Noticing

It’s been a long time since I wrote my last blog post, and even longer since I did so regularly. Today, I finally feel ready to start to blog again. A little. I’ve missed it. As a way to begin, and to share part of my healing journey, I’m going to start with a roughContinue reading “Noticing”

One Year Ago Today

I am sharing this in an effort to help others, to be a voice when others may be struggling to find their words.  If you, or someone you know, think that you may need the support of a Transition House, give them a call. Reach out. Ask for help. February 12, 2017 One year agoContinue reading “One Year Ago Today”

Be Kind to Yourself

It was Friday morning and my classroom was empty. The students had just left with the teacher who helps them exchange their library books for the week. A few minutes after my students in Grade 1 and 2 left the class, in walked in another student. He was a few minutes late and had hisContinue reading “Be Kind to Yourself”

What My Inner City School Experience Has Given Me

This is going to be a somewhat personal post. I have been pondering this for quite some time and have finally decided to write about it and share. For the past 2 and one half years I have been the vice-principal of an inner-city school in the school district where I work (not all ourContinue reading “What My Inner City School Experience Has Given Me”

It’s Not About Breakfast

We have a Breakfast Club at our school which is open  each morning from 7:30-8:25, when the morning school bell rings.  In all honesty, it actually usually runs past this time because kids are not often turned away when they come in late and we know they’ve not had breakfast. Last week, we had theContinue reading “It’s Not About Breakfast”

Not Only About Passion-Based Learning

In part, he World English Dictionary defines passion as “A strong affection or enthusiasm for an object,  concept, etc: a passion for poetry.” We’ve been hearing a great deal about “Passion-Based Learning”.  People are realizing the importance of giving our students the opportunity to learn about things that are of interest to them – things they are passionate about.  We talk about the importance of involvingContinue reading “Not Only About Passion-Based Learning”

Quiet Reflection

Ever have a time when you were in need of quiet reflection? Away from work. Away from home. Away from your kids and spouse? Away from life. That was me today. Don’t get me wrong, I love my life.  Things have been rather chaotic with a lot happening in my life and in the livesContinue reading “Quiet Reflection”

School is Home

While I have always known it, from personal experience, this year made me realize once again just how important school is for our students.  School is a safe place for many students.  The ONLY safe place. Our students know what to expect, for the most part, from school. They know what to expect from theirContinue reading “School is Home”

Mother’s Day Reflection

I have celebrated eight Mother’s Days (if you count the one when I was pregnant with my daughter who is now 7-years-old).  I am very fortunate to have 3 wonderful children: Trista (7), Pauli (4), and Carson (1).  I am proud of each one of them for many reasons. When I became a mom, IContinue reading “Mother’s Day Reflection”

My Top Ten in Ten Days – Celebrating my 100th Blog Post – 1/10

Like I have mentioned, being a mom is the most important thing I do. It always has to come first!  I am fortunate to have 3 wonderful kids: Trista (7), Pauli (4), and Carson (1).  They brighten my each and every day. I feel so fortunate to have them in my life!  I learn somethingContinue reading “My Top Ten in Ten Days – Celebrating my 100th Blog Post – 1/10”