2018 PROVINCIAL TEACHER’S PET VS Keeping calm with furry friends like Pebbles and Jiminy Cricket. See page 12. See page 3.

Learn from the past. Inspire the future.

April 10, 2018 Volume 52, Number 15 News Publication of The Alberta Teachers’ Association

Talking tech Leading experts explore the pitfalls of the digital age. See story on page 5.

CORY HARE

Time for a budget reno Real cost pressure Mental health matters Reliance on resource revenue Province delivers good education Teachers’ top priority should not a viable long-term strategy. budget but doesn’t address inflation. be their own well-being. Read Jonathan Teghtmeyer’s Read Dennis Theobald’s Q&A Read Viewpoints on page 3. editorial on page 2. on page 2.

Finish strong down the home stretch Spring is a time of learning … for teachers. This... Read This … from ATA president Greg Jeffery on page 5.

In Focus teachers.ab.ca ATA workshops deliver WHAT’S ONLINE? invaluable expertise. See story on page 6. Register for seminar: Legal Issues for System Administrators Breaking the Silence Upcoming specialist council New resource supports conferences sexual and gender Respectful Schools Online minority teachers. Toolkit See story on page 7. Collective bargaining updates

Publication Mail Agreement #40065477 The Alberta Teachers’ Association, as the professional ­organization of ­teachers, ­promotes and advances public ­education, safeguards standards of professional­ practice and serves as the advocate for its members. Editor-in-Chief: Jonathan Teghtmeyer | [email protected] | 780-447-9477 ATANEWS Managing Editor: Cory Hare | [email protected] | 780-447-9438 Advertising and Business Manager: Jen Janzen | [email protected] | 780-447-9417 April 10, 2018 Volume 52, Number 15 Designers: Erin Solano and Kim vanderHelm Copy Editors: ATA Editorial Staff Alberta needs a budget reno years has been a collapse in that reve- used in British Columbia. The budget In education, funding has increased EDITORIAL nue stream. As average global oil prices documents frame this as an “advan- to keep up with rapid student popula- fell from $99 per barrel to $45 per barrel tage,” but it is actually a disadvantage. tion growth over the past seven years, over the following two years, resource Our irrational obsession with having but the actual per-student grant rates Jonathan Teghtmeyer revenue dropped to just $2.8 billion — the lowest possible taxes ensures that have not kept up with inflation. Large ATA News Editor-in-Chief making up only 6.5 per cent of revenue. we will never have enough revenue instructional grants have received This meant the deficit grew and so from reliable sources to pay for core only one increase since 2011–12. This did Alberta’s debt. government programs and services. is equivalent to an 8.4 per cent cut in billion. When last month’s From bottomed out oil and gas rev- Keeping taxes so low ensures we will real per pupil funding over seven years. $96 provincial budget landed, enue moving forward into economic always rely on natural resources to It is no wonder, then, that class size the thud you heard was the size of the recovery, the timing was perfect to put supplement general revenue. Which reduction efforts have been essentially anticipated debt that would accumulate the budget on a new fiscal footing that consequently means that the security abandoned and supports for special would remove the dependence on oil by the time the budget is projected to of education funding will also follow needs are rapidly evaporating. This and gas. Done correctly, future resource the volatility of oil prices. balance in 2023–24. needs to change. earnings would not need to be used for Some will argue that out-of-control Budget 2018, which highlighted the I am always amazed at how debt is often general revenue, but could instead be de- spending is actually why Alberta has government’s plan to bring revenue considered to be unfairly harming future voted to longer term financial prosperity large deficits and ballooning debt. and expenses into balance over the next generations, but the rapid sell-off of finite through investing in capital projects, However, reports from the Parkland five years, was titled “A recovery built to natural resources in order to sustain low last.” It emphasised the government’s paying off debt or increasing savings, via Institute have shown that per capita ex- taxes today is not. And neither appar- efforts to diversify the economy while the Heritage Trust Fund, for example. penses in Alberta tend to be middle-of- ently is the underfunding of education. protecting public services, but I’m con- However, in order to do that and bal- the-road compared to other provinces. cerned the government missed a real ance the budget, government revenue And when spending is viewed relative I wish that Alberta would truly make opportunity to rebuild Alberta’s fiscal would need to be supplemented in other to GDP (which corrects for higher costs this a recovery built to last by rebuild- foundation in a way that would truly last. ways. Fortunately, there is room to do that. and greater affordability of public ser- ing our budget with a fiscal foundation Government finances have been Alberta has by far the lowest pro- vices), Alberta is consistently the lowest that’s also built to last. However, to do highly reliant on oil and gas revenue. vincial taxes in the country. Estimates spending jurisdiction in Canada. that it needs to take a serious look at its In 2013–14, the government gener- contained within the budget’s own doc- Growth in spending is hardly out of irresponsibly low taxation levels. ated $9.6 billion in resource revenue uments state that Alberta would raise control either. In the past four years, Check out revenuereno.ca to learn — accounting for 19.4 per cent of all an additional $11.2 billion in revenue government spending has largely more. ❚ revenue. The most significant reason while still maintaining the lowest taxes tracked the rates of population growth I welcome your comments — contact Alberta’s debt has grown in recent in Canada if it adopted the tax rates plus inflation. me at [email protected]. Budget is good but not sustainable the education system to absorb additional problem it faces is that decades of de- FOR THE RECORD Q & A students without any additional support. pendence on uncertain resource reve- Accommodating the increased student nues has created fiscal uncertainty and a Dennis Theobald population also poses a challenge, and structural deficit that surfaces whenever the government has responded by bud- ATA Executive the value of energy exports falls. This geting $393 million for 20 new school in turn limits its ability to respond to Secretary construction projects across the province. pressures, however acute, for increas- However, it must also be remembered es in program spending. As noted by Question: What will the recent that student enrolment is not the only my colleague Jonathan Teghtmeyer in What we feed provincial government mean for Alberta cost driver for education. Although in- his editorial, there is broad consensus teachers? flation has remained relatively low in among economists that the long-term our children’s recent years, the incremental increase in solution to this problem is to broaden Answer: At a projected cost of $8.4 the price of goods and services is exerting billion in fiscal 2018, the provision of the province’s revenue base, most likely minds is as real pressure in the education sector. by introducing a harmonized provincial K–12 education in Alberta is the sec- Failing to provide the additional funding goods and services tax. ond largest functional expenditure of necessary to compensate for these in- important as As matters stand, of all the provinces, government, second only to the $22.1 creased costs amounts to a cut that must Alberta currently expects the least of its billion spent on health care. It accounts be absorbed by the education system. To what we feed for about 15 per cent of the province’s date, teachers and other school employ- citizens as taxpayers — but its citizens annual spending. Of course, the magni- ees have borne much of this burden by still expect the best in education and their bodies. tude of this expenditure must be con- accepting salary constraints, a “solution” other public services. sidered in terms of the enormity of the that is not sustainable over the long term. So what does the budget mean for system and the resources it requires to Adding to the pressure on the educa- teachers? It means that things will not provide some 700,000 Alberta students tion sector are changing expectations get much worse in classrooms, but they with high-quality learning experiences and demands. Teachers continue to are not going to be getting any better 200 days out of the year. point out to whomever will listen that any time soon. Teachers now have an - Dr. Michael Rich, The recent provincial budget will inclusion is not being adequately sup- obligation and an opportunity to be- expert on the impact ensure that new money is available to come involved in the political life of ported and that class sizes are growing of technology on cover the continuing growth of Alber- beyond the targets first identified in their province and in their communities ta’s student population — projected to 2004 by Alberta’s Commission on Learn- to help change this reality. We need children and youth be 15,000 new students over the course collectively to demand better from this ing. While funding enrolment growth Read about his talk on page 5. of the year. This in itself is not a small helps to provide stability, it does little to government and from those who might commitment and should not be taken enable teachers and schools to establish aspire to replace it as well. ❚ for granted. Before it was defeated in conditions of teaching and learning that the general election of 2015, the Pro- can best help every child achieve their Questions for consideration in this col- gressive Conservative government of individual potential. umn are welcome. Please address them Premier Jim Prentice was proposing to Of course, the government is not un- to Dennis Theobald at dennis.theobald freeze funding, which would have forced aware of these realities. The fundamental @ata.ab.ca.

www.teachers.ab.ca www.facebook.com/ABteachers @albertateachers

Canadian Publication Mail Agreement No. 40065477 ISSN 0001-267X Download the app now by Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to the following address: scanning the QR code or Member of Canadian Educational Press Association Editorial Office, Barnett House, 11010 142 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5N 2R1 searching “Alberta teachers” Association canadienne de la presse éducationnelle Telephone: 780-447-9400 in Edmonton;1-800-232-7208 toll free in Alberta in the App Store. The ATA News, April 10, 2018 ❚ 3 YOUR VIEWS PROVINCIAL ON TWITTER On Nick Falvo’s Viewpoints column entitled “Alberta needs a sales tax” Roger Doucet @RogerDoucet $ FOR NO $ TO Alberta doesn’t need a sales tax, it needs a govern- growth in enrolment ✘ reduce class sizes ment that will live within its means. How about an new schools The provincial budget released March 22 ✘ enhance supports article about the spending problem of the NDP? Show contained some positives for education for inclusion that you are not politically biased. expanding school but was less electrifying in other areas. Jason Porteous @jwporteous nutrition programs ✘ increase per pupil base instruction grant rate What in the world does this have to do with the teach- ing profession? I would like our ATA News directed towards improving the profession, not arguing for ANY political viewpoint. I pay good money for an associa- tion to be focused on itself instead of playing politics. . per pupil base LOSING POWER $6500 instruction grant rate From technology lecture hosted by the When adjusted for inf lation, $6400 the per pupil base instruction Educational Technology Council $6300 grant rate has decreased by . Carmen Glossop @carmenglossop 8.4 per cent since 2011. $6200 All media is educational! It’s just as important to feed $6100 the brain as it is the body. It’s the quality of the media BASE GRANTBASE that matters — Dr. Michael Rich.

E $6000 Ed Pub Teachers @EdPubTeachers . 201112 201516 201819 “Kids hear 1% of what we say, but see 100% of what SCHOOL YEAR we do.” — Dr. M. Rich on what parents need to do to model the behaviour that kids need to see to learn how to self regulate and limit their time on devices.

FACEBOOK FEEDBACK You need to matter most On the provincial government’s Why the kids are the least of our worries Budget 2018 for education Mary Giampa D’Andrea Very disappointing. Teachers will be spread thin and spend far less face-to-face time the quality of education will suffer. I feel so bad for VIEWPOINTS with our children than our grand- all kids. Students won’t get the time they deserve parents did (just think about the from their teacher because teachers will be putting out fires ... boo. Jody Carrington difference in the square footage of their house and yours). Only when Scott Raible Clinical Psychologist you have felt things like empathy, Respectfully, this budget is far more supportive kindness and being apologized to of education in our province than the UCP budget can you give those away to some- would probably be. We need to be aware of the political realities of the time we are in. Quite likely the history of the world, As I work with educators in this one else. If those of us caring for there could be a government change next provincial we have always looked country to understand students’ our babes on a daily basis are not In election and we will wish for a budget like this one. after the most sacred of our gen- mental health needs, what has OK, our kids don’t stand a chance. eration. We have recognized the become most apparent to me is Parents, caregivers and educators elderly, respected those most that there has been little under- need to be the priority. How do we do that? I am so Letters to the editor: We welcome letters to the editor. Please talented by “rolling out the red standing of (or support for) those honoured to be working with ed- limit your submission to 300 words. Only letters bearing a first carpet,” and held in high regard who do this important work: our and last name, address and daytime telephone number will be ucators and administrators in this those who led our nations (gen- teachers. Indeed, wouldn’t it stand considered for publication. Teachers are also asked to indicate province to start thinking about where and what they teach. All letters are subject to editing for erally speaking). What about to reason that the same principles length, clarity, punctuation, spelling and grammar. apply? If teachers feel unsupport- this differently. How do we focus teachers? It occurs to me that more on the people who teach our Email managing editor Cory Hare: [email protected]. some of the holiest work on our ed, misunderstood, unappreciated and empty, they will have little students? One step at a time. planet happens within the walls Today, all I need you to think of our schools. Teachers guide capacity to help those they teach and care for every day. about is this: why do you do what our babes through their most you do? I want you to remember What I do know for sure is that formative years, often for more why you got into this business of one of the most significant chal- hours a day than their parents. nurturing most everyone’s most lenges we all face today is not in- Increasingly, school divisions precious commodity — children. creased “screen time,” the threats across this country have recog- And then I want you to remember of gluten, or even Grand Theft nized the need to gain further that this is a job, a very important Auto 5. It is simply one thing: insight into students’ mental one, and one that some days you disconnection. At a time when we health. Particularly as school will rock at. Other days you will have the capacity to connect in- shootings and violence/threat wish you’d become a Walmart greet- stantaneously to almost anyone on risk assessments are on the rise, er. Totally and emphatically OK. this planet, we have sadly never we are challenged more and more I’d love to hear your thoughts. been more disconnected. We lack to figure out what is going on Find me at www.drjodycarrington enough face-to-face, in-person with kids these days. We are now .com. Stay tuned to some of our connection with everyone in our continued discussions within this beginning to understand that lives — those we raise, live with, province and this country. Your even if we have the most brilliant love, care for, teach. We are pres- work is holy, teachers. It’s an hon- pedagogical lesson plans, fun sured to do “more with less” and our for me to have you read these white boards or strict classrooms, rely on our significant advances words. Give the best you’ve got kids cannot learn unless they are in technology to ease this burden. today to my kid (and every one emotionally regulated. What cannot be replaced, howev- else’s), and it will be enough. We Over the past two years, we have er, is our biological need for person- are so lucky to have you. ❚ talked a lot with educators about al connection. It is with eye contact the need to “collect” a kid before and physical proximity that we an- Jody Carrington, PhD, is a clinical being able to direct or teach them. swer the most significant question psychologist and chief happiness If, for example, a kid has no sta- of all time: do I matter? The only officer of Carrington & Company. bility in their life outside your way we answer this question of classroom, is unsure if they can worthiness is based on the quality trust anyone, and is sure that no of the relationships in our lives. This opinion column represents the one believes in them, they will not Our next generation will only views of the writer and does not neces- be able to focus on even the most be able to give away what we give sarily reflect the position of the Alberta brilliant teaching plan. to them. In this generation, we Teachers’ Association. 4 ❚ The ATA News, April 10, 2018 Membership cards a symbol of perseverance

FROM THE The cards are, in ARCHIVES effect, the ATA’s first membership Maggie Shane ATA Archivist database.

Leading up to its official 100th anni- room table (today on display at the versary in June 2018, the Alberta Teach- provincial ATA headquarters) that the ers’ Association is celebrating its history plans for the nascent Alberta Teachers’ through a number of initiatives, one of Alliance were drawn up, refined and which is this column, entitled From the implemented. Archives. Curated by archivist Maggie In the house was a den, and in that Shane and appearing in each issue of the den was an unassuming walnut index file case. And in that case were housed ATA News this year, this column will fea- the thousands of membership cards ture significant moments and individuals belonging to the very first teachers in the Association’s history as well as to see the need for, and the value in, interesting artifacts or documents from joining together in collective action to the Association’s archives. advocate for public education and for better salaries and working conditions. he ATA archives is replete with They were willing to set aside $5 a year, Ttreasures. Among the most precious a significant amount during the Great are those that come to us directly from Depression, to maintain a membership FILE the organization’s first general secre- in the Alberta Teachers’ Alliance. This antique credenza, now housed in the ATA archives, is the original storage tary-treasurer, John Walker Barnett Membership in the ATA was volun- unit for thousands of membership cards dating back to the very beginning of the and his family. tary between its founding in 1918 and Alberta Teachers’ Alliance. In 1914, Barnett built the family the passing of an amendment to the home on a corner lot in Edmonton’s Teaching Profession Act by Premier pioneers of the teaching profession in The archives routinely receives requests Queen Alexandra neighbourhood im- William Aberhart’s Social Credit gov- Alberta. They are a treasure trove of from genealogists and family historians mediately across from the local school. ernment in April of 1936. With that information, a set of cherished artifacts seeking information on a relative who The craftsman-style bungalow boast- amendment, membership in the newly and a cache of rich historical value. taught in that era. And the archives is, ed a very modern (for the time) floor -minted and renamed Alberta Teachers’ Through a series of conscientious more often than not, able to provide plan, wood-strip flooring, carved wood Association became mandatory for all decisions and a great deal of luck, information on long-lost ancestors. fireplace mantles, built-in seating and teachers paid by the public purse. These the case has been preserved with the Regardless of their contemporary utility, cabinetry. It was a comfortable, gracious cards preserve the maiden and married membership cards intact. The cards are, however, these cards are a testament to home to the Barnett family for the next names of teachers, their schools and in effect, the ATA’s first membership the perseverance and commitment of 32 years and it was at the family dining sometimes the home addresses of the database. And it is still in use today. forward-thinking teachers. ❚ Program blends language and nutrition

Walker. “We’ve got students who help SUCCESS out anywhere between the ages of seven to 10. If you had the opportunity to purchase blenders and then work STORIES with a local nutritionist and community partners for the fruit and vegetables, I Erin Black think it is a great way to build nutrition into your school life.” Red Deer Public School District Adventures in toast Another program the school runs is moothie Day is one of the most ex- Try Something Different On Your Toast Sciting days at Fairview Elementary Tuesdays. School in Red Deer! “Our nutritionist picks the combina- The monthly initiative allows English tion of things that go on the toast. The as a second language students to pre- most popular thing last year was avo- pare and serve 237 nutritious smoothies cado with tomato slices,” said Walker, to the entire school. adding kids have also tried things like Fairview is one of Red Deer Public apple butter as well as hummus on Schools’ congregated English as a sec- their toast. ond language sites, and Smoothie Day “Both of these programs have been so is an opportunity for the students to successful, and it’s great to see the joy be engaged, build a sense of commu- on the children’s faces. We all smile in nity and learn the English language, all the same language! Truly, it is a great while having fun. SUPPLIED way to teach, learn and try something This is the second year the program Trustees Bill Stuebing (left) and Dianne MacAulay join superintendent Stu Henry as Smoothie that is both nutritious and delicious.” ❚ has been in place. Day volunteers at Fairview Elementary School in Red Deer. “When we were selected for the Erin Black is a communications Alberta Nutrition Pilot, we started kids have had spinach, lentils, beans, that families can make a nutritious assistant with the Red Deer Public School working with a nutritionist from Al- chickpeas — you name it. She can make snack at home. District. berta Health Services. We wanted to it taste awesome!” “Our nutrition co-ordinator preps come up with something else in ad- Walker added the program is a great all of the vegetables and fruit, but the dition to breakfast and lunch delivery. opportunity for ESL learners to prac- students measure the ingredients, read CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS We purchased the equipment to make tice English and for volunteers to come the recipes, they build the smoothies, Success Stories is a new feature in smoothies so that we could continue in and help. pour them and deliver them. It is great the ATA News that enables teach- to create nutritious choices,” said Kim “It creates such a sense of commu- to see the confidence grow in our ESL ers to share their successes with Walker, principal at Fairview Elementa- nity because they are so proud of that learners,” said Walker. their colleagues. To submit an idea ry School, adding the partnership with program. The kids are proud and con- She added this program would be a or an article about a new program the nutritionist has been invaluable. fident,” said Walker. “As soon as one great one to add to any school, no mat- or approach that you’ve instituted, “She comes up with some of the most Smoothie Day ends, they are asking ter the age of the students. amazing recipes. She said that she can when the next one is.” “A smoothie day would be a great please contact managing editor make anything nutritious taste deli- The smoothie recipes are also pub- leadership opportunity for students, Cory Hare at [email protected]. cious in a smoothie. And it’s true! The lished in the school’s newsletters so even at the elementary level,” said The ATA News, April 10, 2018 ❚ 5 This... from ATA President Greg Jeffery

Burning and learning down the home stretch you read this you will As be in that time we re- fer to as the home stretch. The remainder of the school year after spring and Easter breaks have wrapped up and the push is on toward year end. I empha- size push because there seems to be so much CORY HARE to do in the time that remains — productions, Psychologist and author Jean Twenge relates the findings of her research into the effects of technology on iGen, her term for concerts, graduations, helping students prepare the generation of young people born in the age of ubiquitous digital technology. for the next phase of their educational lives, final exams and wrapping things up in your classroom. It does not seem, however, like the time for professional development. After all, why would Technology overuse harmful we have PD sessions at the end of the year as opposed to in the fall? Although this is a com- monly held view, I disagree with it. PD for teachers is hopefully not just for this to youth mental health year but is learning that affects our practice into the future. We should approach PD with the mindset that it’s part of our commitment Twenge added, noting other surveys estimate the to lifelong learning and embrace it at any time, Jen Janzen even after spring break. actual time is closer to eight or nine hours per day. ATA News Staff During a recent trip to Australia I shared our “It leaves less time for other things, such as seeing PD work with two different teachers’ organi- your friends in person,” she noted. zations, and they were very interested in our re digital devices lighting our way, or are they Sleep deprived model and committed to further conversation A making our lives darker? about partnering with us to improve public That was the question broached by professors Rich, a practicing pediatrician who is also associate education through research and a professional Jean Twenge and Michael Rich, who spoke on April 5 professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School and development model. Now this may be because in Edmonton at a public lecture entitled “(Dis)Con- associate professor of social and behavioural sciences it’s autumn down under, but I choose to think nected, Distracted or Addicted?” at the Harvard School of Public Health, said he is that it is because of the quality of our programs. “Seeing how much face-to-face interaction teens seeing more young patients come in tired. They’re The rest of the world looks to us as a model for get is really important for knowing what’s going on worried about their memories because they’re for- teachers’ organizations, and even if PD opportu- with their mental health,” Twenge said. getting things in school. nities come up in “the home stretch,” we should And, at a time when digital devices are being used He says much of the problem is simply lack of sleep. take advantage. The rest of the world wants to be by teens up to nine hours per day, that face-to-face “You ask them if they’re using their phones as more like us, so happy learning, and I hope that interaction is becoming increasingly limited, she said. alarms, but they’re also staying up late texting. They’re together we can “finish strong” down the home Twenge, professor of psychology at San Diego always online. And they have [their phone] on vibrate stretch. Maybe part of the “burn” can include State University, has been studying generational so their friend can send that all-important ‘WTF’ at some learning for us as well. ❚ differences for 25 years. Using a data set based on 11 three in the morning, and they will respond in 72 million teens surveyed from 1966 to 2016, she spoke seconds to prove they still care.” about the huge shifts she’s seen in what she dubs I welcome your comments — Are we addicted to technology? Twenge said it contact me at [email protected]. the iGen — the generation born in 1995 and later, doesn’t matter if we call it addiction or overuse. who have spent their entire adolescent lives in the “Clearly, spending five or more hours a day online presence of smartphones and tablets. on your device is a problem,” she said. “It’s almost like Twenge said there are many good trends within the phone is using us. It should be a tool you use, not the data. a tool that uses you.” “We have so many things going for us right now, CORRECTION and for our kids. Fewer of us smoke, we’re healthier, What can we do? we know more about nutrition.” On the question of what to do, Rich says it starts An In Focus article on the Southern Alberta But today’s teens are also more depressed, more Regional Office (SARO) that appeared in the isolated and experience more major depressive with awareness. March 13 issue of the ATA News incorrectly episodes than teens even 10 years ago. How did it “We have to come to a place where we realize what change so suddenly? we feed our children’s minds is as important as what listed Harrison as the surname of SARO staff The answer, Twenge says, lies in the sudden ap- we feed their bodies.” officer Keith Hadden. The article also stated pearance of smartphones. In 2012, it became official He suggests that families observe a regular digital that all SARO staff officers are assigned to the that more than half of the U.S. population owned a fast: for one day a week, put the smartphones and Member Services program area whereas Had- smartphone. tablets away and engage with each other. den has been assigned to Government. The ar- When Twenge first started noticing these changes, Twenge said keeping the phone out of the bedroom ticle also referred to Kurt Moench as the SARO she didn’t immediately put the blame on digital me- altogether is a must. co-ordinator. His title is associate co-ordinator. “If you have the phone by the bed, even if it’s on dia. She looked at economic factors, but found that The ATA News apologizes for the errors. ❚ teen depression was going up when the economy vibrate, it’s not conducive to sleep. If you use it for an was improving. alarm clock, I have some very simple advice: buy an “We’d expect that to be the other way around, that alarm clock.” depression was linked to an economy that was falling Instead of developing a killer app, Rich encourages apart,” she said. his patients to develop what he calls their ‘killer be’s’: Teens’ time online has more than doubled since be balanced, be mindful and be present. 2006. Recently surveyed Grade 12 students say tex- Finally, he said, showing a slide of a power button, ting, social media and generally being online adds up “this is the most important feature on your device. to about six hours a day. It’s a conservative estimate, Make sure you push it early and often.” ❚

STORIES AND PHOTOS WANTED Research colloquium If something newsworthy is going on in your The public technology lecture preceded the Association’s day-long invitational research colloquium school, district or local, please let us know. We entitled “Growing Up Digital in Alberta: From Distraction to Addiction.” Held on April 6, this event will also consider articles, photos and cartoons. delved into the latest research on the effects of digital technology and featured numerous discus- sions on the topic. Among the experts involved were Jean Twenge, Michael Rich and the University Please email tips and submissions to managing of Ottawa’s Valerie Steeves. editor Cory Hare: [email protected]. 6 ❚ The ATA News, April 10, 2018 Workin’ it ATA workshops provide cost-effective expertise IN FOCUS

Cory Hare ATA News Managing Editor

Welcome to In Focus, an ongoing series that shines a spotlight on the operation and programs of the Alberta Teachers’ Association. This instalment focuses on ATA workshops.

here’s a point early on in the Kai- Tros blanket exercise when it takes a serious turn and participants realize they’re in for a rough ride. “Without even consulting you, we made deals amongst ourselves and divided up control over you and your lands,” intones facilitator Jessica Scalzo, playing the role of “The European” as she pompously strides amongst the workshop participants, who are cast in the role of Canada’s Indigenous people. “Usually, whichever nation discov- ered your land first took control with the blessing of the Christian church,” CORY HARE Scalzo continues. “This practice is now Staff from Madonna Catholic School in Strathcona County participate in the Kairos blanket exercise during a professional development day. called the ‘Doctrine of Discovery.’” So far this year the blanket exercise has been one of the most popular workshops offered by the ATA’s corps of volunteer instructors. Just like that, 18 workshop partici- pants are transformed from jovial to stone-faced. It’s the beginning of a pow- workshops is that these are done by peo- Clark has partaken in the program’s Besides the blanket exercise, the most erful experience that, while not partic- ple who have relevance because they are services three times this year. She says popular bookings this year are work- ularly pleasant, has made the blanket actively engaged in schools themselves,” the instructors go beyond the “standard shops on classroom management and exercise one of the most popular of the says Nancy Luyckfassel, the executive formula” of delivering content from the Indigenous history/culture. more than two dozen workshops of- staff officer who oversees workshop front of the room by making the work- Her area is constantly updating exist- fered by the Professional Development delivery within the PD program area. shops very interactive. ing workshops and creating new ones to program area of the Alberta Teachers’ These volunteer instructors are “I cannot say enough about the PD Association. respond to demand from the field and spread around the province. For a nom- that they present,” Clark says. “You just tap into education trends. In develop- Designing and presenting workshops inal fee of $100, they can be booked to can’t beat the price for the amount of ment for next year are workshops on is a core function of the PD area. Ad- facilitate on-site workshops at schools, knowledge that they can bring to us.” dressing both teaching and leadership metacognition and mindfulness, coding, conferences, conventions and local pro- Madonna School principal Karen competencies, these workshops cover a trauma-informed practice and three fessional development events. Several Antoniuk is also a supporter, having wide variety of topics, including teacher new Indigenous-focused workshops. wellness, creativity, assessment, class- workshops can be delivered in French. participated in the blanket exercise a “One of the misconceptions that I couple of times. Given how much of the work is done room management, inclusion, residential in-house, she says the program is an schools and mentoring. The workshops want to help people with is we don’t “If you want some great PD for your example of members’ fees at work. are delivered by an instructor corps have a stable of instructors here at staff, check this out,” she says. comprised of volunteer classroom teach- Barnett House that we send out. These So far this operational year, the in- “People often ask, ‘where do my dues ers who have training, experience and are teachers that are in communities, structors that Luyckfassel oversees go?’ This is a great way that they can ac- expertise in particular topics. in schools,” Luyckfassel says. have delivered more than 330 work- cess professional learning through us,” “The really great part about our Gibbons School vice-principal Darla shops to more than 12,000 participants. Luyckfassel says. “We are here for them.” More workshops, courses and presentations Besides the Professional as benefits, employment in- Teaching makes for great learning Development program area, surance, maternity leave, the Government, Teacher pension and retirement. In Cory Hare 10 workshops per school year, Welfare and Member Ser- Member Services, the main says Nancy Luyckfassel, the ex- vices program areas also workshop is entitled Healthy ATA News Managing Editor ecutive staff officer who recruits each offer a selection of Interactions and is focused and oversees the corps members. workshops, courses and on conflict management. The work of the corps in- presentations. or Jessica Scalzo, being part However, the program area structors tends to be concen- In Government, there are also offers more than two Fof the ATA’s instructor corps trated around the beginning about a dozen workshops dozen presentations for is a learning experience like of the school year, specialist on topics such as the latest administrators and teachers. no other. council conferences, teachers’ CORY HARE research in education, stu- “It’s some of the best PD you “We have executive staff convention season and district Instructor Jessica Scalzo plays the dent mental health, emerg- could ever do because the corps PD days. When an instructor is role of "The European" during the ing technologies, politics, officers who are experts in is built on people who are ex- deployed, the Association cov- popular Kairos blanket exercise women in leadership and each of these topics, and perts in their fields,” Scalzo says. ers the cost of a substitute so workshop. the effects of domestic vio- as former classroom teach- Specializing in diversity, eq- there is no cost to the instruc- lence on children. Teacher ers, they are also expert at uity and human rights, Scalzo tor’s employing board. Welfare offers more than a delivering the content in meet and learn from teachers is one of 53 volunteers who Each year the Association dozen workshops focused on a way that’s relevant to in their communities. make up the Association’s corps holds a recruitment drive to re- various aspects of teachers’ teachers,” said ATA presi- “It’s really inspirational to see of trained instructors. These place departing corps members. working arrangements, such dent Greg Jeffery. ❚ teacher volunteers are recruit- The next intake is in December. how passionate people are about ed based on a three-year term “I treat it like a job interview,” what they do with their students and can serve up to three terms. Luyckfassel says. “It is rigorous and with their colleagues — you A list of workshops and presentations currently While the time commitment can’t help but have your own to join.” being offered can be found on the ATA website. Click can vary greatly, instructors typ- practice be shaped by that ex- Scalzo says that, as part of on For Members>Programs and Services>Workshops ically deliver between five and the corps, it’s a privilege to perience.” ❚ and Presentations. The ATA News, April 10, 2018 ❚ 7 Public money feeds into private surplus Webber Academy receives $5 million per year in public money while sitting on $40 million surplus

Neil Webber. Veteran board member Milt Pahl was a “[Some parents] say, ‘my six-grand today will only COMMENTARY PC MLA in the 1980s. be worth three-grand in 14 years, but if I donate it And of course, there’s Danielle Smith — former today, I’m going to have a $6,000 deduction’” and that leader of the Wildrose Party and briefly lived PC “it helps the school, too.” James Wilt, Progress Alberta MLA — who served on the Webber board between While such depreciation over 14 years might be a 2004 and 2009. Special to the ATA News bit overstated, it’s clear that already affluent parents Webber Academy is a top school in Alberta, if who can afford a “donation” of $6,000 stand to benefit you give the pro-private Fraser Institute’s annual the most by such an arrangement. school rankings any weight. However, as multiple Webber Academy has also benefitted from $30.8 Part of a Progress Alberta campaign calling on the studies have indicated, improved learning outcomes million in public funding for operating costs between government to defund elite private schools, this com- at private schools are almost entirely based on the 2010 and 2017. The public subsidy added to the high mentary is adapted from an article that appears on socio-economic backgrounds of students. tuition and enrolment bonds have allowed the school Progress Alberta’s website at www.progressalberta.ca. to build up some impressive assets. According to filings with the Canada Revenue rivate schools are often criticised for being exclu- It is unfair to publicly subsidize exclusive Agency, the school’s land and buildings are worth Psive enclaves that enable students of well-heeled about $26 million (the province does not fund capital parents to access powerful networks. Few exemplify and elite private schools charging $18,000 costs for private schools). The performing arts centre, that as much as Calgary’s Webber Academy, which a year tuition while working-class families opened in 2012, cost $14 million to build. For refer- charges $18,000 per year for tuition as well as a $6,000 ence, a new public school costs about $4.2 million. enrolment deposit — and received more than $5 mil- have to fundraise just to get the basic Webber holds another $3.6 million in capital assets. lion in public funding in 2016–17. Over the last several years, Webber has also saved up Webber Academy was founded in 1997 by Neil Web- necessities of education in their regular significant amounts of money in cash, bank accounts ber, a four-term Progressive Conservative MLA who public schools. and short-term investments. In 2005, Webber Academy served under both Peter Lougheed and Don Getty. had $1.9 million stored away. By 2012, that had risen to In a recent interview, the 81-year-old school president —Duncan Kinney, executive director Progress Alberta $16 million. By 2015 the amount had almost doubled shared his rationale for founding Webber Academy. to $29.5 million, and in 2017 it spiked to $40.7 million. “I thought, wouldn’t it be nice some day to have a But the money isn’t necessarily being saved up because the school is being frugal with expenses. school where you have generally the top 25 per cent “Students who attended private high schools were of the population for aptitude and the desire to learn,” In 2016, Webber Academy spent $255,594 on adver- more likely to have socio-economic characteristics tising and promotion, $446,887 on travel and vehicle Webber said. positively associated with academic success and to expenses, $96,365 on office supplies and expenses, Since opening, the school moved to a 47-acre campus have school peers with university-educated parents,” $754,370 on occupancy costs and $241,378 on profes- in the city’s southwest, constructing a sizable school concluded a 2015 report from Statistics Canada. sional and consulting fees. For the past two years, one According to a separate 2013 report by the Fraser with two gymnasiums, a high-school science centre with person received between $250,000 and $299,999 in Institute, the average income of parents who send five laboratory classrooms, a 500-seat performing arts compensation — and in 2015, another received more centre and “cross country trails through the aspens.” their children to Webber Academy is $190,200 for elementary school and $216,700 for high school. than $350,000 in compensation. The 975-student school has always maintained This for a school that has fewer than 1,000 students. strong political connections. While that aforementioned $6,000 enrolment bond is refundable upon graduation or withdrawal, parents Progress Alberta executive director Duncan Kinney Neil Webber’s son Len worked as vice-president of are encouraged to donate that amount to the school says it is time for this stop. business administration at Webber Academy between since it is a non-interest bearing loan. As coyly not- “It is unfair to publicly subsidize exclusive and elite 1997 and 2004 before getting elected as a Progressive ed in Webber’s latest info package: “The net present private schools charging $18,000 a year tuition while Conservative MLA for a decade and later as a Con- value of the bond could ensure that a donation now working-class families have to fundraise just to get servative MP. Former board member Jim Silye was may be advantageous to you.” the basic necessities of education in their regular elected as a Reform Party MP in 1993. Another for- In a 2012 Globe and Mail feature, Debby Carreau, public schools,” Kinney said. mer director, Roy Wilson, was a member of the Social a human relations executive and parent of two “Elite private schools like Webber need to get off Credit caucus until 1975 — when he was defeated by children attending Webber Academy, explained: the gravy train of public subsidies.” ❚ New resource supports sexual and gender minority teachers

Jen Janzen respectful and safe learning environment

that respects diversity and fosters a sense of INTRODUCTION Leg I C a a QU I have a CONC e R URR e T T ATA News Staff es OURC a a es TION s

s sUPPORT

belonging. s

Furthermore, Section 45.1 (1) of the School Act declares each UPPORT FOR sg M e AN ANTIHARASSMENT POLICY IS IMPORTANT L NT s T student enrolled in a school operated by the board and each a “Many SGM teachers are still directed not TION a ND P OLICI es

staffTeachers member who workedemployed in by the board be provided a welcoming, es

Breaking eachers shouldn’t have to hide who they caring,schools respectful with antihomophobic and safe learning environment that respects78% a to ‘come out’ at work,” states the introduction. WITH a ND a diversityharassment and policies fosters werea sense of belonging. TI s are in order to teach. ANTIHARASSMENT POLICY IN a “Others avoid sharing any personal information more likely to be flourishing RN T TIC s This is an area of the law that is still evolving and some questions (78 per cent) than those CTION 69% N That’s the theme of Breaking the Silence, a remain unsettled. ATA staff work with legal counsel, government the SilenceWITHOUT s with colleagues while many still worry about working in schools without TEACHERS TEACHERS FLOURISHING

and school authorities to remain on top of trends and decisions W such policies (69 per cent). ANTIHARASSMENT POLICY new resource for sexual and gender minori- losing their jobs, receiving parental or student affecting SGM staff and students. e R

A Guide for Sexual and Gender s ty (SGM) teachers produced by the Alberta complaints, or being outed at school.” MB e Teachers’ Association. MinorityI am teaching Teachers in a Catholic in schoolAlberta and want spousal benefits An electronic version of the document will for my partner— how does this Ifwork? schools R s To be unveiled at the Diversity, Equity and 3SUPPORTSGM employees FOR SGM are entitled TEACHERS to spousalare CREATES benefits not4 safe for their partners at be posted on the ATA website. Printed copies The power of SGM- Human Rights Conference in Edmonton on SAFERa level SCHOOLS consistent with FOR the SGM terms STUDENTS and conditions of all other spousal will be distributed at the DEHR conference specificbenefits. legislation However, Speakmanyand SGM employees up,and because inclusivedo not receive the spousal April 12 and 13, the guide seeks to encourage policiesbenefits is thatthey theyareof teachersentitled toreported either places becausethat clear an forschool employer system determines April 12–13 and via a school mailing later this breakthat the the silencecontractualsupport and, obligations for SGM-inclusive of the teacher teachers override would bethe very provisions teachers to access support from the Association. If you ofhave the experienced collectivehelpful agreement, anyto ofto remaincreate or because safeSGM schools thesilent teacherteachers, for SGM has students. decided it school year. thesein explicitly unsafeor other to concerns, disclose naming that please they have a same-sex partner. Member Services 81% they’re not In a 2013 study involving 3,400 teachers knowsexual andthat Teacher orientationyou are notWelfare alone andin can and theassist you face in determining of the best course of that theaction ATA asis hereyou also to support need to you. be mindful safe of contractual for SGM obligations. across Canada, 26 per cent of respondents Nogender teacher identity, should have give to hide Questions? Concerns? Contact your boarddiscrimination Employee orKnow your allies. Reach out whoteachers theyI am are applying permission in order to teach.teach SGM in a Catholicstudents board and a condition of Assistance Program (EAP) for to SGM and ally colleagues in were aware of a teacher being harassed by teachersemployment can serve as is important a declaration of faith. Should I let them know If you’re a teacher with questions or concerns, ROLEto act MODELSconfidential and students FOR counselling harassmenttheSAFE SCHOOLSand either.¹ is toyour school, school district, colleagues because they were presumed to be role modelsabout tomy SGM partner? students If andI do, I am not sure I will get the job. families,validationadvice. and are of The an official importantservice provider will 4 local or province who may you can The ATA affirms the right of denominational schools to require, as a sign thatnot diversity, disclose equity your andinformationcondone it. have experience in or insight lesbian, gay or bisexual, while 10 per cent of support.²condition of employment, a declaration of faith at the time of hire, but human rightsto your are employer. valued within Note that into negotiating the situation thereafter precludes discrimination on any protected ground, including teachers were aware of harassment based on • contact Member Services or Teacher a school yourcommunity. EAP is not to be confused you are facing. 2 Taylor,sexual C, T Peter, orientation, gender 87%identity and gender expression. The Alberta with your employer's human C Campbell, E of educators reported that Welfare (1-800-232-7208). Make sure you Human Rights Act specifically prevents employment discrimination a colleague’s gender expression. Meyer, J Ristockresources department. having role models, such as SGM and Don Short. the 2015. basis of actual or perceived sexual orientation, gender identity contact the ATA before you speak with your The Every Teacher staff members, would be helpful Projector on LGBTQ-gender expression. Every situation is unique, however, and before “A lot of work has been done to support sexu- in creating safer schools for SGM Inclusivesigning Education any contract or declaring your sexual orientation or gender employer. in Canada’s K–12 students, but a great many SGM al and gender minority students, but there has Schools,identity, Final speak to a Member Services’ staff officer. Report. Winnipeg, teachers do not acknowledge MB: Manitoba been less dialogue about the rights of sexual • contact your board’s Employee Assistance Teachers’ Society. being SGM at work. Program for confidential counselling and gender minority teachers,” says ATA pres- 41 CampbellElementary C, andTeachers’ C Taylor. Federation 2017. The of Every Ontario Teacher (EFTO) Project website. Recommendations http://www.etfo.ca/SupportingMembers/Employees/ Toolkit. LGBTQrightsDocuments/LGBTQ%20Rights%20in%20Your%20Workplace%20-%20English.pdf.Winnipeg, MB: Manitoba Teachers’ Society. ident Greg Jeffery. and advice. 3 5 7 9 11 13 15 17 The School Act, however, mandates that each • know your allies. Reach out to ally colleagues student and each staff member employed in your school, school district, local or Breaking the Silence is a new resource that will soon be available both by a board be provided a welcoming, caring, province. ❚ in printed and electronic form. 8 ❚ The ATA News, April 10, 2018

CTF CORNER CTF-FCE @CanTeachersFed www.ctf-fce.ca

Shortage of French-language teachers CTF appoints new director of research FOR MENTAL HEALTH the subject of new research project and professional learning

Ottawa – With financial sup- alleviate, or even eliminate, the Ottawa – Sherri Brown has Brown has more than 13 May 2, 2018 port from Canadian Heritage, shortage.” been appointed the new di- years of experience in build- visit canwetalk.ca the Canadian Teachers’ Feder- According to a 2017 CTF sur- rector of research and profes- ing and supporting quality, ation (CTF) and the University vey of French-language school sional learning of the Canadian rigorous, and nationally and Wear a special hat to of Ottawa, in partnership with boards in minority settings, the Teachers’ Federation (CTF) internationally recognized so- school on May 2, 2018, Brown will the Association canadienne de shortage of staff qualified to cial policy research, as well to raise awareness of lead the CTF’s langue française (Canadian teach in French is all too real. as in strategic advocacy and the importance of good French-language association), The problem was highlighted research and knowledge translation. professional mental health. will carry out a research proj- at the 105th meeting of the Before joining CTF as a re- learning activ- ect on the shortage of teachers Council of Ministers of Edu- searcher and policy analyst in ities designed in French-language schools in cation, Canada, in June 2017. September 2017, Brown was to positively minority settings in Canada. The research project will SHERRI BROWN senior research analyst with DIRECTOR, RESEARCH influence deci- “The federal government begin in April 2018 and the AND PROFESSIONAL the British Columbia Teach- sions affecting LEARNING, CTF ers’ Federation. Prior to that, funding will help us get a bet- conclusions will be released the quality of she worked at Simon Fraser ter grasp of the causes of the between March and August publicly funded public educa- University as a lecturer and teacher shortage and make 2019. The research team will tion in Canada. researcher with appointments concrete recommendations be contacting the various levels “Sherri’s experience, edu- in the departments of labour with our community partners,” of government involved in cation and skills in strategic explained CTF president Mark training and retaining teach- and policy research make her studies and political science, Ramsankar. “The purpose of ers in Canada and CTF mem- the ideal person for the po- and teaching specializations in this pan-Canadian study is ber organizations in order to sition,” said CTF president social policy, Canadian labour to determine what measures take the pulse of the various Mark Ramsankar. “As a pas- markets, and the history of to take at different levels to regions. ❚ sionate advocate for public disability policy and advocacy. education, equity, inclusion, Brown holds a Ph.D. in po- and supporting teacher activ- litical science from McMaster Community organizations that would like to partner ism and inquiry with research University, a master of arts in with the CTF on the project are invited to call Sara La- and evidence-based tools and political science from the Uni- france, acting director of the Francophonie Program, resources, she will certainly versity of Calgary and a bach- at 613-688-4308 or to write her at [email protected]. advance the federation’s goals elor of arts in political science in terms of supporting a strong from Concordia University national teacher voice.” (Montreal). ❚

The ATA Educational Trust

The ATA Educational Trust is a charitable organization that has been supporting public education and providing grants to advance teaching practices Have your students explore respect in Alberta for over 30 years. for all living things through the This year, the ATA Educational Trust will award over $80,000 in Every One Counts Contest grants. This includes $700 Dr B T Keeler Continuing Education Bursaries for teachers wishing to advance their knowledge and Group and individual prizes teaching skills in a subject area through taking courses. Deadline: May 7 Application deadline May 1, 2018 Visit everylivingthing.ca/contest

www.teachers.ab.ca > For Members > Programs and Services > Grants, Awards and Scholarships >ATA Educational Trust The ATA News, April 10, 2018 ❚ 9 NOTICES AND EVENTS

Orange Shirt Day logo contest Get 2Know Alberta students are invited to share their vision of respect, remembrance and reconciliation by designing a logo for the 2018 Orange Shirt Campaign. Educational resources for teachers Carrying the message that every child matters, Orange Shirt Day is a national movement that recognizes the experience of survivors of Indian residential schools. The submission deadline is May 15. Gateways2Learning — Better Environment More information about the logo contest is available at www.safeandcaring.ca/orangeshirtday. Earth Day is an event that can be covered across grades and curriculum. For learning resources for your classroom, check out this featured site, CLASSIFIEDS Home Sweet Home: Committing to a Better Environment. The site includes • connections to current Alberta curriculum, Travel and Recreation Wanted • printable classroom activities, Vancouver Island/Ladysmith— Contract teacher wanted in Calgary • images and oceanfront 2-bedroom w/ 2 full to teach TOEFL iBT exam prep course, bathrooms, fireplace, heated June 18 to July 27. Contact Neil Hosler • digital resources for students and teachers, all matched to grade level. pool, hot tub, tennis court, private at 780-966-7719. dock. Sleeps up to 6. www. In search of French Immersion http://gateways2learning.ca/BetterEnvironment innoftheseastarfishgetaway.com or teachers at Black Gold Regional [email protected] Division No. 18—Black Gold Vernon—spectacular 5-star lakefront Regional Division No. 18 is actively Visit the Gateways 2Learning main page to find similar sites about vacation rental located one km past seeking French Immersion teachers Ellison Provincial Park. 2 bed, 1 bath, for the 2018–19 school year. Please Indigenous peoples, global citizenship, animals of Alberta, self-contained. Private dock, 300 send a cover letter, resume and water and more at www.2learn.ca/gateways.aspx. ft beach, crystal clear water. $1600 two letters of reference to Michell per week or $280 per night, 2 night Unchulenko, HR Coordinator at [email protected] minimum. [email protected] Asia: Land of Amazing Contrasts! Touring in Asia will amaze you! Experience cultural adventure by To Advertise joining us either on a tour to China, For advertising information, July 8–22, $3249, or Vietnam/ contact the advertising Cambodia, July 31 – August 14, manager: $3949. Includes hotels, most meals, 780-447-9417 direct transport, guides, & admissions to 1-800-232-7208 toll free sites. This is amazing value for your email: [email protected]. money. References & payment Next Deadline plan available. For itinerary contact Friday, April 13, 2018, 4 p.m. [email protected], (publication date April 24, 2018) 587-436-2968. Quadra Island Cottage, perfect Please note: advertisers are for two people. $90 per night. encouraged to book their Website: www.daisygetaway.com. advertisement space early— Call 250-285-3610. space is limited. Cost Classified ads: $1 per word plus GST ($15 minimum); Display Disclaimer The Alberta ads: varies according to size Teachers’ Association does Payment not necessarily endorse the Prepayment is required. We products or services presented accept VISA, Mastercard, cash in paid advertisements or in the or cheque. Notices and Events column. Circulation: 44,000 2 018 PHOTO CONTEST The ATA News invites you to get your camera out and start shooting those award-winning photographs. Cash prizes 1st place: $200 2nd place: $100 3rd place: $50 available! GOTCHA! Contest rules

1 Photos taken by active and associate ATA members of edu- Each winner will also receive a certificate of merit, as will those cation- or school-related activities are eligible. (Hint: photos ­receiving honourable mention. depicting action are best.) 7 Up to 20 additional entries may be selected for an award 2 Entries must be submitted by the member who took the photos. of honourable mention. 3 Photos taken between Sept. 1, 2017, and May 15, 2018, 8 Each entrant may submit up to five photos but no entrant can are eligible. win more than one top-three prize. 4 Please email photos to [email protected]. Entries must 9 A panel of individuals with photography, ­publishing and be received by 5 p.m. on May 15, 2018. ­teaching experience will judge the entries. The decision 5 Each entry must be accompanied by a description of the activity; of the judges is final. the names (if possible) of the people in the photo; the date when the photo was taken; and the photographer’s name, school and 10 Winning photographs will be published in the ATA News. contact information.­ 11 Photos submitted for the contest may be ­published in the ATA 6 Cash prizes will be awarded to entrants whose photos place News, the ATA Magazine or other Association publications. in the top three, as follows. 12 Please read carefully. Failure to comply with any of these First place: $200; second place: $100 and third place: $50 rules may result in disqualification. Get snapping and good luck! 10 ❚ TheTeacher ATA Version News Specific, April FINAL3.pdf 10, 2018 12 2018-03-19 2:31 PM

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Be a part of the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth, with this exciting summer job opportunity! You can work for two weeks and earn extra money for your holidays! (Possibility of extension or return year after year.) WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE’S Join the TEAM from Lammle’s Western Wear and work with us during this year’s Calgary Stampede! We are looking for enthusiastic people to join our 2018 Stampede Team! If you feel that work should be fun, enjoy selling merchandise and meeting people from all over the world, then we would like to meet with you. We ask that all members of our Stampede Team are available to work all 10 days of Stampede (11 if scheduled for Sneak-a-Peek). In addition to hourly wages, each team member is eligible for an additional performance bonus. Interested applicants can e-mail to [email protected].

HOTEL RATES A directory of special rates at some of Alberta’s hotels is available online or in hard copy. Available online at www.teachers.ab.ca under Publications. Hard copy available from Doreen Link at SARO—403-265-2672 in Calgary or toll free at 1-800-332-1280. #ARTSTREK REGISTER ONLINE AT SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE WWW.THEATREALBERTA.COM

SLIP US A TIP! We want to hear about news in Leave of absence your school, district or local. Teachers on leave of absence from their school board are still under contract to their board and are therefore active members of the Alberta Teachers’ Association. Bylaw 9 (2)(b) states that the annual fee for this Please email managing editor Cory Hare category of active membership shall be $96. Members qualifying under this category should forward their at [email protected]. cheques for the full amount to the Alberta Teachers’ Association, 11010 142 Street NW, Edmonton T5N 2R1. Attention Membership Assistant—Teachers who know of colleagues on leave of absence are asked to notify them of this bylaw.

TEACHERS, BRING YOUR STUDENTS TO THE SKILLS CANADA NATIONAL COMPETITION, JUNE 4 - 5, 2018 EDMONTON EXPO CENTRE EDMONTON, AB SEE CANADA’S BEST IN SKILLED TRADES AND TECHNOLOGY COMPETE TO BECOME NATIONAL CHAMPION IN THEIR RESPECTIVE SECTORS. JUNE 4 8:00am – 4:00pm 8:30am – 4:00pm • Free event! Doors open to the public daily at 8:30am Competition Day 1 Career Zone exhibitors and Try-A-Trade® and Technology activities ® • Participate in over 50 Try-A-Trade and Technology activities, including 8:30am – 4:00pm welding, hair dressing, cooking, carpentry, cabinetmaking, 2D-3D Open to public and school tours 9:30am – 2:30pm animation, and many more! Essential Skills Stage interactive demonstrations 8:30am • Essential Skills Stage: participate in interactive demonstrations Official Launch on the 9:30am – 12:30pm hosted by industry and education partners. Essential Skills Stage Essential Skills Forum • Watch over 550 provincial and territorial champions from across Canada compete for gold, silver and bronze medals in over 40 trade and technology competitions. JUNE 5

• Register your class and give them the 8:00am – 4:00pm 8:30am – 4:00pm opportunity to participate in and learn about Competition Day 2 Career Zone exhibitors and Try-A-Trade® and Technology activities skilled trade and technology career choices. 8:30am – 4:00pm 9:30am – 2:30pm Open to public and school tours Essential Skills Stage interactive demonstrations

Competition area Try-A-Trade® and Technology activities will be held at: Mechatronics; Mechanical CAD; CNC Machining; Welding; Autobody Repair; Aerospace Technology; Plumbing; Electronics; Electrical Installations; Industrial Control; Bricklaying; Mobile Robotics; Cabinetmaking; Carpentry; Hairstyling; Aesthetics; Fashion Technology; Automobile Technology; Cooking; Car Painting; Landscape Gardening; Refrigeration and Air Conditioning; Graphic Design Technology; Sheet Metal Work; Industrial Mechanic; Architectural Technology and Design; Outdoor Power and Recreational Equipment; Video Production; 2-D / 3-D Computer Animation; Workplace Safety; Heavy Equipment Service; Photography; Baking; Sprinkler Systems; IT Network Systems Administration; Web Design and Development; IT Office Software Applications.

Several partners will host large-scale Try-A-Trade® and Technology activities: UA Canada; Recreational Vehicle Dealers Association (RVDA); Volvo Construction Equipment; Stanley DeWalt; Volkswagen Audi, and more.

Pre-register your school online at the Skills/Compétences Canada website.

Travel subsidies are available on first come first serve basis!

SCNC2018SchooltourposterPORTRAIT.indd 1 18-03-21 10:23 TALEEND April 10, 2018 Volume 52, Number 15

We asked teachers to send in pictures of their TEACHER’S PET pets along with a summary of how the animal is Furry companions provide calming influence special and helps them in their profession.

SAGE

Black Labrador retriever

Owner: Megan Cote, Grade 2, Pat Hardy Primary School, Whitecourt

Sage was graciously donated to Pat Hardy Primary School in 2014 by Dogs With Wings Assistance Dog Society in Edmonton. She was trained as a therapy dog to assist children with learning difficulties and those who have high anxiety in a variety of situations, such as when reading and communicating. Since Sage arrived at our school, the hallways echo with calls of “Sage!” as she passes by. Children who were once afraid of dogs have now conquered their fear. Children who once hated reading now bring books to the playground with them, hopeful that Sage will be out there for them to read to. Students who have weak verbal skills are now clearly saying words such as “dog,” “walk” and “pet.” We’ve heard from parents who used to have trouble getting their kids out of bed and ready for school in the morning that their children are now eager to come to school to read to Sage before class starts. Students who used to display signs of anxiety at school experience these feelings less, and when these feelings do occur for them, they simply ask to go visit with Sage and all worries are diminished. I am the lucky teacher who gets to have Sage in my Grade 2 classroom on a daily basis, as well as take her home at night. I personally feel that Sage has become a huge part of the heart of Pat Hardy. Watching Sage work with students each day gives me a feeling of unbelievable pride. She is truly making a difference for each and every one of the children at our school. JIMINY CRICKET

Boxer

Owner: Natalie Darwent, Annie Gale School, Calgary

We’re foster parents for two local rescue organizations and fell head over heels with this boy and never considered giving him to anyone else. After a long, hard day or an easy, fantastic day, he is just so LÉO happy to have me home to himself when I walk in the door. My students Standard rex cross love to hear my stories about him. Owner: Christine Vezeau, Grade 3, PEBBLES École La Mosaïque, Calgary CHARLIE Léo has been a class pet for five years now. He will often Yorkshire terrier sit beside the kids when they are sitting on the carpet in the Yellow Labrador retriever reading corner. He is not shy about asking for their attention. Owner: Karlee Hren, Grade 3 Special needs kids like to come to my class to visit with Owner: Karin Brusse-Paterson, math and science, Ellerslie Léo. They all know his name and they like to pet him. Léo is Grade 2/3, Killam Public School, always willing to be petted and to play with them. Campus School, Edmonton Even the teachers come to my class to have a calm Killam moment with Léo. I sure enjoy having him around. He makes Pebbles makes long and stressful every day better. He makes me laugh when he jumps on the What makes Charlie special to our days bearable. With her sweet floor and he seems to be well aware that he is showing off his family is that we are his third home. Of face and constant love I am able abilities to an audience. all the dogs we have owned, this guy to recharge and feel rejuvenated has the most character and quirks! He is as I prepare for helping my also the most affectionate dog and can students each and every day! Her CASHMERE sense my moods. He listens as well as unconditional love and personality entertains me, makes me laugh when provide such happiness that I am all I want to do is cry. I am never alone able to maintain a work–life balance Alley cat and Charlie gives me a distraction from that has made me a better teacher. what can be a stressful day. He gets me My students see me refreshed and Owner: Myra Rybotycki, Fine outside and keeps me active. committed to our time together. Art, Spruce Grove Composite High School, Spruce Grove

Cashmere is a great companion who helps me relax by setting a good example. ALL PHOTOS ARE SUPPLIED