When I teach library and research skills to students, one of the first things we discuss is ‘who, what, where, when, why and how‘. So, where better place to start?

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WHO?

Oh, the people! I spoke with educators from all over Ontario; with French teachers, chemistry teachers, tech integrationists, experienced teachers and new teachers, and I had lunch with the person I share my office with here at SCS. I followed countless people on Twitter, connected with the facilitators, and started to think about Design Thinking in a new way. The breadth of knowledge in the room and the willingness to share was phenomenal.

WHAT?

I’ve followed Cohort 21’s online presence for a few years now, so I’m thrilled to be finally able to take part. Three librarians have participated in Cohort 21 since the inaugural year; Tim Hutton from RSGC, Sara Spencer from York and Laura Mustard from SCS.

WHERE?

Let’s pause to give a shout-out to Bayview Glen’s beautiful new Upper School library. You can tell a lot about a school by their library, and how they fund it. This is the second meeting I’ve been to in the BVG library this year, and I love how they have designed their space.

WHEN?

It was a Saturday. I have two small children, so time is precious. I arrived home after the first Face 2 Face session energized, inspired, and full of ideas. I’d say it was a day extremely well spent.

WHY?

I have been at SCS for twelve years. I’m lucky to be able to work with Laura Mustard and Adam Caplan, both Cohort 21 coaches this year. Although we are comfortable with technology here in the Lassonde Library, I’m looking forward to being inspired, learning about new tools, and having the chance to work on a year-long embedded PD project. So much PD is small-scale, and only somewhat relevant to my professional interests, so the personalized aspect of the Cohort 21 experience is what really appeals to me. Collaboration with teachers is absolutely key for my job; I’m looking forward to reaching out to SCS colleagues in new ways, and working with educators outside of the walls of 21 St. Clement’s Avenue.

HOW?

I commit to tweeting, diigo-ing, hanging out in Google hangout, reading, experimenting, talking, commenting, favouriting, +1-ing, blogging, and having impromptu Cohort 21 meetings in the hallways. I’m already looking forward to our next Face2Face session at The York School in November, but for now, see you online!

5 thoughts on “Thoughts after day one…

  1. Out of curiosity, how do you manage your “To Be Read” list? I know Diigo has a ‘read later’ feature, but I suspect you have your own clever tricks that work for you in your life?

    I admire the way you bring topics from your reading and thinking into the impromptu conversations we have at school. See you tomorrow!

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