Heading back to school tomorrow, there’s a lot of anticipation for educators and students alike about what this year will bring.
Lisa Walsh – Director of Education for Avon Maitland District School Board says that this year marks a return to “normal” that was less tangible heading into last year.
The academic journey won’t be without it’s challenges – looming strike action casts a shadow over the start of the school year.
She also says that staff retention and recruitment is top of their priority list as they face the global labour shortage. They’re taking a close look at their training and hiring practices to make sure that they can continue to staff their schools.
The district is also in the midst of continual expansion of multiculturalism into rural areas,
This means that educators have to continue to grow in understanding, keeping pace with increasing diversity and offering the support that those students need.
Walsh hopes that students and staff will experience a stable learning and working environment this year, amidst updated educational requirements. Staff and students can look forward to an improved language and math curriculum, as well as continuing improvements in equity and diversity training and education.
She also mentioned that there’s been a lot of learning in the secondary school environment, with AI and Chat GPT changing the game for educators.
She says that it’s important that educators remain ahead of the game, and educate students as to how to properly implement those tools, as opposed to shying away from them.
Looking ahead, the board is on the precipice of a new strategic plan, with their previous four year plan concluding this year. Walsh says that they look forward to collaborating with families, students and educators to inform their new direction for the coming four years.
Written by: B. Shakyaver
