THE CHANGING FACE OF EDUCATION

Over the past decade, we have seen an unprecedented rise in the amount of information available to people and to the interconnectedness of people around the world.  To continue to offer a rich diversity of engaging programs to students, we, too need to grow.  Students need to not only be competent in reading, writing and mathematics, but also 21st century skills .  They must be inspired to navigate the sea of information through speaking, writing, multi-media, and creativity.  Students need to become more globally aware and learn to collaborate with people face-to-face and around the world.  A well-rounded education is no longer just the three R’s; success in the future will require digital-age literacy, inventive thinking, effective communication and high productivity.  Are we ready?

The Global Learner program is designed to prepare students for the future, and to bring students, staff and parents together through collaboration and responsive partnerships.  We have chosen three school-wide themes, addressing learning outcomes at all grade levels, across subjects, and aimed at developing global awareness.  Under the umbrella themes of Children of the World, World Leaders & Leadership, and Global Stewardship, students will take part in focused inquires which include progressive learning outcomes focusing on 21st century skills.

HOW MIGHT THIS LOOK?

Beginning in September 2008, with the theme of Children of the World, students in grade seven might be learning about what life was like for a child in ancient Egypt and a grade three student might be learning what life was like for a pioneer child in Canada.  Each of the focused-inquiries include a writing and communication component.  Each term, students will choose two Fine Art/Media Literacy workshops in which  they will participate with multi-aged groups of peers one afternoon each week.  Workshops will be offered in music, dance, drama, visual and digital arts.  Students will explore a variety of inventive literacies, develop critical thinking skills, and build effective communication skills essential for success in today’s society.

FOCUS ON LEADERSHIP, SOCIAL & CIVIC RESPONSIBILITY

Another emphasis of the Global Learner program is a focus on leadership and social and civic responsibility.  At the primary and intermediate level, common lessons will be taught.  Students will rotate through a series of workshops focusing on leadership, organization, communication, friendship, study skills, virtues, and cyber safety.  This focus will be maintained throughout the year, as each grade level will be expected to demonstrate civic-mindedness as ambassadors of our school.  As an example, grade 7 students will have the privilege and responsibility to organize and run Code of Conduct assemblies, grade 6 students will be Peer Counselors, grade 5 students will be Safety Patrollers and Welcome Ambassadors for guests and new families, etc.  We will continue to work with our senior students on Student Council, and Student Athletic Council.

CELEBRATING & HONOURING OUR STUDENTS

To honour student learning, Montroyal will host three special Open House events during the year.  The dates are set, and our Partnerships for the Future committee, comprised of staff, parents, and students are currently planning.  In December, we will hold an Arts Gallery Gala, featuring drama & visual arts by students from Kindergarten through grade 7, within the theme “Children of the World.”  Later in the year, Montroyal will host a “Night of the Notables”, and an “Inventive Thinking”  celebration as a finale to the year. 

Are our students globally aware?  self-directed?  problem solvers?  effective communicators?  innovative?  ARE WE?  Let’s learn, share and grow, with our students, into the 21st century...