Teachers’ conventions and Mark your specialist council conferences SLA calendar See pages 8–9. BURDEN ATANEWS See infographic on page 3. January 17, 2017 Volume 51, Number 9 News Publication of The Alberta Teachers’ Association

YUET CHAN Hallway hopping Sweating it out Alberta students jump on board activity initiative. Grade 1 student Rafael Yacob crouches inside a symbolic See story on page 4. sweat lodge created by indigenous dancing hoops during a cultural workshop at Inglewood School in Edmonton in Math concerns prompt government changes ATA president continues push for public assurance late December. Introducing students to various aspects overhaul. of indigenous culture, the event was facilitated by Dallas See story on page 5. Arcand, a world champion hoop dancer, motivational speaker and musician from the Alexander (Kipohtakaw) Opening the archives Cree Nation, located northwest of Edmonton. Association dusts off prized artifacts in preparation for centennial. See story on page 6.

Online ATA account a must-have for teachers to vote in 2017 Voting on new collective agreement and in upcoming council election requires online account. See story on page 7.

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: Bromley Chamberlain | [email protected] | 780-447-9417 January 17, 2017 Volume 51, Number 9 Designers: Yuet Chan and Erin Solano Copy Editors: ATA Editorial Staff Sign up now for your ATA online account

has determined that such votes will races will also be contested. to ensure you have your ATA online EDITORIAL be conducted online using the on- Your opportunity to participate and account: voting on central bargaining, line accounts made available to every­ have your say starts with your online voting in PEC elections and printing Jonathan Teghtmeyer ­member through our website at account. your membership card for teachers’ ATA News Editor-in-Chief www.teachers.ab.ca. The third important reason to ensure conventions. These three reasons are in A different and equally important you have your ATA online account addition to the other great benefits that can be accessed with your ATA online vote is already scheduled to occur on- could literally open doors for you next account, including no-cost specialist our ATA online account will open line between March 13 and 20, 2017. At month. Eight of the 10 teachers’ con- council memberships, the ATA library’s Yup some pretty important doors that time, you will be able to vote on the vention associations in the province over the next few months. online services, bargaining updates and Central table bargaining is now well the option to sign up to receive mem- underway, and it is quite reasonable Three great reasons to ensure you have your ATA online bers’ update emails. to believe that in the coming weeks Now, I know how busy teachers are, your representatives on the Central account: voting on central bargaining, voting in PEC elections and I would hate to see anyone miss out Table Bargaining Committee will need on these important functions because to hear from you on future directions. and printing your membership card for teachers’ conventions. they didn’t have their online account If an agreement is reached, then each and were worried about how long it teacher in the province will have a vote might take to sign up. Instead, don’t teachers who will represent you on PEC are using the ATA membership cards as ­delay. Take just a few minutes now to to decide whether the agreement is for the next two years. identification to enable entry into their ratified. If an agreement is not reached sign up or to retrieve your lost infor- The 2017 PEC election is already conventions. Those without their mem- mation. While you are logged in, you in the next month or so, a provincially shaping up to be one of the largest and bership cards risk being denied entry. can also print your membership card appointed mediator may be needed to most competitive elections the Associ- If you know where your membership and be set for convention. The process help resolve outstanding issues. A vote is quick, simple and easy. of members is required by our process- ation has had in many years. Although card is currently located, then you are Taking just a little bit of action now es to authorize your representatives to the deadline for nominations is not in good shape, but if you don’t, there is will ensure you are ready when it’s time request mediation. quite here, enough candidates have no need to worry. Simply use your ATA to act. Either way, a provincial vote of teach- already declared their intentions to en- online account to log in to our website ers on bargaining matters is reasonably sure that we will have hotly contested and print off a new card from the web- I welcome your comments—contact likely in the next few months. Your races for president and vice-president. page cards.teachers.ab.ca. me at [email protected]. Provincial Executive Council (PEC) A number of district representative So there you are. Three great reasons We’ve got ourselves an election; get involved You’re all acting

professors and other certificate holders. teachers’ conventions, as well. Q & A The General Bylaws do introduce some If you have not yet set up your ATA like heathens as far further restrictions. online account so you can vote, you Gordon Thomas Given that Provincial Executive need to do so to participate in the bal- as I’m concerned. Executive Secretary Council governs the affairs of the active loting. (You also need an ATA account teaching profession, teachers who are to vote for a central table collective in receipt of an Alberta Teachers’ Re- agreement, so it’s really important to You could have tirement Fund pension are not eligible sign up.) to run for a position on Council. There But you should do more than that. Get Question: How does this election is no requirement to have experience involved. Engage with the candidates, saved taxpayers a stuff work? Can any teacher run for in local office to run for Provincial and ask them about their platform Provincial Executive Council or do you ­Executive Council. and their vision of the ATA. It’s a very have to have local experience? The election to fill positions on the important democratic process that’s lot of money. at the heart of your organization. And Answer: In general, an active or 2017–19 Provincial Executive Council you decide who serves on Provincial ­associate member may be a candidate commences this month, with nomina- Executive Council. for provincial office. In fact, to hold tion day on Jan. 18. The election period Teachers elected to Provincial Exec- office in any ATA position you need to will be underway, with voting by elec- In addressing representatives utive Council take office on July 1 for a be an active or associate member. The tronic ballot scheduled for March 13 to of the Alberta government and two-year term. The 18 teachers elected Teaching Profession Act requires this, 20. The results of the election will be the Trinity Christian School As- on March 21 will join past-president although the General Bylaws can fur- announced on March 21. sociation, Court of Queen’s Bench Mark Ramsankar on Council, and in ther expand on membership. Candidates for table officer positions Justice E.J. Simpson suggests the my role as executive secretary and Active members are teachers em- and district representative positions two sides should have reached an chief executive officer, I will continue agreement without going to court. ployed by public and separate school will be campaigning hard to win the to serve as a non-voting member. boards, excepting the superintendent of provincial election. You can read the In October the government shut schools or central office teachers who platforms of all candidates in the elec- Questions for consideration in this col- down the association over concerns opted out of ATA membership. Gener- tion issue of the ATA News, and the umn are welcome. Please address them about its financial management. ally, associate members are teachers ATA’s website will include additional to Gordon Thomas at Barnett House On Jan. 5 the two sides agreed that a government-appointed financial who can’t be active members and information from the candidates. In ([email protected]). advisor will oversee Trinity for who acquire­ what is essentially a pro- many parts of Alberta, there will be at least a year. fessional membership, and typically election forums, and candidates will include superintendents, charter and certainly be soliciting your vote. You As reported by Postmedia. private school teachers, education can expect to see many candidates at

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: Member of Canadian Educational Press Association scanning the QR code or Editorial Office, Barnett House, 11010 142 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5N 2R1 Association canadienne de la presse éducationnelle searching “Alberta teachers” Telephone: 780-447-9400 in Edmonton;1-800-232-7208 toll free in Alberta in the App Store. The ATA News, January 17, 2017 3 YOUR VIEWS $15.6 MILLION ON THE TWITTERSPHERE #abed SLA BURDEN Jay Gamble @DrJayDrNo from 2013–2016 Hey, #abed teachers. We know you deal with a lot of crap. Most parents respect what you do. Thanks for everything. Teacher Costs: Alberta Education Costs: Peter Skinner @PeterRSkinner Anyone who spends 7 hours a day moulding my kid Two days’ salary 1 day = test administration Information Other ( 1 day = prep and marking deserves my respect. Teachers rock. The. End. + Technology (ie. human resources Substitute teachers and teacher support) Myrna Dembicki @MyrnaDembicki Thanks, to you & other parents. We do it because we recognize the importance of our job. Teaching and $6 million $4 million $5.6 million learning are a passion for teachers. Bianca Venkat @saradhruvmom 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16 Breakdown of SLA Burden First principle of education is to respect the authority setup year implementation year implementation year of parents. Alberta Education IT costs* $0.7 million $1.5 million $1.8 million Sean Beaton @backcountrynut Alberta Education other costs* $0.9 million $2.0 million $2.7 million My first principle is to my students. Estimated teacher costs $3.2 million** $2.8 million*** Kayle Clark@kaclk First principle of education is to educate the students, Totals $1.6 million $6.7 million $7.3 million duh. 2nd principle is that it’s about students, not parents.🙄🙄🙄🙄 Sources: Alberta Teachers’ Association staff estimated the costs at request of Provincial Executive Council. *Sessional Paper 122/2016 filed with the Legislative Assembly of Alberta **Estimate based on two days’ salary and benefits for 2,891 teachers ***Estimate based on two days’ salary and benefits for 2,589 teachers Peter Skinner @PeterRSkinner The first principle of education is the passing of knowledge to children. Parental comfort secondary. Andy @UncleRee1 Wrong. First principle of education is to respect the Ongoing growth the mark of students as individuals and people. They are not the property of parents. Dr. Justin Tarte @justintarte a true professional Allowing a kid to retake an assessment says to the kid you believe in them & their ability to do better; it says your learning is my goal. competence activities on their VIEWPOINTS nursing practice. Sheri Thomas @MrsThomS Pharmacists must maintain 3yr old daughter telling me about preschool today a personal learning portfolio to Mark Yurick with excitement: “Mom, Jesus is a superhero!” Cath record their professional devel- ed rocks! ATA Professional Development Co-ordinator opment activities, and their con- tinuing education activities must Phil McRae @philmcrae deliver a minimum of 15 credit ed- Did you know Alberta’s law requires students to ucation units per registration year. his is the time of year when plan is then shared for review, at ­report cyberbullying if they witness it? Public lecture Physicians must register with teachers typically review their minimum, at the beginning and Jan 26. T a continuing professional devel- professional growth plans for a bit end of the school year with their opment program administered by Walking Together @ATAindigenous of a mid-point check-in. Some- principal or those designated by one of two national associations. Thank you @esolano_1 and the creative team at ATA times this results in a call to the their principal. On a five-year cycle, they must for your well thought out art consideration creating Alberta Teachers’ Association’s A short while ago, with the help submit documentation certifying the Walking Together resources! Professional Development pro- of our librarian Sandra Ander- that they are in good standing with gram area to inquire about pro- son, the Association completed their professional development Michael Janz @michaeljanz grams or services to help teachers an e-scan of the continuous ed- program, and they are required to Ads for $$$ private schools remind me that (like meet their professional learning ucation requirements of other verify that a certain amount of pro- ­Ontario) it’s time to reduce the #abed #ableg subsidy goals. professions in Alberta as part of fessional development has taken of private schools to $0. It is at this time that I am re- an online growth planning proj- place within a cycle. minded how much I admire my ect. We found that all professions Lastly, dentists must obtain 60 Sean Beaton @backcountrynut colleagues’ commitment to bet- require their members to engage continuing competence program Signed out books from the @albertateachers ­library ter themselves as teachers, and in continuous education in order credits in a two-year period. They on Monday. They were delivered today! Great appreciate policy 2.1.5 — the to be credentialed or certified. But can obtain these credits via many resource! Teacher Growth, Supervision and while the general expectations are different forms, such as courses, Evaluation policy — that gov- similar, there are some significant examinations, attendance at PD erns teachers’ continuous learning differences in the requirements, Letters to the editor: We welcome letters to the editor. Please limit events, and self-directed studies. your submission to 300 words. Only letters bearing a first and last requirement. structures and processes of the For me, it was by learning about Teachers, as professionals, rec- different professions, and it’s most name, address and daytime telephone number will be considered these different structures that I be- for publication. Teachers are also asked to indicate where and ognize and embrace their respon- interesting to compare these. gan to develop a deeper apprecia- what they teach. All letters are subject to editing for length, clarity, sibility to continually grow their For example, chartered pro- tion for our own policy 2.1.5. When punctuation, spelling and grammar. practice to enhance their capacity fessional accountants must compared to other professions, Email managing editor Cory Hare: [email protected]. to meet their students’ needs, and demonstrate at least 20 hours of it shares the necessary rigour of we consider the growth plan- continuing professional develop- requiring members to critically ning process as a vehicle through ment (CPD) per year and 120 hours reflect on their professional prac- which to achieve this continuous during a three-year cycle, with at tice and to complete a formalized learning. Very few, however, con- least 50 per cent of these hours plan for professional learning. In sider that such requirements are classified as “verifiable.” Every ac- addition, I believe that requiring common to all professions and tive lawyer in Alberta is required to teachers to share their plans with are indeed required for continued annually prepare a record of a CPD their principals is very much a val- certification in various fields. plan, which must be retained for ue-added component, for I recall Continuous professional learn- five years and produced to the Law as a former teacher and principal ing means critically reflecting on Society of Alberta upon request. how much I valued the opportunity one’s practice relative to the body The various professions covered to talk about teaching, my plan and of knowledge within a particular by the Health Professions Act must meeting the learning needs of my profession, then developing a plan have a continuing competence students. to facilitate professional learn- program that is divided into two My deepest appreciation, howev- ing moving forward. By policy, requirements: practice hours and er, is not for regulations or struc- teachers are required to reflect reflective practice. tures that provide for professional on their practice based on the Registered nurses must collect learning. What makes me smile the Teaching Quality Standard, then feedback on their nursing practice, most is seeing the desire, which complete a professional growth develop and implement a learning teachers continually demonstrate, plan that includes learning goals plan, and evaluate and report on to grow professionally to meet the based on their self-reflection. The the impact of their continuing learning needs of their students. 4 The ATA News, January 17, 2017 Alberta students jump on board activity initiative Cory Hare of moving more in a straight line and ATA News Managing Editor they’re more orderly.” The program has taken off, he says, as educators awaken to the many benefits physical activity initiative de- that children realize from engaging in A veloped by an Alberta teacher is regular physical activity, such as re- getting kids hopping throughout the duced anxiety and behavioural issues, province and beyond. and increased cognitive abilities, posi- Don’t Walk In The Hallway began tive social connections and time on task. “Activity should live not just only in three years ago in a Calgary school and the gymnasium but activity should live has now expanded to approximate- in classrooms and hallways because ly 200 schools. The idea is to mark a physical activity is good for learning,” course or pattern on the hallway floor Torrance said. and allow school children to move Part of the appeal of the resource kit creatively — by hopping, skipping, is the fact that the concept is easy to jumping, etc. — along its path rather understand and can be implemented than simply walking. quickly, he said. Teacher Chris Fenlon-MacDonald Fenlon-MacDonald said his initial came up with the idea while employed trial did experience some growing pains at Panorama Hills School in Calgary. It at first as the program raised concerns began with some painter’s tape on the SUPPLIED about noise in the hallway and potential floor of a short section of the school’s With a few decals placed strategically on the floor, the Don’t Walk In The Hallway initiative is injury, but these were addressed with getting kids moving throughout Alberta schools. hallway, something the teacher did two simple rules: are you safe and are without any explanation to students. painter’s tape, Fenlon-MacDonald got special project of the Health and Phys- you respectful? “I just sat back and videotaped it the entire school involved in raising ical Education Council of the Alberta “What we found is that it allowed stu- and watched,” he said. “It was pretty money to purchase and install coloured Teachers’ Association that promotes dents to think critically,” he said. cool because they saw these patterns In a promotional video produced by floor tiles in a pattern on the floor. The health and wellness in schools. on the floor and they started hopping Ever Active Schools, principal Chris school’s math specialist was involved, The organization has created a Don’t down the hallway. Some students en- Good of Ecole Barrie Wilson in Red resulting in a pattern that was useful Walk In The Hallway resource that gaged right away; others were maybe Deer, said there’s been a tremendous for explaining mathematical principles. includes floor decals that can be easily a little bit hesitant. For the most part response to the program in his school. they were hopping and skipping and Fenlon-MacDonald then used track- applied. “We’re seeing an improvement in being creative.” ing devices to show that the initiative The program has since fanned out to just the general overall feeling in the Fenlon-MacDonald said he hit on generated an increase of 900 steps per more than 200 Alberta schools as well school,” he said. “It creates a really pos- the idea after attending a conference day, on average. as generating interest from other parts itive environment and it makes things session by physical literacy expert Dean “The hand on the hip, finger on the of Canada and even Australia. Some of a lot more fun.” Kriellaars, who talked about active lip is kind of an existing culture in some the feedback from the program runs transportation in schools and lament- schools and this is something that has counter to what one might expect. ed the fact that, in a single generation, started to normalize physical activity, “We’re actually seeing the children be Additional info society has virtually eliminated walking which I think is a pretty big win,” he said. more orderly in the hallway now,” said For more information on the to school, which has resulted in a loss of Brian Torrance, director of Ever Active Don’t Walk In The Hallway re- roughly 2,000 steps a day — equivalent Taking it provincial Schools. “Instead of zigzagging around source kit, refer to http://www to the energy of about five pounds of fat. Fenlon-MacDonald has since begun and not having a path, once they’re .everactive.org/online-store. Following his initial trial with the working with Ever Active Schools, a engaged with this resource, they’re kind Indigenous school sport initiative recognized for excellence

Cory Hare ATA News Managing Editor We’re thrilled we’re able to continue What is Ever Active Schools? the work. Professionally, it’s been some of our Ever Active Schools is a spe- sport initiative that’s making a A difference in southern Alberta most satisfying work. cial project of the Health and aboriginal schools will continue for an- Physical Education Council – Brian Torrance, Ever Active Schools director other year thanks to being recognized of the Alberta Teachers Asso- as a top project by the Makadiff Sports ciation. The project receives organization. of our most satisfying work,” said Ever as travel and financial costs, and trained In 2015/16, the Alberta-based grant funding from Alberta Health, 28 youth as coaches. provider supplied $45,000 to Ever Ac- Active Schools director Brian Torrance. Alberta Education and Alberta Makadiff Sports is about “striving to An example of the power of sport is tive Schools to build capacity of sport Culture and Tourism. make a difference in and through sport” illustrated by the situation in one school in schools within Treaty 7, which en- where most of the members of the boys’ compasses the area from Lethbridge and funds innovative projects that build and deliver sport in different ways. The basketball team would leave school as go out and do more stuff for myself to Banff and includes the First Nations instead of trying to fit in with a group idea behind the Treaty 7 project was to soon as the season ended in March. of Siksika, Kainai, Piikani, Tsuu T’ina “Basketball was the reason why they all the time.” build the capacity of sport in schools and Nakoda. were there,” Torrance said. “Examples Student athlete Maggie Russell said because it was recognized that sport All grant-funded projects submitted a like that have been the seed of this many girls use sports as a healthy video as a report on their work and Ever played a large role in the community, project.” escape. Active’s video was chosen as the best. is a platform for overall wellness, and “Now that I’m into sports, I really feel “A lot of girls seem to find that the As such, the project received an addi- helps with student attendance and like I’ve grown out of my shell so much,” reason why they play basketball is tional $50,000 to continue with its work. well-being. said student athlete Trevor White Grass because they’re getting away from “We’re thrilled we’re able to continue The project has worked to remove in the Ever Active video. “I talk to more their families, getting away from what the work. Professionally, it’s been some barriers to participation in sport, such people, I’m more independent, I just ­happens at home.”

STORIES AND PHOTOS WANTED If something newsworthy is going on in your school, district or local, please let us know. We will also consider articles, photos and cartoons. Please email tips and submissions to managing editor Cory Hare: [email protected]. The ATA News, January 17, 2017 5 Math concerns prompt government changes ATA president continues to push for overhaul of public assurance model

Cory Hare ATA News Managing Editor

the wake of the latest PISA test In scores, Alberta Education re- mains committed to participating in standardized testing programs while Alberta Teachers’ Association president Mark Ramsankar continues to advocate for taking a break from such tests. On Dec. 6, the Organisation for Eco- nomic Cooperation and Development’s (OECD) released the results of its 2015 PISA test (PISA stands for Programme for International Student Assessment). This iteration of the test focused on science but also tested students in read- ing and math. Alberta ranked second to Singapore in science, tied with Singa- pore for the best results in reading and ranked eighth in math. The mean score recorded in math represented a slight downward trend from previous PISA results that was also apparent across other high performing jurisdictions. On the same day, Alberta Education STOCK announced three new initiatives aimed While the province has announced changes aimed at improving math scores, Alberta Teachers’ Association president Mark Ramsankar is pushing for a break from standardized tests and a broader conversation about public assurance. at addressing concerns it has heard about declining math scores in the Ramsankar was enthusiastic about undermining teachers’ efforts to foster “Alberta will continue to participate province. The changes are bringing back the written portion of the meaningful student learning. in international studies so we can • reinstating the written portion of the diploma exams. With PISA, Ramsankar said such measure the quality of our educational diploma exam for Math 30–1 and 30–2, “That is totally welcome,” he said. “We tests lead to data mining and sweeping system in an international context, • adding a no-calculator portion to the were fundamentally opposed to the re- conclusions that can drive education while allowing Alberta to support the Grade 9 Provincial Achievement Test moval of the written component of the policy while sampling only a tiny view claim that it has a world-class educa- (PAT), and diplomas when they took them out … of what matters in public education. tion system with empirical evidence,” • introducing a bursary program en- That’s the best opportunity for students “We’re not trying to paint a picture Harvey stated. abling current and preservice teachers to show their learning.” that we don’t want to have any kind “The data we get from international to access up to $2,000 to cover the Ramsankar also welcomed the bur- of standardized test,” he said. “What assessments provides valuable infor- cost of post-secondary courses aimed sary program to help teachers improve we want to do is make sure that the mation about our students’ strengths at strengthening their math teaching their math teaching and was supportive standardized tests are testing what we and areas for improvement. While the skills. of adding a no-calculator portion to want, and that would be essentially the data reflects only one small piece of the PAT. performance of the curriculum as we the overall system, it does help guide “The goal is that these three initia- However, he also renewed his call for rewrite it.” direction for programs and practices tives will improve the culture around an end to PATs and to what he called Ramsankar said he’s hoping to engage that can help students learn.” mathematics across the province and “the PISA obsession.” the minister in a broader discussion about She added that Eggen has invited will boost self-confidence among stu- Last fall Ramsankar wrote a letter building a public assurance model. the ATA and some other stakeholders dents when it comes to learning math- urging Education Minister David Eggen In her emailed statement, Harvey to begin a discussion on the future of ematics,” stated Lindsay Harvey, press to announce the discontinuance of stated that the government intends to assessment in the province. secretary to the education minister, in PATs by the end of 2016 because they continue participating in studies such “Those talks will begin later this a statement emailed to the ATA News. had outlived their usefulness and are as PISA. month,” she said. Math specialist welcomes change What is PISA? Some teacher training programs need to change how they teach teachers • PISA is a two-hour international standardized test issued every three how to teach math, says Marjorie Farris, a career math teacher (now retired) years by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development and the current past-president of the ATA’s Math Council. (OECD). “When I talk to young teachers today, they’re not being taught the way we’re expecting them to teach, for the most part. Some universities are, but • PISA assesses the reading, mathematical and scientific literacy of 15 year not all of them,” Farris said. “We’re expecting our teachers to change their olds in 72 countries and economies, including all 35 OECD countries and pedagogy, but in order for that to happen we need preservice courses to 37 partner countries and economies. change their pedagogy.” • Each cycle of PISA assesses three knowledge domains (science, reading Another issue in Alberta is that elementary teachers receive relatively and mathematics) one of them in turn being a major domain. PISA 2015 little instruction in the teaching of math, Farris said. was the sixth cycle of PISA and the major domain for 2015 was science Citing a report released Dec. 6 by the Mathematics Curriculum Review literacy. Working Group, which is comprised of five post-secondary mathematics • For each cycle of data collection, the OECD (or whoever administers PISA instructors and one high school physics teacher, Farris said that, in Alberta, on its behalf) randomly selects 150 to 200 schools to administer the test. an elementary teacher needs only three credits in math to get certified in the • The PISA test is a mixture of open-ended and multiple-choice questions subject and does not have to take a methods course. In contrast, in Quebec organized in groups based on a passage describing a real-life situation. (which is the top Canadian jurisdiction in the PISA math rankings), teach- • Students take various combinations of different tests and are asked ers need at least nine credits in math and most have between 12 and 15. (along with their school principals) to answer questionnaires on their “Typically, elementary teachers [in Alberta] are more focused on literacy backgrounds, schools and learning experiences and about the broader and are in elementary because they weren’t comfortable in math in high education system and learning environment. school,” Farris said. • The OECD presents PISA results as a PISA score for each country (or Farris welcomes Alberta Education’s newly announced bursary program. jurisdiction) with a league-table type of ranking of countries from best to “The big thing is we need to get teachers comfortable teaching math and worst. comfortable in teaching math more than one way,” Farris said. “We know • The PISA score scale is designed so that the international average is at that not all kids learn the same way.” or around 500 points, with one standard deviation equal to 100 points. 6 The ATA News, January 17, 2017 Opening the archives Approaching anniversary prompts rare display of Association artifacts Bromley Chamberlain Highly accomplished, ATA News Staff fast-talking teacher Also on display are several certificates you’ve visited Barnett House in that once belonged to teacher Dorothy If recent weeks, you probably noticed Maxine Chase, who taught in Alberta in something new: tastefully arranged the early 1920s. ­artifacts on display throughout the foyer Included in the collection are Chase’s and cafeteria areas. high school entrance certificate from To commemorate the Alberta Teach- 1920, her teaching certificate from 1925 ers’ Association’s 100th anniversary, a and a favourable school inspector’s re- selection of special items from the orga- port dated April 6, 1925. nization’s archives are being displayed. “A teacher who shows initiative who It’s the first time that artifacts from the is sincere and interested in the pupils. Association’s archives have been show- Inclined to speak too fast,” the report cased in such an orchestrated, ongoing fashion, said archivist states. Margaret Shane. There are also several certificates “Some of these documenting Chase’s progress and things have never proficiency with the MacLean method seen the light of day of muscular movement handwriting. since they entered Chase’s membership with the ATA the archives,” Shane was elective, as mandatory member- said. ship did not exist at the time she was MARGARET SHANE Throughout 2017 a teacher. ATA ARCHIVIST and into 2018, Shane “She chose to send us her $6 a year, and her staff will be rotating different or $0.50 a month, to be protected by her archival items through the various local,” Shane said. display cases at Barnett House. Shane Chase would have taught several is hoping that the effort will engender YUET CHAN grades in a one-room school house. Part conversation and help Association of her duties would have been to estab- members and staff connect with the Among the most cherished of the Association’s artifacts is lish a welcoming environment. history of the organization, which came “She would have had to start the fire into official existence in 1918. the academic robe ordered for founder John Barnett to wear in the morning, saddle horses in the “It’s always a frustration for archivists afternoon if the kids weren’t able to do to have all this tremendous stuff and not it themselves,” Shane said. “She would form connections between our contem- while accepting an honorary doctor of law degree from the poraries and their history,” Shane said. have been responsible for supervision “There’s nothing like the tangibility of of their welfare throughout the entirety an artifact to create that connection.” University of Alberta. of their day.” Chase would have had to provide her The robe never worn own teaching resources and she would Tragically, Barnett died suddenly a few months before he have been paid by her school board’s Among the most cherished of the ratepayers (i.e., local residents) and not Association’s artifacts is the academic robe ordered for founder John Barnett could accept the degree. He was 66. the government. to wear while accepting an honorary “I am thrilled to be able to celebrate doctor of law degree from the University Maxine, and all the Maxines that were of Alberta. “He discovered how teachers were not and Records, extolls the virtues of music out there,” Shane said. “It is wonderful Tragically, Barnett died suddenly given the full respect they deserved as in the classroom. to have the nearest hint of what time at the age of 66 a few months before educated professionals,” Shane said. “He “It can assist you in every department travel might be like, to go back to 1924 he could accept the degree. While the decided that he was going to fix that, of your school work and it can make for and to be there with Maxine and her university bestowed the degree post- and he did.” greater efficiency, better results and a five students.” humously at its convocation ceremony As well as Barnett’s call to action, the much happier school life for Teachers in the fall of 1947, no one has ever worn first edition of the ATA Magazine also and Pupils,” the ad states. Cranky machine the robe and hood, nor have the items featured the earliest printed record of Shane said that both these ads relate the ATA motto: Magistri Neque Servi to issues teachers faced during the in- And what would a glimpse of educa- been previously displayed. tion history be without a sampling of “I think this is the saddest artifact that (masters not servants). ception of the Association, which was ancient teaching technology? we have in the archives,” Shane said. “I The other two enlarged pages that are originally named the Alberta Teachers’ Long before anyone had thought of figured for the 100th anniversary, it was on display are full-page advertisements. Alliance. time to haul them out and for people to One ad, for Premier Cycle Works in “They were concerned about health the photocopier, the Gestetner dupli- have a look at them and share in won- Calgary, extolls the virtues of the “health- and wellness, the arts and music,” Shane cating machine enabled users to turn dering what might have been.” ful exercise” of the Red Bird bicycle. explained. “If you go back and read the a handle and pump out worksheets, Made by Harcourt’s in Toronto, the “Necessary to everyone who is con- ATA Magazine from that time, a lot of lessons or newsletters. robe and accompanying hood are craft- fined to a school-room a greater part of the things the teachers were concerned ed from heavy wool and felt. They are the day,” the ad states. about then, we are still concerned about OPENING THE ARCHIVES currently in a wall-mounted display The other ad, for the School Grafonola n o w.” continued on page 11 case in the Barnett House cafeteria. ATA Magazine Featured in a nearby case are several enlargements of pages from the first edition of the ATA Magazine, published in June 1920, the cover of which was a call to arms that Barnett wrote asking “fellow teachers” if they were members of the ATA. “If not, do you know that you are a clog on the efforts of three-fourths of your fellow-workers in this Province?” the message states. “He was making sure that teachers understood it was absolutely necessary for them to become involved and to join the ATA, which was a voluntary organi- zation at the time,” Shane said. Maxine Chase and her students BROMLEY CHAMBERLAIN In 1911, Barnett moved to Alberta from England, where he had been a member of the National Union of The Gestetner duplicating Teachers. When he arrived in Alberta he machine enabled users to turn a was appalled at the teaching conditions handle and pump out worksheets, he encountered. lessons or newsletters YUET CHAN The ATA News, January 17, 2017 7 Online ATA account a must-have for teachers to vote in 2017 or Alberta teachers who don’t have 2. Having one is necessary to You may also contact us at Fone, and for those who may have vote in the upcoming 2017 PEC 780-447-9400 or 1-800-232-7208 and forgotten the one they created years ask for Teacher Qualifications Ser- AB Teachers election. 10:21 AM ago, here are five things you need to vices. Your teaching certificate number Voting in the 2017 PEC election will r u informed? know about online ATA accounts. should be on file with the Association 10:23 AM be conducted online from March 13 to if you have applied for a statement of 1. Having one will be necessary 20. Visit the homepage of the Associ- qualifications or if you’ve had an eval- to vote on significant matters ation website to find out more about uation of your teaching qualifications. related to your new central col- the teachers who are candidates for lective agreement. ATA president, vice-president and the 4. It can be used for more than voting. The Alberta Teachers’ Association is 15 district representative positions on currently negotiating a central collec- Provincial Executive Council (PEC). Having an online ATA account gives tive agreement with the newly estab- 3. You need your teaching cer- you access to the online resources and Meet your candidates. lished Teachers’ Employer Bargaining tificate number to get one. databases of the ATA library, the oppor- Association (TEBA). When negotia- tunity to join ATA specialist councils Nominations for the 2017 PEC tions reach any stage requiring Alberta If you have lost or misplaced your and the ability to print your own ATA teachers to determine what action is teaching certificate, you can get a du- membership card. election close at 5 p.m. on January­ to be taken (e.g., ratification of a new plicate teaching certificate through 5. A video demonstration is 18. Visit the ATA website at memorandum of agreement), the As- Alberta Education. available. sociation will conduct a provincewide Visit the Teacher Registry Self-Ser- www.teachers.ab.ca to find out vice on the Alberta Education website online vote of its membership. To view a video demonstration of how which teachers will be cam- Visit the homepage of the Association and watch the duplicate teaching cer- to get an online account, just go to the website and click Bargaining 2016/17 tificate request demonstration video to home page of the ATA website and click paigning for your votes to fill the Updates to learn more about the new find out how. View this article on the Online ATA Account. positions of ATA president and central bargaining process and the Association website for the live link to progress of negotiations. the video. vice-president and your district representative on Council. You can also follow us on Facebook (@ Get your online ATA account at ABteachers) and ­Twitter (@alber- tateachers) to keep up to date with www.teachers.ab.ca the 2017 PEC election as it unfolds.

ATRF welcomes four new board members SUPPORTING A STUDENT’S ATA News Staff

INHERENT RIGHT TO he Alberta Teachers’ Retirement Fund has four new board members. Marvin Romanow Tis the newest appointee of the Alberta Teachers’ Association, while three new members have been appointed by the provincial government. Overall, the board has eight members — four appointed by government and four LEARN WITH INCLUSIVE ­appointed by the Association. Here is a brief biography of each new member. PROGRAMMING FOR EACH Marvin Romanow Marvin Romanow is a corporate director and executive in residence at the University of Saskatchewan. He is also chairman of Free- AND EVERY CHILD. hold Royalties, a commissioner of the Alberta Petroleum Marketing ­Commission and the former CEO of Nexen Inc.

John Butler ​John Butler’s 37-year career includes having been a partner at the law firm Torys LLP, a senior executive at Barrick Gold Corporation and, for the last 11 years of his career, the senior managing director, general counsel and corporate secretary of the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board. Butler is currently also a director of BristolGate Capital Corporation and Badminton Canada.

Catherine Connolly Catherine Connolly is the founder and president of Gist Solutions, a strategic planning, project management and change integration firm. Connolly was previously CFO of several junior oil and gas companies and formerly a vice-president at the Ontario Municipal Retirement System (OMERS). Previously, Connolly held a variety of positions with Canadian Pacific Railway, including responsibility for the defined benefit pension plan. She holds a PhD from the University of Alberta and an MBA from Queens University.

Kareen Stangherlin Kareen Stangherlin is the co-founder of Zelos Capital Ltd., an in- Find out more at storyofATA.com vestment and advisory firm focused on facilitating inbound Canadian investment for foreign capital. She was previously the CFO and CCO of several private equity and alternative investment firms. Stangherlin currently serves on the Canadian CFA Societies’ Advocacy Council and is a board member for the Calgary Search and Rescue Association as well as the Lougheed House Conservation Society. Stangherlin is a chartered professional accountant, a chartered financial analyst and a certified financial planner. 8 The ATA News, January 17, 2017 The ATA News, January 17, 2017 9 Mark your calendar 2017 Teachers’ conventions and specialist council conferences

Mark teachers’ conventions as a key Check out your professional growth Questions regarding the teachers’ convention component for your professional growth plan. Does it include your no-cost that you attend should be directed to your plan. Learn from top-notch speakers and specialist council membership? You can convention association. presentations. Reflect on your professional support your professional specialty with needs. Take advantage of specialist council the resources and support of one of General questions regarding teachers’ membership and conferences to keep 21 specialist councils. conventions should be directed to Dan Grassick, current and keep in touch with colleagues. executive staff officer, Professional Development, Visit the ATA’s website frequently the Alberta Teachers’ Association. Telephone: Enhance your professional practice with a asked questions for about teachers’ 780-447-9487 (in Edmonton) or meaningful professional growth plan. convention, www.teachers.ab.ca> 1-800-232-7208 (toll free in Alberta); For Members>Professional email [email protected]. Development>Teachers’ Conventions.

Alberta School Learning Council for School English Language Arts Middle Years Council North Central Teachers’ Central Alberta Teachers’ Southeastern Alberta Mighty Peace Teachers’ Commons Council Leadership Council Date: April 28–29, 2017 Convention Convention Teachers’ Convention Convention Date: April 8, 2017 Date: April 9–12, 2017 Will Not Be Hosting a Conference Location: Banff Park Lodge, Banff Date: Feb. 9–10, 2017 Date: Feb. 23–24, 2017 Date: Feb. 23–24, 2017 Date: March 9–10, 2017 Location: Edmonton Location: Fairmont Banff Springs, Banff in 2017 Theme: The Wonder Years Location: Shaw Conference Centre and Location: Red Deer College, Red Deer Location: Medicine Hat College, Location: Grande Prairie Composite Theme: Making Our Way into the Future Theme: uLead 2017 — The Summit of Planning a conference entitled Making Contact: Chris McCullough Westin Hotel, Edmonton Contact: David Martin, president Medicine Hat High School and Peace Wapiti Meaning on May 4–5, 2018 Academy, Grande Prairie Contact: Lissa Davies Educational Leadership Email: chris.mccullough.teacher Contact: Pam Arnason, president Email: teacher.david.martin@ Contact: Tim Johnson, president Website: http://elacata.ca/ @gmail.com Contact: Julie Gummesen, president Email: [email protected] Contact: Jeff Johnson Email: [email protected] gmail.com Email: [email protected] Website: www.ata-myc.com/ Email: [email protected] Website: http://aslc.ca/ Email: [email protected] Website: www.mynctca.com Website: www.mycatca.com Website: www.seatca.ca Website: http://ulead.ca Global, Environmental Website: http://mptca.teachers.ab.ca Le Conseil français Date: April 7–9, 2017 and Outdoor Education Calgary City Teachers’ Palliser District Teachers’ Greater Edmonton Council* Convention Convention Teachers’ Convention Central East Alberta Will Not Be Hosting a Conference Location: Hyatt Hotel, Calgary Teachers’ Convention in 2017 Theme: Le Sommet international du Date: May 11–13, 2017 Date: Feb. 16–17, 2017 Date: Feb. 23–24, 2017 Date: March 2–3, 2017 Contact: Michael Tryon leadership en éducation Location: Jasper Location: Telus Convention Centre, Location: Telus Convention Centre & Location: Shaw Conference Centre, Date: March 9–10, 2017 Francophone – uLead 2017 Telephone 780-459-4405 Theme: No Limits: Education for Hyatt Regency Hotel and Hyatt Hotel, Calgary Westin Hotel and off-site Location: Shaw Conference Centre, Email: [email protected] Contact: Jeff Johnson everyone, everywhere off-site venues, Calgary Contact: Jordan Fenton, president venues, Edmonton Edmonton Website: http://cf.teachers.ab.ca Email: [email protected] Email: jasper2017hpecgeoec Contact: Paul Nickerson, president Email: [email protected] Contact: Karen Sucie, president Contact: Jim Allan, president Website: http://ulead.ca @gmail.com Email: [email protected] Website: www.pdtca.org Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Website: www.guidancecouncil.ca Website: www.geoec.org Website: www.cctca.com Website: www.getca.com Website: www.ceatca.teachers.ab.ca South Western Alberta Health and Physical Northeast Teachers’ Teachers’ Convention Educational Technology Education Council* Convention Council Date: Feb. 23–24, 2017 Date: May 11–13, 2017 Date: Feb. 16–17, 2017 Location: University of Lethbridge, Date: March 17–19, 2017 Location: Jasper Location: Doubletree by Hilton Hotel, Lethbridge Location: TBA Theme: No Limits: Education for Edmonton Contact: Rod Lowry, president Theme: TBA everyone, everywhere Contact: Adrienne Sprecker, president Email: [email protected] Contact: Gerald Logan Contact 1: Jodi Harding-Kuriger Email: [email protected] Website: www.swatca.ca Walking Together: Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Website: http://netca.teachers.ab.ca Education for Reconciliation Website: www.etcata.ca Contact 2: Jonathan Mauro Email: [email protected] In addition to the wide variety of sessions that are typically Website: http://hpec.ab.ca offered at teachers’ convention each year, all 2017 conventions will feature a number of sessions entitled Walking Together: Education for Reconciliation.

*The Global, Environmental and Outdoor Education Council and the Health and Physical Education Council will be hosting a joint conference. 10 The ATA News, January 17, 2017 PEC renews criticism of SLA, PAT programs

for EĞITIM-SEN in support of its efforts any program that advocates for any 12. Approved amendments to the PEC POINTS to provide legal assistance and financial person in the school to actively engage standard constitution for convention aid to dismissed education personnel those who pose a threat to the safety of associations. in Turkey. Audrey Dutka individuals in the school. 13. Amended administrative guide- ATA News Staff 3. Authorized a contribution to Equal 8. Approved in principle and referred lines regarding teachers’ conventions. Voice’s Daughters of the Vote to spon- to Resolutions Committee for process- 14. Amended frames of reference for Highlights of the Provincial sor the participation of 12 emerging ing for the 2017 ARA a resolution urg- the Edmonton Area Field Experiences Executive Council meeting held women leaders in a historic event that ing school boards to have a transparent Committee and the Lethbridge Area will bring 338 young women—one from budget system that ensures that funds Field Experiences Committee. Dec,1–2, 2016, at Barnett House every federal riding in Canada—to take for exceptionalities reach and support in Edmonton their seats in the House of Commons in the students for whom the funds were 15. Received the report of a hearing committee, which found a teacher guilty Canada’s Parliament on International intended. 1. Directed table officers to draft a Women’s Day in 2017. of three charges of unprofessional letter to the minister of education 9. Approved the names of individuals conduct for swearing at a student(s), outlining concerns with the Student 4. Approved the 2017/18 program area to serve as members of the election making a threatening gesture towards a Learning Assessment program and budget recommendations and referred rules appeal panel and authorized the student(s), and threatening a student(s) the ministry’s lack of progress on a them to Finance Committee for costing. executive secretary, after consultation thereby failing to treat a student(s) with new assessment program; the expan- 5. Directed that the grant-in-aid rate with the panel members, to identify one dignity and respect, contrary to Article 4 of the Code of Professional Conduct. sion of international benchmarking for subsistence in the 2017/18 proposed member as chair. The investigated teacher entered a plea with costs to taxpayers and increased budget be increased. workload of teachers; and the ministry’s 10. Amended the frame of reference of guilty to the charges, and the hearing continuation of an archaic provincial 6. Approved an additional per-delegate for the Well-Being of Children and committee imposed the global penalty achievement testing program that allowance of $800 for each local with Youth Committee and authorized the for all charges of a letter of reprimand does not reflect 21st-century learning fewer than 225 members for each del- development and implementation of and a fine of $500, payable within 90 and, to this point, its inaction on the egate in excess of four delegates who an awareness campaign focusing on the days of receipt of the written notice. detrimental effects of child and youth Association’s request to cancel Grade 6 attend 2017 Summer Conference. 16. Named field members to fill vacan- and 9 provincial achievement tests by poverty on Alberta society. 7. Approved in principle and referred cies on Association and other external Dec. 31, 2016. to Resolutions Committee for process- 11. Approved the names of 11 teachers committees. ❚ 2. Authorized a contribution to the Ed- ing for the 2017 Annual Representative for nomination to Alberta Education ucation International Solidarity Fund Assembly (ARA) a resolution opposing for curriculum work as the need arises. No tolerance for DID YOU teacher’s bullying KN W ... behaviour he most important factor for success Tin dealing with a mental health prob- lem or emergency is support. Teachers, staff and school communities PITFALLS AND are all part of a student’s support system. The Alberta Teachers’ Association, in PRECAUTIONS partnership with the Canadian Mental Health Association, has made available a Gaylene Schreiber reference booklet for teachers about the mental health needs of their students. Secretary to ATA Professional Conduct Committee Compassionate Classrooms features more than 30 pages of information for teachers, Pitfalls and Precautions is a series that about sensitive topics such as breast- including what mental illness is and what teachers can do to promote good mental aims to educate teachers on professional feeding, sexuality and drug use, and health of children and youth. conduct issues by highlighting situations made sexist comments. The teacher For more information and to download addressed by the ATA Professional Con- had, at times, engaged physically with a copy of Compassionate Classrooms, duct Committee. The committee dealt students during incidents related to plus an accompanying lesson plan, visit with the following case between January discipline and student management. www.canwetalk.ca. and April of 2016. The committee, in rendering its deci- sion, noted that the nature and gravity Did You Know highlights programs and resources offered by the Alberta experienced high school teach- of the charges were significant; the Teachers’ Association. Watch for instalments in future issues of the ATA News. An er engaged in actions that failed teacher’s offending actions were perva- to treat students with respect and dig- sive and persistent and affected many nity and failed to uphold the honour students and their parents over the and dignity of the profession, found the course of two school years. The com- Alberta Advisory Committee for Educational Studies Professional Conduct Committee. The mittee determined that the teacher be committee, which is composed of prac- suspended for a period of six months Descriptive or Experimental Studies ticing teachers and public members, and made a recommendation to the APPLICATION FOR GRANTS hears cases brought against members minister of education that the teacher’s accused of unprofessional conduct. Deadline: April 12, 2017, 4:30 p.m. teaching certificate be suspended for Applications will be accepted by email; however, they must be received as In this instance, the facts of the case six months. a single attachment to the email. revealed that the high school teacher The inability to hold membership had, for two years and with many stu- The Alberta Advisory Committee for Educational Studies (AACES) invites applications for grants to support descriptive or experimental studies in education. dents, created an unwelcoming class- in the Association precludes a teacher Grants in excess of $6,000 are awarded only rarely because of limited available room climate that was characterized by from teaching employment in a pub- resources. Grants cannot be given for travel unrelated to the proposed research project. the humiliation of students, belittling lic, separate or Francophone school in Alberta. Suspension of a teaching Note: The application to the Ethics Review Committee must be initiated and a copy of students to the point of making them the submission to that committee must be included with the proposal. cry, and comments by the teacher about certificate further prohibits a teacher from teaching in Alberta, including Online applications and the guidelines for grant applications are available at students’ sexual preferences, physical www.teachers.ab.ca/For Members/Professional Development/Resources. in band-operated, private or charter characteristics or intellectual capacity Application forms may be emailed to [email protected] OR submitted to that were hurtful. Students experi- schools. Reinstatement of eligibility for membership in the Association is not Secretary, Alberta Advisory Committee for Educational Studies enced retribution from the teacher if c/o The Alberta Teachers’ Association they raised their concerns with their automatic at the end of a suspension 3016 5 Avenue NE Suite 100, Calgary, AB T2A 6K4 parents or administration. This same period. The Association’s bylaw 91 out- Telephone 403-265-2672 or 1-800-332-1280 teacher caused further discomfort in lines the process by which a member Completed applications received by April 12, 2017, will be considered at the spring his students through uncomfortable can apply to have their membership meeting of AACES. comments, questions and innuendo reinstated. The ATA News, January 17, 2017 11 Students explore their Alberta Teachers wanted for inner and outer selves the 2017/2018 school year in China ATA DEHR grant facilitates art therapy project

The Qilu Sino-Canadian International Schools in Dongying and ATA News Staff Qingdao are recruiting teachers for the 2017/2018 school year. Our schools are part of a select few Alberta accredited international schools in the world. We offer an Alberta ­diploma bout 50 students at Cal- program to Chinese students in Grades 10–12. Next year, we Agary’s Bishop Carroll High are looking for motivated team players who would like to teach School explored their inner in Shandong province in mainland China. We are located and outer selves by decorating on the east coast of China between Beijing and Shanghai. masks as part of an art ther- Teachers must be Canadian qualified teachers and eligible to receive an Alberta Teaching Certificate. apy project organized by the school’s Spectrum Club, which Our benefit packages include medical, yearly bonus pay, received a Diversity, Equity return flights, free housing and a competitive salary package. and Human Rights (DEHR) Teachers also enjoy a large amount of prep time as our grant from the Alberta Teach- teaching schedules include only two or three full-time courses ers’ Association. per semester. Our past teachers have described our students as Under the guidance of coun- motivated, cooperative and a pleasure to teach. sellors Erin Luong and Susan We are currently filling the following positions: Spellman Cann, along with art Starting in February 2017 teacher Sheila Stacey, students decorated the insides of their Dongying masks to express their inner Grade 10 Humanities teacher selves and the outside to reflect (Social Studies and English 10, PE option classes) the outer selves that they show Qingdao others. As the three teacher facili- Grade 10 Humanities teacher (Social Studies and English 10, PE/Art option classes) tators moved around the room asking questions and starting Starting in August 2017 conversations about choices We will be hiring teachers in both schools for and symbols, students began to the following classes: identify what parts they show to others and what they keep • Math 10, 20 private. As Luong reported on • Science 10, Physics 20, Chem 20, Bio 20 SUPPLIED her blog, “The results were Thanks to a DEHR grant from the Alberta Teachers’ Association, a trio of • Bio 30, Chem 30 spectacular.” teachers at Calgary’s Bishop Carroll High School provided a program for • Math 31, Math 30, Physics 30 “This can lead to further ex- students to explore their inner and outer selves by decorating masks. • English 10, 20; Social Studies 10, 20 ploration,” Luong wrote. “Stu- they can share that inner self change, how it feels to express • English 30, Social 30 dents can start to think about with and what people do they their outer self versus the • Art, Music, Drama 10–30 what it is that keeps them from not?” inner self, which one causes • PE 10, CALM 10 showing that inner self to peo- Students also pondered how more anxiety and which feels ple. What people do they feel and why their outer selves more authentic. ❚ Please indicate in your cover letter if you are interested in positions starting in February or September of this year. the Alliance’s original member- to us,” Shane said. If you are interested in becoming part of our team in China OPENING THE ship cards. The drawers are still Shane said the credenza is a for the 2017/2018 school year, please send your resume to filled with hundreds of original vital piece of the Association’s [email protected]. Interviews will be conducted in Calgary membership cards, which list past as it was first housed in on February 18–19 and in Edmonton on February 25–26. ARCHIVES teachers’ names, their commu- Barnett’s home, whose den served as the Alliance’s head- continued from page 6 nity and the year or years of Visit us at www.qisalberta.org. quarters for the first five years membership. of its existence. “The Gestetner was a work- “These are still used, actually, “This has gone everywhere horse in Alberta schools well whenever we have genealogy the ATA has gone over its entire into the 1970s when technol- or family historians who come history.” ogy evolved,” Shane said. “The Gestetner is one of those pieces of technology that is rather unassuming to look at, but its presence in schools and its function were a godsend to teachers. It made it possible to take on duplication and make sure everyone was literally on the same page.” The specimen owned by the ATA archives dates back to the 1950s and originally belonged to the Edmonton Public Teach- ers Local No. 37. When the local “modernized” in the 1960s, it sold the machine as surplus to a local teacher, who used it well into the ‘90s to reproduce YUET CHAN his classroom materials. After The credenza in which John Barnett kept all the original Alberta Teachers’ Alliance membership cards will be placed on display later this year. The the teacher’s death, his brother drawers are still filled with hundreds of original membership cards, which found the machine, complete list teachers’ names, their community and the year or years of membership. with the original bill of sale, and donated it to the ATA archives. “Any sane person would have On display said ‘no thank you, sorry for The following artifacts are also on temporary display at your loss,’ but I said ‘I will be Barnett House: there in half an hour with a truck — don’t give it to any- • A gavel that belonged to the first president, G.D. Misener body,’” Shane said. “We are • A label machine used to label the ATA Magazine for thrilled to have it.” distribution • The minutes from the first annual general meeting of the Coming soon Alberta Teachers’ Alliance, held April 2, 1918 Later this year Shane will • The declaration for incorporation of the Alberta Teach- pull out of the archives a spe- ers’ Alliance, filed with the Supreme Court of Alberta on cial piece of furniture — a cre- June 24, 1918 denza in which Barnett kept all 12 The ATA News, January 17, 2017

Appel d’offres pour le recrutement d’un consultant chargé de développer une ressource à l’intention des enseignants travaillant ARE YOU FROM A auprès d’élèves immigrants originaires d’Afrique centrale TEACHING FAMILY? Renforcer les relations école-communauté dans des communautés d’immigrants The ATA News is seeking submissions La Canadian Multicultural Education Foundation (CMEF) est à la recherche d’un consultant for an upcoming feature. pour aider au développement de ressources visant à renforcer les relations école-communauté des communautés d’immigrants. L’objectif du programme est de permettre aux enseignants et If you are a teacher and come from a family of administrateurs de mieux comprendre les cultures et besoins des élèves immigrants afin de mieux préparer leur arrivée à l’école et en salle de classe, de mieux répondre à leurs besoins spécifiques et teachers, please send one or more photos, a d’assurer leur réussite scolaire. summary of your teaching family and a brief Le consultant travaillera en collaboration avec quatre ou cinq enseignants et deux intervenants answer to this question: What is it like belonging communautaires. Le projet devrait s’étaler sur deux ou trois mois. to a family of teachers? Le consultant/facilitateur devra recruter et sélectionner les intervenants communautaires et les enseignants, planifier et animer chaque rencontre, rester en communication avec les participants Please email your submissions to entre les rencontres afin d’assurer le développement continu du programme, en plus de réviser les projets des équipes en vue de leur publication et affichage sur leWeb. Une partie de cette dernière [email protected]. tâche consistera à rassembler les photos qui serviront à illustrer le livret, sans toutefois nécessiter de conception graphique. DEADLINE: JAN. 31 Qualifications Essentielles • Compétence et expérience en matière d’animation • Compétence et expérience en matière d’organisation • Compétence et expérience en matière de révision et de rédaction • Compréhension de la culture scolaire et enseignante ® • Compétences interculturelles et expérience de travail en milieu interculturel Souhaitables Treat it Right! • Expérience en matière de développement de programmes éducatifs Rémunération du consultant/facilitateur : 5 000 $ Treat it Right!® is a series Pour présenter votre candidature of teachers’ guides designed Veuillez faire parvenir les renseignements concernant vos qualifications, votre expérience pertinente, to provide Edmonton teachers with ainsi que votre curriculum vitae, à Earl Choldin ([email protected]) et Françoise­ Ruban ([email protected]) lessons, readings, and activities that link the storm and wastewater systems to the science curriculum.

The program includes: Treat it Right!® Wastewater (Grade 4) When the (English and French) ECONOMIC CONSULTANTS NEEDED going gets Treat it Right!® Storm Water (Grade 5) (English and French) Economic consultants (EC) are ATA volunteers who are selected from an applicant pool of practising teachers who have an ® , Treat it Right! LID (Grade 7) interest in collective bargaining, labour relations and benefits. tough Treat it Right!® Wastewater (Grade 8) ECs liaise with Teacher Welfare staff to help provide support, the tough training and assistance to economic policy committees and ® Treat it Right! Storm Water (Grade 8) locals in their geographic areas. get a ® Treat it Right! Puppet Show (Grades 2 and 4) Applicants to the provincial EC corps should have ... Check available dates at: . • five years’ teaching experience librarian www.treatitrightpuppetshow.ca • strong communication skills Contact: Joel Kafka at 780-450-9173 • previous volunteer work with the Association —Joan Bauer [email protected] • knowledge of economic policy committees’ role and the Treat it Right!® Wetland Field Trip (Grade 5) collective bargaining process Contact: Leah Wilson at • previous attendance at Summer Conference 780-267-6543 • completed Teacher Welfare courses [email protected] Selected applicants will ... • serve an initial three-year term that may be renewed once For more information, contact: • receive training via seminars at the ATA Summer Conference Janice Dewar at 780-496-5431 held each August [email protected] • attend two Saturday training sessions during the school year, www.edmonton.ca/ Teacher Welfare Area Conference, field service meetings drainage/education and monthly EPC meetings • provide presentations at least two to three times per year [email protected] TO APPLY Teachers who are interested in applying should send a letter 780-447-9400 highlighting reasons for the application and relevant skills to [email protected].

Questions can be directed to Lisa Everitt, executive staff officer, LIB-26 Teacher Welfare; phone 780-447-9400 (Edmonton area), 1-800-232-7208 (elsewhere in Alberta); email [email protected]. TW-138 2016 TW-138 The ATA News, January 17, 2017 13 Highlights from the legislature Math scores and curriculum questions raised during fall session

Kim Dewar curriculum. Hoffman responded by Eggen answered that there were more Student achievement ATA News Staff stating that the government is working than 32,000 respondents, of which in mathematics to create bursary programs to support 25,000 filled out both parts A and B. preservice teachers and help strength- He concluded that the process is very Thomas Dang (ND—Edmon- ton-South West) questioned Educa- he fall session of Alberta’s legis- en their knowledge, skills and confi- transparent and the government takes dence in teaching math. She concluded tion Minister David Eggen about the lative assembly wrapped up on curriculum development very seriously. T by noting that Budget 2015 and 2016 latest OECD PISA results and noted Dec. 13 after a total of 22 days of sitting allowed the government to support his constituents were very concerned that began on Oct. 31. Here are high- School fees 1,100 new teachers and protect more with Alberta’s declining math scores. lights of the education issues raised in Dave Rodney (PC—Calgary-­ Eggen responded that the govern- than 800 teaching assistants, and hire Lougheed) asked Education Minister question period and other proceedings almost 260 more. ment is taking action in three ways: between Dec. 5 and 13. David Eggen when parents will no reinstating the written portion of the Education review longer have to pay school fees. Eggen diploma exam for 30–1 and 30–2, adding responded that it is the government’s a no-calculator portion to the Grade 9 Oral question period, Mark Smith (WR—Drayton Val- intention to reduce school fees, and PAT exam, and introducing a bursary Dec. 5 – Dec. 13 ley-Devon) posed questions to Edu- program for current and preservice cation Minister David Eggen about the they have been working to build a thoughtful plan to ensure that they are teachers to help cover tuition costs to Student assessment expert working group that will spear- help strengthen their knowledge and head the rewrite of the K–12 curricula focusing specifically on instructional Wildrose Leader Brian Jean posed fees. Given the last two difficult bud- confidence in teaching mathematics questions to Premier Rachel Notley and whether the minister would release in Alberta schools. Eggen concluded gets, the government chose to instead on the issue of the 2015 PISA results, the names of the committee to the pub- with a statement that math curriculum noting that Alberta is below average lic. Eggen answered that there are 300 fund student enrollment and hire ad- review is also underway. in math in Canada and the rest of the individuals from the Alberta Teachers’ ditional teachers and support staff to world. Sarah Hoffman (Edmonton-Gle- Association, from the Department of keep schools functioning at a high level. Members’ statements nora) answered on Notley’s behalf and Education, from universities, and oth- Rodney then mentioned a Metro Robyn Luff (ND—Calgary-East) stated that the government shares the er groups and that there is “sensitivity article that quoted the Calgary Asso- made a statement about mathematics concern that has been highlighted around these individuals.” Smith then ciation of Parents and School Councils education and the report of the Math- through the scores, and that they are asked whether parental choice in edu- expressing serious concerns that school ematics Curriculum Review Working moving forward to provide the best cation will be protected. Eggen said that fees are not staying in schools. He asked Group. One of the recommendations the government is working with a wide supports when it comes to math and Eggen whether the ministry would pub- from the report spawned a new govern- literacy skills. She added that, “some of diversity of groups to build the new ment bursary program for preservice curriculum and strengthen all forms lish detailed records of the total dollars the changes we announced are rein- collected in school fees and where the teachers. stating a written portion for the math of education. Denise Woolard (ND—Edmonton Mill money is going. Eggen responded that diploma exam, something that we think Creek) made a statement about the is very important and that it was a mis- Curriculum survey completion he works with all school boards to en- importance of mental health resourc- take because of past budget cuts to take Greg Clark (AP—Calgary-Elbow) sure they are demonstrating financial es for Albertans, and in particular in that portion out.” Brian Jean added that asked Education Minister David Eggen transparency and making proper use schools. She noted that many schools he believes that the ATA is the govern- why the curriculum survey was so of the funds collected. He added that no longer have school counsellors on a ment’s “ally” in rejecting standardized long, technical and complex and if over the next couple of years, the gov- regular basis, and some students have testing and that the government has put the questions were designed to elicit ernment will have an approach that will noted that there are few mental health the ATA in charge of rewriting Alberta’s the government’s desired outcomes. reduce school fees. resources available for youth. LEARNING NETWORK

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For more information on programs and courses, visit adlc.ca 1-866-774-5333, ext. 5378 14 The ATA News, January 17, 2017

0037_17_ATA_Newsletter_HAad_Jan.indd 1 1/5/2017 1:56:34 PM The ATA News, January 17, 2017 15

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NOTICES AND EVENTS Attention teachers

Science camp open to teachers The foundation offers 29 industry- The ATA News ­advertisements Science and math teachers are recognized courses plus an of ­institution ­programs expanding list of experience-focused invited to a five-day professional Advertising by institutions custom courses. Course content is development workshop from June 19 offering educational programs is industry recognized and curriculum to 23 in Calgary. The ASM Materials accepted by the ATA News on Camp for Teachers combines aligned, teaching learning outcomes a commercial basis. There is no LETHBRIDGE SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 51 for HCS 3000, HCS 3010 and AGR LETHBRIDGE SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 51 innovative classroom instruction guarantee that these institutions ETHBRIDGE CHOOL ISTRICT O with laboratory experiences. This 3000. Teachers have also included its fulfill the requirements for L S D N . 51 LETHBRIDGE SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 51 free workshop is designed to help content in their CALM, science and consideration as a recognized Lethbridge School District No. 51 is seeking dynamic, teachers other courses. institution for salary grid collaborative and innovative French Immersion teachers to join • encourage students to pursue For more information, visit www purposes. our community in the 2017-2018 school year. Opportunities will .safetyinschools.ca or contact program Lethbridge School District No. 51 is seeking dynamic, higher education in science, Teachers considering enrolling­ Lethbridge beScho availableol Districtat all levels No. (Elementary, 51 is seekingMiddle & High dynamic, School). coordinator Sara Rooseboom at sarar collaborative and innovative French Immersion teachers to join • engage students with hands-on in educational programs for Candidates must be committed to ensuring that a contemporary @safetyinschools.ca or 403-984-6375. collaborativeour community and innovative in the 2017-2018 French school Immersionyear. Opportunities teacher will s toscience join experiments, purposes of increasing salary beand available engaging at all learning levels (Elementary,environment isMiddle provided & High to all School) students. . Education society hosts author levels should consult the Teacher our community in the 2017-2018 school year. Opportunities• help will students explore science in Candidates must be committed to ensuring that a contemporary everyday life and Author Caterina Edwards will speak Salary Qualifications Board be availableandIn addition,engagingat all levelssuccessful learning (Elementary,environment candidates iswill: provided Middle to all students& High. School). Principles or inquire directly • introduce new ideas and at an Edmonton-area breakfast  Believe in bringing out the best in each of their students. to the Teacher Qualifications Candidates must be committed to ensuring that a contemporarytechnologies to build curriculum. event on Feb. 4. Edwards has In addition, Possess successful strong candidate teachings will:skills; including the areas of written bestsellers The Sicilian Wife Service regarding the Inquiries can be made by emailing and engaging learningBelievenumeracy in bringing environmentand literacy. out the best inis each provided of their stu todents all. students. and Finding Rosa and will speak ­acceptability of the program. [email protected]. Online   PossessPossess s trongstrong teaching skills in skills;the area including of differentiated the areas of on the topic “A Mafia Princess/ A registration can be completed at numeracyinstruction and and literacy. the development of individual student Female Assassin: Writing as a Way of www.asminternational.org. In addition, successful Possessprograms. strong candidate skills in thes area will: of differentiated Understanding.” Workplace safety training program   instructionBe committed and the to workdevelopmenting in an inclusiveof individual environment. student The author breakfast is being To Advertise Believe in bringing out the best in each of their stuavailabledents. programs.Be able to integrate technology and the ICT outcomes hosted by DKG, Delta Kappa Gamma, For Advertising Information  Possess Beinto committedstrong the regular teachingto workprogram.ing in skills;an inclusive including environment. the areasThe ofSafety in Schools Foundation of a women’s international educational Bromley Chamberlain,   BeBe able able to to integrate work closely technology with the and Immersion the ICT outcomes team to build Canada offers free workplace safety society that has been active in numeracy and literacy. Advertising Manager intoa strong the regular French program. culture and language experience in the training programs with the aim of Edmonton for more than 50 years. reducing injuries among young,  Possess Beschool ablestrong tobuilding. work skills closely in with the the area Immersion of differentiatedteam to build Date: Saturday, Feb. 4 1-780-447-9417 direct new workers through preventive  a Bestrong open French to team culture planning and andlanguage have strongexperience organi inzation the 1-800-232-7208 toll free instruction and the development of individual studenteducation. Time: 10:00 to 12:00 schooland communication building. skills. email: [email protected] At no cost to schools, teachers Location: Robertson-Wesley United programs.  BeParticipation open to team in theplanning bigger and school have and strong District organi culturezation. Next Deadline or students, the program allows Church Memorial Hall, and communication skills. January 23, 2017, 4 pm  Be committed to working in an inclusive environment.students to earn valid workplace 10209 – 123 St., Edmonton  (publication date January 31, 2017) Participation in the bigger school and District culture. safety training certificates online Tickets: $20.00 at the door, or contact  Be ableApplicants to integrate should technology submit a curriculum and vitae,the coverICT outcomes letter and current references quoting competition #T501, through their school before they step Janet at [email protected] or Please Note: Advertisers are encouraged onto their first job site. Lorna at [email protected]. to book their advertisement space into theApplicants regular should program.to [email protected] a curriculum vitae, cover early—space is limited.  Be ableletter toandSubject work current line closely references MUST includewith quoting the the competition followingImmersion: #T501, team to build T50to1 hr., lastata name,@lethsd.ab.ca first name Cost a strong SubjectFrench line(Example: culture MUST Tinclude501 and, Doe, thelanguage John) following : experience in the Classified ads: $1.00 per word school building.T50 1, last name, first name CLASSIFIEDS plus GST ($15.00 minimum) Posting will (Example:remain open T until501 suitable, Doe, John) candidates are found. Display ads: Varies according to size  Be open Weto thank team all applicants planning for your and interest have in our District; strong organization however, only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. Travel and Recreation Goods and Services Payment Posting will remain open until suitable candidates are found. and communicationWe thank all applicants skills. for your interest in our District; Okanagan Suite (Accommodates 6)— For Rent 1 or 2 bedroom shared Pre-payment is required. We accept however, only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. Lake Country minutes from accommodation in the Wetaskiwin, VISA, Mastercard, cash or cheque.  Participation in the bigger school and District cultureKelowna. (YLW) Ski, golf, lakes, Leduc, Millet area. Available January Circulation: 44,000 wineries, orchards. Photos & details at 2017. Utilities included. One large www.justaweekaway.ca bedroom $950.00. Two bedrooms “The world is a book, and those $1,500.00. This is an acreage, 4,000 Applicants should submit a curriculum vitae, coverwho do not travel read only one square feet house. Utilities included. HOTEL RATES letter and current references quoting competitionpage.” #T501, Join us for an amazing 15-day No food included. No smoking in the A directory of special rates at some of cultural adventure to China. $3,199 house. Call 780-387-0870. Alberta’s hotels is available online or in to hr.Likeata [email protected] on includes hotels, meals, transport, hard copy. Available online at Subject line MUST include the following: guides and admissions to sites. Disclaimer The Alberta Teachers’ www.teachers.ab.ca under Publications. Facebook: Run by teachers for teachers (and Association does not necessarily Hard copy available from Doreen Link T501, last name, first name others). Payment plan available. endorse the products or services at SARO—403-265-2672 in Calgary or presented in paid advertisements or in For flyer contact: e.mouland@ toll free at 1-800-332-1280. (Example:www.facebook.com/ABteachers T501, Doe, John) the Notices and Events column. AsianCuriosityTours.com

Posting will remain open until suitable candidates are found. We thank all applicants for your interest in our District; however, only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

TALEEND January 17, 2017 Volume 51, Number 9

We asked teachers to send in pictures of their pets along Teacher’s Pet with a summary of how the animal is special and helps Furry (and furless) friends help with wellness and engagement them in their profession. NIOBE

Purebred ragdoll

Owner: Brianna Orchin, Grade 4/5, Meyokumin Elementary School, Edmonton

Niobe is special in that I’ve had her since I was 13 years old and her “cattitude” has only increased with age. It’s hard to believe, but she is a sucker for tradition (never miss a morning of giving her a cup of fresh water from the orange cup or she won’t let you forget it). However, she’s very intuitive and just seems to know when someone needs a cuddle or meow in the face. On the days when I’ve had marking up to my ears and dealt with energy levels off the scale, Niobe has been a stress reducer and a companion to watch Netflix with. Also, she has become a muse when creating projects and a bridge to building relationships with my students. My students (even those from previous years) now include her in their work and ask to see more pictures of my grumpy old lady cat, who can never seem to smile.

WINSTON

Sphynx

Owner: Shantelle Lewicki, Grades 7 to 12 cosmetology, Crowsnest Consolidated High School, Crowsnest Pass RONNIE MARLEY

Winston’s dashing good looks are the Shih Tzu Lop-eared rabbit biggest thing that makes him so special. As you can tell, he doesn’t look like an ordinary Owner: Jess Sereda, Counsellor, Owner: Tara Johnson, Grade 6, kitten because he has no hair. He has a variety of sweaters to keep him warm but, Thorhild Central School, Thorhild Uplands Elementary School, Brooks as they say, bald is beautiful! After I’ve had a long, sometimes Ronnie is a special dog because he never This is Marley’s second year as strenuous day of teaching, Winston helps grew beyond a puppy! Born as a runt, our Grade 6 classroom pet. Here are me relax. He comes and cuddles up Ronnie was extra small and stayed that way. the things that make Marley special with me and, being a sphynx, keeps me Ron is the true definition of a lap dog and (compiled by students). warm. (Sphynxes are often compared to he loves to come to school and snuggle • She makes everybody in the class velvety warm water bottles, which is quite with kids while they work. He has the ability happy. beneficial to those of us who live in the to lift anyone’s spirits with his googly eyes • She has a sassy attitude. mountains!) He also gave me the chance and heart of gold. Petting Ron is an instant to bond with my students by holding a • How good she is at finding food on calming tool, and students visibly relax the floor. naming contest. when he’s with them. • She’s cute! • It is fun to read to her! • She is stubborn! BELLA • She’s FLUFFY! • She loves shoes and purses! Flock to Facebook for SPCA rescue Here is a list of the ways that Marley helps me with my profession (also more furry photos! Owner: Carol Lach, Learning support compiled by students). • She helps students focus on lessons teacher, Canyon School, Pincher Creek when she is being held by them. Check out the ATA’s Facebook • Students hold her when they are done page for a photo gallery Bella is special as she has been my loyal their work. She motivates them. companion through life. My pet helps me • She teaches students how to be containing additional Teacher’s relax with cuddles after a day of work and responsible by taking care of her and keeps me up to date with the ATA News. making sure that the room is clean so Pet submissions. that she can hop around. • She makes students and staff happy. www.facebook.com/ABteachers • She makes the students calm when they are holding her. • When a student is frustrated, Marley is there to help. • She helps me build relationships with students who are not in my class.