BCSTA Academy 2011

I am beginning to understand the purpose of the BCSTA Academy.  I am a newbie trustee navigating my way through my new role as a public figure advocating for kids in BC public schools.  I have met some wonderful people this weekend and reunited with several colleagues from SD52 Prince Rupert, my hometown.  I enjoyed meeting new trustees, trustee incumbents, and senior administration from other school districts.  I have learned so much about my role as school trustee over the last couple of days and encountered several school trustees who are former public school educators.  Having the opportunity to network with other school trustees, leaders, and senior administrators at the BCSTA Academy has been extremely valuable.  Not only there were inspirational speakers, political leaders, and professional development facilitators helping school trustees to do their job well over the next 3 years, there was also time to build relationships to understand the strengths of your own Board of Education and senior administration.  I feel fortunate to be a part of this learning process and making connections with my Board of Education, superintendent, and secretary-treasurer.  With social functions hosted by the BCTF or CUPE, in addition to other social events, I was able to get to know my SD46 colleagues in such a short period of time.  We are a diverse group of people, varying in age, gender, experience, ethnicity, and knowledge base.  We all have much to contribute with one goal in mind: supporting students in public education.  The BCSTA Academy has been excellent professional development and outstanding in team development and cohesion.  I am optimistic for the students of School District No.46 (Sunshine Coast) in terms of the learning opportunities, innovation, and leadership.  Looking forward to the next 3 years.