Fall 2011 - Construction

published by
School District 2
Making a
Difference...
Educ ation For
Sustainable Development
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Celebrating
Contents
7
6
9
11
13
4 Superintendent And District Education Council Chair Welcome
5 From The Editor
6 PALS At Lou MacNarin
7 Community Policing
8 MHS Value-Based Approach To Educating Youth
9 Train Youth
11 School And Communities Partner Through Active Fundraising
13 YMCA Youth Tutor Program
14 D2 Achievers
16 Our Community Of Learning
17 All Star Coaches
19 Community Use Of Schools
21 Hemlock Holmes: Tree Detective
22 Look Who’s From D2
24 Community Spirit Lives On At Hangar Dance
25 Extra-Curricular Transportation - A Community Affair
27 Business Community Support Transition to Work
29 Breakfast Programs
30 Responsible Tourism - Anyone Can Make A Difference!
Cover Photo: Geoff Douglas
14
17
District 2
Ach evers
22
24
30
Fall 2011
3
Messages
Welcome from Superintendent
Karen Branscombe
W
elcome to our
newest edition
of ACHIEVE. This
publication is
focused on our communities.
Many of the partners, their
support and resources that
we find in our communities
are featured as we share with
you, the riches that we have in
our communities.
Public education requires
continued focus and energy
from parents, students, staff
and community members.
Karen Branscombe
We all want the best for our
students. And sometimes, we need different kinds of support from the community.
Teachers and principals have come to rely on so many helping hands. Without
these tireless volunteers, schools would have a much more difficult time to meet
the needs of students.
A group of tireless volunteers in our communities are our District Education
Council members and our Parent School Support Committees. These active
volunteers spend countless hours attending school and District events and
meetings to discuss school improvement and District initiatives. Through their
eyes, District and school staff members are able to see the education plans in
a very different light. With a parent and community eye on our challenges and
successes, we continue to have feedback that is vital to our growth. We know that
we do not operate in silos and through this important committee and council role,
governance does bring the public in to our school and District decisions. On behalf
of the staff and students in our District, I express my appreciation to all who have
participated in our schools and on our District Education Council.
This community connection also works both ways as District 2 students and
staff share in the responsibility to give back to communities. Being a corporate and
community member is as important for us to do as it is when we ask for the support
in return. I am proud of the staff and students who continue to lead by example.
Enjoy this edition!
Sincerely,
Karen Branscombe
Superintendent School District 2
Priorities and Progress
A message from District Education Council
Chair Harry Doyle
A
s I write my seventh
District Education Council
Chair message I am
excited to chat about
“community” in District 2.
During our term and most especially
over the past few months, the
District Education Council has been
actively involved with the community
we serve. All schools in District 2
are involved with community and
to this District Education Council
Chair that is not only a good thing
but a GREAT thing. During my three
plus years being associated with
Harry Doyle
District 2, our connections with the
community have been some of the most rewarding elements of serving as Chair or for
that matter representing Sub District 3 as their elected representative.
The mandate I received on being elected as the District Education Council
representative for Sub District 3 (Lower Coverdale, Gunningsville, Riverview Middle
and Frank Bowser Schools) was significantly enhanced by being asked to actively
participate with the PSSCs of Lower Coverdale and Gunningsville in an effort to
acquire a new modern school facility to replace the aging infrastructure and relieve the
overcrowding occurring in East Riverview. One of the proudest moments of my time
came from working with this great group of community volunteers, as well as the Town
of Riverview, to see this project develop to where it is today.
Another highlight of community in action came through an innovative project
between the District, the Port Elgin and Region Health Advisory Committee, Port Elgin
Regional School and Horizon Health Network. The entire community came together
to share their school with the Horizon Health Network to answer the community need
for a new Health and Wellness Centre located within the school. A FIRST of its kind in
Canada!
Last year at this time we were dealing with Moncton High School. The District
Education Council had been working with government on a long-term solution for
the school. District 2 had engaged consultants CS&P Architects Inc. who immersed
themselves into the community getting input from students, staff, parents, alumni,
heritage board and the community at large. As I write this, I am not fooling myself into
thinking that this community engagement resulted in a solution that made everyone
completely happy, however, community involvement has played a major role in getting
us to where we are today.
And finally, it has been tremendously rewarding to have engaged the student
community at the District Education Council level. Our schools have shared with us
three outstanding Student Council Presidents who have taken seats on the District
Education Council: Thomas Lloyd, Riverview High School, Iris Hicks, Petitcodiac
Regional School and newly sworn in Amy Sweet from Moncton High School. These
student members represent the most important community of all.
Harry Doyle
District Education Council Chairperson
4
Fall 2011
Volume 5, Number 2
Achieve is published
twice a year by District 2
1077 St George Street
Moncton, N.B., E1E 4C9
(506) 856-3222
Circulation 20,000
Aubrey Kirkpatrick: Director of Finance,
Administration and Communications
School District 2
Achieve Publisher:
School District 2
Karen Branscombe
Superintendent
Senior Editor
Achieve Content:
Aubrey Kirkpatrick
(506) 856-3616
Editor - in - Chief
Senior Management Team
Editorial Advisory Board
Achieve production:
i communications inc.
506.855.6503
264 Botsford Street, Suite 201
Moncton, NB E1C 4X7
Ad Sales and Magazine Production
Natasha O’Brien
Information provided in this publication is meant
to stimulate interest for quality education. Consult the School
District or your local School Administrator to delve further into
topics of interest. The opinions and views expressed in Achieve are
not necessarily those of School District 2 or the District Education
Council. Reproduction in whole or in part without
written permission is prohibited.
Story ideas and letters to the editor can be submitted to
Aubrey Kirkpatrick
Editor – in – Chief
Achieve
1077 St George Blvd
Moncton N.B.
E1E 4C9
E-mail: [email protected]
Visit School District 2 online at:
www.district2.nbed.nb.ca
Achieve!
From the Editor
W
elcome to ACHIEVE magazine, where we focus
on the amazing work of our students, staff
and community. Community is the theme of
this edition of ACHIEVE. In School District 2
our ‘community’ is very important to us, whether it be inside
or outside our schools.
One definition of community is; a group of people with
a common characteristic or interest living together within a
larger society. There is no doubt that in District 2 the common
interest of our community is providing the very best education
system for our children.
Schools rely on the involvement of community in order
to ensure maximum student achievement. The research is
clear that the more parents and community are involved in
supporting their school - the more our students will achieve.
It is also very clear that the more our students engage in
Aubrey Kirkpatrick
our community the better off our community will be both now
and into the future. There are countless organizations that benefit from the active fundraising that happens in
each and every school.
Our Superintendent established early in her tenure, that community involvement was an important value in
our District. There are so many people in our District that sit on non-profit boards, organizing committees, and
coach and lead in various capacities within our community.
Another form of a vibrant community in District 2 is the Professional Learning Communities in our schools.
Schools have moved from the individual classroom focus to a whole school responsibility for each child’s
learning success. PLCs focus on three big ideas; ensuring students learn, building a culture of collaboration
and focusing on student outcomes. It is the professional learning community that deal with the four essential
questions:
1. What is it we expect students to learn?
3. How will we respond when they don’t learn?
2. How will we know when they have learned it?
4. How will we respond when they already know it?
By working as a community with a common interest and focus our students will thrive and ACHIEVE!
If you have any comments or suggestions about this edition or in relation to upcoming issues please
email me at [email protected] I hope you enjoy this edition of Achieve!
Aubrey Kirkpatrick,
Editor & Director of Finance,
Administration and Communication
[email protected]
Fall 2011
5
Celebrating
By Pamela Wilson
W
hat comes to mind when you think of the word PAL? For students of Lou
MacNarin School, the word PAL is very meaningful. PALS are members of
our community who volunteer at the school every week to help students
in so many ways.
PALS, which stands for Partners Assisting Local Schools, is a program which
was initiated in 2001 in Saint John by Mr. J.K. Irving as a way to make a difference
in the community through employees volunteering their time to assist at local
schools. Mr. Robert Irving has now
continued his father’s initiative in
Moncton by encouraging the Irving
employees to spend one half hour
a week helping students at Lou
MacNarin School. What began with 18
employees four years ago, has grown
to almost 60 employees! Employees
undergo a volunteer-screening process
yearly, followed by an orientation
session at the school which includes
training in literacy, numeracy, or
general mentoring skills. Two PALS
corners have been established; barely
a minute goes by in the week without a PAL helping out a student. The scheduling
piece is complex and always bears in mind the best time of day for each student
to take part in the PALS program, the availability of each Irving employee, and the
scheduling of the PALS space.
For those students with a literacy PAL, each student has his/her own unique
literacy package based on his/her individual learning needs. Each literacy package
is updated regularly with new books thanks to the resource teacher, June Leger,
who ensures the literacy activities focus on the specific needs of each student.
The numeracy component of PALS sees groups of students working with a
PAL on the specific Math skills that have been identified for them. Numeracy
Leads have helped to train the PALS so that they are familiar with current
best practices.
Another component entails our International students taking part in
6
Fall 2011
Conversation Circles to improve their language skills. PALS meet with groups of
International students new to Canada to discuss various topics while encouraging
their language acquisition.
Improved student learning is the basis of the PALS program, but there is no
questioning the value of the mentorship component. Along with improved reading
skills or numeracy skills, students benefit from the positive connection a PAL
offers.
The PALS not only help with the
improvement of student learning, they
also help us to celebrate successes
at Lou MacNarin. The Reading Is Wild
program helped motivate students at
Lou MacNarin to read over 17,000
books! To celebrate this achievement,
members of the Wildcats visited Lou
MacNarin and read to the students.
From planting flowers with the
students, to cooking a BBQ for them,
to providing a tour of the Wildcats
bus, our PALS have become familiar
faces here at Lou, and indeed part of
the ‘Lou family’. Their commitment to student learning and to celebrating student
success truly demonstrates community partnership.
Heather DeWare, Principal of Lou MacNarin says, “The PALS program at
Lou MacNarin School works so well because everyone involved in the program
is committed to the philosophy of an entire village being responsible for
raising a child. By sharing our time and talents, we are able to develop the
assets of our youth and we are able to shape the capacity of our community.
The contributions of each PAL have the power to change a child’s destiny and
make our world a better place.”
Community
Policing
By Cst. Damien Thériault
C
odiac Regional RCMP has always been committed to maintaining a good
relationship with the communities it serves. To achieve this, the Community
Oriented Policing Section’s members attend schools of the region on
a daily basis. As part of their duties the School Resource Officers (SRO),
Community Program Officer (CPO) and Codiac RCMP volunteers give presentations
to students of all ages. The subjects they cover are varied, ranging from drugs and
bullying to internet dangers and road safety. While the SRO and CPO concentrate
their efforts more towards middle and high schools, the volunteers are mostly
involved at the elementary level.
For example, over the course of the last 10 years, more than 9000 grade six
students in the Greater Moncton area have graduated from the DARE program
(Drug Abuse Resistance Education). Furthermore, many high school students
have benefited from mock accident scenarios and PARTY program presentations
(Prevent Alcohol and Risk-Related Trauma in Youth). Also, a myriad of bright-eyed
youngsters have looked on as the volunteers, sometimes accompanied by Safety
Bear, demonstrate how to safely cross a street. All of these are geared towards
creating a better awareness of the dangers involved with high-risk situations and
behaviors.
As part of their duties, the Resource Officers are also often called upon to
assist schools for disciplinary reasons when students exhibit behaviors that are
concerning. In such cases, the SRO try to make the youth aware of the possible
consequences of their actions and attempt to get them back on the right track.
Currently, some of the officers are specifically concentrating their efforts on
youths at risk. These are youths who are exhibiting high risk behaviors and could
easily become involved in criminal activities if they are not directed to the proper
resources.
As the old saying goes, “it takes a village to raise a child”- Codiac Regional
RCMP is putting its best foot forward to be part of that village or community.
Through their efforts, the members of the detachment are trying their best to
ensure that together we bring up outstanding law-abiding citizens. Every kid we
can reach and make a difference for is worth the effort. Every youth we can help
avoid taking the wrong path represents a victory. By partnering with the schools
and other community organizations we can help make a difference… one school…
one class… or one kid at a time!
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Fall 2011
8 AM
7
Moncton High School’s Value-Based Approach
to Educating Youth for a Sustainable World into the 21st Century and Beyond
By Lawrence McGillivary
M
oncton High School is back! After a year of upheaval and uncertainty,
Moncton High teachers are back together and offering an exciting new
program to their students. Acknowledging that 21st century schools are
sustainable schools, the school has developed a value-based framework for
engaged learning based on the United Nations Education for Sustainable Development.
The new program is designed to allow students at MHS to meet the challenges facing
our world in the 21st Century. These include emerging global issues such as famine,
poverty, global warming, apathy, health and wellness.
The goal of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD), as stated by
the United Nations, is for educators around the world to “help people develop
the attitudes, skills, and knowledge to make informed decisions for the benefit of
themselves and others, now and for the future, and to act upon those decisions. ESD is
an approach to teaching and learning based on the ideals and principles that underlie
sustainability”.
They are:
1. human rights, poverty reduction, sustainable livelihoods, peace, democracy,
2. environmental protection, health, biological and landscape diversity, climate
change,
3. protection of cultural diversity, sexual orientation, gender equality, and protection
of indigenous cultures.
Moncton High School, a charter member of the Fundy Biosphere Reserve,
has developed a model for implementing ESD within schools by using a valuebased framework. The values are caring, diversity, environment and living
simply. Teacher focus will be on the engagement of learning through the wellness
of our school and greater community. To impact student wellness, MHS staff
are attempting to address the growing childhood obesity rate, decrease youth
apathy, and provide mentorship to our youth in a variety of career areas to improve
career-oriented academic motivation and achievement.
MHS staff wish to raise levels of responsibility, consciousness, wellness and
empathy in their students.
Over the summer months and into the fall program directors began to establish
and define the following partnerships:
1. 2.
8
Government – staff met with
representatives from the New Brunswick
Departments of Education and Environment to
explain and discuss the Moncton High initiative.
The presentation was met with resounding
approval and a request for ongoing updates. The
initiative itself will be featured in a sustainability
newsletter.
Local District – MHS ESD directors met with
our school district administration to review the
project scope and discuss potential hurdles. It
was particularly identified that the ESD initiative
will have to build gradually and not overwhelm our
teachers at the beginning of the busy school year.
Fall 2011
3.
Community health – Presentations and partnerships were established
with health and community representatives such as the United Way, YMCA, District
health services, and Public Health to discuss student wellness and specific areas
such as youth mentorships and data collection.
4.
Staff and food services representatives are looking at ways
of increasing the contribution of foods and services from local providers. The
school has signed on as a charter member of the Fundy Biosphere Reserve with
the result of many contacts being made available through a local food grower’s
network.
There are three parts to this initiative: an overall ‘overhaul’ of philosophy and
focus, guest speakers/presenters from our community, and the practical application
of at least 30 minutes each day to allow students to participate in a choice of 40-50
ESD activities.
It is the ESD activities that have the students and staff of Moncton High so excited.
Some of the choices students can make four times this year will include: Learn to Run,
Super Foods, Logo Creation, Knitting, Flash Mob, Chess, Glee Club, Jam Sessions,
Security Blankets, House of Nazareth, Cinema, Boot Camp and Do Something. Here
are some of the quotes that staff and students have submitted:
“I haven’t had so much fun and felt so good coming to school in ten years.”
Jody Foster, teacher
“My friend was going to drop out, but now can’t wait to come to school
every day. All she talks about is ESD.”
Grade 10 student
“Knitting is relaxing and it feels good to give the items back to the
community. I do it at home now instead of Facebook and TV.”
Ryan Burley, student
As they seek further financial support for ESD,
the staff and students of Moncton High School
would like to thank the MHS student council,
Romspen Mortgage and Investment and Ralph
McGillivary for their generous contributions, as well
as District 2 for its ongoing support, guidance and
encouragement.
For more information on Education for
Sustainable Development and a complete list of
activities, partnerships and presenters please feel
free to contact Lawrence McGillivary, Heather Gunn
or Jaime Leard at Moncton High School.
Train
Youth
By Tammy Keiver and Lisa Brown
I
n 2010, the local train museum in Hillsborough, operated by the Canadian
Railroad Historical Association (New Brunswick division) was approached with
a unique idea of how they could support the local youth. The Hillsborough
train site, an area plagued by vandalism and considered an established
hang-out by some, houses one of the few remaining historical train sites in Eastern
Canada. Would they, despite all they have endured over the years, consider donating
a rail car to be used as a youth café? It was an interesting concept, taking an
unwelcome hang-out and turning it into an open and inviting youth area. It would
have been human nature to say “No”, after enduring so many bad experiences with
the youth; luckily some people are willing to extend 2nd, 3rd and 4th chances. The
CRHA responded by offering not just one rail car, but by donating 3 cars to the area
youth and it was with that gesture TRAIN YOUTH became a reality.
Train Youth is a rural Albert County project to create a safe place for teens to
meet and connect, while encouraging pride of heritage, culture and place. To be
housed in three heritage train cars located on the site of the NB Railroad Museum
on Main Street, Hillsborough, New Brunswick, area teens will be at home in the most
unique youth establishment in all of Canada.
Hillsborough was once a proud community thriving with industry and tourism
potential; a town known as the gateway to the Bay of Fundy and for its quality gypsum
and scenic beauty. When the gypsum plant closed down in 1980, jobs disappeared
and the economy suffered. Poverty moved in and rural Albert County lost some of
its belief in itself.
Beyond providing a place for teens to call their own, the Train Youth project
will encourage an interest in heritage and culture, provide valuable business and
employment skills, and promote a sense of community pride and involvement for
teenagers to strengthen their connection to their past and the natural history of their
community. When youth feel included and well connected to their community, they
will not only grow but flourish.
The multi-year project initially includes the restoration and renovation of the
three train cars. One car will house a café, which will be student-operated, and a
second car will serve as a general meeting area available for the teens and the public
as part of the first phase. Eventually, the site, which is ideally situated between the
Railway Museum and a small park will become a highly visible tourism destination,
with a crafters/farmers marketplace, tourism information, workshop/meeting space
for arts and culture and a stage for plays and presentations.
Train Youth has an exciting future that will nurture our youth and bridge our
generations while strengthening the fabric of our rural community as a whole.
Together with the strength of our many partners this project will see the youth of rural
Albert County explore their culture and establish a greater sense of pride, providing
them with deep roots to grow from. All aboard!
Fall 2011
9
District 2’s
District Education Council
Shaping the future
by providing
quality public education
for our children.
District Education Council members
are volunteers from your community working
collaboratively for quality
learning, services and program delivery.
Keep informed of
the District Education
Council’s efforts and
priorities by visiting the
District website at
www.district2.nbed.nb.ca/Dec/dec-about.asp
10
Fall 2011
School and Communities Partner Through
By Janice Bos, MPE, District 2 PE Mentor
S
‘Active’ Fundraising
chools and non-profit charitable organizations both rely on fundraisers
to accomplish their mission. In the case of schools, these funds support
daily operations or extracurricular activities not normally covered in
shrinking budgets. In addition to the usual school fundraisers based
on product sales such as gift wrap, movement-based fundraisers such as
walk-a-thons, bowl-a-thons, and other sport related fundraisers have been around for
decades. These fundraisers have promoted physical activity for students and have
been lucrative for schools.
The last 20 years, however, has
seen a shift in the type of ‘active’
fundraising that schools engage in.
In addition to internal fundraisers,
many schools now combine student
philanthropy and physical activity to
raise money for community groups and
charities, many of them supporting a
health-related cause. Students and by
extension, their families, now play a vital
role in assisting these organizations
meet their annual fundraising goals.
For example, in 2010, the Jump Rope
for Heart Campaign (Heart and Stroke
Foundation of NB) raised $355,000 in
New Brunswick schools, over $54,000
of that coming from District 2 alone.
The financial and volunteer support that District
2 schools have given to surrounding communities
in the last decade has likely surpassed millions of dollars. High profile campaigns
involving Tantramar Regional High School in the Greater Moncton Dragon Boat
Festival (Lions Sick Children’s Fund), Riverview High School in CIBC’s Run for the
Cure (Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation) and Lou McNarin School in Jump Rope
for Heart (Heart and Stroke Foundation) illustrate that the culture of philanthropy
is strong among our schools. Students want to help their communities! While
most of these funds have been raised in recent years, there are some long-standing
campaigns such as Harrison Trimble High School’s Trojan Trek, which for 26 years
has supported the neo-natal unit of the Moncton Hospital. There are also many
less publicized initiatives taking place. Just last month for example, Marshview
Middle School raised almost $5000 for the Terry Fox Foundation. A Zumba class
fundraiser held last year at Queen Elizabeth school raised funds to help two of
their families dealing with cancer. Almost every District 2 school could share
a similar story.
How have these school and community partnerships become so prevalent
today? Do they benefit students and their families as much as the organizations
that reap the financial benefits? Although there is the challenge faced by school
administrators to ensure that such
events don’t take time away from
academics or interfere with teacher
time to promote and distribute
information, the benefits of these
relationships are undeniable.
Participatory fundraising not only
gets kids physically active, it also
increases their sense of personal
and civic responsibility and exposes
them to the valuable work of many
organizations. Larger organizations
sometimes add appeal to their
campaigns by ensuring that schools
meet some of their fundraising goals
at the same time. The Jump Rope for
Heart program, for example, returns
10% of funds raised back to the school and school
teams that paddle in the Dragon Boat Festival have
the option to keep 40% of funds raised for Safe Grad
activities or donate it to a charity of their choice. Students and staff at District 2
schools take great pride in their contribution to the fiscal well-being of their favourite
charities, especially when they are repeated on an annual basis. These school/
community partnerships support not only learning and the physical well-being of
students but also the well-being of our communities.
Fall 2011
11
CALENDAR
2011-2012
December 23
Last Day before
Christmas Break
January 9
Professional
Development Day
January 10
Classes Resume
January 30-31
High School
Turnaround Days
The besT Tools
make all The
difference
Help us provide our doctors with the best tools available today.
February 1
First Day of Second
Semester
February 15
Professional
Development Day
March 5-9
March Break
March 30
Parent Teacher/
Professional
Development Day
April 6
Good Friday
April 9
Easter Monday
April 20
Professional
Curriculum Day
May 4
Subject Council Day
(Provincial - NBTA)
May 21
Victoria Day
May 22
NBTA Branch Day
(Tentative)
June22
Last Day for
Students
June 26
Last Day for
Teachers
12
Fall 2011
friendsfoundation.ca
a n n u a l c a m pa i g n
Every patient deserves the best care. That is why it is critical to keep up
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YMCA Youth Tutor Program
continues to develop students of all ages
By Linh Tran & Julie Sarrazin
S
ince February 2000, the Community Services department of the YMCA
of Greater Moncton has been offering a Youth Tutoring program to local
students, free of charge. Approximately 85-90 children are served by
the program every year, with almost 1100 students served to date.
In 2003, the program received a Canada Post Award for Community Leadership.
The Youth Tutor (YT) program offers confidential one-on-one tutoring to
elementary and middle school children, grades one to six, who wish to improve
their literary skills (math, reading and writing). The program currently runs at
3 different sites: Beaverbrook School, Sunny Brae Middle School, and Riverview
High School, serving students from nearby elementary and middle schools.
The program will soon expand on a fourth District 2 site at Magnetic Hill School to
serve children in the north end.
The program has two main developmental goals: literacy competency and
social/life skill development. It runs concurrent with the school calendar year,
operating Monday to Thursday from October to May. Student volunteer tutors are
recruited from high schools and are trained and matched to younger students who
are referred by their teachers.
The students commit to two one-hour sessions per week, for a total of
32 weeks of tutoring support for children struggling with literacy issues.
The YMCA recognizes the busy lives of families, so the program provides the choice
of two time slots: an after school session from 4:00 till 5:00 or an evening session
from 5:30 till 6:30 p.m.
The children receiving the tutoring enjoy the program, and look forward to seeing
their tutors each week. Over the course of the year, strong bonds and friendships
are often formed. But the young learners are not the only winners with this program.
The high school volunteers speak with passion about their involvement, and what it
means to them to be able to help a younger student from their community.
“I really enjoy coming to the program” says Kathy, a grade 11 tutor.
“I’ve been a tutor for the YMCA for almost 3 years and it is really amazing how we get
to see our student’s confidence rise each week. Being a part of this program has been
really rewarding because we get to make a difference in our student’s life.”
Ashley, also a grade 11 tutor, agrees. “It has been a bit challenging to find
multiple ways to explain certain concepts but it has also taught me a lot about how
a student learns. It has been so rewarding for me to see progress and improvement
in my student. I often find myself reflecting upon what I could teach my student, and
the best way to do so.”
This program would not be possible without the financial support provided
by the annual Literacy Luncheon fundraiser, CIBC, Laubach Literacy, the
NB Protestant Children’s Orphanage, and the United Way.
Support from
staff at District 2, and the incredible dedication of the student volunteers, brings it
all together.
Fall 2011
13
Achievers has been created to
District 2
Ach evers
recognize and thank people from
District 2 who have gone above and
beyond to help out in their schools
and their communities. These people
have been nominated by various
individuals and we believe they
should be celebrated for all of their
hard work and dedication.
Chantal Frenette
Erin Dumville
Chantal Frenette, Vice-Principal @ Queen
Elizabeth, has been leading ZUMBA
exercise classes every week as a fund
raising effort for our school. She does not
take anything for sharing her expertise and
all money donated goes to support the QE
Breakfast Program. Last year, her efforts
raised nearly $4000.00 and she is on pace
to surpass that total this year.
Erin Dumville is a Grade 5 French Immersion student at Gunningsville
School. She is actively involved in many school activities, and this past
year, was selected by the IWK as their spokeschild for 2010-2011.
Erin was honoured at her school with an assembly launching her selection as
an IWK Champ.
In the fall of 2010 she went to Ottawa with the other Champions from across
Canada and met the Governor General and two Olympians. She also went to
Disney with the Canadian Champions and met with over 50 children from the
US representing their children’s hospitals.
Her duties in this national role included many public engagements where she
spoke on behalf of the IWK and the work done by this children’s hospital.
Erin has been an outstanding ambassador for the IWK, District 2,
and Gunningsville School.
Albert County Action Team (ACAT)
This team of youth brings fun and creativity to help build a community where people work together on bridging the gap between adults
and youth in their community. Their new initiative is called Revo, which is a remote control car race track that is a great community
activity. ACAT still have their $2 community movie theatre running and the School Welcoming Committee. In March 2011, 8 CRHS
students and 2 chaperones traveled to the TYPS Youth Leadership conference in Ottawa and while there the students went to Parliament
Hill at Rob Moore’s invitation. ACAT hosted another amazing community Old-Fashioned Winter Carnival in 2011 that was extremely
well-attended. They have also hosted a community pancake breakfast, served at the Shepody Fish and Games dinner, and hosted the Youth
Games at the Hillsborough Homecoming Days.
14
Fall 2011
Harold Butler
Mr. Butler teaches Human Services at Bernice MacNaughton High School.
A few years ago, he designed a new component for this course called
Adopt-a-Senior/Adopt-a-Student. During this component, students walk to
Camden Towers to visit, interview, play games with and learn from the seniors living
there. The goal is to bridge the generation gap. Students and seniors find common
interests, learn from each other, and exchange opposing ideas with respect. At
the end of the term, each participant has developed a better understanding of the
other, and the community has grown a little stronger.
RHS Walks for MD
This past June, a team of students from Riverview High School took part in the annual Walk for
Muscular Dystrophy in Centennial Park. Some of these students were returning team members
from the team in previous years, while others had just joined in the spring. Every week students
attended meetings where guest speakers provided insight on what life is like when living with a
neuromuscular disorder. It was a truly humbling and eye-opening experience for them. Fundraising
included hosting a BBQ at Sobeys, selling cupcakes, running a canteen during exam week,
and asking family and friends for donations. Riverview High School’s team did not disappoint they fundraised over $3000, and won Top Team award for the third year in a row!!
The Middle School students of ‘Queen Cavell’
Last year the Queen Elizabeth school community expanded to include students and families from Edith Cavell as a result of the
temporary closure of Moncton High School. The two schools joined to form a new school community, which they themselves named
Queen Cavell. To aid with the amalgamation of these two very distinct school communities and to help them bond, middle school
students from both Edith Cavell and Queen Elizabeth were challenged to work together to create a mural inspired by the work of a New
Brunswick artist, Brigitte LeBouthillier. The mural depicts unique hand-painted quilts hanging on clotheslines surrounded by houses.
To emulate LeBouthillier’s style, everything has a Dr. Seuss-like feel with moving lines. The mural now hangs in Queen Elizabeth’s cafeteria
but will soon be making its way to Edith Cavell where it will remain on permanent display as a reminder of how two school communities, thrust
together under less-than-ideal circumstances, worked together and made the new community a great place to be.
The students were led in this project by Art teacher Terra Mouland who is a recent recipient of Grand & Toy’s “A Day Made Better” award,
celebrating her compassion and caring, and dedication to her school and community.
Hanna Hopper
Grade 2 Salem Elementary
Carol Dennett and her grade two class celebrated
completing ‘50 Random Acts of Kindness’
by having a PJ Day. Part of setting up a classroom
community of learners who support and celebrate
each others’ accomplishments involves sharing,
taking turns, saying something nice to each other
and helping others. Children must learn to do this
out of the goodness and kindness of their hearts
without rushing over and reporting to their teacher.
The teacher puts marbles into a jar every time she
happens to see or hear a random act of kindness.
This class management activity helps foster an
inclusive classroom atmosphere.
A volunteer with Albert County Minor Basketball,
Hannah Hopper had an idea. She had a vision for
an after-school basketball program that would allow
students to stay after school and hone their skills.
The opportunity was there to use the gym after
school, but it was not available from the time the
grade K to two students finished school at 1:45pm.
Undaunted, Hannah worked with the school to book
the computer lab. Then she organized volunteers to
stay with the children in the lab while they worked
on individualized computer programs that enhanced
their numeracy and literacy skills.
In the end, Hannah created two new after-school
opportunities and organized two separate groups of
volunteers! The benefits were twofold: students were
staying for an extra hour after school to work on
academics and then they had an hour of individual
and group instruction in basketball!
Fall 2011
15
Our Community of Learning
By Karen Branscombe
W
e often talk about how small our world has become with globalization.
We live in a world with the instant sharing of information and quick
technology. Despite the fast-paced changes in our world, we still look
for ways to belong within a community.
Peter Block writes in his book, Community, that “the essential challenge is to
transform the isolation and self-interest within our communities into connectedness
and caring for the whole. The key is to identify how this transformation occurs”.
In School District 2, the “how” has been embraced by community and students,
community supporting schools and students enhancing community.
Each of our 38 schools has their own unique community and
their own connections within those communities. Students
who become involved in giving back to their communities
increase their sense of connecting and belonging. It
is encouraging for our young adults to be invited to
participate in community events. This gives them a
sense of ownership and respect within their communities.
Two great examples of this connectedness are the
efforts of students from Harrison Trimble and Tantramar
Regional High Schools.
Each year, the HTHS Trojan Trek donates its
funds to the neonatal unit at the Moncton Hospital.
This event has truly
“that the essential challenge is to helped so many
transform the isolation and self-interest of our students
within our communities into connectedness understand the
and caring for the whole. The key is to world beyond their
identify how this transformation occurs” school. Many of
them have visited
the neonatal unit
and have been personally thanked by parents at the hospital. When people talk
about Harrison Trimble, they talk to me about the Trojan Trek.
Tantramar Regional High School recently won a provincial award for their
spirited, annual participation in the Greater Moncton Dragon Boat Festival. This
event raises money for the Lions Sick Kids Fund -which many of our high schools
participate. The students at Tantramar are proud of the team effort and they
know that they too, are making a difference in the community.
Communities of belonging begin with the belief that problems can become
16
Fall 2011
possibilities. This was the story of our Sistema NB partnership. When we
were approached to develop an after-school music program with the NB
Youth Orchestra it appeared that this would be too difficult to put together.
After two very successful years, Ken MacLeod, President of the NB Youth Orchestra
writes,
“Sistema NB is a program of social change through music. The genius
of the program is the orchestra, where you can’t be great unless you are
great together. They practice five days a week for 3 hours a day and they
become a real community of learners. There is a strong emphasis
on excellence and the children rise to the challenge.
The results have been powerful”.
At Port Elgin School, we opened our doors to build a Health
Center within the school with the Horizon Health Network. As
Donn Peters , CEO of Horizon states, “ our partnership in
Port Elgin is a great example of two organizations thinking
outside of the traditional silos and putting boundaries aside
for the benefit of both children and the communities they live
in”. This community of health and education has created a
sense of belonging and caring.
I recently had an opportunity to attend a community fundraising
event with students from all of our eight high schools. It was a gala
dinner and they were the only students in the room. Their presence had a
significant impact on the adults that evening. Everyone noticed and respected
the young adults for attending. And one of the students commented to me that he
wished that they were invited to more of these events.
That passing comment speaks volumes about what work we can do if we
“invite” others to belong. I know our students appreciate the opportunities given
to them to demonstrate their skills and their ability to see the world beyond the
walls of the schools.
As Superintendent of School District 2, I appreciate the partnerships of
community supporting our schools. I know that so many share in the mentorship
of our young adults and take great care in providing opportunities for them. And
I know that so much is done to create “we” instead of silos of “we” and “they”.
This does not go unnoticed. By expanding education beyond the walls of our
schools, we support a basic human need of belonging. This is the element that will
strengthen, nurture, create and restore our communities.
All Star Coaches: Count Me In!
Green Lantern!
Captain America! X-Men!
Real Steel! Cowboys and Aliens!
Green Hornet!
By Paul Toner
2011
was the year of superhero movies. But these boys. We owe it to them!” - Norval McConnell, Manager of Community and Player
heroes don’t seem to be the champions we need, Initiatives of the Moncton Miracles.
because many young people, especially boys, are
So, what do we need? We need All Star Coaches with playbooks for the
telling us they do not have the good things they 21st century.
need (we call these things Developmental Assets) to grow up healthy.
A coach is a good image for what we need today. What do coaches do?
So what does a hero need to look like for 2011?
They provide inspiration and motivation; they believe in people and see their
They need to look like ALL STAR COACHES!
potential; they call out excellence; and they recruit!
On October 27th, at the invitation of the United Way of Greater Moncton and
The primary goal is to recruit and develop a Team of All Star Coaches who reflect
Southeastern NB Region, 20 men gathered together to launch an exciting initiative the values and competencies that are lacking in boys. These All Star Coaches are
called All Star Coaches. They were joined by representatives from various community champions that already exist in our community, but they will build up our community’s
partners including: the YWCA, the YMCA, the Boys & Girls Club of Moncton, the Boys capacity by providing new plays for the 21st century through leadership and training,
and Girls Club of Riverview, School District 2, Big Brothers Big Sisters, the Codiac support, action and programming, recruitment, and resource development.
RCMP, the Caledonia RCMP, and the Moncton Miracles. A message was delivered
And the community is on board! Many are taking the ‘Pledge’ to be All
that has been shared first-hand by
Star Coaches.
many people out in the community.
Richard Babineau, Community
This message was reinforced by
Program Officer for Caledonia RCMP
young people themselves in the
District 11, says “one of my roles is to help
Developmental Asset Survey filled
support communities to strive and build
• Respect the rights, dignity and worth of every human being, and value diversity
out by over 2000 students from
positive and safe relationships and break
• Seek medical support on a yearly basis and set positive standards for health and wellness
grades six through twelve in School
down the silos of communication. The
Districts 1 and 2 last year. What is
Developmental Assets and especially the
• Act as a positive role model for all young men, demonstrating values of caring, that message you ask?
All-Star Coaches concept is a commitment
integrity, honesty and responsibility
The ‘game’ has changed.
to show our young boys that adult men
• Learn more about the 40 Developmental Assets, the “good things” young people need
While girls and boys report
care and are committed to building a
similar results in external assets
foundation of positive community, family
• Seek to ensure that all young men feel safe and empowered
of
support,
empowerment,
and personal values.”
• Recruit, motivate and inspire young men to be the best they can be
boundaries and expectations, and
And Paul Toner, Community
constructive use of time, there is
Coordinator
of Early Childhood, Middle
• Strive to learn and achieve, and encourage others to do the same
a dramatic difference by gender
Years and Youth Initiatives for United Way
in reporting the internal assets of
adds: “On average, most young people
commitment to learning, positive
do not have the good things they need to
values, social competencies and positive identity. As a matter of fact, the boys score grow up healthy, and the many community partners who make up our Youth First
significantly lower on 18 out of 20 in the internal assets: for the full report, visit: Committee are taking steps to help build these assets in all young people, often in
http://www.gmsenbunitedway.ca/about/youth-first-survey
simple ways. The All Star Coaches initiative is one strategy, a response to a clear
“When one looks closely at the Development Asset information on young message that we need to devote some time and energy to helping our boys thrive:
males from our region you soon realize the significant challenge this puts on their we need to get them back in the ‘game.’”
ability to avoid risks and to thrive. We need to support and encourage individuals,
To find out more, or to take the pledge, visit http://www.gmsenbunitedway.ca/ or
organizations and groups that foster the growth of various target assets in our young contact Paul Toner at 858-8600 or [email protected].
As role models for the All-Star Coaches movement, people pledge to:
Fall 2011
17
thank you
for being there when my family couldn’t be
Make a Difference.
Become a
Foster Family.
1-800-990-0119
www.gnb.ca/family
United Way of Greater
Moncton & Southeastern
New Brunswick Region Inc.
Building a safe, supportive community with our partners,
including School District 2, through projects like Roots of Empathy.
Inspire • Build • Change
To learn more about United Way, contact us
at 858-8600 or www.gmsenbunitedway.ca
Proudly Serving
Southeast New Brunswick
Phone: 506.388.2300 www.stocktransportation.com
email: [email protected]
18
Fall 2011
“It takes everyone of us to build a quality place to live;
you too can make a difference start young by
volunteering in your community”
The Volunteer Centre of Southeastern New Brunswick Inc.
refers volunteers to over 150 community agencies.
Volunteer on-line at
www.volunteergreatermoncton.com
or for personal volunteer matching contact 869-6905.
Community
Use of Schools
By Aubrey Kirkpatrick
S
chools are pivotal fixtures in our communities. Beyond their primary
purpose as learning institutions schools play host to everything from Art
shows to Zumba classes. School District 2 has a long track record of fully
utilizing schools well past the ringing of the last school bell.
School activities and events take precedent over community use. However,
the District is committed to serving the youth of our communities as a priority
through long-established partnerships with our municipalities, youth groups and
organizations ensuring that most community needs are being met.
There are six reciprocal agreements between our District and the following
communities within our boundaries; Dieppe, Hillsborough, Moncton, Riverview,
Sackville & Salisbury. The agreements are all centered on serving our youth
through municipal programming, youth-focused sports and non-profit youth
groups. In general the District makes available school facilities at no charge to the
youth organizations in exchange for municipal services such as snow ploughing,
field mowing, sports field lining and maintenance as well as pool and arena use.
The rewards to each party are significant and our youth are well-served by these
community partnerships.
As an example there are over 600 youth who play basketball with the Moncton
Kiwanis Minor Basketball Association. Through the community agreement MKMBA
uses well over 3000 hours of gym time in twelve District schools at virtually no cost.
This ensures that MKMBA is able to keep their registration fees low to maximize
youth participation. “What we do would not be possible without the support of
District 2” says Lynn Porelle, Administrator for MKMBA.
District 2 has been using a centralized process for community use of schools
for many years. This process ensures everyone receives fair and equitable access
to District schools. Centrally managing community use of schools has relieved
this labour intensive task from busy school administrators. Linda Tower, Facility
Coordinator books all 38 schools across the district using FSDirect; a powerful
online facility scheduling software for managing facility usage requests, tracking
event schedules, and accounting for facility use expenses which has improved
relations with our community users.
The District must ensure that all community users are aware of liability
and safety regulations and their responsibility to ensure the building is
safe and secure. Every rental must complete and sign a contract and abide
by the community use guidelines found on the District website at
http://www.district2.nbed.nb.ca/Facilities/facility-rentals.asp . Gone are the
days where school keys were available throughout the community. With issues of
liability and building security of these multimillion-dollar assets every step is taken
to ensure appropriate usage.
With hundreds of community users each night and every weekend there is
significantly more wear and tear on our schools, from more heat and light expenses
for evening usage to gym floors wearing out faster. School and District budgets are
stretched to the maximum to keep our schools clean and in good repair. Some of
these extra costs are offset by adult group rentals fees that allow the District to
address these unfunded expenses. Rental revenue has been used to help schools
refurbish gym floors, theatre equipment and other day-to-day wear and tear items
that are not covered in operational budgets.
With so much community use in our schools our school Custodians help to
ensure that it all works well for our community and students. Our experienced
professional staff is dedicated to not only keeping our schools clean and in good
repair but also to ensure our community users can access our schools safely and
securely. It is truly a team effort to successfully open our schools to the community.
Fall 2011
19
Program
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Contact fseap
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Caring,
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506.857.3258
s addictions
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retirement
s trauma, harassment or abuse
Friday, February 3rd – Sunday, February 12th
Mark your calendars for Riverview’s mid-winter celebration of snow
and ice! Gather up your family, neighbours and friends, and join
us for ten fun-filled days of winter fun! We’ve got plenty of wintery
events to keep you active and entertained. Comedy shows, skating,
sliding, and lots of great food and fun. There will be something for
everyone at Riverview’s 2012 Winterlude! The complete line-up of
events will be arriving in your mailbox in late January, or you can
keep checking our website: www.activeriverview.com
Hope to see you there!
After hours: 1.800.668.9920
fseap.ca
Frye Ad - 4.1x5.438_ Achieve.pdf
FSEAP can
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11/15/11
1:37 PM
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WWW.FRYE.CA
TAKE PART IN THE FRYE FESTIVAL’S
YOUNG WRITERS PROGRAM!
20
WRITING CONTEST (grades 9 to 12)
Submit an essay or short story in the Great-West Life
and London Life Writing Contest, for a chance to win
$100, $200 or $500. Topics and contest info at www.frye.ca
Deadline is December 12, 2011.
BUDDING WRITERS (grades 5 to 8)
Share your writing talent! Read your poems or stories to
family and friends (Saturday, April 28, 2012 at 2 p.m.).
Deadline is March 12, 2012.
CAFÉ UNDERGROUND (grades 9 to 12)
Your time to shine! Read your poems or stories, or rock an
original song, at this event for high school students
from the region (Wednesday, April 25, 2012, 7 p.m.).
Deadline is March 12, 2012.
Registration forms and details are available
on the Frye Festival website: www.frye.ca.
For more information, email [email protected].
or call Melissa at 859-4389.
Fall 2011
HVAC Services
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Air-Conditioning
Mini Splits
Air Exchangers
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Humidity Control
Asbestos Removal
Microbial Clean ups
Air Quality Consultation
Residential and Commercial
What We Do
If your home is in need of duct cleaning services, Action Air
Care Inc. can help. We offer a variety of services, including
asbestos removal, mould removal, dryer vent cleaning,
furnace cleaning and odour control. It’s important to keep
your home mould-free and asbestos-free. They could
endanger the health of you and your family.
Call (506) 229-5393 today
for quality duct cleaning services.
Hemlock Holmes:
Tree Detective
By Administrative Team at Salem Elementary School
S
tudents in Mr.
Ripley’s grade 2
class at Salem
Elementary
School will be looking at
trees in a new way this fall.
Mount Allison University
student Emily Hogan has
just launched her book
Hemlock Holmes: Tree
Detective which teaches
students all about trees. It
is more than just a book, as
the kit contains a textbook
portion with beautiful and
educational photos, charts
and graphs. There is an
insert entitled ‘Detective Notes’ where students can record their observations and
complete activities. There is also a wooden compartment containing detective
tools including a magnifying glass, measuring tape, tree tag and even a tree
‘cookie’- a slice from a branch - for students to touch and observe. The kit is bound
with leather-like handles so it carries like a detective’s brief case.
Emily Hogan and Matt Ripley began collaborating on the project
last May along with Lucy Evans (a Salem grade 1 teacher) and
Colin Laroque , a professor at Mount Allison. The kit correlates with
many of the You and Your World outcomes for grade 2, with some
cross-curricular links to math and literacy. The students will be exploring
the parts of a tree, the water cycle, the dating of trees using tree-rings,
measurement of trees, the identification of trees and conservation.
Emily Hogan is a third year student at Mount Allison working towards
a BA in geography. The kit is part of a course entitled Geography and
Environmental Education taught by Colin Laroque. Emily and Colin
work in Mount Allison’s MAD Lab (Mount Allison Dendrochronology
Lab) which is the only lab of its kind in Canada devoted to
studying dendrochronology, or tree-ring dating. The book
was a summer research project.
Matt Ripley is in his sixth year of teaching in
District 2 and his second year in grade 2. The tree
detective project will start early October when
trees are the most magnificent and it will run for
about five weeks.
“Hemlock Holmes is great because it covers so much of the
curriculum in a way that is fun and engaging for the students.”
Matt Ripley, teacher
“I like it because it has a lot of cool things in it like a magnifying
glass and a measuring tape and everyone likes trees!”
Ryan Cormier, Grade 2 student
“Salem School is privileged to have the collaborative
efforts of Mount Allison University, specifically Emily Hogan
and the MAD lab, in this project. Kudos to Mr. Ripley
for exploring this opportunity and using it to enhance
curriculum coverage in his classroom.”
Ada Phinney, Acting Principal
Fall 2011
21
Look who’s from D2!
Norval McConnell
Community Builder
By Aubrey Kirkpatrick
N
orval was born in Moncton on May 3rd, 1958. He grew up
in the old West End of Moncton, and in fact, he still lives in
the same house that he grew up in. He attended local area
schools and graduated from Moncton High in 1976. He
was the President of the Student Council at MHS his graduating year
and was also very active in school sports, particularly basketball.
Norval attended Mount Allison University, graduating in 1980
with a Bachelor of Science, Chemistry major. He followed that with a
Bachelor of Education from St. Francis Xavier University in 1981 and
a Masters in Education from Université de Moncton in 1990.
He has spent the last 31 years as an educator at a number of
schools, twenty-four of those in a leadership role.
During that time period he has coached countless school
teams in a variety of sports. Of some note he has coached
57 basketball teams over the 31 years.This is certainly a passion for
him.
Norval is active and involved in the community serving
22
Fall 2011
as a volunteer with a number of organizations and groups. He is
closely associated with Moncton Kiwanis Minor Basketball, the
Greater Moncton Dragon Boat Festival and the United Way where he
invests a significant amount of his time.
Presently Norval is on a pre-retirement leave and is working as
the Manager of Community and Player Initiatives for the Moncton
Miracles of the National Basketball League of Canada-- a dream job
for him.
What schools did you attend?
Prince Edward School Grades 1-7
Hillcrest School Grade 8-9
Graduating from Moncton High School in the Class of 1976
What kind of a student were you?
Good student, quite conscientious, active and involved in school sports
and student government.
What was your favorite subject?...Least favorite?
Favourite: Chemistry, loved it in High School, particularly the lab work. (Actually
have a Bachelor in Science (Major Chemistry) from Mount Allison University.
Least favourite subject: History, dislike it even though I had some pretty good
teachers. I have learned to appreciate it more now that I am older.
What advice would you give teens going through school today?
Enjoy all that comes with school. Take advantage of the opportunities to
participate in school activities. Many of your fondest memories will come
from them. Do not hesitate to volunteer. The rewards will always be far more
than any job will pay you.
How did school influence your career choice?
I ended up a teacher a bit by accident. I had wanted to be a dentist but when
I applied I was left on the waiting list so I enrolled in a Bachelor Education
program at St. Francis Xavier University. I realized very quickly that teaching
was what I was meant to do. I had so many great teachers/coaches in my life
that I have carried much from them.
What do you love about your career choice?
The opportunity to learn and grow never ends when you are a true teacher.
Each day brings something new and incredible. Smiles and
“ah-ha” moments are infectious. If teachers continue to learn then
so do their students.
Which teacher had the greatest influence on you?
In elementary school –
My Grade 3 teacher, Hattie Pringle, appreciated that I loved to read at a
time when boys loving to read was not a really cool thing. To this day, when
I see young boys reading for pleasure I make sure they know I noticed.
It is important they realize that it is wonderful that they are readers.
In middle school –
My grade eight Science teacher was Bea McNulty. She had a great way
of making Science more than facts to memorize. She made it come alive.
I loved going to her classes because I always knew I would experience the
most interesting of things.
In high school –
Anne Spinney was a teacher I had at Moncton High who really impacted me
in a positive way about the need to balance learning and living. I also had a
few coaches along the way like Al Jones and Greg Gould who really shaped
much of what I have become. I had many positive role models during my
schooling.
What motivated you to achieve at school?
Both of my parents were hard-working individuals who worked for
everything they ever had. They believed in school, being successful there
and opportunities we needed to seize because if it. They expected us to
do well and live good lives. I remember my mother saying to me at a time
when things were not in a good place for me, that the most important
thing we have in life is how we “choose” to live our lives. That was always
in our control. Give more than you get and your life will be fulfilled.
Words I try to live by.
Parting comments?
“Control what you can control and influence what you cannot control”.
Powerful words that when truly understood and lived by allow us to manage
anything life throws at us.
If you were not doing this what other career would you be doing?
I would be working for a professional basketball team in their community
outreach programs. Hey wait a second; I am doing that right now. I have the
best of both worlds. I am so very fortunate that the Moncton Miracles of the
National Basketball League of Canada chose here as their home.
Fall 2011
23
Community Spirit
Lives On At HTHS!
By Julia Whalen, HTHS Class of 2009
I
got the idea of a Hangar Dance from an article in the newspaper. A high school
in the United States put on a prom for senior citizens and I thought it was
a perfect idea. My grandparents have always told me stories of when they
would head down to the local dance on a Friday night and I was always so
fascinated with that style of dancing, especially since it was so different from my
own generation. Although I initially
pitched the Hangar Dance idea to the
rest of Student Council, I can’t really
take credit for the dance. It was a
crew of us who put it into action.
When I mentioned the idea in
one of our meetings at the beginning
of the year, Miss Hoadley and Mr.
Mitton were incredibly supportive of
the idea. As soon as we got on the
topic, the details started pouring
in, and we, as a council, got really
excited about hosting an event in the
community that was totally outside of
the school. We had a group of really
amazing and incredibly keen people
on Student Council that year, and we
couldn’t wait to start planning.
We decided to host the dance
close to Remembrance Day to honour
the veterans in the community - our
own way of saying thanks. We knew our music teacher, Lindsay Dominie, played in
the Hub City Big Band so we planned to ask her as soon as possible if they could
play.
We did our research and found out that dances were often held in airplane
hangars in the 40’s and 50’s, so we coined the event The Hangar Dance.
We formed a committee of grade twelve students, which worked wonderfully. I
can’t really explain how excited we all were - we just hoped that a lot of people
would come and enjoy themselves. Because of Trojan Trek, everyone had already
had a taste of what it felt like to help out their community, and this was no different.
We put in a lot of hours to plan, prepare and decorate, but it wasn’t like getting
ready for any old school dance.
Trimble has a lot of traditions where students volunteer their time and efforts
towards the benefit of others. With the Trojan Trek, we raise money for the Moncton
Hospital’s Neo-Natal Unit, organizations like JDRF and World Vision, and at the end
of every year students from grade nine through eleven are responsible, under the
24
Fall 2011
direction of Mrs. Pipes and Mme. Grierson, to decorate for and work at the grade
twelve prom. HTHS taught me one of the most valuable lessons of my life - that
giving back feels pretty darn good.
The dance itself surpassed our wildest expectations. The grads wore fancy
attire and got all dolled up to accept tickets, wait tables, and usher dance-goers.
The band was incredible and
we transformed the Birchmount
school gym from a basketball court
to a classy, big band dance floor.
Veterans and seniors didn’t pay a
cent and were completely catered
to with coffee, tea, and snacks. We
got a wonderful reaction and really
felt good about the whole thing.
We had no idea our little dance
would grow into what it is today.
I’ve been to both dances
since we put on the first and
I must say, I swell with pride when
I see the grade twelve students
taking pride in the dance. I thank
my lucky stars that I had friends
like I did - and still do - who joined
forces to create a now-annual
community event.
Last
year
I
went
back to Harrison Trimble and Dale McLean who - to my embarrassment
- called me up on stage and identified me as the creator of the
event. While I was lucky to have stumbled across that original article,
I was luckier to have been able to go to such an amazing school. I couldn’t have
chosen six better people to work with on Student Council, and thanks to them
and the most supportive staff and students in the world, we were able to create
something really special.
Since that first Hangar Dance we’ve had three different venues, each bigger
than the last to accommodate the growing number of people. Three grad classes
have organized the dance, and another will carry the torch soon. I hope that the
event will keep going for years to come, because we sure have a lot for which we
should be thankful.
Extra-Curricular Transportation:
a Community Affair
By Ally Harris, Nancy Matthews, & Bill Robinson
H
The lead sponsor for the campaign was MacDonald Buick GMC
illsborough-based Caledonia Regional High School, situated nearly
25 kilometers from the next nearest high school, has quite a distance Cadillac Ltd., through the commitment of the President, Scott Langin. They were a
to travel for extracurricular activities like sports, science fairs and very generous major sponsor. RMS also enjoyed tremendous support from other
drama festivals. Vice Principal Donna Godfrey acknowledges that community members including: Doug and Gloria MacDonald, Darrell Shipley of the
when it comes to organizing school trips, the school has “always been at Ford Country Club, David Watts of Sobeys in Riverview, Stephen Downey of Downey
the mercy of renting a school bus”. This isn’t always easy though, as “being Home Hardware Building Centre in Riverview and other generous donations.
the smallest school in the district, finances have always been an issue for
“It is amazing and we are so grateful for the support that we have received
us”. Throw in the cost of the bus getting to the school in the first place, and both from individual donors and companies who are friends of RMS”, says RMS
the dollars quickly add up.
principal, Nancy Matthews. “This is a huge asset to the school and we are excited
This year, however, the purchase of a new minibus has changed everything. to have a new, safe, vehicle for student use.”
Thanks to the tremendous support of the community, the school managed to raise
JMA Armstrong High School and Salisbury Middle School also fundraised to
$45,000. The fundraising started 4 years ago, with community suppers, pancake acquire a mini bus for school activities with their Going Places campaign. Their
breakfasts, bake sales, music nights, gospel nights, golf tournaments and craft goal was also reached through the hard work of a dedicated volunteer committee
sales. Each event was a great success.
and generous sponsors.
Two years ago, a fundraiser was also held where students and members
Principal Bill Robinson points out, “The need for students in outlying
of the community could donate $2 and receive a paper
communities such as our community of Salisbury to
bus with their name on it, which would go on the wall
have safe, reliable means of organized transport to
“The need for students in outlying
events and opportunities cannot be underestimated.
of the school. This idea worked out great and soon the
communities such as our community
This new vehicle represents more than its acquisition,
main hallway of the school had paper buses all along
of Salisbury to have safe, reliable
it shows us the overwhelming degree of support
the walls.
means of organized transport
that several businesses, groups and individuals
Although they now have the bus, the school is still
to events and opportunities
have demonstrated to our boys and girls from
fundraising for the $30,000 remaining to be paid –
cannot be underestimated.”
some of which will come from sponsors. The school is
grades 5 to 12”.
looking for sponsors to have their logo featured on the
Early in the spring of 2010 an unexpected boost to
side of the bus, and anybody interested is encouraged to contact Mrs. Godfrey at the initial campaign efforts occurred thanks to the Rotary Club of Moncton West
the school. Alternatively, people can also purchase a seat on the bus, which they and Riverview. That gift of $7500 would later be followed by additional support
can, for instance, dedicate to the memory of a family member or loved one.
bringing the Rotary Club’s total gift to $10000. By late summer the Lions Club of
The staff and students at Caledonia are excited to start using their bus, which Salisbury brought their gift of $10000 confirming the Going Places campaign’s
will be used for sports, class trips and student council trips, as well as all extra- two major benefactors. The students themselves along with about twenty other
curricular and curricular activities including drama, band, and music. The school businesses, groups and individuals all declared their interest in making the dream
also plans on doing some tours in the bus, so that everybody can have the chance to buy a new bus for the school a reality. Campaign Chair Phyllis Bannister, speaks
to use it.
about the initial attempt to seek support. She tells, “We agreed as a committee
Caledonia’s need for a mini bus for extracurricular activities is not unique. In to ask potential sponsors to simply buy a seat at a cost of $4000, with several
June, Riverview Middle School finally met their fundraising goal for the purchase supporters donating various other amounts, some less, some more than the seat
of a 20-passenger bus that will provide safe transportation for students attending price. That generosity was so reassuring in the early weeks of this endeavour.”
district events including sports activities, music events, literacy programs, chess,
The gifts of sponsors are not taken lightly. “These people made a kind
bridge, drama, math competitions and so much more. It will also help students commitment to our school, to provide opportunities to its students” says Robinson.
attend special events and field trips.
Thanks to the members of our local communities, a whole other world has become
RMS needed to raise over $70,000 in order to reach their goal. A contingency more accessible to students.
plan was set up many years ago to replace the RMS van and fundraising has been
ongoing. Through a combined effort of student fundraising with the magazine
campaign, the support of the RMS parents, Riverview community and corporate
sponsors, the RMS bus became a reality.
Fall 2011
25
PARENTS!
Is lack of money stopping you...from enrolling your
child in one of the many recreation programs offered
in Riverview ? Then P.R.O. Kids is for you.
Applications for the Winter session are now being accepted.
For more info. contact Karen @ 387- 2051 [email protected]
The following is a list of activities that are
available for P.R.O. Kids placements for the
Winter Session:
Applications available @ P&R - 55 Biggs Drive OR at www.activeriverview.ca
There is no cost to children referred through P.R.O. Kids.
Curling
Dance Lessons
Fitness Classes
Gymnastics
Jujitsu
Karate
Music Lessons
Skating
Soccer
Swimming Lessons
Tae Kwon Do
Tiny Tumblers
We care for your possessions like our own...
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A community school is a center
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Container service
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Office & commercial moving
We sell packing supplies
Piano moving
Service
you know and trust
FOR OVER 70 YEARS
Van Lines
Volunteers are the backbone of any business-education partnership.
Providing extra “people support” to the staff and students is invaluable, whether
the individual works directly with the children or behind the scenes.
Employers contribute people resources by freeing up employees to volunteer
for up to 1 hour during their work week.
Safety - All adults who work in NB schools must have training in a provincial policy
regarding the safety of children. This includes volunteers, who must also have a police
background check.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON HOW YOU CAN BECOME A
COMMUNITY SCHOOL PARTNER, CONTACT CAROLE MURPHY,
COMMUNITY SCHOOL COORDINATOR, 869-6004
26
Fall 2011
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145 EDINBURGH DR., MONCTON
1-800-267-0464
[email protected]
Fax: 857-3087
www.geldarts.com
Business
Community
Supports Transition
to Work
By Stephanie Patterson
F
our-and-a-half years ago Atlantic Windows partnered with School
District 2 to encourage four students to finish their final years of
public schooling.
The students received class credit for working four days a week in the
factory and gained work experience that would benefit them in the future, and The
School to Work Transition Program was born.
Since then, more than 200 Moncton employers have made room for students
who benefit from an alternative classroom experience. The students spend one
day in the classroom and four days in the community working at a job that could
potentially become full-time employment after graduation.
James Green, general manager at Metalium (Moncton Division) a steel and
aluminum distributor on Killam Drive says that he wanted his company involved
with the program because of the determination of the students who are involved.
“It’s great to get kids that want to finish their school, so they are motivated to
work,” says Green. “It’s a win-win situation. It gives the students work experience
and allows them to reach their goals; also it allows us to have more employees
who are willing to work.”
Green says Metalium’s involvement has been an overall positive experience
and he is already willing to look at being involved for future years.
“Why not?” says Green. “If things work out there is potential for long-term
employment after graduation. That’s a great thing for everybody involved.”
Gordie Kline – coordinator of the School to Work Transition Program – says he
is extremely proud of the students who participate in the School to Work Transition
Program. He has seen students who would otherwise be struggling to finish their
education see the major benefits of finishing school and even some who go on to
post-secondary education.
“In 2010, the Alternative Services Site at Beaverbrook School was able to
host its first graduation ceremony in which 52 students participated. These are
students who had no connection with their previous school,” says Kline. “Many
of these students were going on to jobs they had secured in their School to Work
Transition experience and some were going on to pursue more education in fields
they discovered they were interested in through the program’s School to Work
Transition job placements.”
Kline says the program could not and would not be the success that it has been
over the last four-and-a-half years without the community’s involvement. From
donation of space to donation of funds from companies like Moncton Northeast
Construction Association, to the employers who agree to host a student for work
for the year, it is the consistent willingness of people to give the students a chance
that leads to students’ future success.
“It takes a lot of people to make the program what it is and to make it work,”
says Kline. “We are very grateful that so many people have been willing to help
us and the students out. Our staff alone consists of four teachers who teach
around 10 subjects each. Combine that dedication with that of the community’s
responsiveness and help and it’s amazing what we have been able to accomplish.”
Fall 2011
27
Red Ball Internet Centre and Crossman Community Centre/Kay Arena are open for the
season. Public skating and walking track (Crossman Centre) schedules are
available on line www.redballinternetcentre.com
Outdoor neighbourhood rinks as well as our Outdoor Skating Rinks at
Centennial Park, Mapleton Park and City Hall are open in December (weather permitting).
Our walking trails; Humphrey’s Brook Trail, Riverfront Trail and Northwest Trail are a
great way to stay active this winter and enjoy the fresh air.
Cross Country Skiing & Snowshoeing rentals at Centennial Park
Groups, organizations or schools who are interested in in Cross Country Skiing and
Snowshoeing at Centennial Park can do so by reservation only by calling 853-3507.
Happy Holidays and Happy New Year
Crossman Community Centre/Kay Arena
Get in motion this winter!
By visiting the City of Moncton website
www.moncton.ca to find Healthy
Living activities.
FREE Skate with Santa December 17th from 2:30 -4:30 p.m. at the Moncton Coliseum,
to the sounds of the season. Hot chocolate will be provided by Tim Hortons!!
New Year’s Day – Start off the New Year by being active, with free skating, walking,
Fitness Classes and much more on January 1, 2012 at the Crossman Centre/Kay Arena from
2:00 – 4:00 p.m. Free hot chocolate and healthy snacks will be provided.
853-3516
If it’s any form of advertising
or marketing communications,
it’s all about you and ‘i’
Producers of:
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264 Botsford Street, Suite 201
Moncton, NB E1C 4X7
506.855.6503
www.icommunicationsinc.com
28
Fall 2011
Breakfast Programs
By Carole Murphy
W
e have all been told, usually by our mothers, that breakfast is the most
important meal of the day. Unfortunately, many students still arrive
at school without a healthy start that will ensure that they are ready to
learn when the bell goes. This happens for a wide variety of reasons:
no time, not hungry in the morning, and sometimes – unfortunately – because
there just is not enough food in the house, despite the parents’ best efforts.
Schools and communities have been working together for years to address
this problem. Breakfast for Learning, a national non-profit organization dedicated
solely to this cause, was formed almost 20 years ago in 1992 when a small group
of dedicated people realized this was an issue across the country. Today, BFL
boasts a network of 30,000 volunteers.
In Southeast New Brunswick,
support for Breakfast Programs
continues to grow as the need is great.
Each school operates its breakfast
program independently.
They are
often organized and run by volunteers,
sometimes
parents,
sometimes
members of local churches or other
community groups. Funding for these
programs comes from a wide variety of
sources as well – sometimes in the form
of cash, sometimes donations of food
and supplies. Every little bit helps.
Karla Webster, Principal of West Riverview School, is grateful for the support
she receives from the Boys and Girls Club of Riverview to organize and deliver
the breakfast program every day. They have been running the program at West
Riverview for 19 years (one of the longest running programs in the province) and
it has become an important part of the school community’s daily routine. Greg
Hickox, Childcare Director at the Boys and Girls Club, is there every morning
working with volunteers. According to Webster, they have more parents helping
this year because of their flexible schedule.
“We recognize how busy our parents are, and sometimes it is difficult
to commit to a regular morning. So we encourage our moms and dads to just
drop in and help if they have 15 or 20 minutes to spare one morning. And they
are! We have more dads coming by to help than ever before” says Webster.
“You’d be surprised how many hungry children you can serve in 15 minutes!”
Three years ago the Greater Moncton Real Estate Board decided that Breakfast
Programs was a cause that their members could support. Each year local realtors
participate in two events that raise money to support breakfast programs across
the region. They enter a team in the annual Greater Moncton Dragon Boat
Festival – dedicating a portion of the proceeds to Breakfast programs. They
also hold an annual golf tournament,
their biggest fundraiser of the year, to
raise enough money to support both
District 2 and District 1.
“As realtors we live and work in our
communities and want to give back to
initiatives that support a good quality
of life” says Shirley Powell, President of
Greater Moncton REALTORS® du Grand
Moncton.
“Having our next generation receive
tools to assist in positive learning
experiences supports making our
community better. These children are our future and a quality education is an
important foundation for their contribution back. We believe by ensuring they
have a full stomach to start their day we are assisting in opening doors to better
learning.”
Local grocery chains and food producers also support their local schools
by providing gift cards or donations of food. Superstore, Coop, and Sobeys are
all regular contributors. Kevin Gallant, manager of the Sobeys store on Vaughn
Harvey, says it’s a cause that is easy to support.
“Our grocery stores are part of the community and people count on us in many
ways. We’re proud to serve the community in which we do business and breakfast
programs are just one way we can help” says Gallant.
Fall 2011
29
Responsible Tourism:
Anyone can make a difference
By Jessica Fenton
A
s my students know, this summer led to another traveling journey
abroad. Each summer, I try to reach a new destination and experience
something different. In July 2011, I landed in Lethem, Guyana, South
America to give indigenous teachers training in the areas of English
Language Arts and HIV/AIDS Education in a very remote region of the country
bordering Brazil. Teaching in an isolated area such as this, prone to floods,
power outages, a lack of running water, limited resources and food forced
me to become very creative in planning my lessons which were taught in an
open-air classroom, even during the middle of a severe thunder and rain storm.
I never know what to expect when I arrive in a new country surrounded by a new
way of living.
July 2010, led me to Oasis Hostel along the Pacific Coast in Puerto Vallarta,
Mexico, previously the number one rated hostel in Mexico. The summers previous
between 2002-2009 brought me to destinations such as Brazil, Dominican
Republic, Cuba, Nicaragua, Honduras, Bahamas, and throughout the United States.
My students are constantly amazed when they hear that I travel abroad alone,
and stay in hostels in each
...“at the end of the day it is city along the way. Each trip
really about change.” If I, a classroom has taught me something
teacher, can make a different in the new about myself and
world, than anyone can. I constantly encourage my
students to try new things
and to be open to new experiences. I try to bring my real world experiences into
the classroom whenever possible. Each one of my journeys begins with an itinerary
for my week-to-week exploration of each country which is often exchanged for an
experience not planned for.
My 2010 trip to Puerto Vallarta reigns vivid in my mind, because that
particular trip’s detailed itinerary was soon exchanged for an unexpected relaxing
tour through three states in Mexico. This also involved finding opportunities to
volunteer in an orphanage and local summer camp for underprivileged children.
Upon arrival, I was pleasantly surprised to find out that the hostel I was staying
30
Fall 2011
at encouraged involvement in the local community and offered many options
for guests to get involved. I signed up to volunteer at the Children Center of
Hope Orphanage and the School of Champions through Feed the Children
Vallarta (Formally known as Children of the Dump). Most of my time was
spent at the School of Champions volunteering at the summer camp teaching
English and facilitating games and crafts to the many children who live around
the dump. This particular hostel was unlike any other because it encouraged
“responsible tourism” where travelers become ambassadors of their country
and can impact others. I have always felt strongly about volunteering with
the less fortunate and I was happy to see that more and more people are
recognizing the impact that tourism in-connection-with-volunteering can make.
Voluntourism as they call it.
I believe cross-curricular education is important and that it helps to engage
students. My students learn more than English Language Arts because I feel
strongly about incorporating cross-curricular learning, especially Human Rights
Education. I agree with hostel owner Guillermo Vargas when he states “at the
end of the day it is really about change.” If I, a classroom teacher, can make a
different in the world, than anyone can. I tell my students that one person can
make a difference. Look at historical figures such as Anne Frank, Martin Luther
King Jr., John F. Kennedy, Mother Teresa, and Erin Gruwell, a classroom teacher,
among others, who have all made a difference on some level. Teachers can
be an example of this as well. Each time I volunteer abroad or locally, it is an
eye-opening experience and another opportunity to gain real world experience to
bring into my classroom. My students are always interested in my experiences, and
not because it is another story to tell, but because I make it connect to the unit we
are studying. It makes learning fun. If learning is the focus, then students need to
be constantly introduced to new ideas and concepts. It also encourages students
to get excited about their passions and to make goals of the things they would like
to accomplish because everyone one can make an impact... large or small.
Now to wait for my next journey to begin...
Seasons Greetings from the staff at
Riverview Parks and Recreation
Don’t miss out on our upcoming events and activities!
December 9th:
FREE Family Movie at the Kinsmen Small Hall, 145A Lakeside Dr.
on Friday at 6 p.m. Bring the family and enjoy the movie
“The Polar Express” on the big screen with free popcorn,
hot chocolate and candy canes! Wear your pajamas for a
chance to win a prize!
December 10th:
Registration for Winter Programs is being held at the Kinsmen
Small Hall, 145A Lakeside Dr. from 10 a.m. to noon. Check out
our winter program list at www.activeriverview.com
December 10th:
Registration for swimming lessons will be held from
9:00am-1:00pm at the Riverview High School Mallway.
December 11th:
Join your family and friends for a free Christmas Party on
ice. There will be music, prizes, hot chocolate and treats!
2:30- 4p.m. @ Byron Dobson Upper Arena
MARCH BREAK CAMP (Grades K-6)
March 5th – 9th 7:45am-5:15pm
$90 / Child ($10 less each additional child in the same family)
This is a weeklong, full-day camp presented as a childcare
alternative that is designed for grades K-6 and will be held
at the Small Hall (145 Lakeside Dr). This camp will explore
the creative and active sides through arts & crafts, drama,
dance, good-natured cooperative play and traditional/
non-traditional sports. There will be activities targeting the
various age groups, as well as, large group activities for
everyone. Some activities will include:
Skating, Swimming, Bowling, Sliding, Crafts etc.
Register for March Break Camp at our
program registration, held on December 10th
from 10 to noon at the Kinsmen Small Hall,
145A Lakeside Dr.
Don’t know what to do over your Christmas holidays?
Why not register for a Learn to Skateboard Camp,
or go skating or swimming? Check out all the details
at www.activeriverview.com or call 387-2024.
Fall 2011
31