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Superintendent’s Conference Days are a time to gather before the opening of school, greeting friends and colleagues while sadly embracing the end of summer. Meetings, training workshops and collegial discussions are held to further learning opportunities and best practices that help connect staff districtwide for professional growth, both as individuals and team members. It is a unique platform to come together, share experiences and gain valuable insights – harnessing new ideas and innovative approaches over a 2-day period on August 28-29.
Superintendent Joseph Monastero was welcomed with a warm greeting of applause by his colleagues as he addressed the crowd as the new Superintendent; “It’s a pleasure to welcome you back as we begin our school year, having had the privilege of being a part of this incredible institution of learning for over 27 years. I am filled with a deep sense of pride and gratitude. Our journey together has been marked by countless moments of achievement, growth, and collaboration. And during the difficult times, we were there for each other. Together, we have built a community that values education, respects one another, and is deeply committed to the success of our students.” He shared a focus and vision with an overarching theme this year on “the power of a growth mindset” as the district embarks on a new academic year. “This year, I encourage each of us to embody the principles of a growth mindset in our lives. Let’s embrace challenges as opportunities to learn and grow. Let’s view setbacks not as failures but as steppingstones on the path to greater understanding and success. And let’s support one another in this journey, knowing that our collective strength lies in our willingness to learn from one another and to grow together.”
Each year, the district welcomes a guest speaker for the kick-off to the school year. This year, Superintendent Joseph Monastero introduced Myron Dueck, who tackled the evolving and complex topic of Artificial Intelligence – the big questions it poses, the enormous possibilities, and how to find a balanced approach when it comes to education in the classrooms. Mr. Dueck is an influential figure in education, well known globally for the integration of innovative practices like generative AI in classrooms. With over 25 years of experience as an educator and administrator from British Columbia, he empowers educators with insights to rethink and address both the opportunities and challenges presented by AI in education and the use of tools that dominate the headlines and educational conversations. He also strongly advocates for a balanced approach, where the human element in teaching, empathy, critical thinking, and creativity remains central to the learning process. In keeping with the growth mindset theme, Mr. Dueck was clearly pointing out that AI was not built to replace humans; it is far from perfect, and we cannot overly rely upon it. If humans embrace it and learn to understand how to use it, it becomes a powerful brainstorming partner. For teachers, it can become an extension of learning standards to enhance learning outcomes and support differentiated instruction.
Mr Dueck offered five key points to approach and incorporate AI in education:
• Communicate It: Start by discussing AI openly with students and colleagues to ensure everyone understands its potential and limitations.
• Explore It: Delve into the various AI tools available, examining how they can be utilized in educational contexts.
• Discuss It: Engage in conversations about the ethical implications, challenges, and opportunities presented by AI in the classroom.
• Infuse It: Integrate AI into teaching practices, making it a natural part of the learning process rather than an add-on.
• Learn It: Continuously educate yourself and your students about the evolving landscape of AI, staying updated on new developments and best practices.
Thank you, Mr. Dueck, for guiding us with your insightful wisdom, humor, and balanced approach to incorporating AI in lesson planning to prepare students for a modern world infused with AI and ensure we think critically and ethically.
Thank you to Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum & Instruction, Genevieve LaGattuta for spearheading this extremely thoughtful and insightful day of learning…your planning never ceases to amaze and impress with your steadfast dedication, passion and quest for meaningful and responsive district needs for students and staff. Superintendent Monastero was also thrilled to honor staff for their years of service with recognition “pins” handed out honoring staff marking their 10th through 30th years as employees in the district. Another wonderful highlight was the tradition of the annual summer slide show which elicits smiles and surprises as everyone viewed summer photos and adventures shared by colleagues. As always, we thank our custodial staff for the care and cleanliness as everyone walked through halls and classrooms that sparkled with pride! Superintendent’s Conference Days brought an immeasurable experience dedicated to building a culture of caring through collective wisdom and a network of support – and using the power of a growth mindset! We look forward to an amazing 2024-2025 school year ahead!
