Fuelling Passion

Dear Greenwood Community, 

It's hard to believe we are eight weeks into the school year. The last few weeks have been busy ones – though I'm sure my colleagues and our students would agree this is the case each fall. With courses, extra-curriculars, outdoor education, field trips and more, the academic year always gets off to a busy start.

As Principal of our school, I often find myself caught up in a whirlwind of timely issues that impact our families as well as important administrative tasks and responsibilities that seem to quickly fill up each day and week. These demands can make it challenging to step away from my office and engage with what matters most: our students and life at Greenwood!

I had the opportunity last week to drop-in to a Grade 7 Drama Class. I had recently returned from an out-of-town conference, and was invited to spend a few minutes accompanying a photographer who was taking photos around the school that day. While I knew emails were waiting, phone calls had to be returned and there was work to be done, I decided to take this much-needed opportunity to see some Greenwood students in action. And I'm so pleased that I did. 

During this lesson, the Grade 7s were working in small groups to dramatize short poems. The students took turns presenting, then their peers and teacher Ms. Borden offered thoughtful feedback. The performances were delightful, and the students were engaged and enthusiastic as they discussed the things they did well and ways to improve. I was quickly reminded of the joy that comes from seeing our students engage, learn and grow. While I planned to stay for only a few minutes, I found myself staying to watch each group.

This simple but meaningful experience really fuelled my passion for our work here at Greenwood. With these drama performances on my mind, I can envision myself and other members of the senior leadership team as part of the stage crew that works behind the scenes to ensure that the performers (staff and students) have the support that they need and the systems and structures in place to support student learning and growth. 

Connecting this past week with students has been energizing. I look forward to more opportunities to connect, learn, and work together with our students for the betterment of our school community.