Today on The Podclass, we're switching things up with an episode from our friends at Physical Education and Health Canada (PHE). Their podcast, launched in January, spotlights guests and topics relevant to phys ed and health. We're featuring their latest episode: "All Gender Physical Education and Health" with Equity and Inclusion Consultant, Andrea Barrow from Limestone District School Board, Ontario. Politics and leadership influence our education conversations and practices, shaping our school spaces. We encourage educators to prioritize relationship building, creating safe spaces, and advo ..read more

In this episode of The Podclass, we delve into the pivotal role of school trustees in fostering well-being within educational environments. Kristina Larkin, a trustee with the Lethbridge school division, highlights trustees' responsibilities in Alberta's education system, from advocating for schools and students to ensuring alignment with legislative objectives. We explore challenges and opportunities for collaboration, with a focus on policy development and amplifying marginalized voices ..read more

In this podcast episode, titled "Dance, Embodied Movement, and Anti-Oppressive Practice with Dr. Towani Duchscher," Dr. Duchscher shares her expertise on integrating dance into anti-oppressive practices, discussing self-care, the transformative power of movement, the intersection of education and dance, and the importance of dismantling oppressive structures to foster love, connection, and well-being in schools. Additional Resources: Creative Dance for All Ages - Gilbert, Anne Green The Three Curricula That All Schools Teach - Eisner, Elliot Jagged Worldviews Colliding - Leroy Little Bear ..read more

In this episode of The Podclass, Dr. Kimberley Schonert-Reichl, Director of the Human Early Learning Partnership at UBC's School of Population and Public Health, delves into the fundamental importance of Social-Emotional Learning (SEL). She defines its core competencies and emphasizes its pivotal role in establishing a secure and nurturing learning environment. Notably, the episode underscores that SEL isn't merely an additional educational component but an indispensable foundation for academic achievement and overall development. This episode stands as an invaluable resource, weaving together ..read more

In this episode, we dive into the world of education and the importance of helping students find their passions and navigate their paths to success. Our guest, Jason Kupery, the Director of Learning at The Palliser School Division shares his inspiring journey as an educator and how he's working to create programs that empower students to discover their interests and purpose. Jason started his career as a classroom teacher, primarily focusing on grades 7 through 12. He gradually moved up the ranks, becoming a vice-principal and then a principal. Eventually, he took on his current role as a dire ..read more

Jamie talks with Ben Schworer from Rocky Mountain Collective, a cannabis shop in Hinton, Alberta about how teachers, health promotion professionals, and cannabis retailers are unlikely allies in keeping cannabis out of the hands of youth. Additional Resources: Leafly Project CBD Dr. Ethan Russo ..read more

Elizabeth and Jamie speak with Nancy Luyckfassel, Professional Development Coordinator at the Alberta Teachers Association, about teacher well-being. They look at the ways that systems and institutions can support teachers, through avenues like professional development, issues advocacy, and more. Additional Resources: The 2021 Workplace Friendship & Happiness Survey: Wildgoose USA. We Are Wildgoose. (2021, July 19). Retrieved April 4, 2023, from https://wearewildgoose.com/usa/news/workplace-friendship-and-happiness-survey/ Alberta Teachers Association Library CliftonStrengths (StrengthsFi ..read more

Jamie speaks with Tom Wong, a learning leader for the Unique Pathways program with the Calgary Board of Education, about the best ways to support students in acute crises. They dive into ways that relationships with students, parents, and other teachers are integral to creating environments where students are supported ..read more

Jamie speaks with Tom Wong, a learning leader for the Unique Pathways program with the Calgary Board of Education, about the best ways to support students in acute crises. They dive into ways that relationships with students, parents, and other teachers are integral to creating environments where students are supported ..read more

Elizabeth speaks with Natalie Costa from Alberta Health Services and Sarah Balla from Elk Island Catholic Schools about taking a weight-neutral approach to physical education classes. They cover a host of topics from fitness testing to nutrition, school sports to swim classes, and more. Additional Resources: Canada's Food Guide Mills, A., & Osborn, B. (2013). Shapesville. Gurze Books. (publisher link) Geisel, T. S. (2011). The Sneetches and other stories by Dr. Seuss. Random House. (publisher link) Howe, J., & Cecil, R. (2013). Brontorina. Candlewick Press. (publisher link ..read more