March Newsletter

Principal’s Message

I am so delighted to be appointed as the principal of Brock Corydon School. After 9 years as principal of Wolseley School, I decided it was time to move on. The decision to change schools is based on my personal need to challenge myself as a learner and as an educator. I chose Brock Corydon School for its reputation as an effective school where best teaching practice takes place, where parents are actively involved in their children’s school life and where children’s academic, social and emotional needs are given top priority.

Since I learned of the appointment, I have had many opportunities to visit classrooms, meet with staff and parents and to literally hang out at the school to get a better understanding of how the school functions; something which I will continue to do over the next several months. I must say that I am impressed with the joyful spirit of the school. All staff is exceptionally respectful of the children and under Lori Tighe’s leadership has successfully created a purposeful learning environment.

I intend on being visible and involved in the daily life of the school. I want children to view my office as a place where they will feel comfortable to visit and share what they are doing in class; a quiet place to calm down or to participate in a problem solving session when conflicts arise.

I want to continue the tradition of keeping this school as an intentionally inviting place where parents/guardians feel welcome to participate in their children’s learning. I encourage parents and guardians to share their concerns and questions with me so that we can work as a team to best address the needs of the children.

My experience and training as an early years and special education teacher has developed in me a strong belief in a child-centered, activity-based approach to instruction and learning in which children’s voices and interests are valued. I also believe that teachers need to know how to differentiate their instruction to address the various interests, personalities, learning styles and skills that children bring to the classroom.

The teacher’s role is to both support and challenge children as they construct meaning and connections in the world around them.

And what better school to participate in UNESCO’S Associated Schools Project Network (ASPnet). As I am coming to understand it, one of ASPnet’s main themes of study is intercultural learning in which the study of other countries and cultures will promote a better understanding and appreciation of other customs, traditions and values. The very fact that the Hebrew bilingual program and the English program work so closely together is a true indication that diversity is indeed celebrated here at Brock Corydon School proving that communities can successfully live and work together in harmony.

Lori has informed me that the monthly school-wide themes have been incorporating the seven aboriginal teachings together with the UNESCO themes to help promote the values of this school community. This month’s theme is:

Truth: Speak with sincerity, walk with integrity; you will be truth. Truth is to know all these things

It is my hope that you will read this message with the understanding that I speak with sincerity and from the heart. I have only the best intentions for your children’s well being. My job is quite simple – to support the teaching and learning that takes place in this school. The truth is… with your involvement and support we can provide the best educational opportunities for your children.

Please do drop by the school and say hello. I can also be reached by e-mail at iudow@wsd1.org .

Ira Udow