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Dean Shareski interviews leaders from coast to coast to coast discussing innovation, change and the role leaders play in providing Canadian students with a world class education
Episodes & Posts
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22 APR 2025 · In this episode, we sit down with Todd Manuel, Superintendent of Schools of Okanagan Skaha in Penticton, British Columbia. Todd shares his unique insights into leading through the complex process of school closures, focusing on the importance of empathetic and transparent leadership. Reflecting on his career transition from a teacher in Coquitlam to his current role, Todd discusses how the district managed a significant reconfiguration due to declining enrollment. He emphasizes the essential role of community engagement, the support from the board, and the collaborative efforts of educators to navigate these changes. Additionally, Todd touches on the district's focus on indigenous education, professional learning, and fostering a resilient, welcoming school culture. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in educational leadership and community building.
00:00Â Introduction and Community Support
01:15Â Meet Todd Manuel: A Leader in Education
03:03Â Todd's Journey to Superintendent
03:44Â The Penticton School District and Community
06:21Â Embracing Indigenous Culture and Education
12:19Â Leadership Challenges: School Closures
15:58Â Supporting Teachers and Students Through Change
19:20Â Building Trust and Vulnerability in Leadership
22:35Â Encouraging Future Leaders
25:44Â Personal Reflections and Recommendations
34:27Â Conclusion and Gratitude
15 APR 2025 · In this inspiring episode, we explore the impact of the Connected North program with co-founder Jennifer Corriero. Jennifer shares how Connected North delivers live, interactive virtual field trips to over 200 partner schools in Northern Remote, First Nations, Inuit, and Metis communities, significantly increasing student engagement and motivation. The discussion highlights powerful stories of individual impact, the importance of cultural inclusion in education, and the challenges of sustaining a nonprofit organization in the education sector. Jennifer also reflects on her journey as a social entrepreneur and provides valuable advice for emerging professionals. Discover how education can be a tool for healing and growth through innovative and inclusive approaches.
00:00Â Introduction and the Importance of Education
01:26Â Guest Introduction: Jennifer Corriero
03:23Â Connected North and Taking It Global
04:23Â Impact Stories and Program Success
08:46Â Personal Reflections and Influences
13:45Â Challenges and Opportunities in Education
14:35Â Cultural Understanding and Community Impact
20:50Â Highlights and Success Stories
25:42Â The Unique Value of Virtual Field Trips
26:44Â Leadership Challenges and Solutions
28:46Â Fundraising and Resource Management
29:26Â Handling Feedback and Maintaining Quality
31:55Â Advice for Emerging Professionals
40:44Â Balancing Work and Personal Life
43:25Â Exploring Toronto's Hidden Gems
44:28Â Final Thoughts and Achievements
8 APR 2025 · In this episode, we explore the novel approaches of West Vancouver and Ottawa Catholic School Boards in integrating generative AI into educational systems. Dean and the guests, Chris Kennedy (Superintendent, West Vancouver) and Tom D'Amico (Director of Education, Ottawa Catholic), discuss their AI journeys, collaborations, and the significant changes in teaching methodologies. They delve into the challenges and successes of AI-driven learning, share actionable insights and resources for educators, and emphasize the importance of balancing AI with traditional learning and physical literacy. Whether you're an educator, administrator, or AI enthusiast, this discussion offers valuable perspectives on the future of AI in education.
00:00Â Introduction and Reflections on AI Implementation
01:10Â Generative AI in Canadian School Boards
02:18Â Insights from Tom D'Amico and Chris Kennedy
06:24Â AI Tools and Certification Programs
08:24Â Teacher and Student Use of AI Tools
18:08Â Addressing Plagiarism and AI Literacy
23:17Â Success Stories and Impact of AI in Education
26:36Â AI in Education: Overcoming Language Barriers
27:13Â Feedback on AI Translation Tools
28:30Â Indigenous Perspectives on AI
30:26Â Future Directions for AI in Education
33:48Â Balancing AI and Physical Literacy
40:39Â Reflections and Lessons Learned
43:06Â Networking and Resources for AI in Education
1 APR 2025 · In this episode, we sit down with Mistene Clapp, a dedicated educator and vice principal at Limestone District School Board, to discuss her journey in education. Mistene shares stories about her early experiences as a classroom teacher, the importance of valuing all staff members, and her strategies for building a compassionate and inclusive school community. She emphasizes the significance of using AI tools in education and explains the process of transitioning from a teacher to a principal. Tune in to hear Mistene's insights on leadership, relationship-building, and the evolving role of technology in the classroom.
00:00Â Building a Respectful School Culture
01:39Â Early Career and Technology Adoption
03:34Â Path to Leadership in Limestone School Board
06:27Â Roles and Responsibilities of a Vice Principal
12:06Â Memorable Moments as a Classroom Teacher
17:37Â The Importance of Building Relationships
22:25Â Fostering Kindness and Inclusivity
25:28Â Introduction to AI in Education
25:42Â Personal Journey with AI
25:51Â Daily Uses of AI
26:45Â AI in Education
28:34Â Addressing Resistance to AI
31:02Â Concerns About AI
33:05Â Leadership Challenges
36:08Â System Perspective in Education
39:41Â Mentorship and Gratitude
41:36Â Fun and Guilty Pleasures
46:03Â Local Recommendations
26 MAR 2025 · In this engaging episode, we explore the inception and development of a podcast initiative for the Surrey school district. Sundeep, a principal, shares her vision of using podcasts for professional learning and how it became a reality through collaboration with Linda Reeve and Kristi. They discuss the logistics, challenges, and joys of creating educational content for busy educators. Along the way, Sundeep and Kristi reflect on their personal leadership journeys and the importance of mentorship in their careers. They also highlight their favorite podcasts, influential leaders, and the future goals for their own podcast. Tune in for insights on leadership, education, and the power of audio as a learning tool.
00:00Â Introduction and Busy Life of a Principal
00:31Â The Birth of the Podcast Idea
00:56Â Christie's Involvement and Initial Reactions
04:10Â Reflecting on the Origin Stories
04:26Â The First Ignite Talk and Its Impact
05:15Â The Journey of Podcasting Together
08:50Â Challenges and Learning in Podcast Production
16:57Â Professional Learning and Leadership Development
22:07Â Podcasting Influences and Inspirations
27:11Â The Unusual Task of Guest Booking
27:51Â Highlighting Memorable Guests
28:35Â The Impactful Interview with Chief Robert Joseph
30:35Â The Personal Joy of Podcasting
32:02Â Encouraging Leadership in Education
33:21Â Advice for Aspiring Principals
40:37Â Gratitude in Education
43:53Â Personal Recommendations and Closing Thoughts
18 MAR 2025 · In this episode, we delve into the inspiring career of Tyrone Dowling, the Director of Education for the Waterloo Catholic School Board in Ontario. Dowling shares his experiences and challenges as one of the few Black educational leaders in the region. He emphasizes the importance of representation in education and discusses his efforts to increase diversity among teachers. The conversation covers his unexpected path into education, insights on leadership, and the future of teaching amidst technological advancements such as AI. Dowling also touches on his upcoming retirement and his passion for golf. Join us for an in-depth discussion on educational leadership, diversity, and the enduring impact of a dedicated educator.
00:00Â Inspiring the Next Generation
01:18Â Introducing Today's Guest: Tyrone Dowling
03:45Â Tyrone's Journey to Retirement
06:26Â Reflecting on Leadership and Future Plans
17:01Â The Evolution of Black Educators in Ontario
26:12Â Inspiring the Next Generation of Educators
26:52Â Proud Moments and Achievements in the District
27:43Â Innovative Initiatives and Programs
33:03Â Challenges and Leadership Lessons
39:06Â Empowering Teachers and Staff
41:02Â Advice for Aspiring Leaders
44:06Â Gratitude and Reflections
47:33Â Personal Interests and Future Plans
53:40Â Final Thoughts and Farewell
11 MAR 2025 · In this compelling episode, we explore the significant impact of mental health on education, especially focusing on the onset of depression in children before the age of 14. The conversation, led by Dr. Gina Cherkowski, Dr. Katie Fodchuk, and Chris Smeaton, emphasizes the need for a multi-stakeholder approach in schools, supporting leaders, teachers, students, and families. We discuss the importance of wellness in sustaining educational systems and highlight the upcoming Mental Wellness Summit in Banff. Key topics include organizational drivers of wellness, the evolving roles of leadership, and integrating wellness into strategic plans. Don't miss the rich insights and valuable takeaways from this insightful dialogue.
00:00Â Understanding the Impact of Early Depression
01:04Â The Importance of Wellness in Education
02:04Â Introducing the Experts and the Mental Wellness Summit
04:20Â Exciting Features of the Mental Health Summit
06:39Â Workplace Wellness Initiatives in Western Canada
11:44Â Leadership's Role in Promoting Mental Health
16:14Â Strategies for Integrating Wellness into Schools
27:01Â Details and Expectations for the Upcoming Summit
4 MAR 2025 · In this insightful episode, we sit down with Nora Young, the host of CBC's iconic program Spark. Nora shares her journey from print journalism to becoming a prominent voice in the intersection of technology, society, and philosophy. We discuss the humanizing effects of technology during the pandemic, the evolution of digital culture, and her thoughts on the relevance of technological discussions from a decade ago. Nora also delves into her optimistic and skeptical views on AI, the challenges of misinformation, and the potential for AI to enhance human capabilities. Engage with this rich conversation on the past, present, and future impacts of technology on our lives.
00:00Â The Humanizing Effect of Technology During the Pandemic
00:53Â Introducing Nora Young: A Tech Icon
03:20Â Nora Young's Journey into Journalism and Technology
07:08Â The Evolution of Spark and Digital Culture
11:28Â Reflections on Technology's Impact on Society and Education
15:35Â The Changing Perception of Technology Over Time
21:54Â The Role of Technology in Modern Education
25:00Â Nostalgia in Education
27:54Â The Role of Handwriting
29:18Â Human Connection in the Age of AI
30:19Â AI's Impact on Society
38:01Â Disinformation and Verification
42:47Â Optimism for AI and Technology
45:13Â Fun and Personal Insights
25 FEB 2025 ·  In this special episode, I sit down with my father, Elmo Shareski, who turns 93 in February 2025. He shares the timeless lessons he picked up throughout his life, from working on the family farm at age 14 to running a John Deere dealership at 19, and leading various businesses. Discover how his old-school, yet effective leadership philosophy shaped my own outlook and career. We delve into his first day running the dealership, overcoming challenges without formal education, and the priceless life lessons he taught me. Join us for these heartfelt and insightful stories that highlight the essence of true leadership.
00:00 Starting Out: A Young Dealer's First Day
01:40 Introducing My Father: A Tribute
03:26 Early School Days in Turtle Mountains
07:37 Life on the Farm: Teenage Years ]1
2:44 Taking Over the John Deere Dealership
19:40 Learning Leadership: Lessons from Dad
23:41 Reflecting on a Career of Leadership
18 FEB 2025 · In today's episode, we delve into the insights and experiences of Donna Miller Fry, a seasoned education leader who has worked across various Canadian provinces. Donna discusses the importance of empowering and uplifting employees, the challenges and courage required in leadership roles, and her unique perspective on the differences in educational systems across Canada. She also shares a poignant story of standing up for children's rights in the Yukon, which led to a challenging yet rewarding journey. Join us as we explore her remarkable career and the lessons she's learned along the way. [00:00] Introduction [02:00] Donna's Leadership Philosophy [10:00] Discussing Courage and Ethical Decision-Making [28:00] Unique Insights from Different Canadian Provinces [45:00] Highlight Reel of Donna's Career [55:00] Advice for Future Leaders
 [1:05:00] Personal Growth and Fun Questions
00:00Â The Secret Sauce of Leadership
00:35Â Empowering School Leaders
00:47Â Challenges in Modern Leadership
01:53Â Donna Miller Fry's Courageous Stand
02:31Â Donna's Journey Across Canada
03:58Â Memorable Connections and Collaborations
05:17Â Digital Practicum and Commander Hadfield
08:07Â Exploring Canadian Education Systems
11:09Â Manitoba's Educational Excellence
16:11Â Leadership in the Yukon and Beyond
24:42Â Celebrating Educational Leaders Across Canada
25:36Â Personal Growth and Career Highlights
26:31Â Lessons in Leadership and Empowerment
30:12Â Facing Leadership Challenges in the Yukon
37:13Â Advice for Future Leaders
39:46Â Acknowledging Influential Mentors
42:50Â Personal and Professional Growth
45:24Â Exploring Whitehorse: A Hidden Gem
47:38Â Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Dean Shareski interviews leaders from coast to coast to coast discussing innovation, change and the role leaders play in providing Canadian students with a world class education
Information
| Author | Advanced Learning Partnerships |
| Organization | voicEd Radio Canada |
| Categories | Education |
| Website | alplearn.com |
| dean@alplearn.com |
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