Rockin` Tale of Snow White - Nanaimo Ladysmith Public Schools

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ConnectED
A Magazine for the Families of the Nanaimo Ladysmith School District
Rockin’ Tale of Snow White
+
SUMMER 2015
Stream of dreams
Summer activities
Comic book literacy
WORLD
TAE-KWON-DO
ACADEMY
GRAND MASTER
YOUNG KIM
• 8th Degree Black Belt, W.T.F.
• Taekwondo Master Certification from Kukkiwon
• National Team Coach Certification
• Masters of Science Degree in Martial Arts
• Special Kumbo (Sword) class
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250-760-0119
19 Commercial Street,
Nanaimo, BC V9R 5G3
#307-4300 Wellington Rd (across from Long Lake)
www.wtfnanaimo.com
[email protected]
2 ConnectED SUMMER EDITION 2015
PHONE:
Literacy Central
Vancouver Island
250.754.8988
FAX 250.754.8114
www.LiteracyCentralVI.org
►
Message from the editor
ConnectED
A Magazine for the Families of the Nanaimo Ladysmith School District
Summer 2015
395 Wakesiah Avenue
Nanaimo, BC V9R 3K6
www.sd68.bc.ca
ConnectED is published quarterly by
Nanaimo Ladysmith Public Schools
in partnership with the Nanaimo
Daily News. Approximately 25,000
copies are distributed through all
SD68 schools and several community
locations four times per year. SD68
is grateful to all the advertising sponsors and supporters who have made
this issue possible. Proceeds from
advertising have paid for the publication and distribution of this magazine.
Publishing partner
Nanaimo Daily News
Editor
Dale Burgos
[email protected]
Layout/design
Shauna DeBodt
[email protected]
Advertising
Andrea Rosato-Taylor
Nanaimo Daily News
250.729.4248
Special thanks to those who helped
with this issue of ConnectED: Colette
Young, Annette Noble, Marianne van
Toor, Julia Browning, Karina Younk,
Nadia Elzinga, Val Martineau, Solveig
Davie, Heidi Fargo, Lisa Frey, David
Grey, Sheri Martin and Derek Beeston.
T
hankfully it’s only the cover of this issue of ConnectED that eludes to snow, as
we quickly approach summer and say adios to the winter that never was. On the
cover and inside you will see and read about the arts program at École Pauline
Haarer which has taken centre stage at the Port Theatre. With the help of teachers, support staff, parents and the talent of the students, the school’s encore-worthy production
of Snow White will be talked about for years to come.
The sweet sounds of music will continue on at Bayview Elementary thanks to the help of
the Nanaimo Ladysmith Schools Foundation who provided a grant that purchased more
instruments for the Kindergarten to Grade 4 students.
Also in this edition, you will find common themes only found when the temperature
starts to rise. On this page, you are greeted by the smiling faces at Departure Bay EcoSchool. In the front row, principal Lisa Frey (L) and PAC parent Char Waters receive a
cheque from Nanaimo Toyota Sales Manager Rick Faganello on behalf of Toyota Evergreen. The Toyota Evergreen Learning Grounds program provides grants to help schools
create outdoor classrooms which provides students with a healthy place to learn and
develop a genuine respect for nature.
The green theme continues at Cinnabar Valley Elementary where students gained an
understanding of their connections to water and fish habitats. To commemorate their
call to action of protecting streams, rivers, lakes and oceans, the school launched their
Stream of Dreams project.
Not to be outdone by the work at Departure Bay and Cinnabar Valley, Woodlands Secondary showed off their green thumbs with the official opening of their school garden.
The school had taken the first important step to becoming an environmentally-friendly
school by composting food scraps, which saves on the burning of fossil fuels by the
trucks that transport organic waste to the composting facility, and growing their own
fruit and vegetables.
Rounding out the eco-friendly theme is Ladysmith Intermediate’s impressive clean-up
efforts in and around the community.
250 729-4200
B1-2575 McCullough Rd.
Nanaimo, BC V9S 5W5
nanaimodailynews.com
I’d like to close by congratulating long-time educator John Blain who was recently appointed the district’s Superintendent/CEO and all Nanaimo Ladysmith Public Schools
staff who have or will be retiring this school year. Your years of dedication are greatly
appreciated!
Dale Burgos, Director of Communications
Nanaimo Ladysmith Public Schools
ConnectED SUMMER EDITION 2015 3
Stream of Dreams
L
by Principal Annette Noble
ast fall, the Parent Advisory Council (PAC) at Cinnabar Valley Elementary wanted to support the Stream of
Dreams project. The school’s PAC began planning and
fundraising in November and the Stream of Dreams Mural
Society was contacted.
After the discussion, each class painted a beautiful wooden fish
to be displayed on the outdoor mural.
The Stream of Dreams Mural Society provides environmental
education to help people understand their connections to water
and fish habitat. The society suggests ways to make behavioural
changes to protect streams, rivers, lakes and our oceans.
Throughout the three days, students learned about their local
stream and watershed and the importance of reducing or eliminating the use of toxic chemicals in our homes and gardens.
They learned ways to protect and honour water. Students also
learned about one mistake that killed all life in a Burnaby
creek, including 5,000 fish, which began the Stream of Dreams
project.
One of the programs offered by the society is the Stream of
Dreams Watershed Education and Community Art Elementary
School Program, which includes education, training and supplies to create beautifully hand-crafted murals made of wooden
fish. Stream of Dreams murals are calls to action to take care
of water. The dream fish are symbols of hope for a future with
healthy streams and rivers.
On the third day, a group of dedicated parent volunteers spent
the entire school day with the mural team fastening the mural
to the school fence. Principal Annette Noble is proud to have
been a part of the project and said, “Every fish on the fence
represents a student or staff member who participated in watershed education and learned about the importance of understanding that all drains lead to fish habitat.”
Educators from Stream of Dreams visited the school for three
days in March. The team gave each class a 45-minute lesson
about All Drains Lead to Fish Habitat; they delivered a 45 minute discussion about the connection to local streams, rivers and
oceans and all the drains in our homes and community.
Throughout the project, connections were made to other projects at the school. Students recalled singing about watersheds
and orcas last year when they performed Voices of Nature. They
remembered that big change starts small and that THEY (the
children) are the future.
4 ConnectED SUMMER EDITION 2015
»
STREAM OF DREAMS from Page 4
Melissa Kristiansen’s Grade 4/5 class visited the Nanaimo River
watershed and learned where their drinking water comes from.
In the fall of 2013, Mrs. Noble took a Grade 5/6 class along with
Caroline Morrison’s Grade 2/3 class to the Chase River Estuary
where they participated in the Great Canadian Shoreline Clean
Up. The students had recently read Somebody Swallowed Stanley – Stanley being a plastic bag that looks like a jellyfish floating
in the ocean that gets swallowed up by various marine animals.
The students were set on collecting every Stanley they could see.
This year, Ms. Morrison planned her curriculum for the year
around the theme of oceans. In November, she took her class to
the Nanaimo Fish Hatchery. When the students had their fish
habitat lesson, they wanted to sing Up Your Watershed.
“I think it was a moment to
remember for her.”
Ms. Morrison played it on her iPod and they all sang along with
joyful energy. “When the students sang, it was spontaneous,
spirited and a wonderful demonstration of how learning connections, especially those related to our local environment, can
make a lasting impact on our youth. Our presenter seemed very
touched by the singing and the response to her presentation. I
think it was a moment to remember for her,” Ms. Morrison said.
Student Support Teacher Rodney Huneault was participating in
raising salmon in the classroom. The salmon fry were released
recently.
“The children are proud to see the
fish they painted on display…”
The project spurred on the entire school community. Education
Assistant Christine Winterburn said, “It really brings a sense
of community into our school. Everyone had a part in it. The
children are proud to see the fish they painted on display and so
are the parents.”
“Stream of Dreams shared important information with the
children, complimented with beautiful, artistic reminders. The
students were very excited to find and see "their" fish in the
colourful installation. Quite a success!” says Teacher Sara Stone.
Marnie Strijckers, PAC Chair agreed, “This program really increased our students and members of our community’s understanding of how our actions affect our water systems. What a
wonderful way to get the message out there. Art can be such a
powerful tool!” •
Par jour ou par semaine du 6 juillet au 21 août
Per day or per week from July 6 to August 21
Les jeunes entre 5 et 12 ans s’amusent en français
au camp de jour. Sauter dans la piscine!
Jouer des jeux amusants! Jouer des sports d’équipe!
Cuisiner! Bricoler! Visites guidées!
Kids from 5 to 12 have fun in French at day camp.
Splashing in the pool! Fun games!
Yummy cooking! Arts & crafts! Special day trips!
L’école Océane, 1951 Estevan Road, Nanaimo
Présenté par / Presented by
L’Association des francophones de Nanaimo
EDITION 2015 5
francophonenanaimo.org
• 250.729.2776
ConnectED
SUMMER
ConnectED SUMMER EDITION 2015 5
Rockin’ Tale of Snow White
by Teacher Nadia Elzinga
O
ne would think that putting on an elementary school
musical every two years would be a relatively simple
endeavour. After witnessing first-hand the amount of
time and energy music teacher Karen Withers invests, I realize
now that it is not for the faint of heart.
I have had the amazing opportunity to work alongside her and
my fellow teacher Suzanne Smith for two and half musicals.
Two and a half because I was unable to continue with the very
first one I started helping with 4 years ago.
It is truly an amazing journey to work alongside someone
who is able to write a script for a cast of 15 to 25, envision and
subsequently make into a full-blown amazing production using
an entire elementary school of 240 students. Due to the size of
our gym, our last three productions have been held at the Port
Theatre.
…we have been able to pull off,
what I can say, are remarkable
performances.
Under the direction of Ms. Withers and the help of many, we
have been able to pull off, what I must say, are remarkable
performances. Our school community is incredible and we
are so fortunate at École Pauline Haarer Elementary to have a
custodian that goes above and beyond, building and painting
many of our set pieces and having parents and spouses step up
to create sets and costumes to not only outfit the main cast, but
the entire school.
Teachers listen to the music and practice their songs in class.
Ms. Withers, Ms. Smith and I could not put these musicals on
without the support of our school community.
So how does it all begin? The planning starts in September.
We have barely walked through the doors and Ms. Withers
– music, band and choir teacher extraordinaire – is already
sharing two or three script ideas with Ms. Smith and I. In early
December, we have chosen our musical and our Grade 6 and 7
students are getting excited about auditioning for a part.
By the end of December, students are reading parts of the script
for us. They receive a mark on clarity, loudness, expression and
singing. It’s a process that takes a week or two, but by the end,
we have our cast and backstage crew.
We get chills watching students sing and the growth we get
to see in our students from this day to the very last day is the
6 ConnectED SPRING EDITION 2015
reason I do this. Many lunch hour recesses and weekends are
spent reading over the script and slowly the play gets blocked
and props get added. Students start to understand their role
and are able to have fun with it. By opening night (our only
night to show all the hard work) students are ready to shine
and to show off their talent.
What amazes me every time I do this is how every class is
incorporated into the show. Every class has a part in the musical that is just as important as the main cast. Grade 4 and 5
students are the choir and sing along with every song.
Each and every student in the school has the opportunity to
sing and dance on stage. Every student has the opportunity to
shine and each and every parent has the pleasure of seeing the
pride in their child’s face on the big stage.
I must admit that the month leading up to the big night is
exhausting. Not only am I teaching my Grade 5 class full time
and raising my two boys but I am making 22 clocks for the
Kindergarten class or making sure we have the right props and
costumes for everyone so that I can take some of the stress
away from the lady who has it all in her head.
While Ms. Smith is busy organizing our volunteers, helping
them when needed, making sure paperwork is in order so
that nothing gets forgotten, plus rehearsing with students, Ms.
Withers is busy orchestrating every little detail involved in a
production of this size, and choreographing dances for everyone.
Two days before the production I was talking with another
fellow teacher and I was saying how tired I was and that I was
heading to a few more stores to get more costumes and props
after school and I couldn’t wait for it to be done. The funny
thing is though... I could never imagine not being a part of this
with my two fellow teachers and friends. We know how each
other works and we have truly become a well-oiled machine
– where we know it will all come together because we are so
dedicated to making it so.
We just finished and already I am
looking forward to the next one.
The thrill of seeing all of our students and our kids on stage
with such pride and happiness is why we will continue to do
this until we no longer can. We just finished and already I am
looking forward to the next one. You with me ladies? •
Amazing performance!
ConnectED SUMMER EDITION 2015 7
Music helps students focus and thrive
by Marianne van Toor, Nanaimo-Ladysmith Schools Foundation
Ms. Julia Browning has seen improvements in her students’ 3Rs
(reading, writing, ‘rithmatic) by incorporating music, dance
and drama in her classes at Bayview Elementary school.
A recent $2,500 grant from the Nanaimo-Ladysmith Schools
Foundation (NLSF) allowed the teacher to purchase more musical instruments for her Kindergarten to Grade 4 students.
“Students who previously were unable to participate in music
have found the confidence to focus and thrive in class,” says
Ms. Browning. “Students who may not excel academically find
confidence in creative thinking. I’ve noticed a change in the
social skills of some students as a result of working cooperatively within a fine arts atmosphere; they’re able to be leaders in
music class.”
She used the grant to purchase five xylophones, two class sets of
recorders and percussion tools such as rhythm shakers, as well
as tuners for the ukuleles that the school already owns.
creative thinking, and development of the student’s personal
and cultural identity.
“This is the only opportunity for many of our students to
engage in formal training in music, dance and drama at the
elementary level,” she adds.
“Students love playing the
instruments – they’ve been
composing their own songs.”
Crystal Dennison, the Foundation’s new Executive Director,
says that since 2009, NLSF has distributed $29,000 for instruments at 13 elementary schools in Nanaimo Ladysmith Public
Schools.
“Students love playing the instruments, and they’ve been composing their own songs. It’s wonderful to see and hear them use
their music skills creatively,” she says.
“Thanks to the generosity of our donors we’re able to fund
special initiatives when school budgets are tight. Our elementary music grants have introduced many students to the joy of
playing music,” she adds.
Ms. Browning says that Bayview’s Arts Education program
stresses communication, respect, responsibility, critical and
For more information about the Nanaimo-Ladysmith Schools
Foundation, please visit www.NLSF.ca. •
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8 ConnectED SUMMER EDITION 2015
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ConnectED SUMMER EDITION 2015 9
Woodlands school garden officially open
Submitted
F
riday, April 24, 2015, marked the grand opening of the
Woodlands Secondary School Community Garden. The
ribbon-cutting ceremony was completed by renowned
environmental speaker, author, and organizer - Guy Dauncey.
Prior to the ribbon cutting, at a packed gymnasium of Woodlands students, Dauncey shared his vision of an environmentally-sustainable future.
Citing many positive examples from around the world, he
urged everyone to strive towards developing solutions to combat climate change.
…have taken an important step in an
environmentally-friendly direction
for the school community!
The Woodlands Environment Club would also like to acknow
edge the generous support of the following local businesses,
organizations and individuals:
• BC Hydro’s Energy Ambassador’s grants to the
Environment Club which helped finance the project
• Stewards of the Future who also provided funding
• Green Thumb Nursery who provided strawberry and
blueberry plants at no cost
• Home Hardware (Brooks Landing) who provided a
generous discount on tools and equipment
• Buckerfield's who provided a water barrel at no cost
• Turley's Florist who provided herbs at no cost
• Country Grocer (Bowen Road) who provided financial
assistance
• Progressive Growth who provided fertilizer at no cost
With the creation of our school garden, we have taken an
important step in an environmentally-friendly direction for the
Woodlands school community! Food scraps will be composted and reused as fertilizer rather than being trucked to the
composting facility at Duke Point; our locally grown fruit and
vegetables will offset the fossil fuels that would otherwise be
burned by transporting them in from elsewhere.
Furthermore, the school grounds are being beautified, air quality is being improved and a habitat is being established for birds,
bees, butterflies and other wildlife seeking food and shelter.
The success of the garden can be attributed to the efforts of
pupils belonging to the Environmental Studies 8 class who built
and planted the beds, the Humanities 9 class who designed the
initial artwork, and the Environment Club, who have funded
the project and organized after-school work parties.
10 ConnectED SUMMER EDITION 2015
• DBL Disposal Services, who provided soil and transpor
at no cost
• Mr. Stupich (Woodlands’ previous principal) who
provided the red cedar for the garden beds
• Nanaimo Ladysmith Public Schools’ grounds crew who
prepared the site and hauled soil for the beds
It is with great appreciation that we also acknowledge the
assistance of Woodlands staff: Mr. Grey (Environment Club
sponsor), Mr. Stupich (former Principal), Mrs. Girard (Acting
Principal), Julia Kukta (Foods teacher), and education assistants Phil Olsen, Dawn McNeil and April Shade.
Special thanks also to our two hard working student teachers –
Graeme Arkell and Caitlin Johnston – who volunteered many
hours after school helping with the garden. •
CITY OF NANAIMO SUMMER CAMPS & PROGRAMS:
BE
Have Your
Daily adventures and enthusiastic leaders are
part of our summer camps! Join us for a
fantastic camp experience!
* Camp Wild
* Camp Holidaze
* Girls Get Active Camp
* Bowen Explorers
* Adventure Sports Camp
* Tennis Camp
* Tree Frog Camp
* Junior Leaders in Training
* Pottery Camps
* Kids Summer Bike Camp
* Dance Camps (Highland, Hip Hop, Ballet)
* Swimming & Skating Lessons & Camps
* Sports Camps (Soccer, Rowing, Basketball, Golf, Karate...)
ST
Su
mmer with
!
s
U
www.nanaimo.ca · 250.756.5200 · ireg.nanaimo.ca
ConnectED SUMMER EDITION 2015 11
Summer activities & events
Harewood Family of Community Schools
The Harewood Family of Community Schools offers activities for children during the summer. Preference will be
given to students living in the Harewood or Southend area.
Registration forms are available at your community school.
For program details and other opportunities contact one of
the following community school coordinators:
Linda at Fairview 250.741.1250
Veronica at Georgia Avenue 250.753.4511
Shannon at John Barsby 250.616.7984
Barbara at NDSS 250.740.2026
Red Cross Babysitter’s Course
Location: Fairview Community School
Tuesday, July 7: 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Ages: 10 to 13 years
Cost: $25
Sewing Basics (learn to sew with a machine)
Location: Fairview Community School
Monday to Friday, July 6 to 10: 9:30 a.m. to 12 noon
Ages: 9 to 13 years
Cost: $10
Advanced Sewing (next level machine work)
Location: Fairview Community School
Monday to Friday, July 13 to 17: 9:30 a.m. to 12 noon
Ages: 9 to 13 years
Cost: $10
Kids Can Cook (call 250.741.1250 for dates and times)
Super Kids (call 741.1250 for dates and times)
Quilt-It-Kids 9 (sew a lap quilt)
Location: Fairview Community School
Monday to Friday, August 17 to 21: 9:30 a.m. to 12 noon
Ages: 9 to 13 years
Cost: $10
Reading Camp
Monday to Friday, August 17 to 21 & August 24 to 28:
9:30 a.m. to 12 noon
Ages: 9 to 10 years
Cost: $10/wk
Cedar Family of Community Schools
Cedar Family of Community Schools is offering the following summer activities. Preference will be given to students
»
SUMMER ART CAMPS
Collecting and Gathering with Art
Ages 5 to 7
July 13–17 9am to 11:30am ($120) (code: 135963)
Aug 4–7
9am to 11:30am ($100) (code: 135964)
Collections Inspired
Ages 8 to 11
July 13–17 1pm to 4pm ($120) (code: 138204)
Aug 4–7
1pm to 4pm ($100) (code: 135966)
Metamorphosis
Ages 12 to 16
July 6–10
1pm to 4pm ($125) (code: 135976)
To register call 250.756.5200 or visit IReg.nanaimo.ca and
quote the code.
150 Commercial Street
250.754.1750
www.nanaimoartgallery.com
12 ConnectED SUMMER EDITION 2015
SUMMER ACTIVITIES from Page 12
living in the Cedar area. Call 250.722.3665 for information or to register for a program.
Yoga
Location: Woodbank Primary School, Room 102
Tuesdays: 7 to 8:15 p.m.
Ages: Pre-teen to adult
Cost: Free for pre/teens; 6 sessions for $50; $10 drop-in for
adults
Drop-in Volleyball
Location: North Cedar Intermediate
Tuesdays: 6:30 to 9 p.m.
Drop-in Pickle Ball
Wednesdays until June 17: 7 to 9 p.m.
Cost: $2
Selena’s Summer Camp for Pre-schoolers
This four-day camp runs for 5 weeks. Pick a week or come
for all five. Each week will be filled with themes, gymnastics, stories, centres, arts and crafts and fun outside in the
playground. Call 250.722.3665 or pick up forms at Woodbank Primary School.
Location: Cedar Heritage Centre, 1644 MacMillan Road
Monday to Thursday, June 29 to July 30: 9 a.m. to 12 noon
Cost: $48/week
Soccer Camp
Location: Woodbank Primary School Field
Join the fun for the annual soccer camp and kick a ball
with the Merriman Coaches. Lots of skill, games and fun.
Remember to bring a hat, sunscreen, snack and water.
June 29 to July 3 (excluding July 1): 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Ages: 6 to 11 years
Cost: $30
Community Outdoor Volleyball
Come and learn some skill development and game playing
from a certified coach. Beginners welcome.
Friday, July 17: 1 to 2:30 p.m.
Ages: 10 to 13 years
No cost, but you must pre-register by calling 250.722.3665.
The City of Nanaimo
The City of Nanaimo has a variety of summer camps and
programs for preschoolers to teenagers. Camps can run for
the entire day while others are for a few hours. There are
sports camps, arts and craft camps, computer camps, cooking
camps, as well as leadership camps.
Water Parks
Stay cool this summer by splashing at the city’s four water
parks!
Locations: Departure Bay Park, Deverill Square Park,
Harewood Centennial Park and Mansfield Park
June to September: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
No cost
Westwood Lake
Visit Nanaimo’s favourite summer swimming destination.
Lifeguards are on duty from 12 noon to 6 p.m. from June 28
to September 7. There are also summer swimming lessons –
call 250.756.5200 for details.
City of Nanaimo’s Playground Program
Activities include games, arts and crafts and sports.
Locations: Mansfield Park, Carmanah Park and Fairview
Community School
Mondays and Tuesdays, July 6 to August 25: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Ages: 5 to 12 years
No cost
Locations: Rockridge Park, Country Hills Park and Mansfield Park
Thursdays and Fridays, July 9 to August 28: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Ages: 5 to 12 years
No cost
New this year is the Family Fun Nights where the Playground
Program runs into the evenings – Wednesdays from 3 to 8
p.m. In July, visit Country Hills Park, Carmanah Park and
Mansfield Park. In August, visit Fairview Community School,
Mansfield Park and Rockridge Park.
Free Concerts in the Parks Series
For the music lover out there, what would be better than enjoying amazing talent set among Nanaimo’s beautiful parks?
Location: Bowen Park Amphitheatre and Maffeo Sutton Park
Wednesday evenings, July 8 to August 26: 6:30 to 8 p.m.
Free Family Fun Night & Barbecue
Bring your family to enjoy musical entertainment, family activities, science in the park, tennis and, of course, a barbecue!
Location: Departure Bay Centennial Park
Thursday, June 25: 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Find the Golden Bucket
From June to August, follow the Golden Bucket by watching
for clues on Facebook and Twitter. A new park or playground
will be featured each week! Play alone or with the whole family for a chance to win some great prizes.
For more information on this or any other program, please
call us at 250.756.5200; check out our website at www.nanaimo.ca; or pick up a copy of our Spring and Summer Activity
Guide for all the details.
»
ConnectED SUMMER EDITION 2015 13
SUMMER ACTIVITIES from Page 13
The Town of Ladysmith
Ladysmith Parks, Recreation and Culture offer a variety of programs and services to keep children, teens and families active
throughout the summer. For more information please call 250.
245.6424 or check us out online at www.ladysmith.ca.
Aquatic Programs
Swimming lessons and leadership programs for children, youth
and teens throughout the summer include:
• Red Cross swimming lessons with levels from 1 to 10
• Strokes – Pre-school
• Strokes – Kidz
• Strokes – Teens
Aquatic Leadership Programs
• Junior Lifeguard Club
July 20 to 24
• Red Cross Water Safety Instructor Splash Back Course
July 24 to 30
Leadership and Recreation Programs
High Five – Principles of Healthy Child Development
This one-day training will help front-line leaders (persons
working with children aged 6 to 12 ie. camp counsellors,
coaches, swim instructors) improve the quality of programs. It
provides in-depth training in the high five principles of healthy
child development to understand what is needed to ensure each
child’s social, emotional and cognitive needs are met.
Adventure Zone Summer Daycamp
Every week is a new and exciting theme-packed day with crafts,
sports, games, swimming, outings, local attractions and special
events!
Location: Transfer Beach
Monday to Friday, July 6 to August 28 (except August 3):
9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Cost: $129/week and $95/week for sibling – register for 7
weeks and get the 8th week free
Youth Services Summer 2015
Drop-in sessions supervised by qualified youth leaders eager to
facilitate fun! There will be special events, barbecues, outdoor
games, sports, music and art.
Location: Transfer Beach
Wednesdays: 3 to 6:30 p.m.
Ages: 13 to 18
Friday Nights in the Rec Room
The Rec Room is a safe, welcoming place for youth to socialize,
relax, develop new skills, have fun and be creative in a supervised, supportive and friendly space!
5 to 9 p.m.
Ages: 13 to 18 years
Rock Climbing
Location: Romper Room
Tuesday, July 7: 2 to 7 p.m.
Ages: 13 to 18 years
Cost: $40 (climb and transportation included)
IMAX and a day in Victoria
Enjoy an afternoon flick and then explore downtown Victoria –
venture to historic buildings, the beautiful building waterfront
and hit the mall for some shopping.
Thursday, July 16: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Ages: 13 to 18 years
Cost: $45 (IMAX and transportation included)
Sealegs Kayaking Daytrip
Explore local beaches after a brief Strokes and Safety orientation. Paddle around Ladysmith Harbour, relax during a picnic
lunch, swim, play and enjoy!
Thursday, July 2
Ages: 13 to 18 years
Cost $45
Wild Play High Ropes Course
This course is designed for any age or fitness level. Have fun
in a unique outdoor environment with zip lines, suspended
bridges, scramble nets, swinging log, and much more!
Monday, July 27: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Ages: 13 to 18 years
Cost: $45
What S.U.P. With Sealegs (stand-up paddleboarding)
Thursday, August 6: 2 to 4 p.m.
Ages: 13 to 18 years
Cost: $25 (board lesson, rental and transportation)
Skatepark Tour
Take a road trip up island to three different skateparks for a
chance to practice some of your favourite tricks and learn new
ones too. Bring your own helmet and wristguards.
Tuesday, August 18: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Cost: $20 (transportation and lunch)
Young Leaders
Develop leadership skills and gain valuable experience working
with summer daycamp leaders...be a Ladysmith Young Leader!
Call Danielle for more information 250.245.6424.
World Cup Soccer Camps
A great soccer camp led by a nationally-trained head coach
and coaches with European backgrounds. Mini games and fun
competition make learning a breeze – emphasis on developing
individual and team skills. Includes a World Cup t-shirt!
Ages: 13 to 18 years
»
14 ConnectED SUMMER EDITION 2015
SUMMER ACTIVITIES from Page 14
Summer Theatre Camps
Broadway Bound Musical Theatre Camp
Let your inner Broadway star shine during this week of singing, acting and dancing! Play drama games that develop confidence and teamwork and work on a production that includes
choreography and songs. The week ends in a final showcase of
learning that is sure to amaze.
Ages: 7 to 10 years
Advanced Musical Theatre Adventures
Fine tune the skills learned in previous camps, putting greater
emphasis on characterization and scene building. Through
creating the production, you will develop confidence and communication skills and then share your creations in a celebration of learning at the end of the week.
Ages: 8 to 12 years
Art and Science Summer Camps
Selfies meet nature! Students will practice the visual language by photographing and collecting natural materials from
the surrounding area. Paint and drawing materials will be
combined with these natural materials to produce selfies and
expressions of summer. (co-sponsored with the Ladysmith
Arts Council at the Waterfront Art Gallery)
Ages: 5 to 13 years
Three great Just Kidding for Kids plays
coming up in our 2015/16 season!
yo u
!
entert
s
u
t
ain
Le
Thanks to our generous sponsors:
“Believing in the Power and Potential of Youth”
Employment Counselling
(incl. ages 16-30) Monday - Friday
BladeRunners program links 15-30 years old youth
to employment opportunities by providing training,
certificates & personal supports to enhance their skills.
www.nysa.bc.ca
250-754-1989 290 Bastion St., Nanaimo, B.C. V9R 3A4
250-75
Funded in whole or part through the Canada-BriƟsh Columbia
Labour Market Development Agreement
250-754-7587 theatreone.org
ConnectED SUMMER EDITION 2015 15
THE
MUSIC
CHORD
“We Have the Passion”
Newest Private Music Studio in Nanaimo
Instruments
Guitar (All Styles)
Bass Guitar
Banjo
Drum Set
Piano
Violin
Voice
Woodwind Instruments (Band Instruments)
Brass Instruments (Band Instruments)
Percussion (Band Instruments)
Strings (Violin)
Theory
Royal Conservatory Theory and Practical
Instrument Exam Instruction
1-250-619-5871
www.themusicchord.com
email: [email protected]
Flavio Livio Cianflone B. Sc. (1975) M. Ed. (1995), PBCE (1997)
Louise Cianflone, ARCT (1997) BGS (2000), M. Ed. (2012)
Fern L.
“Where do your potatoes
come from? I am told
your fries aren’t from real
potatoes.”
Chris C.
“Does your Egg McMuffin
use real eggs? They look
too perfect.?
Nick K.
“What part of the cow
does your beef come
from?”
OUR ANSWER:
Our potatoes are definitely real!
Our fries and Hash Browns are
made from whole potatoes, which
are almost exclusively of the Russet
Burbank and Shepody potato
varieties. Thanks for asking, Fern.
OUR ANSWER:
“Thanks for your question Chris.
The short answer is yes! Every
Egg McMuffin sandwich is made
with a freshly cracked, Canada
Grade A Large egg.
OUR ANSWER:
“Hi Nick. We only use the
shoulder, chuck, brisket, rib-eye,
loin and round for our 100% pure
Canadian beef patties. These cuts
are similar to the kind that you
would buy at your local grocery
store or butcher.
Ever want to ask us about the food in our Canadian restaurants?
Now’s your chance! We’ll answer any questions about our food even the tough ones - then post a personal reply from McDonald’s® Canada
Ask us about our food. Get an answer.
16 ConnectED SUMMER EDITION 2015
Have you
considered hosting
an international
student?
typically, there are 200
international students
from 16 countries...
homestay program
plays a pivotal
role...
e
a uniqu
brings ension
l dim
cultura schools...
to
Nanaimo Ladysmith Public Schools is currently seeking
caring and supportive homestay families who would
welcome the opportunity to share their home
with an international student.
The students are generally 15 to 18 years of age and
would attend the high school in your neighbourhood.
The district pays a stipend to homestay families.
If your family is interested in this rewarding
experience to share our Canadian culture,
and offer support and guidance to young
international students, please contact
the International Student Education
office at [email protected].
Check out the new sign at the Lantzville Firehall! Thanks to the partnership
between a Grade 7 class from Seaview Elementary, the Career Technical Centre, parents and community members, the Grade 7 Legacy Garden
Project will be seen by all for many years to come.
ConnectED SUMMER EDITION 2015 17
Nanaimo-Ladysmith Schools Foundation Donor Appreciation Tea - Thanks so much!
Working For You
MLA
Leonard Krog
Nanaimo Constituency
4 - 77 Victoria Crescent
Nanaimo, B.C., V9R 5B9
250-714-0630
Fax: 250-714-0859
[email protected]
www.leonardkrog-mla.ca
18 ConnectED SUMMER EDITION 2015
Multi-Sport
Camps for Kids!
Multi-Sport Camps for Kids
Active Star (Ages: 4-6 yrs. + Parents-optional)
Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. - 11 a.m.
July 6 - 10, 2015
• Departure Bay Activity Centre
Aug. 10 - 14, 2015 • Departure Bay Activity Centre
XploreSportZ (Ages: 7-12 yrs.)
Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
July 20 - 24, 2015 • Location TBA
Aug. 17 - 21, 2015 • Fairview School
Kids Summer Bike Camp
(Ages: 8-13 yrs.)
Monday - Friday, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
July 13 - 27, 2015 • Nanaimo Ice Centre
Aug. 10 - 14, 2015 • Nanaimo Ice Centre
In Partnership with:
For More Information:
www.paci csportvi.com
250-740-6572
cedwards@paci csport.com
ConnectED SUMMER EDITION 2015 19
Comic Book Literacy
Submitted
Comic books experienced a Golden Age of
popularity in the 1940s with the advent
of Superman, and now it seems that they
are experiencing a Golden Age in education today (Carter, 2007). Always a favourite choice for leisure reading, comic
books and graphic novels are now widely
accepted as a mainstream voluntary reading selection in schools; no longer reading
surreptitiously behind the cover of some
appropriate reading material.
Interestingly, although appeal of comics to young readers has
always been well-known, it has only been more recently that
educators have realized the advantages of using comic books
and graphic novels as a hook to increase student engagement
and motivation.
These formats have much more to offer beyond being a popular
recreational reading choice and there are many benefits to us-
20 ConnectED SUMMER EDITION 2015
ing them to support literacy in a school setting including: wide
appeal of comic books and graphic novels to young readers,
graphic novels for 21st century learning, and benefits of visual
literacy for a diverse group of learners including beginning
readers, English language learners, and struggling or reluctant
readers.
Wide Appeal Can Promote Literacy
Comic books and graphic novels seem to have superpowers
of their own: the incredible ability to pull kids into a story and
keep them reading. This magnetic appeal should not be underestimated as a way to promote free voluntary reading, increase
literacy, and create lifelong readers. Comic books and graphic
novels are immensely popular with children and adolescents
and these formats enjoy a rare status among literature that can
compete with video games, television, and movies. This appeal
is an excellent hook for capturing student interest and can be a
valuable teaching tool for educators who want to capitalize on
the inherent fun factor of this genre. Further, the diversity of
graphic novels provides an alternative to traditional texts, and
gives students a break from volumes of print material.
21st Century Teaching and Learning
This is the technology generation, and educators are taking
a new look at what it means to be literate in today’s society
»
LITERACY from Page 20
(McVicker, 2007). Twenty-first century kids live in a constantly
changing media frenzy, and educators need to use works that
speak to students’ need for visual stimulation. With television,
advertising, and the Internet, students have come to expect
visuals in the texts they encounter (Schwarz 2002a), and comic
books and graphic novels can help them connect to a range of
topics by tapping into the way they are already learning.
that so many students are already comfortable with. Students
have been trained to find the answers in a text, but using
graphic novels takes a unique approach to literacy and learning: “Learning to look at images, read them in sequence, and
comprehend their meaning in an active and constructive way
is meant to transform the way students understand the reading
process and themselves as critical thinkers” (Bakis, 2012, p. 32).
The primary literacy of the 21st century is visual: “It’s no longer
enough to read and write text. Our students must learn to
process both words and pictures” (Burmark as cited in Frey &
Fisher, 2008, p. 5). Meshing visual literacy with text literacy,
graphic novels support readers in improving multiliteracy skills.
Multiple literacies reach beyond a traditional reading and writing definition to include the ability to process and interpret information presented through various media (LD Online, 2010).
Providing visual supports in the classroom is good insurance
that a wider range of learners will be reached, and the appeal of
graphic novels to students makes them an excellent choice for
supporting student learning and for teaching multiple literacies
(Kluth as cited in Frey & Fisher, 2008, p. 171). Visual elements
encourage young learners to become active rather than passive
readers (Booth & Swartz, 2010), and the visual literacy both
engages and supports their efforts.
The Ontario Library Association (OLA) states: “New communication tools, emerging technologies, and social and cultural
forces are constantly redefining what we mean by literacy ”
(2014).
With a broader definition of literacy, various groups of students
can benefit and be supported in developing the literacy skills
necessary to access information, identify and solve problems,
and communicate information (McVicker, 2007). Comic books
and graphic novels offer teachers an excellent tool for helping
students to do just that.
Multiple literacies may combine letters, symbols, colours,
sounds, and graphics to extend language and the ways we communicate. “Students now need to use a broad range of literacies
to achieve their immediate learning objectives and to recognize and develop their own creative possibilities” (OLA, 2014).
Comic books and graphic novels can help students develop as
critical and engaged consumers of multiple literacies for 21st
century learning.
Visual Literacy Benefits a Diverse Group of Learners
When reading comic books and graphic novels, words and
illustrations are meant to be read together. Kids are at ease
with combining visual and text information and as long as they
are reading comics, they are using visual literacy skills. In an
increasingly visual culture, educators can profit from the use of
graphic novels in the classroom (Schwarz, 2002b); a medium
Benefits for Beginning Readers
The ability to decode pictures and their meaning is significant
when dealing with beginning readers and graphic novels. Visual literacy develops substantially earlier than a child’s ability
to decode text therefore, “The more exposure children have
to visual images, the greater their visual proficiency becomes”
(Stanley & Sturm, 2008, p. 51). Graphic novels, with their illustrations, can be considered as a potential format to help scaffold
beginning readers’ efforts. Comics offer a virtual springboard
to valuable skills for emergent readers.
Benefits for English Language Learners
Visual literacy transcends language barriers making comic
books and graphic novels a popular choice with anyone learn-
»
ConnectED SUMMER EDITION 2015 21
»
ConnectED SUMMER EDITION 2015 21
LITERACY from Page 21
ing a new language. Visual cues help students make meaning
in English; this kind of support allows them to understand a
story without relying solely on text (Booth & Swartz, 2010).
Using comic books and graphic novels in an English language
learners classroom can help build vocabulary and increase
comprehension through strong visual clues that support the
captions and dialogue.
“Many older adolescents are short on time, are involved with
many other activities, and may not be inspired to read more
of what they are often force fed in school. Graphic books may
re-engage them in the joys of literacy” (Schwarz, 2002a, p. 55).
In this way, comic books and graphic novels can be motivating
for students who are more fluent in traditional literature as well
as providing them with an extra challenge.
The fun factor of using graphic texts in the classroom, “reduces
fears associated with reading in a different language. As a
result, students may progress faster, their confidence may grow,
and their motivation may increase” (Booth & Swartz, 2010,
p.17).
As the reader takes in print and art through a series of panels,
word balloons and captions, “the reader’s brain is simultaneously bombarded with the graphic novel’s characters, setting,
plot, and action” (Lyga, 2006, p. 58). There’s a lot going on as
the reader must comprehend the story and “read the art” (i.e.,
the subtle nuances of the characters’ facial expressions, time
lapse effects, dream sequences, etc.). Lapp, Flood, and Fisher
(as cited in McVicker, 2007) discuss how comic books and
graphic novels can promote higher-level skills.
“reduces fears associated with
reading in a different language…”
Benefits for Struggling and Reluctant Readers
Just as visual literacy aids beginning readers and English
language learners, it is also an important learning tool for
struggling readers. Illustrations provide clues to the meaning of
the print and dialogue; they’re an invaluable tool for motivating and supporting struggling readers (Brozo, 2012, p. 550).
Graphic novels can be used to help struggling readers access
information in a different format, and are a great way to pique
student interest. In some cases, this may even be a turning
point for struggling readers who have lost the hope for success.
Comic books and graphic novels have a way of developing kids’
enjoyment of reading and building their confidence as readers
(Seyfried, 2008).
Benefits for Boys
Often a group of reluctant readers, boys can benefit from reading comic books and graphic novels as well. Finding something that will appeal to them is essential and boys gravitate
towards the picture-driven stories of action, adventure, and
superhero themes that are so prevalent in comic books. In
their book, “Reading Don’t Fix No Chevys,” Smith and Wilhelm (2002) found that graphic novels are one of the few types
of texts that consistently engage male readers.
Mostly produced for and consumed by males, graphic novels
give teachers a means to help show boys that, “not only successful readers, but also successful writers and artists visualize
as they work” (Carter, 2007, p. 10).
Benefits for High-Level Readers
We understand the importance of engaging struggling readers,
however they are not the only readers who need motivating.
22 ConnectED SUMMER EDITION 2015
In some cases, the comic strip can illustrate cause and effect,
bridging concrete concept to abstract thought. It can also assist
in the development of deductive reasoning, evaluative thinking,
study skills, prompts for creative writing, and conflict resolution and can instill responsibility, promote listening skills, and
assist with reading in cross-curricular learning.
Comic books and graphic novels provide the opportunity for
already skilled readers to increase their enjoyment of reading
for pleasure as well as developing higher-level skills. Using
comics in the classroom can be a double win for teachers; supporting the low level readers as well as bolstering the high level
students.
Final Thoughts
We have come to think of comic books and graphic novels as
the great equalizer. Comic books and graphic novels are cool
and, no matter the reading level, all students can walk out of
the library with the same book and feel good about their selection because kids of all ages and reading levels want to read
them.
It is a self-esteem boost for a
struggling reader…
It is a self-esteem boost for a struggling reader to be able to
read the same book as a high-level reader and to then participate in a conversation together about the book. We have
observed this in my elementary school library many times,
especially among boys who are fans of graphic novel series such
as Jeff Smith’s Bone or Kazu Kibuishi’s Amulet.
Comic books and graphic novels – superheroes for literacy! •
Celebrating Earth Day at Ladysmith Intermediate
This year five divisions from Ladysmith Intermediate took part
in the annual Community Clean
Up at Transfer Beach. It was a
day to be proud as Ladysmith
Intermediate alone, collected
one ton of garbage.
Mrs. Caver’s Grade 5/6 class
walked to Brown Drive Park on
Earth Day, picking up garbage along the way. While at
the park, students looked for
examples of living organisms
from three kingdoms: Plantae,
Animalia, and Fungi. In addition
to drawing and labeling, they
were asked to identify the needs
for the local organisms, and
make connections between the
living and non-living parts of
the environment.
It turned into a real outdoor
classroom. With their magnifying glasses and bug boxes, students spent approximately two
hours collecting, observing, and
identifying these organisms.
ConnectED SUMMER EDITION 2015 23
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0
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INTERMEDIATE
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JULY 20 TO 24 &
AUGUST 24 TO 28
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PS
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JOIN US @ 4 ON THE FLOOR DRUM STUDIOS! SEE WHY THE MAJORITY
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DRUMS, HAND PERCUSSION, GUITAR, BASS, STRINGS & KEYS
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FIRST DRUM LESSON IS ALWAYS FREE!
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