Last Day at the Academy

Let’s start with the end, first.  I am so glad to be back home on the Sunshine Coast, sitting in front of the fireplace in my pajamas… blogging.  Second, I had another great day at the BCSTA Academy.

The day started with breakfast with a seating plan.  Each delegate had a table number indicated on his/her name tag.  It was intended for delegates to mix and mingle.  I did meet people who remained in their district teams, others who followed the rules, and some who wanted to follow the rules but could not find a seat.  Nonetheless, mission accomplished… I met more delegates.  Anyway, I finally arrived to my table thoroughly enjoyed the conversation before the start of the first session.  

The day started with a Plenary Panel Presentation: The Voices of Experience… 6 experienced Board Chairs and Superintendents.  Each Board Chair/Superintendent duo from 3 distinct school districts shared their experiences and relationship.  I enjoyed the content, their honesty, and diversity of each duo.  I appreciated their stories, mutual respect, and willingness to make it work.  They offered great advice and wealth of knowledge.  And, the panel answered questions from the floor well.

The second morning session was a Plenary Presentation from Dr. Stephen Murgatroyd.  What an inspiration.  He was candid, honest, and insightful about his views on 21st Century Learning and Trustee Leadership.  The presentation was extremely entertaining and informative.  His wit, his knowledge, clear vision inspired the delegates to do what’s right.  Thank you Dr. Murgatroyd.

After lunch, the closing plenary started with Gladstone Secondary School Musical Theatre.  Loved it.  Song and dance with songs from Grease and 42nd Street.  It was like watching Glee LIVE (without the drama).  The students were highly skilled and talented.  Entertaining from beginning to end… an excellent segway to the final speaker Mary-Lynn Epps, A Teacher’s Perspective on 21st Century Learning.  Personalized learning in-action… A great way to end the BCSTA Academy.

Thank You BCSTA organizers, SD46, and our Board of Education and Senior Staff.  I much enjoyed the learning experience.  Making new contacts, learning about 21st Century Learning and role of the school trustee, and team building with the SD46 Team has been worthwhile.  Much gratitude.