students.
Advice for PrincipalsJust as the demographics of our
teaching profession are changingrapidly, so too are we experiencingan unprecedented turnover inadministrative positions in NewBrunswick Schools. Several articlesin NAESPs Principal (September/October 2006) would be of value toany person in a principal or vice-principal position. Been There,Done That and Won’t Do It Againis filled with practical advice from aveteran. They Never Told me Thisin Principal School follows thesame theme and is a worthwhileshort read. (Those of you who are relatively new
administrators might also beinterested in one of this year’s Skillsfor Administrator series. We will berepeating last year’s highly successfulShare the Wisdom workshop inMarch. See the flyer that will cometo your school and/or watch theNBTA News for details.)
Interested in TeacherExchange?
See the ad in this issue about aninformation meeting being held atthe NBTF Building on Saturday,October 28. Join us for Q and A,lunch and a chance to meetExchange Coordinator, CarolWilkins, from the CanadianEducation Exchange Foundation.Current and former exchangeteachers will be on hand to tell youabout their experiences.
Beginning Teachers: A HighlyValuable Addition
I want to say a special welcome toall of you who are beginning yourteaching career this year. I hope Iwill have met many of you at theNBTA Welcome to New TeachersWorkshop by the time you arereading this. I encourage you to takeadvantage of all that the BeginningTeacher Induction Program canoffer. Remember, too, that alongwith your mentor, there are manyexperienced teachers in yourschools. Seek them out for assistanceand advice.
My challenge to you veterans is tonot only welcome this new bloodinto your school community, but totake time to offer your help. Themost successful first year’s areexperienced by those teachers whosay “I am so lucky! My whole staff isreally my mentor!” Help make yournew teachers one of those luckyones!
OCTOBER 2006 7
(PD Potpourri continued...)
Educational Improvement GrantFunds Depleted
Teachers should note that due to high demand, the funds for bothProvincial and Council Educational Improvement Grants (i.e., forconferences and other professional development) have been depleted foractivities taking place between now and December 31, 2006.
Funding is available for activities taking place after January 1, 2007 andapplication can be made at any time. Teachers are encouraged to applyearly.
8 NBTA NEWS
ach year, hundreds ofapplications or nominationpapers are prepared by teachersand submitted to committees or
panels charged with theresponsibility of choosing, fromamong all submissions, a limitednumber of successful applicants.
Whether applying for anEducational Leave, or submittingnominations for the NBTACentennial Award, the Aliant Award,the Outstanding EducationalLeadership Award or applying forany other competition, providingproper and complete information iscritical to the success of theapplication.
Educational Leave Forms NowAvailable
The Educational Leave Forms(Form D 2007-2008) are nowavailable through school districtoffices. The form consists of fourpages, each with four copies. Personsconsidering applying for aneducational leave for the 2007-2008school year should get the form assoon as possible to ensure sufficienttime for completion and submissionof forms and related documentationprior to the deadline ofNovember 3, 2006. This is astrictly applied deadline.
Each question on the form isasked for a specific purpose andtherefore is very important. Thenumber of very deserving applicantsfar exceeds the number ofeducational leaves available, andtherefore the committee relies veryheavily on the responses recordedfor various questions to helpdistinguish among very similar anddeserving applications.
In responding to open-endedquestions, particularly in section V,applicants are encouraged to prepareresponses prior to transfer to theform. If additional space is required,
additional sheets could be attachedand referenced under theappropriate question.
Of particular importance is theresponse to Part V, question 2 -“Detailed Specific Plans”. Part of themandate of the committee is toensure numerous factors arebalanced in the selection process.Geographical consideration, gender,array of disciplines pursued, lengthof study, and relevance toprofessional growth of the applicantand the needs of the system are allfactors which are considered. To thisend, the committee is less likely toconsider vague or poorly-developedplans, and are more likely toconsider applications which exhibita well-conceptualized program orseries of activities, and which clearlydefines the expectations forprofessional growth.
It is also extremely important toindicate any special conditionswhich may have a bearing,conditions such as relation toposition changes, deadlines forcoursework completion, demands ofinternships, or particular availabilityof programs or activities ofimportance to the success of theeducational leave.
Finally, all applicants mustremember that over 60% of all validand deserving applicants are rejectedprimarily due to lack of sufficientleaves to meet demand. In all cases,applicants can be assured that eachmember of the committee iscommitted to making the process asfair and impartial as possible. Thosewho are unsuccessful are stronglyencouraged to re-apply insubsequent years.
Nominations for NBTACentennial Award, AliantAward for Excellence inTeaching, and OutstandingEducational Leadership Award
The NBTA Centennial Award ispresented each year to an individualin recognition of having made asignificant contribution to educationin New Brunswick. It hastraditionally honoured a long andprestigious career of involvement inthe profession.
The Aliant Award for Excellencein Teaching is presented to an NBTAmember recognized by peers and thecommunity who exhibits excellencein teaching through ongoingcommitment to students andpedagogical approaches.
The Outstanding EducationalLeadership Award, sponsored by theDepartment of Education, ispresented each year to an NBTAmember who is a principal or vice-principal, or to an in-schooladministrative team whodemonstrate(s) the qualities of asuccessful educational leader andfoster(s) a positive school climate.
Each award has its ownapplication form and must be sentseparately to the NBTA SelectionCommittee as described on the form.
Once again, the quality of thesubmissions can be enhanced greatlyby ensuring a substantial amount ofdocumentation from a variety ofsources is provided. Further, thesponsors of the nomination shouldsynthesize the contents of varioussupporting statements in a singleoverview of the recipient’s activitiesand contributions which wouldmerit consideration.
The deadline for nominations foreach of these awards this year isApril 1, 2007. Branches wishing tonominate persons should startgetting supportive documentationnow to ensure a complete, well-rounded and detailed submission.Every additional detail whichenhances the committees’ ability tochoose one from many excellent anddeserving nominees is important.
The Importance of Detail• Quality of Applications and Nominations Critical •
Every additional detail which enhances the committees’ ability to chooseone from many excellent and deserving nominees is important.
E
OCTOBER 2006 9
Non-verbal Communicationfor Classroom ManagementAn Institute for Early Career Teachers
Friday, November 3, 2006 — 9:00 am - 3:00 pmEdith Cavell School, Moncton, NB
Description of Session:This innovative approach to classroommanagement is targeted to teachers withbetween 2 and 7 years of experience.
Training in non-verbal communication:• allows teachers to manage their class so they
can teach• reduces confrontation• increases student on-task behaviour• creates win-win situations between teachers
and students in all types of schools.
Research shows that 80 per cent ofcommunication is non-verbal. Training forteachers to increase their non-verbalcommunication skills is based on the work ofMichael Grinder, the national director of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) in Education.
Participants will be provided with a take-homeresource to support the approach.
The FacilitatorClaudette Landry (CML-Consulting Ltd.), who isfluently bilingual, has been a respected educatorfor over 20 years. She has taught all grades fromkindergarten to grade eight and has workedextensively with teachers in implementingeffective instructional strategies and indeveloping collaborative communities thatmaximize learning and human development.
She has been a leader in staff development for thepast 15 years offering workshops, trainings andpresentations at the district, provincial, nationaland international levels. Most recently, sheadministered a province-wide professionallearning program for Ontario's 185,0000 teachers.
NOTE: There is a $15 registration fee. Lunches will be provided. Teachers must negotiate release timethrough their principals or districts.
Because this institute is being funded by the NBTA provincial office, participants are not eligible forNBTA/DoE Educational Improvement Grants. You may, however, apply to your local Branch for PDfunds if they are available.
Maximum participants: 50 (Preference will be given to NBTA members with 2-7 years of experience)
Name: ______________________________________________ School: _______________________________________________
Teaching Responsibilities: ___________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________ Years on contract in NB ______________
Telephone: _______________________ Fax: _______________________ Email: _____________________________________
Registration Deadline: Monday, October 16, 2006Please mail registration along with $15.00 fee to:
Judy DeveauPO Box 752, Fredericton NB, E3B 5R6
You will receive confirmation of your confirmed seat in the institute.
Non-verbal Communication for Classroom ManagementREGISTRATION FORM
Only A FewSpaces Left!
10 NBTA NEWS
� What is a School-BasedLearning Team?A School-Based Learning Team(SBLT) is a team of 3-5 teachers froma school who decide to worktogether to examine some aspect ofstudent learning with the goal ofstudying, collaborating, sharing andlearning to improve instructionalstrategies that will lead to improvedstudent achievement.
� Can you give me an exampleof what a SBLT might attemptto accomplish under thisprogram?An Elementary Team mightdetermine, by examining theirschool achievement data and theirstudents’ performance, that theirstudents seem weak in the area ofmeasurement. The team might worktowards identifying/developingstrategies to improve this area ofstudent learning. The teachersmight try various teachingtechniques, learning from oneanother or experts, and continue tocompare the progress of theirstudents as a result of the efforts ofthe Learning Team. Likewise aMiddle School Learning Team mightrecognize that their students areweak in poetry ; a High School MathTeam might decide to focus onimproving their students applicationof geometric principles.
� What is a School-BasedLearning Team Grant?A SBLT Grant is a $1000 grant thatwill be awarded to a school uponsuccessful application to the NBTACommittee established to administerthe grant fund. The focus must bestudent learning.
� What is the Purpose of thegrant?The grant is intended to support thework of the Learning Team. Suchsupport may include providing somerelease time for the team to meet,purchasing resources to support theefforts of the team, accessing
expertise in the form of resourcepeople.
� How often should the teammeet?The SBLT grant extends from thecalendar year January to December2007. The team is required to meet aminimum of 18 hours throughoutthe year for which the grant hasbeen awarded. Team membersdetermine when the meetings willtake place.
� How is a SBLT different froma study group?In many ways the SBLT hassimilarities to a study group in thatteachers are working together togrow and learn. However, theLearning Team must focus on an aspectof student achievement and worktowards improving the achievementlevels of their students in that area.Actually examining student work isan important part of a LearningTeam.
� Will there be any help forthe SBLT to get started?Yes. The Director of ProfessionalDevelopment for the NBTA will meetwith each Learning Team to helpthem launch their work. A templatefor recording the work of the teamwill be provided and protocols forexamining student work will beintroduced. These guidelines areintended to provide a framework forboth accountability and productivitybut will not restrict the directionand creativity of the team.
� How many grants will beavailable?For the calendar year January ‘07 –December ‘07, there will be five$1000 grants available.
� How does my school apply?Complete the application formaccompanying this article or foundon the NBTA website(www.nbta.ca). A school maysubmit more than one applicationprovided the guidelines above arerepresented in each application.Deadline for applications isDecember 1, 2006. Successfulapplicants will be notified byJanuary 10, 2007.
� Why should my schoolconsider creating a School-Based Learning Team?All teachers strive to do their best,but so much more can beaccomplished if teachers can worktogether, share strategies andimprove their instructionaltechniques. Students and teachers allbenefit. In a true learningcommunity, everyone learns. ASchool-Based Learning Team is onemore step toward the creation ofsuch a learning community.
The guiding question of a SchoolBased-Learning Team is:"What is happening differently inour classrooms as a result of whatwe are doing and learning in ourTeam?"
See www.nbta.ca for anarticle highlighting previous
years’ results.
See application onfollowing page.
School-Based Learning Teams GrantsIn a true Learning Community, everyone learns.
$1000 Grant for yourSchool to Support
Student and TeacherLearning
OCTOBER 2006 11
NBTA School-Based Learning Team GrantApplication Form
School__________________________________________________________________________________________________
School Address___________________________________________________________________________________________
School Phone _______________ Fax _______________ Name of Team Contact Person ____________________________
Title of Your Team’s Project: ______________________________________________________________________________
Please complete the following after carefully reading the information about School-Based LearningTeams that accompanies this form. Feel free to attach additional pages.
What aspect of student learning will be the focus of this Learning Team?
How and why did your team determine the need for this focus?
How will the team monitor the impact of your efforts on your students?
Who are the members of your School-Based Learning Team? Indicate their teaching assignment within the school?
Comment on the schedule your team will develop for completing the minimum 18 hours of meeting time for your teambetween January and December.
Please add any other comments which you feel are relevant to your application.
Send completed application form to: Nancy Roach, Director of Professional Development, NBTAPO Box 752, Fredericton, NB E3B 5R6
DDeeaaddlliinnee ffoorr aapppplliiccaattiioonnss:: DDeecceemmbbeerr 11,, 22000066
Successful schools will be notified by January 10, 2007. An NBTA Committee will base selection on factors including thethoughtful development of the application form, distribution of various levels (K-12) and geographic considerations.
12 NBTA NEWS
Elementary Council News
Councils Column
Middle Level Council News
The Fredericton Middle Level Council is pleased to announce this year’s keynote speaker,
Dr. Gordon Neufeld
Sessions offered: Science Social Studies Music Art Français Phys Ed Tech Language Arts Math Statement Analysis
COMMUNITY COMMITMENT
DIVERSITY
MIDDLE LEVELCOUNCIL
2007
FREDERICTON
(World-renownd child development expert; author of “Hold On To Your Kids”)
Friday, May 4, 2007Leo Hayes High School
Program Chair:Kendra Frizzell
Communications Director:Stephen Stone
Printing in the Elementary Classroom(An Institute for Elementary Classroom Teachers)
When: Friday, November 10, 2006
Where: Beaverbrook Art Gallery, Fredericton
Presenter: Roberte Melanson, Artist and Art Teacherat Albert Street School, Fredericton
This full-day institute will explore print-making methods and practices to help teachers useprintmaking as an art medium in the regular classroom. We will be making prints to takeback to your classes, so please wear or bring appropriate clothes. We will tour theBeaverbrook Art Gallery and enjoy coffee and nutrition breaks on site. Lunch will not beprovided. It is the responsibility of each participant to arrange for leave, travel and accommodations.
RegistrationPlease email the following information to Peter Gorham, [email protected]• name • email address • teaching assignment • school• school fax number • home and school phone numbers.Also, please let us know if you are a member of the Elementary Council.
Please register early as there will be only 20 participants.
Reminders
Council Day – Friday, May 7, 2007 – Saint John
The EC website is being updated... please be patient!
On Friday May4, 2007, where willyou be? The HighSchool CouncilExecutive wouldhope that you willbe in attendanceat the mostexciting event ofthe 2006-2007
school year. In case you haven’talready heard, this year’s HighSchool Council conference will betaking place in Miramichi. If you areinterested in presenting at theconference, please feel free tocontact me([email protected])or any other member of the CouncilExecutive (contact information forthe High School Council Executiveand a lot of other essentialinformation regarding theoperations of the Council can belocated on the HS Council Website -http://highschool.nbta.ca. It isnever too early to think about
booking your hotel room inMiramichi!
There are two key areas where theHigh School Council Executiveprovides services to its members. Thefirst is the Council Grants that areused by members to help defrayconference costs (application isavailable on the NBTA website). Thesecond is to help organize and fundprofessional development institutesthat would be of interest to ourmembers. There are already anumber of institute initiatives in theworks for the 2006-2007 school yearincluding support for an institute forearly career teachers and support fora conference dealing with makingsense of the adolescent mind (lookfor registration details in futureissues of the NBTA News). If youwould like to help plan and organizean institute for your specializedsubject area, please contact anymember of your High SchoolCouncil Executive. We would bethrilled to assist you!
I would like to take a moment toremind all teachers to brag about theincredible things that are happeningin your high schools. If you haveany item throughout the year thatyou think would be interesting forother Council members to readabout, contact Martin Daigle([email protected]) and hewill make sure that it gets publishedin the NBTA News.
In conclusion, your High SchoolCouncil Executive will be having itsfirst meeting during the morning ofSaturday, September 30, to discussnew business and plan for the yearahead. If you ever have any itemsyou would like to see included on anagenda for these meetings, please donot hesitate to contact me or any ofyour other HighSchool Executivemembers. Have agreat Thanksgivingand a scaryHalloween!
– Derek
OCTOBER 2006 13
High School Council NewsCOUNCIL
HIGH SCHOOL
NBTA
President's Message• High School Council •
Derek Taggart
“Revisiting the Middle School Model” was asummer institute held July 10-12, 2006 inMactaquac, N.B. Sessions focused on Middle Schoolmodel and organization, teaming, curriculumconnections, and showcase schools. The Institutewas sponsored by the NB Department of Education,the Anglophone Superintendencies, and the NBTAMiddle Level Council.
Revisiting the MiddleSchool Model
Participants listening to Joe Thompson’s presentation River Valley Middle School’s presentation
Participants leaving building during our fire drillinterruption
14 NBTA NEWS
In July 2006, five teachersincluding myself from BerniceMacNaughton High School, travelledto Toronto for five days toparticipate in an Advance Placement(AP) Summer Institute. Theweeklong workshops that weparticipated in were pertinent to theAP courses we teach. Thanks to theHigh School Council, Department ofEducation and thelocal NBTA Brancheducational grants, wewere able to offsetsome of the cost of thisexpensive butworthwhile institute.
The institute,organized by St.Vincent School, washeld at St. Michael’sCollege, an exclusiveboys’ private schoolknown for their hockeyand football teams.Their hockey team isimpressive; Alumniinclude players such asJoe Primeau and TimHorton. The settingwas beautiful but mostimportantly the peopleattending were from all over theworld such as West Canada,California, Bahamas and evenChina, a typical Torontomulticultural atmosphere. Beingmyself, a product of the NewBrunswick public school system,private schools and thisinternational feeling was out of theordinary but appealing. Thisexperience gave my colleagues andme the chance to connect withpeople from all over, whilediscussing teaching strategies tobetter serve our AP students. Thiswas for me a golden opportunity tobetter my teaching skills whileexperiencing the authenticity ofToronto.
We could embark on this weeklong workshop thanks to BerniceMacNaughton High School whichbegan offering AP courses four yearsago. Starting with only EnglishLiterature and Calculus, we now
offer five courses, adding to the listChemistry, Psychology and French.In the future we would like to addeven more courses such as Physicsand Human Geography. A largeproportion of our students areuniversity bound, so these coursesgive them a challenging curriculumas well as a chance to better preparethemselves for university.
In my session, French Language, Ifound myself in a group of 14individuals from all walks of life.While most of them worked inOntario’s private and public schools,two ladies were from California, onefrom San Diego and the other fromAnaheim, along with our instructorfrom Columbus, Ohio. This blendproduced interesting conversation,especially while comparing publicand private schools systems. Idiscovered the great divide betweenthese systems. The private schoolsare well-equipped with amazingtechnology and the capacity to getmore resources for their students.Meanwhile the public system mustmake do with a minimum ofresources. I found New Brunswick’sschool system more similar to thelatter. Even though our schools areto some extent well-equipped, thereare still disparities among schools inrural and urban New Brunswick in
what we offer to students. As for theworkshop I attended, it was relevantto what I do in class. I can applywhat I have learned in my classesthis year and help students to betterprepare themselves for the AP exam.
Last, and certainly not least, Imust talk about my favouritepastime - eating. This was withoutany doubt one of the highlights of
my trip. For example, forlunch, we ate in thecafeteria. It looked likeany regular cafeteria -lineups, orange trays andthe long tables. Butthere was somethingpleasantly different thatmade my taste budsquiver as they neverhave before in acafeteria. Prepared by aFrench chef, the luncheswere a well-balancedfeast that made peoplesmile and keep themenergized for theirworkshops, maybe aphilosophy with whichwe should adhere.Afterwards, for supper, Idid treat myself to
flavourful experiences, nothingextravagant, simply good foodspiced with an internationalatmosphere as Toronto knows tooffer. In addition to theinternational flavour, it was WorldCup fever in Toronto. All this madeCanada’s great city a valuableexperience for a teacher from downeast.
I personally enjoyed myexperience at the St. Clement APInstitute which was as educational asdelightful. I encourage all NBTAmembers to take advantage offunding for professionaldevelopment. It will help youparticipate in workshops related toyour subject and give you a chanceto meet interesting people as well asindulging yourself in some of yourfavourite pastimes.
Martin DaigleCommunications for the
High School Council
A Summer PD in Toronto
“This experience gave mycolleagues and me the chance toconnect with people from all over,while discussing teaching strategiesto better serve our AP students.This was for me a goldenopportunity to better my teachingskills whileexperiencing theauthenticity ofToronto.”
Discover the wonders of spacewith the Science East Planetarium.The portable Planetarium, unique toNew Brunswick, is a recent additionto Science East. Groups of up to 35students enter an inflatable dome(wheelchair accessible) for anunforgettable trip though space.
Bring all the delights of ouruniverse, explore planets,constellations, galaxies, nebulae andstar clusters through images from
the Hubble telescope. Speedpast the moons of Jupiter, soarthrough the Orionconstellation and land on theouter limits of the Milky Waygalaxy. Speed up time toobserve the night sky on yourbirthday! The Planetariumallows us to watch meteorshowers, turn on theazimuthal grid and followplanetary trails.
Planetarium showsare completelyinteractive andaudience-driven or teacher-directed, enabling theinterpreter to zoom in onselected objects such as therings of Saturn or the CrabNebula. Shows are adapted forthe K-12 level to ensure anexciting and educationalexperience for every targetaudience. In addition,
demonstrations can cater to thegrade six and nine Earth and Spacecurriculum. We are presentlybooking for the 2006/2007 schoolyear; do not let your class miss outon the Science East Planetarium.
Science East,Tel: 506-459-2340,Fax: 506-462-7687
http://www.scienceeast.nb.ca
COUNSELLING & CONSULTINGIN REALITY THERAPY
GARY L. FERGUSON, M.Ed.CERTIFIED REALITY THERAPIST /REGISTERED MEMBER OF NBPCA
* Marriage & Family Counselling* Adolescents in Crisis * Child-Centered Divorce Mediation
* Anger Management * Grief, Separation Counselling* Stress Management
458-5576ATTENTION DISORDER CLINIC
* Childhood/Adult AD/HD Assessments* Evaluation of medication prescribed for AD/HD
* Follow-up counselling for social/behavioural andeducational/occupational aspects of AD/HD
472-ATTN (2886)www.counselling.nb.ca [email protected]
4 0 3 R e g e n t S t r e e t , S u i t e 2 1 1 , F r e d e r i c t o n , N B E 3 B 3 X 6Paid Advertisement
March BreakSpecial!
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Sylvette Deveau CTC (506)863-5117
France Côté-Allain (MHS)(506)384-3886 or (506)850-8211
Email – [email protected] [email protected]
Departures from Moncton alsoavailable. Please inquire.
Bring the Thrill and Wonderof Space to your Classroom!
OCTOBER 2006 15
16 NBTA NEWS
• Do you have an interest in teaching overseas or elsewhere in Canada?• Do you have a sense of adventure?• Are you a flexible person who can adapt to change?• Does the prospect of living and teaching in another community excite you?
Plan to attend an INFORMATION MEETING sponsored by the NBTA to learn about the exciting possibilities andhow to arrange a teacher exchange.
Join Carol Wilkins, Co-ordinator of the Canadian Education Exchange Foundation, and members of theExchange Teacher Organization of NB.
Date: Saturday, October 28, 2006Time: 11:00 am Lunch will be provided Place: NBTF Building, 650 Montgomery Street, Fredericton
To register or for more information contact Nancy Roach, Director Professional Development ,NBTA at 506-452-1740 or [email protected]
Interested in a Teacher Exchange?
Music Institute – Refreshing Our RehearsingNovember 17, 18 & 19, 2006Fredericton High School, Fredericton, NB
Rehearsal Techniques for Instrumental TeachersClinician - Dr. Don Buell, Professor of Music, Memorial University, NL
Registration Fee: $20.00(Make cheque payable to NBMEA)
Deadline for Registration: November 3, 2006
• Please note that a maximum of 12 participants in the workshop will receive podium time. All other participantsare welcome to audit the workshop. Early registration is vital if you plan to take part. Scheduling details will be sentupon receipt of registration.
This workshop is being offered by the former New Brunswick Music Educators’ Council, in conjunction with theDepartment of Education, Fredericton High School, and Leo Hayes High School.
Contact your local NBTA Branch and the NBTA for availability of conference grants.
Music Institute – Refreshing Our RehearsingName_____________________________________________________ School____________________________________________
Mailing Address______________________________________________________________________________________________
E-Mail Address _____________________________________________ Select one of the following: ____ Podium ____ Audit
Podium sessions limited to 12 participants. Podium sessions will be given out on a first-come, first-served basis andmay be reserved via e-mail.
Mail registration to: Don Bossé, FHS Music Department, 300 Priestman St., Fredericton, NB, E3B 6J7.
For more information about the session, contact: Don Bossé – [email protected] (506) 453-5291
s a teacher whose career hasspanned six decades, AudreyIngalls touched the lives ofthe entire community of
Grand Manan for generations. Shewas a mainstay of her school staff, amentor and role model to herstudents and remains an integral,active member of her community.
Ingalls' 42-year teaching careerbegan in 1943 in a one-room schoolin Dunns Corner. She taught nearlyevery high school subject and is alsoremembered for the many additionalhours she spent in extracurricularactivities. In recognition andappreciation of Ingalls' contributionto the school and her students, shewas nominated by her colleagues forthe New Brunswick Teachers'Association Centennial Award,which she received in 1979.
In the 1950's when expandedphysical education programs wereintroduced to schools, Ingallsintroduced girls' basketball to theisland. Not only did she build theisland's first basketball team, thatteam of young women even made itto the provincial championships oneyear.
Music was Ingalls' greatest talent.She taught students how to play theclarinet, trumpet, trombone,saxophone, tuba and French horn.Not only did she play all theinstruments, she and her husbandalso did all the maintenance andrepairs. Ingalls was one of thedriving forces behind an annualmusic festival that was the highlightof the school year for decades. Sheinitiated a school band and becameMusical Director of numerous large-scale school musicals. The provinceitself demonstrated its respect for herabilitiesrequesting thatshe develop aMusiccurriculum.Ingalls rose tothe challengeand in 1985, sheinitiated thefirst pilotcourse,incorporatinginnovativetechnology andearning theschool one of itsfirst computers.
Ingalls hasdirected churchchoirs for youthand adults. Sheserves as achurch organistand choirdirector and avolunteer at thelocal nursinghome. She isalso anhonorarymember of theRoyal CanadianLegion and amember of theGrand MananMuseum Boardof Directors.
AudreyIngalls isnominated tothe Order ofNew Brunswick
for her talents and tirelesscontributions to the community ofGrand Manan.
Established in December 2000, theOrder of New Brunswick is the highesthonour of the Province of NewBrunswick. The object of the Order ofNew Brunswick is to recognizeindividuals who have demonstratedexcellence and achievement and whohave made outstanding contributions tothe social, cultural or economic well-being of New Brunswick and itsresidents.
OCTOBER 2006 17
Paid Advertisement
Audrey Ingalls Honouredwith Order of New Brunswick
A
18 NBTA NEWS
Vancouver and Brain Developmentand Learning
n September 2010, Anna willenter Kindergarten in NewBrunswick. The following year,her parents will, withanticipation and excitement,
watch her begin Grade 1 in FrenchImmersion. French immersion,bilingualism, and multilingualismwere one of the many topicspresented at the conference Iattended in Vancouver this summer.“Brain Development and Learning:Making Sense of the Science” was across-professional, internationalconference presented by theUniversity of British ColumbiaNeuroscience faculty at none otherthan, Vancouver’s Sheraton on WallConference Center from August 19-22.
Registration and openingceremonies commenced with a galadinner on Saturday evening at theSheraton. Participants arrived fromas far as Europe and Australia andfrom as near as all across Canadaand the United Stated. Doctors,teachers, psychologists, socialworkers, and teacher assistantslistened about and discussed topicslike: fostering children’s social-emotional competence, autism, whatphysicians need to know aboutADHD, learning through the arts,brain gym, and of course,multilingualism, to name a few. Toadd to the ambiance, everyone wasalso given the opportunity to enjoyVancouver and its wonderful latesummer weather.
Thanks to the NBTA’sProfessional DevelopmentDepartment, I was able to attend thisprofessional developmentopportunity at the end of a summerholiday. It was truly exciting tolisten to other teachers talk aboutpersonal and provincial situationsfrom across North America andaround the globe. What a wonderfulmix of business and pleasure! I reallyencourage teachers to takeadvantage of opportunities like thisone and others. This one will takeplace again in Vancouver in 2008.
Oh…Anna Colleen is my firstgrandchild, born on September 16,2005!
By Colleen KellySunny Brae Middle School, BR 0215
I
Deadline Dates
Conference Grants — Five weeks prior to opening day
Certification Changes — October 31, 2006; March 31,2007
Project Overseas — November 7, 2006
Branch Nominations for NBTA Vice-President —February 1, 2007
Educational Leave — November 3, 2006
Deferred Salary Leave Plan Application — January 31, 2007
Election Dates(a) Ballots mailed to Branch Presidents - On or before April
15, 2007(b) Voting to take place - April 23-27, 2007 inclusive(c) Ballots returned to Central Office by 5:00 pm - May 4,
2007(d) Counting of Ballots - May 9, 2007(e) Candidates notified - May 9, 2007
NBTA/Beaverbrook/Hagerman Interest-free Loans— March 31, 2007
Centennial Award Nominations — April 1, 2007
Aliant Award Nominations — April 1, 2007
Outstanding Educational Leadership — April 1, 2007
Branch Resolutions for A.G.M. — April 1, 2007
A.G.M. Registration of Delegates — April 1, 2007
Employment Insurance Rebate Report — June 1, 2007
Registration of Branches — June 1, 2007
Report of Branch Meetings — June 1, 2007
Names of Branch Committee Chairpersons —June 1, 2007
NBTA Council Annual Reports — June 15, 2007
NOTE: Check with NBTA Personal Calendar for keyactivities within NBTA, NBTF and CTF.
OTHER IMPORTANT DATES
NBTA AGM — May 25-26, 2007
NBTA Credit Union A.G.M. — November 16, 2006
Retiring Teachers’ Luncheon — May 26, 2007
REMEMBER THESE DATES
Douglas Willms continues tomake his mark as an internationaleducational leader.
The well-decorated professor anddirector of the Canadian ResearchInstitute for Social Policy at theUniversity of New Brunswick inFredericton has joined elite andexclusive company.
Dr. Willms was elected to becomea Fellow of the InternationalAcademy of Education (IAE). Theacademy is dedicated tostrengthening the contributions ofresearch, solving critical educationalproblems throughout the world andproviding better communicationamong policy makers, researchersand practitioners.
Dr. Willms becomes the firstCanadian Fellow. He will join 38other scholars world-wide.
A Canada Research Chair inHuman Development at UNBF and aFellow of the Royal Society ofCanada, Dr. Willms’ background insocial science is outstanding. Knowninternationally for his research inthe areas of youth literacy, children’shealth, the accountability ofschooling systems and theassessment of national educationreforms, Dr. Willms has his finger onthe pulse of factors that contributeto the health and well-being ofCanadian children and the use ofmonitoring school reform.
He is also recognized for his
efforts in training new investigatorsin the analysis of complex multi-level data. The school evaluationsystems developed by Dr. Willmsand his colleagues for assessing earlychildhood outcomes andadolescents’ engagement in schoolare used widely in New Brunswickand across Canada.
Dr. Willms was inducted into theacademy at its General Assembly inMexico City on Sept. 30.
The seat of the IAE, which wasfounded in 1986, is at the RoyalAcademy of Science, Literature andArts in Brussels, Belgium. (UNB NewsRelease)
OCTOBER 2006 19
Renowned UNBF Professor Elected Fellow ofInternational Academy of Education
UNB Art Centre/College of Extended LearningInterest and Enrichment Courses
Rewriting Your Life: AHealing Exercise in LifeWriting for Women12 weeks (Mondays 6:30 - 8:30pm, September 25 -December 11)$135 (+HST)
This course will offer an opportunity for students toshape the experiences of their lives into marketableprose – memoirs, short stories and feature articles forpublication. By exploring the value of journaling andraw writing through in-class exercises and assignments,students will be introduced to various ways the creativeprocess can be stimulated to promote inner healing.
Among the topics to be covered will be the creationof memorable characters and believable dialogue, verbvibrancy, effective use of metaphors, similes andanalogy, and publishing possibilities. Students will alsobe introduced to examples of autobiographical andbiographical writing, including the personal publishedmemoir of the instructor.
Creative Solutions toChallenging Behaviours inChildren8 weeks (Tuesdays 6:30 - 8:30pm, September 26 -November 14)$135 (+HST)
This course examines behaviours in children thatpose challenges for the adults who care for them.Various conduct disorders and learning disabilities(including ADHD, Attachment Disorder, FASD, etc.),along with situational causes of specific behaviourssuch as a child’s response to transitions/changes, willbe discussed. Working with anger and aggression,building self-esteem, and self-care for the caregiver willalso be addressed. The focus will be on effective ways torespond to difficult behaviours and a combination oflecture, group discussion, exercises and videos willassist in this process.
The instructor for both of the above courses is Eve Mills Nash.Eve Mills Nash has worked in the field of journalism for more than twenty-five years and is a published author. Her book,
“Little White Squaw: A White Woman’s Story of Abuse, Addiction and Reconciliation”, co-written with Kenneth J. Harvey, wasreleased by Beach Holme Publishing in 2002. Mills Nash is Reality Therapy Certified and holds a BA in Interdisciplinary Studiesfrom Saint Thomas University and a MA in Creative Writing from UNB, as well as Certificates in Family Mediation, QuantumTeaching, and FASD Training for Service Providers. She worked with “at risk” youth for more than 10 years.
20 NBTA NEWS
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Thérèse GallantM.Ed Counselling
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– Confidential– Bilingual– Over 15 years counselling experience– Certified with Canadian Counselling Association– Formerly with NBTA Counselling Service for
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* Individuals * Couples * Families
Covered by Johnson's Insurance and affiliated with E.A.P. provider for District 2
For an appointment, please call506-382-7222
Currently accepting referrals inprivate practice in Moncton, NB.
School of Graduate Studies AwardTThhee GG.. FFoorrbbeess EElllliioott AAwwaarrdd ffoorr EEdduuccaattiioonnaall LLeeaaddeerrsshhiipp
DescriptionThe award is to encourage
experienced teachers who havedemonstrated leadership qualitiesrelated to their educational field toreturn to university to undertakepostgraduate studies at the Master's orDoctoral level at the University of NewBrunswick.
It is funded from the estate of thelate Dr. G. Forbes Elliot, first Vice-President of the Saint John Campus.
EligibilityRecipients must have taught for a
minimum of five years in the publicschools of New Brunswick. They musthave been accepted unconditionallyinto the graduate program in
education and normally be in full-timeattendance at the time of receipt ofthe award. If in any year, in theopinion of the Selection Committee,there are no full-time graduate studiescandidates who satisfy the eligibilitycriteria, all or part of the award maybe granted to one or more suitablyqualified part-time graduate studiescandidates.
Application DeadlineFebruary 15 of the year in which thestudies are expected to commence.
Awarding AgencyThe University of New Brunswick, uponthe recommendation of the SelectionCommittee.
Value: $5,000 in 2007 Duration: One year
AApppplliiccaattiioonn ffoorrmmssaavvaaiillaabbllee ffrroomm::
The Elliot Award SelectionCommittee Coordinator
P.O. Box 5050Saint John, N.B. E2L 4L5E-mail: [email protected]
OCTOBER 2006 21
Join us for our 34th International Workshop
– Institute for Readers Theatre –July 8-21, 2007 Toronto, Canada
• $1895.00 (USD) includes housing for 13 nights (twin accommodations), full buffet breakfast, mid-morningrefreshment break (class days), Institute Book of Readers Theatre textbook (first-time participants), and Institute fees.
• For educators of all subjects, on all educational levels. Special focus on reading, language arts, drama, socialstudies & foreign language.
• Participate for creative enrichment without academic credit, or earn up to 9 graduate units in Theatre(Speech) or Education from the University of Southern Maine. (USM is accredited by the New EnglandAssociation of Schools and Colleges). Three (3) additional delayed units available.
• Program includes: Scriptmaking, Staging, Direction, Performance, Oral Interpretation, Teaching andMethodology. No previous experience in theatre is required in our relaxed atmosphere.
For more information, please contact Arlene McCoy, Workshop ManagerP.O. Box 421262, San Diego, CA 92142-1262 U.S.A.
Phone: 858-277-4274 Fax: 858-277-4222Email: [email protected]
www.readerstheatreinstitute.comPaid Advertisement
The Johnson’s Research Award is available to any member ofthe NBTF Group Insurance Plan who is a statutory member ofthe New Brunswick Teachers’ Association and intends toundertake an educational study related to priorities of theNBTA. Teachers on educational leave, contractual leave ofabsence, and deferred salary leave are also considered eligiblefor the purposes of this award. Funding for the award programis provided by Johnson Inc.
PurposeThe award is provided to assist teachers in covering the travel,accommodations, conference registrations, duplicating andother costs related to the completion of the research study. Nohonorarium shall be paid from the award to the recipient. Theresearch undertaken could include standard literature surveys,descriptive or analytical reports based on questionnaires orother data gathering devices, meta-analyses of a variety ofrelated studies or ethnographic research related to NewBrunswick schools or educational system.
ConditionsThe NBTA will make the awards based on a detaileddescription of the study. An application should include:1. Definition of the problem under study
2. Description of the research procedures3. Description of intended outcomes4. Description of the relationship to NBTA priorities5. Cost estimates specific to the award
AwardThe NBTA will provide, upon request from the recipient,travel and/or other advances when the award is made. Therecipient must provide a financial statement and receipt for allexpenses.
Final ReportA final report will be prepared within a time frame mutuallyagreed to by the Executive Director and the recipient.
For further information, contact: Jim Dysart, Director ofCommunications and Research, NBTA, 452-1720.
Johnson’s ResearchAwards Available
Deadline for Applications:October 31, 2006
22 NBTA NEWS
Did You Know?
PROFESSIONAL COUNSELLING SERVICEFOR TEACHERS
Wellness HighlightsTEACHER COUNSELLING SERVICESAnn Kennedy, Districts 14, 17, 18
1-800-561-1727Betsy Colwell-Burley, Districts 6, 8, 10
1-800-563-3938Niel Cameron, Districts 2, 15, 16
1-888-763-5050
October – Nutrition“Harvest Your Health”
Create a Shopping List – There are two important shopping activities that take place before you even reachthe store: planning your meals and making a list.
You’re more likely to make wise purchases at the store when you decide ahead of time what you’re going to eat,bring a list of what you need, and stick to it. Follow these tips before you leave home for the supermarket:
• Keep a running list in your kitchen of items you need.• Collect your favorite heart healthy recipes.• Determine how many meals you need to prepare for the coming week.• Assemble the recipes you plan to make, using them as the basis for your list.
Navigating the Supermarket – Have you ever noticed how many grocery stores seem to be laid out in asimilar fashion? These tips will help you shop faster and smarter.
• The outside aisles and back aisles usually contain the fresh foods, so spend the most time in these areas.• Fruit and vegetables are usually found as you enter. Linger here and fill up your shopping cart.• Baked goods are usually at the back or the side of the store. Choose whole grain breads and skip the sweets.• Skip the snack aisles containing foods such as chips, pop, candy and cookies, to reduce temptation – and
save shopping time.• Beware of the feature displays at the ends of aisles; they’re designed to attract your attention and may entice
you to buy foods you don’t need.
– The Heart Healthy Shopper
Suggested Activity from the BinderProvide healthy snacks for your staff meetings.
Suggested Website from the BinderBecel of Canada – www.becel.ca
“Always laugh when you can.It is cheap medicine.”
– Lord Byron
Note: Additional information is foundin your School-Based WellnessProgram Monthly Themes Binder.
- Milk- Eggs
- Fruit
Teaching ResourcesThe Centre for Energy collaborates
with professional curriculum developersto provide first-class materials to assistteachers in achieving their learningobjectives.
Our resource materials supportvarious provincial curricula across thecountry. Each resource is catalogued sothat at a glance you can see where itmeets your specific curricula, in whichprovinces it is an approved curriculumresource, and for which subjects. Theicons also demonstrate what type ofmaterials each resource includes.
Free to teachers, these curriculum-linked learning resources were createdby teachers for teachers. Go towww.centreforenergy.com/k-12
2006 Atlantic Educator’sConference
This conference will be heldNovember 17-18, 2006 at St. ThomasUniversity and the University of NewBrunswick Fredericton, NB.
Educators, ranging from the primaryto post-secondary level, are encouragedto attend to discuss the future directionof educational programmes and policiesacross Canada, and especially in theAtlantic Region.
For more information, please contactJanice Moore (460-0345 [email protected]).
To register please contact DebbieCoughlin (452-0644 [email protected]).
Supported by the New Brunswickand Nova Scotia Departments ofEducation.
Canada’s Youth Eco-ParliamentSchool groups are invited to
participate in this program that engagesyouth in discussion forums with
students, teachers and guest expertsabout environmental issues. Visit thewebsite at www.yep-canada.ca tocalculate your ecological footprint andaccess a program guide with helpful casestudies. There is also information onhow students can win national prizes,such as the opportunity to take part in aCanadian stewardship conference.
The Violence Link Symposium2006An Investigation of Animal Abuse, FamilyViolence, and Innovative ProgramsDesigned to Promote Healing and DecreaseViolence, hosted by Kindness Club Inc.
This symposium will take placeOctober 19, 2006 at the Hugh JohnFlemming Forestry Centre, Fredericton,NB.
It is important for educators to learnthe meaning behind animal abuse andhow it applies to the health and well-being of children. Did you know that ananimal being abused in a family is asign of other abuses such as child abuse?This year’s symposium will explore avariety of related areas. Whilecontinuing to focus on animal abuse,family violence, and humane education,we will expand our platform to learnabout violence prevention initiativesand actual working programs helpingchildren and animals in Canada. Wewill also learn about the positiveimpacts that animals have in adulttherapy programs for overcomingtraumatic life experiences. Finally, wewill gain the valuable knowledge of aneighboring state in the recent passingof a bill that allows animals to beprotected in domestic violence cases. For more information, please contactthe Kindness Club: Tel: (506) 459-3379,Fax: (506) 450-3703E-mail: [email protected]
OCTOBER 2006 23
Announcements
• Anger and StressManagement
• Family Counselling
• Mediation
Phone: 1-506-454-2216
or1-506-461-8440
(cell)
* Insurance Coverage *
Yvonne Vaughan
CounsellingServices
MA M.ED CCC
Paid Advertisement
Increase your Salary — Apply for Your Work Experience
New teachers should note that you may apply to have your previouswork experience evaluated for an increase on the salary grid. Recognitionmay be given for work that is related to teaching upon application to theOffice of Teacher Certification at the Department of Education.
The form you need is available from the NBTA website www.nbta.ca.Click the Certification button and download the form called Applicationfor Work-Related Experience for Salary Purposes.
You should also contact your district office to ensure that all supplyteaching experience has been credited.
Remember: The deadline is October 31 to have the increaseback-dated to July 1!
Important Notice forAnyone Interested in
Beginning the Master ofEducation Programme
at the University ofNew Brunswick
DEADLINE DATE FOR 2007If you plan to begin studying for
your MEd degree in 2007, please notethat the deadline date for all MEdprogrammes for entry during 2007 willbe January 31, 2007.
Also, the normal start date for MEDprogrammes will be eitherIntersession/Summer or Fall Terms.
Application forms must be obtainedfrom the School of Graduate Studies oronline at www.unb.grdschl/apply/index. html.
Inquiries should be directed to theoffice of the Associate Dean, GraduatePrograms, Faculty of Education([email protected]).
24 NBTA NEWS
650 Montgomery St., P.O. Box 752, Fredericton, N.B. E3B 5R6506-452-1724 • 1-800-565-5626 • 506-452-1732 (fax)E-mail: [email protected] • Web: http://www.nbtacu.nb.caHours: Monday to Friday, Telephone Service 8:30 am - 4:30 pm In-Branch Service: 9:00 am - 4:30 pm
NBTA
CREDITUNION
Attention Credit Union Owners!CHANGE OF VENUE
CHANGE OF MENUMark your calendar to attend a dinner in conjunction with
NBTA Credit Union 35th Annual General Membership Meeting.
WHAT: Dinner MeetingNo cost to NBTA Credit Union Member/owners
WHERE: Ramada Inn, 480 Riverside Drive, FrederictonJoin us in the Ballroom
WHEN: Thursday, November 16Registration 5 p.m. – 6 p.m.Dinner 6 p.m –7 p.m.Meeting commences at 7:00 p.m.
WHY: NBTA Credit Union is:– Your Money –
– Your Business – – Your Finances –
– Your Future –
To conclude our 35th Anniversary celebrations, a draw for ten $350 cashprizes will be drawn from the ballots received from member/owners plus onespecial prize of $350 will be awarded to a member/owner who is inattendance at the Annual General Meeting.
If you plan to attend: Please RSVP by Wednesday, November 8, 2006 toNBTA Credit Union 1-800-565-5626 (452-1724) or [email protected]
Congratulations to the NBTA CU Scholarship Winners!Best wishes are extended to the seven recipients of the
NBTA Credit Union Scholarship in the amount of $1000 each.
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16NOV�