What Makes a Truly Great Teacher?

This question has continued to come up again in conversation so I thought I would re-post it. Great discussion starter amongst colleagues! This question was posed at my table last week at an Alberta Education Curriculum Coordinator meeting, and the ensuing discussion was inspiring. What is it that makes truly great teachers? One brought up [...]

What is a Learning Coach? – Part Three

One of the greatest ways of illustrating the vital role of a learning coach in helping to create and sustain change within our schools is illustrated in the article “What Can We Do About Teacher Resistance?” by Jim Knight. Oftentimes teachers get the blame for not being on board with the latest and greatest innovation [...]

Waiting, Respectively

I read this astounding story and was absolutely delighted that this screenwriter won tonight for his script of “The King’s Speech.” What an astounding tale of integrity and respect. So often, in this day of instant everything, we rarely see patience rewarded. This tale is not the case. What a great story, and what a [...]

Cheerleaders

No, I am not talking about girls in skirts. I am talking about the people that encourage, that inspire, the people that are not only there applauding in my victories, but those who also cheer on in the small steps, and root for me in the difficult times. The people that ensure that I am [...]

The Light and the Mirror

There are two ways of spreading light: to be the candle or the mirror that reflects it. – Edith Wharton I absolutely love this statement! I desire to be a beacon of hope for my students – to light the way of learning – to illuminate the dark (okay – how many cliches can I [...]

What is a Learning Coach? – Part Two

We all know that one word can make a difference, a HUGE difference. In the area of coaching, there is a tremendous difference in the question: What can I do to support you? as compared to What can I do to help you? Help: This word comes with the connotation that you are a greater [...]

What is a Learning Coach? – Part One

I have been partaking in a phenomenal course on “Learning Coaches,” seeking to define the role and sharpen skills in partnering with co-workers and leading change in our schools. Some of those learning along side me are learning consultants for some of my city’s major boards, helping out specifically in areas of resource, student behaviour [...]