Category: Education

There Are So Many Amazing School Counsellors Doing So Many Fabulous Things

Published on by Counsellor Talk6 Comments

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CC photo by Yanngarphoto.wordpress.com

School Counselling is so important in every school. It is an essential service that is often not paid enough attention to sadly. What I absolutely know is that school counsellors save lives every day in the world. Some might not think that to be true, but I know that when school counsellors are working with students who are at risk they make a difference. What they do in their offices is preventative work and may go unnoticed because school counsellors can’t tell you what happened because of confidentiality.They might have just saved the life of a child who otherwise would not be around to tell their story.

Social media is also assisting students and school counsellors in a positive way. The work of Dr. Erin Mason @ecmmason, who created SCOPE is helping school counsellors every day in every way .  Dr. Erin Mason from SCOPE is fantastic. School Counsellors in Canada and the especially the US are on board with new developments in school counselling and are connecting to even make things better for students everywhere.

Danielle Schultz @sch_counselor ,the founder of School Counselor Blog is also a leader in the field. You can often find her leading #scchat or sharing great information on her blog.

Speaking of #scchat, it always amazes me that when educational chats are listed usually school counsellor chats are not posted. I know that will change as school counsellors become even more active in many spaces on social media.

Below I am going to list some of the great leaders in school counselling and if I miss anyone I appologize as I KNOW you are doing amazing work with students.

  • Erin Luong @eHordyskiLuong (Alberta,Canada)
  • Julia V. Taylor @juliavtayor (Richmond, VA,US)
  • Kaudri Auvaart @Kadriblaster (Australia)
  • Michelle Brown @Michelle0102197 (Canada)
  • Tamica Collard @TamicaCollard (Texas,US)
  • Chris Polley @Teaching_Intl (Shanghai, China)
  • Trent Langdon @TrentLangdonNL (Newfoundland, Canada)
  • Darrell Sampson @CnslrDarrell (Arlington Virginia,US)
  • Brian Zink @Brian_Zink  (Guadalajara, Mexico)
  • Rebecca Lallier SchCounselingByHeart (Vermont, US)
  • Jeremy Goldman @MRJGoldman (Lutherville Maryland,US)
  • ABurston @jyjcounselor  (US)
  • Rick Scheibner @rick_scheibner (Hermiston Oregon, US)
  • Marci Newman ARHSCounselor (UT,US)
  • Amy Sather @AmySatherBlair (Blair Nebraska, US)
  • Jeannine Jervis @CounselorELEM (Indiana,US)
  • Susan Langan @csfml (Cedar Falls Iowa, US)
  • Carol Miller @tmscounselor (US)
  • Randi Rosenberg  @RandiCounsels (Northern Virginia,US)
  • SchCnslrsRock @SchCnslrsRock (US)
  • Fanciene Sabens @FSabens (US)
  • Marty Stevens@martylstevens (Shiremanstown, PA) who writes the Gratitude Journal
  • Jeff Ream @CounselingGeek (US)

This list would not be complete without the work of a fantastic  school counsellor advocate Russell Sabella @rsabella who is a Professor at Florida Gulf Coast University ,  or Carli Segal @carlicounsels and Dr. Kevin Kelly @EmmausKevinK who are leading #sbmhchat School Based Mental Health Chat another excellent chat related to school counselling.

If you are a school counsellor from another part of the world please connect with us on twitter as we have so much to share and we can help each other grow professionally. It is an amazing opportunity for us to learn together. Please put that you are a school counsellor in your descriptor and if you feel comfortable please put where you are from.

TOP SCHOOL COUNSELLOR CHATS 

For more information about #SCCHAT (School Counselor Twitter Chats, montly school counsellor chats on Twitter, visit http://bit.ly/scchat-info.  #SCCHAT Tweet Up!

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#sbmhchat

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I would so love to see more Canadian School Counsellors #cscchat to be active on twitter and I will do my best to encourage other educators to encourage their school counsellors to join. We are entering into a new way of connecting with each other that will only benefit our students and the educational systems even more.

Please click below to view the Haiku Deck on School Counselling:

http://www.haikudeck.com/p/wlK5Q1ceFG/why-school-counselling . Please feel free to edit and share.

What Is Really Important In Life

Published on by Counsellor Talk6 Comments

Shouldn’t we teach all students as if they were Zach? In #openspokes we have been discussing what is important to teach our young people. I believe Zach’s message of hope is one all teachers as well as students can learn from. At the heart of teaching should be teaching from the heart and Zach tells us what is really important in life. As a school counsellor these are the lessons that really matter to me. Lessons like those from  Zach that truly teach.

Zach is an amazing teacher. Here are some of his lessons:

  • you don’t have to find out you are dying to start living
  • most people live in the middle, but you don’t have to
  • be empathetic and compassionate
  • always look for the good in people
  • things are OK when you believe in something greater
  • what makes you happy is seeing someone else smile because you put it there
  • what’s awesome about living in this world is that you can help people
  • the structure of a family is great
  • to be in the same room with your siblings is enough
  • it is not the life in your years , but the years and passion you put into your life
  • spend time with the people you love
  • it’s ok to dream big
  • celebrate the life you have
  • you can communicate love through music
  • music can heal
  • releasing feelings through music is helpful
  • letting people know you love them is important
  • sticking together as a family is extremely important
  • be happy no matter what
  • treat people the same and everything will be fine
  • smile despite what is happening in your life
  • memories are essential…create positive ones
  • friendships help
  • fill your heart up with joy
  • it’s ok to have ultimate dreams
  • people we don’t really know can change our lives
  • the way you live matters
  • surround yourself with those people that lift you up
  • LOVE makes life BETTER

Zach says it alll better than I could ever do, his message is one that I will share again and again. Thanks Zach for giving us your gift of life.

My hope is that teachers will pay more attention to the students we teach than the content. The lessons we teach can make a difference.

There Are So Many Ways To Contribute

Published on by Counsellor TalkLeave a comment

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It is more than a week ago that schools were cancelled because of flooding in Calgary. Calgary would be in a state of emergency  for many more days to come.

It is one of those days when you will never forget where you were and what you were doing. I was staying at my friend’s house and then off to our Bishop Carroll graduation ceremonies with my grade 12 students .We were celebrating their accomplishments and yet mindful of the devastation all around us, but not completely aware of  just how Albertans would be impacted.

I knew that Calgarians would make a difference, but little did I know how amazing the role modelling would be for our students. Our students would have definitely risen to the challenge fundraising amongst other things, but it was the end of the school year. That will come in September, as I know our city will still need help then. Within the first day I received a tweet from the YMCA that one of our students was already helping … no surprise.

Screen Shot 2013-07-01 at 11.53.50 AM

During the next week I would begin to see how much the city was impacted. I felt powerless in the beginning not knowing how I could help.

I recognized that I could give money to the Red Cross , that was easy. I could register with #yychelps, but not sure if I could do the heavy work.

Then came an email from our chief superintendant, Gary Strother, asking for volunteers to help with the cleanup efforts. I don’t usually look at my e-mail after school year ends, but this year I am more connected to my computer than ever before ,so I took it as a sign that I needed to act.

For two days I was up at 4 a.m. and to work by 5:15 because of the coordinating efforts of one of the organizers Ralph Strother along with some amazing people from  Whissell Construction .

Being in the middle of a neighbourhood at East Elbow Park made everything real. I just kept imagining if this was my home and my family, how I would feel and how appreciative of the help I would be.  I know the homeowners did, by the signs and the overwhelming thank you’s and gratitude that was displayed.

As Ralph Strother says, ”it was a huge step forward from unfathomable loss to rebuilding towards recovery… everyone worked shoulder to shoulder responding with no request too small and or seemingly too big dismantling garages, structures and even roofs, carefully, skillfully and even moving all the debris.”

Whissell construction donated dump trucks, front-end loaders, skidsters, trucks, barricades tools and amazing people who worked tirelessly to coordinate our efforts. It was amazing to see all the work being done around me. I am grateful for the small part that I would play to help out.

I have to admit it was hard work. It was back breaking work that some people do everyday (obviously something I am not cut out for on a daily basis) kudos to them, but for now they were adding to their week by volunteering. It made me very happy to be a part of it.

Ways I watched people help:

  • Driving the bus to get volunteers in and out of communities
  • Baking food for families and volunteers
  • First Aid responders
  • Organizing small clean up jobs for younger people
  • Lemonade stands
  • Raking, shoveling, hauling, demolishing, lifting, cleaning

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The list goes on…

There are so many ways people can contribute . Many people cannot contribute physically, but it is just as valuable to contribute in any way you can … JUST CONTRIBUTE.  We need to be grateful for what we have and what we can do, not to feel guilty for what we can’t do. All that we do matters and for today I am so grateful to live in a city of helpers. I do not have to look for them. They are everywhere.

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Click here :

http://www.haikudeck.com/p/U1DekWUNVC/calgary-floods-2013 

and then click on the pictures to move to the next picture in the haiku deck:

Thanks to all my fellow @CCSD_edu  colleagues especially Andrew who helped out and a special thanks to Gary and Ralph for making this happen.

Here are some resources from Alberta Health Services that you may wish to check out: Flood updates and resources…

Alberta Government’s pamphlet Support for Albertan’s Affected by Flood:   http://www.albertahealthservices.ca/Advisories/ne-pha-ahs-support.pdf

Dr. Michael Trew’s Blog (Alberta’s Chief Mental Health Officer):  http://blogs.albertahealthservices.ca/floodcope/

 Mental Health

 

Calgary Floods June 24th 2013 YES …Calgarians Care

Published on by Counsellor TalkLeave a comment
by
Mon, Jun 24 2013 17:46:31

Calgarians Care

Calgarians are great helpers as can be seen all over the city. I am grateful to live in a city with so many people who care so much.

  1. We will rebuild. CalgaryStrong! pic.twitter.com/17h9AOlCRC
    Calgaryism@Calgaryism·Mon, Jun 24 2013 12:47:59

    Mon, Jun 24 2013 12:47:59

  2. SSpellmanCann

    Susan Spellman Cann@SSpellmanCann
    I created “Calgary Floods 2013” with @HaikuDeck: haikudeck.com/p/U1DekWUNVC #etmooc #openspokes #cdnedchat thx to all who r helping

    Mon, Jun 24 2013 15:26:03

  3. Macleod Trail underpass is no longer filled with water. Here’s a look at changes in water level there. #yyc pic.twitter.com/kHINADNNdw
    Calgary Herald@calgaryherald
    Sun, Jun 23 2013 11:54:38
  4. SSpellmanCann

    Susan Spellman Cann@SSpellmanCann
    Calgary … Coping with A Crisis: youtu.be/Mo4MSomTNBI via @youtube #scchat

    Sun, Jun 23 2013 07:31:28

  5. Downtown Calgary is a ghost town in the events of the flood. No power. pic.twitter.com/pTjf24g3YX
    Loremaster Ketchup@MisqueTsvahl
    ·Mon, Jun 24 2013 12:41:23
  6. Distress_Centre

    Distress Centre@Distress_Centre
    Thank you so much to everyone who has been retweeting our crisis line # during this difficult time, 403.266.HELP(4357) #yycfloods

    Sun, Jun 23 2013 20:35:47

  7. Thank you for the generosity #yyc! 2 Timmy’s gift cards left tucked into a cruiser window 🙂 #WeAreCalgary pic.twitter.com/AqbiyTUYZW
    Calgary Police@CalgaryPolice

    Mon, Jun 24 2013 11:55:58

  8. SSpellmanCann

    Susan Spellman Cann@SSpellmanCann
    Wanted to share my livebinder – Calgary Resources for families Responding to A Natural Disaster livebinders.com/play/play_or_e… #yycfloods #Calgary

    Sun, Jun 23 2013 19:30:15

  9. XL 103 Calgary

    XL 103 Calgary
    @metrocalgary: Flood victims will receive $1,250 per adult and $500 per child. Eligibility and distribution plans are being finalized #abflood #yycflood

    Mon, Jun 24 2013 12:05:15

  10. Flooding goes to row 8 in the Scotiabank Saddledome #yycflood #yyc pic.twitter.com/ARd2yseLJO
    Calgary Flames@NHLFlames

    Sat, Jun 22 2013 16:01:31

  11. cityofcalgary

    City of Calgary@cityofcalgary
    Volunteers (18yrs old min) Please meet at McMahon Stadium at 10 a.m.on June 24. ow.ly/mjE5t #yyc #yycfloods

    Mon, Jun 24 2013 00:48:01

  12. YYCFlood

    YYCFlood@YYCFlood
    This ones for all the volunteers helping out with the #YYCFlood
    #CALGARYSTRONG Song youtube.com/watch?feature=…

    Mon, Jun 24 2013 12:11:43

  13. johnrieti

    John Rieti@johnrieti
    Nenshi-mania at McMahon. A line of volunteers forms to hug the mayor, who responds ‘this is re-energizing me’ #abfloods #yycfloods

    Mon, Jun 24 2013 09:45:33

  14. Poor poor Harvey the Hound. #yyc #yycflood #abflood #saddledome pic.twitter.com/lZOQEMCxmC
    AMP Radio Calgary@ampcalgary

    Mon, Jun 24 2013 12:31:38

  15. SSpellmanCann

    Susan Spellman Cann@SSpellmanCann
    Premier Alison Redford announces initial $1B in flood relief | Calgary | News | Calgary Sun calgarysun.com/2013/06/24/bui… #YYCFLOODS

    Mon, Jun 24 2013 12:07:03

  16. Receding water reveals staggering toll of flood damage in Calgary and southern Alberta bit.ly/144qG4f #yyc pic.twitter.com/JjcNifZ03U
    Calgary Herald@calgaryherald

    Mon, Jun 24 2013 04:53:50

  17. The #ctrain line north of #erlton looking all roller coastery. #yycflood #yycfloods #letsrebuild instagram.com/p/a87yduozIH/
    Osh@saroshrizvi

    Mon, Jun 24 2013 11:41:21

  18. “@JayCyyc: Calgary shows up. Thanks! #yycfloods pic.twitter.com/rqMUGU7xrE” #awesome #abfloods
    Ian Foss@sarfoss

    Mon, Jun 24 2013 11:02:09

  19. Naheed Nenshi

    Naheed Nenshi
    We have lots of news today, most of it good. The rivers are slowly returning to more normal flows, it is still very dangerous. Please stay away from the riverbank and river pathways. Perhaps the biggest news is that everyone in a single family home affected is allowed to return to do a self-assessment, with the exception of the 2200 block of 8th Ave SE in Inglewood. Please note that assessment of multi-family units (e.g. apartment complexes and condos) must be completed by the building owner or building superintendent. Individual occupants of multi-family units should confirm assessment has been completed and approved with their building contact.For important updates related to re-entry, transit, waste and recycling, and the situation downtown, please visit calgarycitynews.com/The federal and provincial governments have also made several announcements today regarding their plans to assist citizens and communities affected by flood relief. I want to thank Premier Redford and Prime Minister Harper and their ministers for their continuing support for rebuilding our city.

    Mon, Jun 24 2013 12:17:37

  20. VIRGIN Radio Calgary - Official Page

    VIRGIN Radio Calgary – Official Page
    Be careful when returning to your flooded home:
    calgary.ctvnews.ca/health-r… #yycflood #abflood #WeAreCalgary

    Mon, Jun 24 2013 11:44:49

  21. Wow. Just, wow. #yyc #abflood Photo courtesy J Dowd. pic.twitter.com/ydwpseoIEt
    Erin Lawrence-CTV @tvchick13

    Sun, Jun 23 2013 08:53:37

  22. More flood damage in the community of Mission. #yyc #yycfloods #yycflood #YYCFlood013 #globalyyc pic.twitter.com/27ltj9yPo4
    Braden Latam@BradenLatam

    Mon, Jun 24 2013 10:50:25

  23. JAOwen_Author

    J.A. Owen@JAOwen_Author
    Our city is filled with kind, wonderful people. It will recover fast #yycfloods

    Mon, Jun 24 2013 10:15:57

  24. Here’s what the flood did to 2 vehicles in Mission. (David Wakely photos) See more: bit.ly/10O2mFJ #yyc pic.twitter.com/fizvLy3SiF
    Calgary Herald@calgaryherald

    Mon, Jun 24 2013 10:47:59

  25. dandromarsky

    Dan Dromarsky@dandromarsky
    If you want your faith in humanity restored, come out to #alberta. #yeg #yyc #yycflood #yychelps #yycfloods

    Mon, Jun 24 2013 09:50:34

  26. hellonurse182

    Sarah Schultz@hellonurse182
    The Alberta Floods 2013 – Pictures & how you can help! buff.ly/12dNiPZ #abflood #yycfloods

    Mon, Jun 24 2013 08:55:08

  27. DHHSCalgary

    Deaf Hard of Hearing@DHHSCalgary
    We are thinking of those affected by the floods. If you need a listening/accessible ear please do not hesitate to stop by. #yycfloods

    Mon, Jun 24 2013 08:53:26

  28. kathgilkes

    KathrynGilkes@kathgilkes
    No school today, why not go out and #volunteer nothing like some #realworldlifelearning #yycfloods

    Mon, Jun 24 2013 08:15:03

  29. You can do your part to help…
  30. Text 30333 to automatically donate $5 to help w flood relief or visit redcross.ca #yyc #yycfloods #abflood pic.twitter.com/17or6VsDIC
    Healing Reflections @denelle3rs
    ·

    Mon, Jun 24 2013 00:31:12IMPORTANT: Calgary Catholic School District and Calgary Board of Education schools to remain closed until Thursday #ABflood#yycflood

  31. Sun, Jun 23 2013 18:08:24

  32. SSpellmanCann

    Susan Spellman Cann@SSpellmanCann
    @buzzbishop @dadcamp Love thy neighbour Agree Calgarians are amazing. We don’t have to look for the helpers they are everywhere #yycflood

    Sun, Jun 23 2013 20:11:38

  33. CCSD_edu

    CCSD@CCSD_edu
    Calgary Catholic employees will receive direct information via email regarding staffing. #CCSD

    Sat, Jun 22 2013 20:48:23

  34. Military moves in to protect key Enmax substation in southeast bit.ly/1349cby #yyc #yycflood pic.twitter.com/KTF0f2DfTx
    Calgary Herald@calgaryherald
    ·

    Sun, Jun 23 2013 16:37:06

  35. Calgary Herald front page flood coverage. June, 1929. twitpic.com/cyv6co
    David Gray@Graydio1

    Sun, Jun 23 2013 20:27:33

  36. Red Cross to receive proceeds of artist’s Scuba Nenshi shirt sales #yycflood #yyc calgary.ctvnews.ca/red-cross-to-r… @CTVNews pic.twitter.com/DzfHYIFYEo
    CTV Calgary@CTVCalgary
    ·

    Mon, Jun 24 2013 12:46:46

  37. Refreshingly optimistic, as Calgary always is. #yycflood pic.twitter.com/YmeNddUqvZ
    Calgary K@M_KWAD
    ·

    Mon, Jun 24 2013 09:27:24

  38. In the end we will be better Calgary I can see it and I think they can too!
  39. Photo of Calgary #YYC courtesy Keri. #ABflood pic.twitter.com/hV5SqjTM04
    CTV Calgary@CTVCalgary

    Sat, Jun 22 2013 09:40:50

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Calgary … Floods and A Hopeful Community 2013

Published on by Counsellor TalkLeave a comment
by
Sun, Jun 23 2013 10:46:04

Calgary … An amazing community of people willing to

make a difference.

Calgary is experiencing as @CBC says one of the worst natural disasters in Canadian history. Social media has a positive part to play in helping inform and help in the days, weeks and months to come. I am so grateful. Calgarians are fantastic!

  1. LOVE this. RT @scottcbakken: Calgary strong #togetherwewillrise #calgarystrong @nenshi @cityofcalgary #yycfloods pic.twitter.com/dfmtjME6lK
    Jen Taylor@littlemissmocha

    Sun, Jun 23 2013 08:22:18

  2. elizaboothy

    Elizabeth Booth@elizaboothy
    The @CBCCalgary is calling this one of the worst natural disasters in Canadian history. Hang in there, neighbours. @yycfloodSat, Jun 22 2013 12:07:16 
  3. RT @FarahDhalla This is what has become of downtown #Calgary #yyc #yycfloods #twn pic.twitter.com/j3lzi7fXw6
    The Weather Network@weathernetwork
    ·Fri, Jun 21 2013 14:01:47
  4. cstclair1

    Chris St.Clair@cstclair1
    Hats off! U R The Best! First Responders – The #RedCross & Canadian Troops #Alberta #Calgary #YYCFloods

    Sat, Jun 22 2013 10:13:50

    RedCrossAB
  5. Red Cross Alberta@RedCrossAB
    Restoring Family Links call centre is ready. If you are looking for family that has been evacuated you can contact 1-866-696-6484 #yycfloods
    Fri, Jun 21 2013 13:33:13
    YOU CAN HELP:
  6. CalgarysChild

    Calgary’s Child @CalgarysChild
    Please support our local #yyc businesses, they need our support now more than ever. #yycflood

    Sun, Jun 23 2013 09:08:45

  7. Drop-In Centre wishlist – bring items to temp. centre (former hotel) 4804 Edmonton Trail NE #yyc #yycflood pic.twitter.com/EATDADUMNS
    CTV Calgary@CTVCalgary
    ·

    Sat, Jun 22 2013 13:00:17

  8. SSpellmanCann

    Susan Spellman Cann@SSpellmanCann
    Could I just say again how PROUD I am to live in a city with a Mayor like @nenshi. YOU are an OUTSTANDING leader #yycflood

    Sat, Jun 22 2013 10:50:38

  9. #KeepCalm #NenshiOn #yycflood pic.twitter.com/nJsn9ZRF59
    Dan Grassick@Ninjarale
    ·

    Sat, Jun 22 2013 13:41:52

  10. A video I created for #openspokes a vlogging place for educators from across North America. A supportive online community, a place where educators reflect on a variety of topics.
  11. SSpellmanCann

    Susan Spellman Cann@SSpellmanCann
    Calgary … Coping with A Crisis: youtu.be/Mo4MSomTNBI via @youtube #scchat

    Sun, Jun 23 2013 07:31:28

    Erin’s reflection…Beautiful and thoughtful post about social media as a support during difficult times Thx @EHordyskiLuong#abflood erinluong.wordpress.com/2013/06/23/rea…
  12. verenanz

    Verena Roberts@verenanz
    Beautiful and thoughtful post about social media as a support during difficult times Thx @EHordyskiLuong #abflood erinluong.wordpress.com/2013/06/23/rea…

    Sat, Jun 22 2013 21:56:57

  13. SSpellmanCann

    Susan Spellman Cann@SSpellmanCann
    @verenanz @EHordyskiLuong thx for sharing feeling that we can help more in the days, weeks and months to come

    Sun, Jun 23 2013 07:46:14

    \
  14. Retweet if you agree #YYCFlood #CalgaryStrong pic.twitter.com/dhDnuGL0vF
    AMP Radio Calgary@ampcalgary
    ·

    Sun, Jun 23 2013 09:37:42

    Great PLN Checking in…
  15. dendari

    Brendan Murphy@dendari
    Stay dry my friends MT @SSpellmanCann: Calgary Flooding – 2013 Flood- Calgary Video Production – BizBOXTV bizboxtv.com/calgary-floodi…

    Sat, Jun 22 2013 06:09:54

  16. AlisonSeaman

    Alison Seaman@AlisonSeaman
    @SSpellmanCann you okay?

    Fri, Jun 21 2013 19:54:21

  17. AlisonSeaman

    Alison Seaman@AlisonSeaman
    @SSpellmanCann Oh good! Agree. My BIL & SIL had to evacuate Mission (they are okay). A yr ago today I was skipping stones on the Elbow. OMG.

    Fri, Jun 21 2013 20:03:30

  18. Stephkrammer

    Stephanie Krammer@Stephkrammer
    @verenanz @deirdrebailey @ErinCouillard @EHordyskiLuong @SSpellmanCann all good here too…up @ 6am to get h2o …@verenanz …u guys ok?

    Fri, Jun 21 2013 07:23:58

  19. verenanz

    Verena Roberts@verenanz
    @deirdrebailey Just checking in on you… @ErinCouillard @EHordyskiLuong @SSpellmanCann @Stephkrammer

    Thu, Jun 20 2013 22:47:11

  20. NHLFlames

    Calgary Flames@NHLFlames
    Photos from inside the Scotiabank Saddledome ~ cflam.es/12VsG0C #yycflood #yyc

    Sat, Jun 22 2013 15:59:04

  21. David Suggitt

    David Suggitt
    Most Inspiring Photos from the 2013 Calgary Flood #calgaryflood

    Sun, Jun 23 2013 10:16:46

  22. YYC Flood Hero | 660News

    11 hours ago … If you have any stories about people helping people or even just random acts of kindness please tweet us at #yycfloodh…
    lisa.grant
  23. RT @nicolelisafeld: Memorial Drive #yycflood pic.twitter.com/T3C5ETu2b7 Never seen anything like it! My heart goes sout to all those affected
    Susan Spellman Cann@SSpellmanCann
    ·

    Fri, Jun 21 2013 15:38:08

  24. CCSD_edu

    CCSD@CCSD_edu
    Only high schools in non-evacuated areas will remain open for students writing diploma exams for the week of June 24. bit.ly/14lGEpE

    Sat, Jun 22 2013 18:45:41

    I know our students will show amazing strength and support…
  25. YMCA_Calgary

    YMCA Calgary@YMCA_Calgary
    @SSpellmanCann Aiden has graciously volunteered to come back this evening for a jam session. Looking forward to it! #ABFloods #yycflood

    Sat, Jun 22 2013 09:45:39

  26. UnitedWayCgy

    Calgary United Way@UnitedWayCgy
    Support @RedCrossAB to help where it’s needed most right now. Together, we’ll make it through this! redcross.ca #yycflood #yyc

    Sat, Jun 22 2013 07:36:47

  27. RedCrossAB

    Red Cross Alberta@RedCrossAB
    Telus has made it even easier to donate. Text REDCROSS to 30333 to donate $5 in support of #ABfloods #yycflood

    Fri, Jun 21 2013 15:01:23

  28. ShelKenn

    Sheldon Kennedy@ShelKenn
    I am very very proud of@nenshi @CalgaryPolice and all frontline workers and all albertans. Thanks@pmharper for deploying troops Stay strong

    Fri, Jun 21 2013 19:36:47

  29. #YYCFlood Mother Nature Has A Way of Humbling Us All | The …

    1 day ago … Calgary Alberta, Canada, home to just over 1 million people, the Greatest Outdoor Show On Earth, “The Stampede“, the Texa…
    Michael Smith
  30. jianghomeshi

    jian ghomeshi@jianghomeshi
    “Hug your public servants” – @nenshi on @CBCTheNational. Nice shout out to hardworking folks putting in long hours in #Alberta. #yycflood

    Fri, Jun 21 2013 19:20:33

    Briefing with @Premier_Redford and @nenshi. ow.ly/mh29g #abflood#yycflood

  31. Fri, Jun 21 2013 14:22:34

  32. BTCalgary

    BT Calgary@BTCalgary
    Mayor @nenshi announces full exemption for grade 12 students from diploma exams. The teacher, or classroom grade will be their final grade.

    Sun, Jun 23 2013 07:30:56

  33. buzzbishop

    Buzz Bishop@buzzbishop
    I am so flipping proud of #yyc media, community, and city use of social media tonight. Absolutely GENIUS everyone. #yycflood

    Thu, Jun 20 2013 20:20:46

  34. WBrettWilson

    – W. Brett Wilson –@WBrettWilson
    Until you visit – you can’t appreciate the spirit of caring that permeates the evacuation shelters. High River will be back.

    Sat, Jun 22 2013 18:49:12

  35. Well played @calgarystampede. #yycflood pic.twitter.com/rR73W5eIrQ
    Stephanie Pelley@StephaniePelley
    ·

    Sat, Jun 22 2013 12:02:32

  36. Flooding outside the Scotiabank Saddledome – please stay away from the building until further notice #yycflood #yyc pic.twitter.com/l7YaHuyxfK
    Calgary Flames@NHLFlames
    ·

    Sat, Jun 22 2013 16:03:37

  37. Aerial photo of flooding around the Saddledome. #yycflood pic.twitter.com/kZlDekMfZK
    Calgary Police@CalgaryPolice
    ·

    Sat, Jun 22 2013 14:39:23

  38. This pic of an awesome firefighter in Mission needs to go viral. Please share! #yycflood @redcrosscanada pic.twitter.com/3m3AiodrA5”
    Karen Bruce@kbruce237
    ·

    Fri, Jun 21 2013 18:54:27

    The people of Calgary will make a difference and show their heartwarming spirit!
  39. “@ampcalgary: Who else needs to see a pic like this today? 🙂 #calgarystrong #yycflood pic.twitter.com/ZuFw2X6oZc” IT’S SO VIVID
    ♛ Nick Davies ♛@blackpumahat
    ·

    Sat, Jun 22 2013 13:47:31

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The Tough Topics in Education … Suicide

Published on by Counsellor Talk1 Comment

This week in #openspokes we were asked to tackle the tough topics and I decided to tackle the topic of suicide which is NOT easy.

School Counsellors often have to assist students with the grief process. Over the years I have seen students who have lost parents, siblings, friends, classmates and family members some due to a completed suicide which is the most tragic of all.

Below listen to a young man’s story that begins to tell the story of the impact on family and friends. I am not sure that there are any words to descibe the impact that this tragedy truly has,but his words I am hopeful will help other students.

As school counsellors our role is to be helpful in anyway that we can by infusing HOPE in as many ways as possible.

When a school experiences the loss of a student everyone feels the loss as expressed here by a note left to a student who died.

Dear_____,

Even though we haven’t formally met, I look at your spot in English class and I am deeply saddened that you are not here with us…

It is never easy seeing a student in deep pain especially if the loss was tragic or sudden. Often times school counsellors need to ensure that they have dealt with their own issues surrounding grief so that they can best help others. School Counsellors need to be aware of vicarious trauma or counsellor burnout when assisting students who have experienced traumatic events.

Here are my livebinders on Suicide Prevention and HOPE:

Suicide Prevention and HOPE

Mental Health resources

I know school counsellors save lives everyday and I want to thank you for the important work you do that no one else sees. I know because I have been a school counsellor for a long time. So keep doing what you are doing even though it can be extremely difficult at times.

There are students who you will make a difference for… of that I am sure! Take care of yourself so that you can continue to help others.

Do You Really Want To Be A Teacher?

Published on by Counsellor Talk2 Comments

I say an emphatic YES. I have no regrets about choosing a profession I love and have loved since 1980.

When I hear people tell young people to not go into teaching it saddens me, because I think we need great teachers who love what they do. Of course there are things that are not so great that teachers have to do and yes parts of what teachers do are extremely difficult. There is no doubt about that, but it is still a wonderful profession that has many, many rewards.

The students are why we do what we do.  We want to be part of their learning. We want to make a difference in their lives. We want to impact how they live their lives and contribute to society. So if anyone asks me if they should become a teacher I will say YES, YES, YES. I will tell them they have an amazing opportunity to be around and impact youth. No doubt there will be frustrations and work you don’t like to do, but the positives will so outweigh the negatives.

There are so many great things about being an educator:

  • Working with students is number one
  • Working with people who love what they do is number two
  • Having choices to do a variety of jobs within a district…teaching at different levels, consulting, administration, counselling etc.
  • Having the freedom to be creative every day
  • Learning, learning, learning. If you are a teacher you are always learning
  • So many, many more reasons

This is an exciting time in education. There will be many changes over the next few years and teachers will have the opportunity to work with youth differently while still impacting their lives in a positive way. I encourage you to find your passion and if it happens to be teaching both YOU and the students will benefit! So I say go ahead CHOOSE TEACHING.

Since 1991 I have been a School Counsellor and I believe teaching and School Counselling have been the best careers in the world. Everyday,I am grateful!

All you educators out there tell me why you would tell young people to go into teaching. Please share your ideas.

Making A Difference On Line … Using Social Media to Make the World A Better Place for Educators and Students

Published on by Counsellor Talk2 Comments

Just for Today recognize that you can build a positive reputation. Even if you have said or done negative things in the past, start today to be honest, reliable and reputable. You can use social media to make a positive difference or a negative difference. It is all up to YOU.

Digital Citizenship has a place in every school and we need to focus on the positive aspects of the internet as well as the things that concern us.

You might want to ask yourself:

  • What are the creative opportunities on the web?
  • How can I make a positive impact on the world on the web?
  • What are the ethical dilemmas?
  • What are the rewards and the risks of being on line?

As an educator it is important for you to find great examples on the internet of students doing things to not only improve their own opportunities, but to improve the lives of those in their school, communities, and around the world. We also need to encourage students to look for these great examples as well.

I’d like to see schools focus on those students who make a difference on the internet by providing them with a scholarship that recognizes all the good they do online.

I’d also like to see every school teach students and educators about Creative Commons .

As educators we need to create our own digital footprint and model good Digital Citizenship for our students. Taking Care Of Your Digital Self highlights the importance of a positive digital presence.

When teaching Digital Citizenship we need students to recognize that they need to be responsible and learn everything they can about being a good citizen period.

We need to ask students:

  • If I were to look you up online what would I find?
  • What would you want others to find?
  • If your grandmother googled you would she be proud of what she found?
  • What is your digital tattoo? Find out more information at http://digitaltattoo.ubc.ca/

George Couros discusses the importance of students developing digital leadership skills—positive, proactive connection, cultivation, sharing, and creation of new knowledge and learning to help others.

Resources:

Be a Digital Citizen

Choose what happens next … a you tube video that is interactive for students

 Alec Couros has an excellent wiki of amazing resources to use :

My livebinder on Digital Citizenship:

My pinterest site on Digital Citizenship:

Check out my Haiku Deck on Digital Identity

Act As If …

If you have any other ideas or resources to share on this topic please do.

The Other 21st Century Skills

Published on by Counsellor TalkLeave a comment

I love this post by Jackie Gerstein. She says so many things that are close to my heart. This is a fantastic blog for new school counsellors and those that want to add to their school counselling toolbox.

School Counsellors can model and teach:

  • Adaptability
  • Agility
  • Curiosity
  • Collaboration
  • Critical Thinking
  • Effective oral and written communication
  • Empathy
  • Grit
  • Global Stewartship
  • Hope
  • Imagination
  • Optimism
  • Problem Solving
  • Resilience
  • Self-regulation
  • Vision

Thanks Jackie for writing such a great post to share with school counsellors and other educators.

Jackie Gerstein, Ed.D.'s avatarUser Generated Education

skills

Many have attempted to identify the skills important for a learner today in this era of the 21st century (I know it is an overused phrase).  I have an affinity towards the skills identified by Tony Wagner:

  • Critical thinking and problem-solving
  • Collaboration across networks and leading by influence
  • Agility and adaptability
  • Initiative and entrepreneurialism
  • Effective oral and written communication
  • Accessing and analyzing information
  • Curiosity and imagination   http://www.tonywagner.com/7-survival-skills

Today I viewed a slideshow created by Gallup entitled, The Economics of Human Development: The Path to Winning Again in Education.

Here are some slides from this presentation.

2013-05-21_1100

This presentation sparked my thinking about what other skills and attributes would serve the learners (of all ages) in this era of learning.  Some other ones that I believe important based on what I hear at conferences, read via blogs and other social networks include:

  • Perseverance
  • Resilience
  • Hope and Optimism
  • Vision
  • Self-Regulation
  • Empathy and Global…

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Being An Open Educator Is Definitely A Process

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Being an Open Educator is definitely a process for me. What does being open mean? Well at this point in my life it means that I am open to learning, open to discovery, open to connecting,  open to inspiration, open to reflection, open to remaining hopeful, open to collaboration and open to finding ways that will assist and impact our students now and in the future. As a school counsellor my role is different, but being open is the same. I am connecting with diverse educators and counsellors who all want the same thing … what is best for our students. They are motivated, caring people who want to impact students in a positive way, wanting them to thrive.  They choose to be in a profession to work with students because they know that students matter and so does being an Open Educator.

Alec Couros began my thinking of being open during ETMOOC. He defines Open Teaching  in the following way:

  “Open teaching is described as the facilitation of learning experiences that are open, transparent, collaborative, and social. Open teachers are advocates of a free and open knowledge society, and support their students in the critical consumption, production, connection, and synthesis of knowledge through the shared development of learning networks.”

Part of being open is helping students and myself understand and use Creative Commons .

I believe I am becoming more open all the time by involving myself in the following:

  • Open Spokes: A fellowship for anyone who is interested in using video for reflecting on the practice of teaching and learning . Check out the following links:

The Fellowship of Open Spokes

Vote for Questions to ask these Vloggers

Become a member of Open Spokes

Here is what my fellow Vlogger  Jas has to say about being open.

My Vlog on being an Open Educator : 

I love what Sheri my fellow Open Spokes friend has to say about being open:

Open is Attitude Open is Hope

Other ways I am being Open …

I am happy to be learning along with such great Open Educators who challenge my thinking and encourage me to be better at what I do. Thanks to all of my PLN. You have helped me in the process of becoming an Open Educator and as a result I know it will positively impact students.