29 APR 2024 · Insights Into School Boards and Education Leadership: A Conversation with Carolyn Broady This podcast episode features an enlightening conversation with Carolyn Brody, vice president of the Canadian School Board Association and the current chair of West Vancouver Schools. The discussion opens with the importance of curiosity, open-mindedness, and the unique role of school trustees and boards in the education system. Carolyn shares her journey to becoming a trustee, emphasizing the significance of understanding the community's needs and the responsibilities that come with the position. The conversation also delves into governance models, the challenges and shifts in education over the years, notably around digital citizenship and social media's impact. Additionally, Carolyn discusses the pursuit of equity and progress in education, including initiatives for indigenous education and supporting vulnerable students. The episode touches on the implications of eliminating school boards and the unique position of Manitoba in allowing school boards taxation rights. Carolyn reflects on leadership challenges, particularly during COVID-19, emphasizing the singular focus on student welfare. The podcast wraps up with personal insights, book recommendations, and hidden gems in Vancouver for visitors. Overall, it offers a comprehensive look into the complexities of educational governance and leadership from a seasoned trustee's perspective. 00:00 The Role and Challenges of School Trustees 00:52 The Impact of School Boards on Education Success 01:16 A Deep Dive with Carolyn Brody: Insights from a School Trustee Veteran 01:55 The Journey of a School Trustee: Carolyn Brody's Story 06:44 Governance and the Role of School Boards Across Canada 10:40 The Evolution of Education: Challenges and Achievements 14:15 Exploring the Future of Education and Leadership 23:09 Personal Reflections and Advice for Aspiring Trustees 28:53 Closing Thoughts and Gratitude in Education

22 APR 2024 · Celebrating 50 Episodes: A Journey Through Canadian Educational Leadership In the 50th episode of the Canadian Ed Leadership Podcast, the host celebrates the milestone by embarking on a virtual tour across Canada, highlighting the diversity and innovation in educational leadership across the provinces and territories. Starting from Prince Edward Island and moving westward to British Columbia, with a detour to the Northwest Territories, the episode showcases leaders who are addressing seminal issues, fostering team-building, navigating system disruptions, tackling recruitment and retention challenges, and promoting wellness in schools. The podcast aims to connect educational leaders across Canada, sharing insights on leadership, the integration of technology in education, and the importance of joy, love, and well-being in the educational environment. The episode encourages networking among educators and provides a platform for sharing innovative practices and solutions to common challenges faced by educational institutions. 00:00 Celebrating 50 Episodes: A Journey Through Canadian Education Leadership 02:33 Starting in the East: PEI's Leadership Insights 04:54 Navigating Change in Nova Scotia's Education System 07:54 Addressing Recruitment and Retention in New Brunswick 11:20 Exploring Quebec's Unique Educational Landscape 12:53 Innovative Leadership in Ontario's Education System 16:27 Embracing Joy and Love in Manitoba's Schools 20:13 Generative AI and Future Technologies in Saskatchewan 22:21 Wellness and Wellbeing: Alberta's Approach 25:37 Visionary Education in the Northwest Territories 29:13 British Columbia: Collaboration and Leadership Fun 34:25 Wrapping Up: Reflections and Connections

15 APR 2024 · Transforming Education: The Success Story of New Frontier School Board This podcast features a conversation with Mike Helm, Director General of the New Frontier School Board in Quebec, highlighting innovative approaches to education and student support post-graduation. With a focus on adult vocational education, the board operates under a philosophy of lifelong learning, serving a diverse student population up to age 70. Through personalized learning experiences and a strong emphasis on vocational training and re-engagement strategies, the board successfully addresses absenteeism and prepares students for the workforce, resulting in impressive job placement rates. The discussion also touches on leadership in education, the importance of coaching and mentoring, and the integration of indigenous perspectives and histories into the learning experience. 00:00 Transforming Lives Through Vocational Education 02:00 The Importance of Post-Graduation Support 02:25 A Deep Dive into New Frontier School Board's Unique Approach 03:53 Challenges and Opportunities of an English School Board in Quebec 06:29 Innovative Adult Vocational Education Programs 09:33 Success Stories and the Impact of Vocational Training 12:29 Addressing Absenteeism and Student Engagement 14:10 Beyond Graduation: Measuring Success in Education 20:01 Leadership Insights and Challenges 30:32 Personal Reflections and Recommendations 37:44 Exploring the New Frontiers Region: A Hidden Gem 39:52 Closing Thoughts and Contact Information

8 APR 2024 · Transforming Education in Northern Alberta: A Conversation with Mike McMann This episode features a deep dive into the educational innovations and leadership of Mike McMann, Superintendent of Fort Vermilion School Division in Northern Alberta. McMann discusses how his division is revolutionizing education by creating career pathways for students from kindergarten through high school. This initiative aims to align education with real-world job opportunities, enabling students to gain post-secondary credits and job experience while still in school. The discussion also explores the unique challenges and advantages of living and educating in the North, underscoring the importance of community, family, and tailored education systems that respect local needs and potential. The conversation reflects on leadership challenges, the power of human connections, and the drive to provide meaningful opportunities for students to succeed in their careers and lives. 00:00 Unlocking Student Potential: A New Approach to Education 01:26 A Deep Dive into Career Pathways with Mike McMahon 03:54 Exploring the Unique Lifestyle and Values of Northern Alberta 04:46 Mike McMahon's Journey to Fort Vermilion and Insights on Northern Living 11:27 Revolutionizing Education: The Collegiate Model in Fort Vermilion 19:23 Building Strong Community and Industry Partnerships for Education 22:32 Wellness Initiatives and Their Impact on Education 24:34 The Power of Mental Health Support in the Workplace 25:56 Creating a Supportive Environment for Staff 27:04 The Importance of Therapy and Vulnerability 28:40 Community Support and Cultural Practices 29:54 Leadership Challenges and Personal Growth 35:04 Advice for Aspiring Leaders 38:37 Gratitude in Education and Personal Foundations 40:57 Exploring New Perspectives on Mental Health and Education 43:55 Personal Reflections and Closing Thoughts

1 APR 2024 · In this insightful conversation, the speaker engages with Steve Gallagher, the Regional Executive Director of Halifax Regional Centre for Education (HRCE), exploring the nuances of educational leadership and the journey from teaching to administration. Steve shares his views on the important qualities of a leader, emphasizing the crucial role of relationships and trust in both teaching and leadership. He reflects on his personal career trajectory, highlighting the rapid shifts in his roles within the education sector and discussing the changing landscape of education in Nova Scotia, including addressing teacher shortages, the impact of technology on learning, and the importance of strategizing for the region's growing student population. The dialogue also covers the reformation of professional development for educators and the evolving expectations on teachers' time and compensation. Through Steve's experiences and perspectives, insights are offered into the challenges and opportunities present in current educational leadership, underscoring the importance of adaptation, strategic planning, and the value of bringing communities together for the betterment of the educational system. 00:00 Reflecting on Teaching and Leadership 01:28 Introducing Steve Gallagher: A Journey in Education Leadership 04:24 The Path from Classroom to Leadership 13:28 Navigating Growth and Change in Nova Scotia's Education System 17:17 The Role of MLAs in Education and Parental Involvement 22:45 Pride in the Halifax Regional Centre for Education Team 24:58 Transforming Educational Leadership: A Journey of Change 26:48 Reimagining School Administration and Instructional Leadership 28:22 Fostering Instructional Leadership: The Impact of School Learning Communities 29:09 The Evolution of Instructional Leadership in Schools 31:50 Addressing the Teacher Shortage: Innovative Recruitment and Development Strategies 34:54 Redefining Professional Development and Compensation for Teachers 38:43 Exploring Leadership Challenges and Solutions in Education 41:10 Personal Reflections and Gratitude in Education 44:34 Engaging in Personal Interests: Reading, Podcasts, and Hidden Gems

24 MAR 2024 · Generational Change in Indigenous Education: A Conversation with Brad Baker This detailed conversation with Brad Baker, a respected leader in supporting Indigenous learning in British Columbia, covers the journey of generational change in Canadian education regarding Indigenous perspectives and reconciliation. Baker reflects on the progress and challenges in incorporating Indigenous history and knowledge into the curriculum, the importance of equity in education, and the role of educators in understanding and teaching Indigenous worldviews. He shares personal experiences to highlight the shifts in societal attitudes and educational practices over the years, emphasizing the slow but necessary pace of change towards better representation and understanding of Indigenous cultures within the Canadian education system. The episode also briefly touches on Baker's background, his achievements, and his advice for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous educators to foster a more inclusive and equitable educational environment. 00:00 The Journey of Generational Change in Canadian Education 01:21 Introducing Brad Baker: A Beacon of Indigenous Learning 03:45 Golf as a Metaphor for Continuous Improvement 04:29 Brad Baker's Career Journey: From Classroom to Ministry 07:51 The Evolution of Indigenous Education in Canada 22:04 Challenges and Triumphs in Indigenous Leadership 38:26 Rapid Fire Round: Reading, Watching, and Hidden Gems

18 MAR 2024 · This episode  features a detailed discussion on leadership in education, highlighting the complex balance between fulfilling legal obligations to staff and moral obligations to students. Ted Franson, a newly retired Superintendent and CEO formerly of Pembina Trails in Manitoba, shares his insights on the pressures and challenges of educational leadership through anecdotes from his career. Emphasizing the importance of support systems, resilience, and maintaining a student-focused approach, Ted also touches upon his own transition into retirement and the refreshing perspectives it offers. The conversation further explores mentorship, the value of self-awareness, and the critical role of supportive communities in fostering effective leadership. Ted's dedication to education and his reflections on a 40-year career offer invaluable lessons on leadership, community, and the enduring impact of passionate educators. 00:00 Navigating Leadership Challenges in Education 01:59 Reflections on Retirement and Leadership with Ted Franson 04:01 The Joy of Teaching and Memorable Moments 13:46 The Importance of Resilience and Support in Leadership 19:28 Fostering Leadership and Building a Supportive Community 23:19 Ted Franson's Personal Highlights and Influences 28:12 Embracing Retirement: Reading, Streaming, and Life in Morden, Manitoba

11 MAR 2024 · Matt Henderson, Superintendent/CEO of Winnipeg School Division envisions people from all over the world coming to see how the best school divsion in the world operates. He knows he's not there yet, but that's his mission. Using words like "love", "joy" and "rigor" Matt talks about using these tenets to bring justice and opportunity for all students. This conversation is inspiring and thoughtful and worth your time. 01:32 The Journey of Matt Henderson 03:22 The Vision for Winnipeg School Division 06:52 The Importance of Love, Joy, and Rigor in Education 15:57 The Path to Leadership 20:31 The Challenges and Triumphs of Leadership 26:38 The Power of Reading and Thinking Together 29:14 The Importance of Balance and Connection 30:40 Advice for Aspiring Leaders 35:24 Gratitude and Acknowledgement 41:33 Personal Interests and Hobbies 44:40 Conclusion: The Future of Winnipeg School Division

4 MAR 2024 · In this interview, Mark Pearmain, Superintendent of Surrey School District, shares his leadership journey and experiences, emphasizing the importance of team empowerment, confronting challenges, and maintaining a positive outlook. He discusses the teacher shortage crisis and the benefits of working in British Columbia's education system. He also recounts an incident in North Vancouver, highlighting the significance of humility and patience in resolving conflicts. Pearmain additionally provides advice to aspiring leaders, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, right intentions, and celebrating individual and team achievements. Finally, Pearmain shares some of his personal interests, including his favorite reads and a hidden gem location in Vancouver. 00:00 The Power of Empowering Others: A Leadership Lesson 00:32 The Joy and Challenges of Leadership 01:12 The Importance of Surrounding Yourself with the Right People 02:36 The Game of Golf: A Metaphor for Life and Leadership 05:42 The Journey to Superintendency: From Teacher to Leader 07:51 The Role of Pedagogy in Leadership 11:17 The Pride and Challenges of Leading a Diverse School District 14:20 Addressing the Teacher Shortage: A Global Challenge 22:55 Overcoming Difficulties: A Personal Story 23:20 Building Trust and Navigating Uncharted Territory 24:28 The Importance of Humility, Listening, and Collective Work 25:15 The Art of Letting Go and Embracing Uncertainty 27:00 Advice for Aspiring Leaders: Why Do You Want It? 29:56 The Joy of Leadership: It's Fun, Messy, and Rewarding 31:17 The Power of Self-Awareness and Perspective in Leadership 35:58 The Importance of Not Taking Yourself Too Seriously 37:19 Gratitude and Acknowledging the Influence of Others 40:03 Reading Recommendations and Guilty Pleasures 43:12 Hidden Gem: A Hiking Tip for Vancouver Visitors

26 FEB 2024 · In this podcast, we delve into the transformative journey of Nova Scotia's Tri-County educational system with regional executive director, Jared Purdy. Touching on critical events such as the release of the Glaze Report by Dr. Avis Glaze in 2019 that led to major systemic changes including the dissolution of school boards and the departure of school administrators from unions. Jared shares extensively about the effective strategies deployed to handle challenges posed by these changes, with a keen emphasis on student outcomes and community engagement. Listen in as he discusses his leadership experiences, strategies for up-and-coming leaders, and the overall impact the pandemic had on the Tri-County region. 00:00 Introduction to the Glaze Report and Its Impact 01:18 Reflections on School Boards and Their Role 02:32 Introducing Jared Purdy and His Leadership 05:06 Exploring the Changes in Nova Scotia's Education System 06:25 Understanding the Role of School Administrators and Unions 12:31 The Impact of Changes on Student Outcomes 16:46 Addressing Gaps and Improving Community Engagement 22:38 Pride and Achievements in the Tri County Region 23:49 The Importance of Relationships and Community 25:12 Impact of the Pandemic on the Region 27:06 Leadership Challenges and Growth 31:03 Advice for Aspiring Leaders