As I write this message to you, I am watching the sun rise over the apple orchards nestled in the Annapolis Valley in Nova Scotia. It is a stunning scene, and sets the stage perfectly for the Leadership Summit that I have been attending this week on behalf of our members, alongside Acting Executive Director, Magdalena Kassis, and Director, Member Support Services, Carmen Eberle.
British Columbia, Ontario, and Nova Scotia are the only Canadian jurisdictions where school leaders are not members of the provincial teachers’ unions. I think you will agree, by the merit of your own experiences and opportunities, that our work in BC can include layers of complexity that might be very different than the same work and role complexity in other provinces.
The BCPVPA has been pleased to connect at the Summit with the organizations representing public school leaders in our three provinces: Ontario Principals’ Council (OPC), L'Association des directions et des directions adjointes des écoles franco-ontariennes (The Association of Directors and Assistant Directors of Franco-Ontarian Schools) (ADFO), the Catholic Principals’ Council of Ontario (CPCO), and The Public School Administrators Association of Nova Scotia (PSAANS). The Summit presents a unique opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue with our peers from other provinces, and to collaborate on advancing our collective vision for educational leadership. The topics we have delved into this week include the evolving needs of leaders; best practices to engage with reconciliation, equity, diversity, and inclusion; and the best ways to equip our respective organizations to meet the changing needs of our members in our education environments.
By sharing our insights, successes, and challenges, we aim to develop actionable plans that will not only enhance our individual practices, but also contribute to the broader educational landscape in Canada.
As we come together, our shared experiences will help shape a collaborative approach to addressing the evolving needs of our schools and communities. The Summit is not only an opportunity to learn from others, but also amplifies the BCPVPA’s voice in national conversations about educational leadership.
Ultimately, improved student outcomes are at the heart of our work; they reflect our commitment to creating environments where every student can thrive. By examining how different provinces address critical issues in education and leadership, we can uncover innovative approaches and strategies that drive academic and personal success for students. Whether through enhancing instructional practices, integrating technology effectively, or fostering supportive school cultures, our collective insights will be invaluable in shaping effective strategies that benefit all students.
I look forward to returning from the Summit with fresh perspectives and ideas that will further enrich our work here in British Columbia. Your ongoing support and engagement are vital as we continue to strive for excellence in educational leadership. As always, stay in touch, and reach out if you have any thoughts or questions!