President's Report

by Leslie Andersson (andersson_l@sd36.bc.ca)

Welcome back to another wonderful school year! We look forward to working alongside our many members as we continue our learning journeys. BCASCD continues to offer a number of opportunities for educators to further their knowledge. Jean Borsa in Castlegar is offering a great workshop with Robert Sylwester who gives an intriguing inservice on the brain and how it affects student’s learning. Dr. Sylwester’s work surrounding ‘mirror neurons’ allows us to further understand how educator’s can support children best, knowing how they learn. [more...]

A Praiseworthy Brain in Search of a Brainworthy School

Dramatic developments in the cognitive neurosciences are providing us with an unprecedented understanding of the modular organization and extended development of our social brain. Of special interest is the discovery of our brain’s mirror neuron system, which will be central to 21 st century theories of teaching and learning. This non-technical workshop will describe these new discoveries and perspectives, and discuss their curricular, instructional, and classroom management implications.

LEAP Conference

by Leslie Andersson (andersson_l@sd36.bc.ca)

Carolynn Schmor and I attended the annual Leadership for Effective Advocacy and Practice (LEAP) conference on behalf of BCASCD in September as ASCD began the process of developing a new strategic plan, ensuring that members stay informed about and respond to the drivers of change in education. We looked at trends alongside other affiliate leaders, scanning to shape the future context of the education landscape. Hugh Price shared and lead a great discussion on the fact that too many young people are leaving school without the skills and knowledge needed to create a successful future for themselves. [more...]

Special Thanks

BCASCD thanks Frank Dunham for his incredible hard work as Executive Director for the past decade. Frank has been an integral part of the board and as allowed BCASCD to grow in so many ways. He is a true advocate for public education, and his efforts have been greatly appreciated.

We welcome Don Truscott, an original BCASCD Director, as our new Executive Director and are encouraged by his powerful suggestions and input.

Robert Sylwester

LEAP conference