PRAIRIE LAND PRIDE Small schools preparing students for big futures. Prairie Land Regional Division #25 Issue 3, May 2016 Robotics Students Preparing for the Future I magine a world where you go into the hardware store and instead of a human sales assistant helping you, a robot guides you to the precise aisle and locates the exact screws you need. Or imagine grabbing a quick bite to eat – you place your order and pay via touchscreen, your order is then cooked by a robot chef and delivered to you at the counter or even to your table by a robotic waitress. As futuristic as these scenarios sound, it is estimated that within the next decade they will soon be a reality. Advancements in technology and robotics are changing the world and today’s students will be at the forefront. “Imagine the impact it will have when thousands of fifth graders graduate with the ability to build robots,” asks Dennis Kambeitz, Education and Business Development for EZ Robots. “It will be part of their basic understanding.” Much like their ease with computers and technology, robotics will soon become second nature to many students, and those students will have a distinct advantage in the work force. “We need to look at how we educate our children,” he says, adding educating students now about technology and robotics will play a pivotal role in their future. Prairie Land is one of a handful of school divisions across Alberta that is giving its students the opportunity to experience this great technology first-hand. “Prairie Land is ahead of the curve than many other school districts in the province,” said Kambeitz who praises the division’s decision to offer high quality robotics education. Continued on page 2. Inside this Issue Test Taking tips from Project REACH Page 4 Local Students Passionate about Rodeo Page 6 SWAT Team an Influence at JCC Page 10 Rattlesnakes at Berry Creek Page 11 Physics 30 Investigates Collisions Page 13 Students Learn about Poverty Page 15 Prairie Land Pride 1 PLRD Students Designing Their Own Robots Continued from Page 1. Berry Creek Community School, Delia School, Morrin School, J.C. Charyk and Youngstown School all offer robotics to its students as a junior or senior high option. The schools use a variety of programs including Lego Mindstorms NXT and the extremely popular EZ Robot program. Some of the things students learn are general programming, mechanical engineering terms and application, developing 3D models and instructions, functional use of electricity, etc. As technical as it sounds, Youngstown teacher, Michael MacKay says most of his students are able to quickly develop a keen understanding of robotics. “After a while some things become second nature to many students and they even think differently, it is very interesting to see this transformation,” said MacKay, one of the division’s teachers with a background in technology whose understanding is an asset to his school. Youngstown School utilizes EZ Robots – a Calgary based company that is changing the way people look at robotics. “EZ Robots makes robotics so easy to use and do that anyone can do it,” said Kambeitz. EZ Robots provides an affordable, full-featured, easy to use robot platform that allows building robots to be easy and fun. With step-by-step instructions, clip and play parts and EZ Builder software, EZ Robots allows almost anyone to create a robot. “The largest benefit of using this program is that it takes care a lot of the complexity and knowledge needed to start doing robotics,” said MacKay. “Students that do not know how to solder, create circuits or even program can still create functional robots.” Prairie Land Pride Youngstown students have completed a number of challenges with their robots. Elementary students created custom actions, mostly kicks and punches; dance offs; a camera system that tracked and took videos of students, even cleaning robots that could mop and vacuum. Jr/Sr High students created a homemade calculator program, interactive short stories, quadrupedal and bipedal custom movements, and Robo-Olympics where students chose events (running, handstands and hanging from bars) and designed robots around them. “Robotics turns students from consumers of technology to creators of technology,” explains MacKay. “The use of robotics and other programs like it empowers students to become creators. This means they are no longer passively absorbing information, but they are actively creating it in their own schemas.” Giving students an opportunity to create something with such cutting-edge technology is a great way to engage students and get them excited about learning. “Robotics have a huge upside in terms of the potential of being an engine that accelerates learning, collaboration, problem solving and engagement,” said Deputy Superintendent Steven Nielsen, who has seen first-hand how engrossed Prairie Land students are in their robotics projects. The training and experience these students are receiving will benefit greatly in the future. According to Kambeitz, “Students will have a hard time getting jobs without this knowledge. Kambeitz speaks with great conviction about the future and the economic impact of Software Substitution – the replacement of human jobs by computers/technology. By exposing students to robotics and other technology, they will be that much farther ahead come graduation. For more information about EZ Robots visit https://www.ezrobot.com/. Images courtesy of EZ Robot. 2 Combining the Resources of Public Libraries and Small Schools T ypically, rural areas and small schools have limited resources. However, with today’s technology many small communities find themselves with a wealth of resources at their fingertips. Most municipalities have a public library, however in some small towns the public library is housed within the local school; such is the case for four PLRD schools. Veteran Municipal Library is a public library housed in the school, however it is not associated with any library system. Berry Creek, Consort and Delia are school housed libraries part of the Marigold Library System. “It definitely enhances the collection and the variety of resources, giving residents greater access,” said Laura Taylor, Assistant Director for the Marigold Library System, describing school housed public libraries. “The Marigold Library System has a wide breadth of resources; and a small community has access to all of this because of the connections between the school and the library.” Marigold has 3.29 million titles in their online catalogue, which does not include eBooks, eAudio, eMagazines, etc. The partnership between Marigold and Prairie Land Regional Division has a long withstanding history and it benefits both students and community members. “Our community is very fortunate,” said Susan Conners, librarian at Berry Creek. “When the school was built in 1995 it was decided to include a huge area in the centre of the building to develop a schoolhoused public library.” It was a decision that has benefited many. Servicing a population of approximately 350, Berry Creek Library, as well as the ones in Delia and Consort, has become a hub in its community. “Our library is fortunate to have 100% of the students as library card holders,” said Conners, adding the resources available to students and teachers is immeasurable. From inter-library loans and a vast online catalogue to eResources like Mango, Prairie Land Regional Division #25 Box 670, 101 Palliser Trail Hanna, AB T0J 1P0 Phone: 403-854-4481 Fax: 403-854-2803 Toll Free: 1-800-601-3898 Prairie Land Pride is a monthly publication focusing on the incredible work of our staff and students. Tumblebooks, Solaro, Freegal, etc. and video conferences, students and community members can access information that may otherwise not have been available without the school-housed library. It is partnerships such as these which PLRD prides itself on, ensuring students have access to resources that will enable them to receive the best education possible. “Anytime you can work with your community, there is a sense of belonging and support between the school and the community itself,” said Superintendent Cam McKeage. “These partnerships are critical in our division.” At Berry Creek, many of the programs available can be utilized by both students and adults; for example, the eResouces such as Mango and Freegal. Other times it is a leisure night course such as cold fusion that was easily offered to students as an art project. “Our resources, our programs, our technology – it is all thanks to having a public library situated in our school,” said Conners. For more information about the Marigold Library System visit http://www.marigold.ab.ca/. Prairie Land Regional Division Small schools leading Education in Alberta. http://www.plrd.ab.ca/ For more information or to submit story ideas please email tanya.duckworth@plrd.ab.ca. Prairie Land Pride 3 Test Taking Techniques and Strategies for Various Tests Project REACH Multiple Choice Read the question before you look at the answers. Come up with the answer in your head before looking at the possible answers. Eliminate answers you know aren’t right. Read all the choices before choosing your answer. If there is no guessing penalty, always take an educational guess and select an answer. Don’t keep changing your answer, usually your first choice is the right one, unless you miss-read the question. Manage your minutes. Flip through the whole test and manage your time. Do several “sweeps.” Answer the ones you know first, then the ones you’re pretty sure about. Leave the head scratchers for last. Short Answer To study — use flashcards. Write the key terms, dates and concepts on the front and the definitions, event and explanation on the back. Try to anticipate questions that will be asked on the test and prepare for them. Usually what your instructor emphasizes in class will be on the test. qualifiers and keywords. Qualifiers like “never, always and every” mean that the statement must be true all of the time. Usually these type of qualifiers lead to a false answer. Qualifiers like “usually, sometimes and generally” mean that the statement can be considered true or false depending on the circumstances. Usually these type of qualifiers lead to an answer of true. If any part of the question is false, then the entire statement is false, but just because part of a statement is true doesn’t necessarily make the entire statement true. Essay Questions Read the directions carefully; pay close attention to whether you are supposed to answer all of the questions or only a specified amount (i.e. answer two out of the three questions). Make sure you write down everything that is asked of you and more. The more details and facts you write down the better. Budget your time, don’t spend the entire test time on one essay. If the question is asking for facts, do not give your personal opinion on the topic. Try not to leave an answer blank, come back to it after you finish When writing your essay, try to be as neat as possible. Make an outline before writing your essay. This way your essay the rest of the test and make an educated guess. Other parts of the test may give you clues to what the answer may be. Don’t write long introductions and conclusions, the bulk of your If you can think of more than one answer for a question, ask the instructor what to do. Read the question carefully and make sure that you answer everything that it asks for; some short answer questions have multiple parts. True / False Usually there are more true answers than false on most tests. If there is no guessing penalty, guess; you have a 50% chance of getting the right answer. Read through each statement carefully and pay attention to the Prairie Land Pride will be more organized and fluid. time should be spent on answering the question(s) asked. Focus on one main idea per paragraph. If you have time left at the end proofread your work and correct any errors. Budget your time. If you have an hour to write 3 essays, spend no more than 20 minutes on each essay, then if you have time left over go back and finish an incomplete essays. If you aren’t sure about an exact date or number then use approximations, i.e. “Approximately 5,000” or “In the late 17th Century.” If you make a mistake, simply draw a line through it; it is much neater and quicker than erasing it. 4 Tips for Parents: How to Handle Stress Before, During and After Student Exams Before Make sure your child gets plenty of sleep, both the night before as well as several days leading up to the assessment. Provide a high quality breakfast and lunch (in case the exam is in the afternoon). Try to keep a normal routine, perhaps scaling back on after-school activities. Allow plenty of time for physical activity, free play and opportunities to unwind. Be positive and point out all of the things your child does well. Remind him/her that he or she is well prepared for the test and will likely do well. Be patient and be prepared to listen to your child’s concerns. Answer questions honestly and with short answers. Monitor your own anxiety. Maintain realistic, attainable goals and expectations for your child. Accept mistakes as a normal part of growing up. Let your child know that no one is expected to be perfect. Teach your child a few relaxation / stress management strategies such as: * Deep controlled breathing * Mindfulness exercises * Listening to relaxing music * Asking them what things might help them relax Share a time when you felt anxious or nervous. If needed, seek help from the school, the child’s teacher or a family resource worker. During If your son or daughter becomes anxious during a test help them find ways to calm down. * Deep breathing (breathing in through the nose and out through the mouth in a smooth motion). * Calming statements such as simply saying “Relax,” quietly to oneself. * Shift negative thoughts to more positive coping thoughts such as “I will do the best I can” or “I prepared well for this test.” * Focusing on the problems that are easier first and then going back to the more difficult problems. After Ask one or two general questions about the test, such as “How did it go?” Do NOT ask questions such as “How many do you think you got wrong?” or “Do you think you did better than the other kids?” Remind them that “Sure tests are important, and you need to do your best, but remember that there are other things that matter and are more important things.” It’s Test Day...Are you Ready? cool. Use your time wisely. Exercise, stretch and do relaxation breathing. Read the questions on the exam carefully. Have a healthy breakfast and avoid caffeine. Don’t freak out if you cannot remember something, take a deep breath and move to the next questions. Do positive visualization exercises. * Close your eyes and breath deeply. * Picture yourself writing your exam with little stress and lots of confidence. Arrive to the exam early and prepared. Bring extra pens and pencils. When the exam time begins, do a quick brain dump or mind map on scrap paper to get your thoughts organized. Scan the exam and pace yourself. Start steady and stay Prairie Land Pride Engage in positive self talk. Your mind needs positive thoughts and feelings to be productive. Stop any negative self talk and turn it into encouraging, positive words. When you have completed the exam look it over before you hand it in. After the exam reward yourself. “Let it go,” move on and do not ponder on what you did not know on the exam. 5 High School Rodeo — It’s a Way of Life A fter school sports are a way of life for many students, from spending countless hours practicing after class to travelling on weekends for tournaments, meets, etc. Hockey, lacrosse, dance, swimming, soccer – the list goes on and on. However, for some Alberta students, their sport comes with a bit more adrenalin – RODEO. There are 430 students from grades 6 to 12 that participate in the Alberta High School Rodeo Association, in the junior or high school division. Over the years Prairie Land students have made a name for themselves. Currently students from J.C. Charyk School, Consort School and Berry Creek Community School all participate in the high school rodeo circuit. Incorporated in 1972, the Alberta High School Rodeo Association (AHSRA) encourages students to practice rodeo while still focusing on their studies. “It gives kids a chance to rodeo with their peers,” said Betty Leischner, the province secretary for the association, adding students must submit a release form from their school stating their grades are in good standing. Tammy Burns, administrative assistant with J.C. Charyk, helps rodeo students with fundraising. She also comes from a long-standing rodeo family and is a proud mother who is passionate about the program. “The High School Rodeo’s mandate is that students must be in good academic and attendance standing to be eligible to compete at the rodeos, which helps motivate students to work hard at school,” said Burns. Following in his parents’ footsteps, Burns’ son Denton, Grade 6, now takes part in the Wrangler Junior division in breakaway roping and team roping. Burns explains that Denton’s team roping partner is Trey Erion from Castor, AB, “His dad and I used to rodeo together years ago.” “The people we see at the rodeos are generations of cowboys and cowgirls. Prairie Land Pride Lots of the parents are people that my husband high school rodeoed with years ago.” Leischner concurs, “We see kids competing where their parents use to rodeo. We are even starting to see third generations compete in high school rodeo.” She also says there are more and more first generation kids getting involved in the sport. So why rodeo? Why are students passionate about getting involved or carrying on the family tradition? “It’s a lifestyle and that is how we were raised and how our children are raised,” said Burns. Grade 12 JCC student, Logan Elder who has been competing in saddle bronc riding for three years, also comes from a rodeo family. “I believe it has helped me because I can get advice from my own family members that have competed in my same event.” Like any sport, the skills students learn are endless. Responsibility, sportsmanship, organizational skills as many are multi-event participants, self-discipline, goal setting, etc. – high school rodeo participants are some of the most dedi- cated athletes you will meet. “Rodeo makes kids develop attributes that will serve them well throughout their lives and give them the opportunity's to be successful regardless what path they choose,” said Burns. “Participating in rodeo has taught me about responsibility, how much work it takes to reach your ultimate goal and how to focus on a commitment to achieve your desired outcomes,” said Abigail Warwick, a Grade 10 student at JCC. Again like other sports, students dedicate a huge amount of time practicing, travelling to rodeos. High school rodeo students participate in 20 rodeos during the year, while the junior members travel to 16 rodeos. The AHSRA is divided into three districts to help cut down on travelling expenses. Depending on their success, students can qualify for the Canadian High School Rodeo Finals and the National High School Rodeo Finals. According to Leischner, Alberta students are very strong and can often be found within the top 15 states and provinces at the national finals. Continued on page 7. Wyatt Simpson, Grade 11 student from Consort School, holds on tight in the saddle bronc event. Simpson has qualified for Alberta High School Rodeo Finals in Grande Prairie, AB. 6 Local Students Successful at Jr/Sr Rodeo Continued from page 6. She also says many of the top participants at the Canadian Finals Rodeo and the National Finals Rodeo are past high school rodeo participants. The AHRA provides the opportunity for scholarships, buckles and prize money. However, most rodeo students are proud to just participate in this amazing culture, that promotes western lifestyle and heritage. “Rodeo creates lifelong friendships that will last generations,” said Burns. In addition to the AHSRA, some students participate in the Canadian Professional Rodeo Association (CPRA). According to Katy Lucas, Director of Marketing/Communications/Public Relations with the CPRA there are some minimum ages for certain events. Rough stock (saddle bronc riding, bull riding and bareback riding) participants must be 18. Timed events (tie down roping, team roping, steer wrestling and ladies barrel racing) do not have a minimum age so students are able to participate. “We also have Novice events (novice saddle bronc and novice bareback riding) that have a minimum age of 16 and maximum of 21. There is also Steer Riding or Junior Steer Riding that has an age of 1115,” said Lucas. Youngstown student Dixon Tattrie, Grade 8, and JCC student JW Hart are both steer riders with the CPRA. Dixon Tattrie, Grade 8 student from Youngstown School, is a steer rider with the CPRA. Last year Tattrie qualified for the Canadian Finals Rodeo in Edmonton and currently sits in 8th position. Abby Grantham, Grade 8 student from JCC, finished 4th overall season leader and ended up 7th overall in goat tying. She also finished 6th overall in barrel racing. Abbegayle Brady, Grade 7 student from JCC, participates in barrel racing, poles and goat tying this season in the Alberta High School Rodeo Association. PLRD Rodeo Participants Love their Sport Pictured at left: Abigail Warwick, a Grade 10 student from JCC participates in barrel racing, poles and goat tying. Warwick was sitting in the top 10 early in the season but her barrel horse suffered an injury. Pictured at right: Darrion Percival, a Grade 6 student from Consort School is a saddle bronc rider, bareback rider and a steer rider. He is currently in 3rd overall in saddle bronc. Prairie Land Pride 7 Prairie Land Students Take Pride in Rodeo Kegan Bishell, Grade 7 student from Consort School, is the BAC bareback Provincial Champion, BAC saddle bronc - 4th overall in the province and bull riding - 5th in the standings. Bishell chose not to compete at Provincial Finals in this event. He also qualified for Nationals in Tennessee but is opting out this year. Bishell also qualified for Canadians in bareback and saddle bronc in Nanton the last weekend in July, competing against teams from BC, SK, and MB. Denton Burns, Grade 6 student from JCC had a very good year on the rodeo circuit. Coming into breakaway roping in 20th position, he finished 2nd in the average and 4th overall. In team roping he also placed 3rd in the average and finished 4th overall with his partner Trey Erion from Castor. Burns qualified for the Jr. High National Finals Rodeo in Tennessee in both events and will be representing Alberta and JCC in breakaway roping and team roping with Erion. Logan Elder, Grade 12 student from JCC, is leading District 2 saddle bronc, with two rodeos left. His closest competitor is only one point behind him, so he’ll have to do well at the next two in order to keep his status as season leader. Provincial finals are the first weekend in June at Grande Prairie. Last year Elder qualified for the National High School Rodeo Finals in Rock Springs, Wyoming in saddle bronc, an accomplishment he is very proud of. Memorable Rodeo Season for BCCS Rookie It’s not often a young girl is taken under the wing of a group of cowboys to learn how to rope. For Grade 6 Berry Creek student Kendal Pierson, she was fortunate to be able to learn the tricks of the trade with the men at the Sandhills Roping Club near Cessford, AB, and she hasn’t stopped since. In her rookie year, Pierson competed in ribbon roping, team roping, breakaway roping, barrel racing, pole bending and goat tying. She won the Season Leader buckle for the breakaway, and ended up Reserve Rookie of the Year (behind a girl in grade 8). She made it to the Alberta Provincial Finals in five of the events, ending the weekend in 3rd overall in breakaway roping. She also participated in a Light Rifle competition and ended up as the top female shooter and in fifth place overall. Pierson will travel to Lebanon, TN in June to represent her school and province in the National Junior High Rodeo Finals in breakaway roping and light rifle competition. There are many reasons why Pierson loves rodeo, the horses, the competition, the hardware (prizes and buckles) and the friends from all over the province. Pierson’s mother Connie explains, “There's competition in rodeo, but at the same time they all do what they can to help each other out to win, even though they will be competing against each other — something unique to this sport.” “Kendal has proven that hard work and the willingness to learn from others BCCS student Kendal Pierson, Grade 6 shows speed can get you places.” and determination during a breakaway roping event. Prairie Land Pride 8 Teacher from UK fits in well with Colony Schools T he landscape of Alberta is as diverse as the people For local Hutterite colonies, community is a principle that who call Alberta home. PLRD is no different – here guides their daily life and Fielding says it is an amazing experiyou will meet the most amazing students, families ence to be a part of. and staff members. “There is a real trust among the families, that they are all The division is home to teachers from around the world, and working for the good of the colony, both in the socio-economic for Shaun Fielding, who hails from the UK, his first year in sense, but also in a spiritual sense.” Prairie Land has been a memorable one. “There is a certain purity to their lives that is Fielding teaches grades 4-9 at two colodifficult not to admire and respect.” “The colonies value ny schools, Neu Muehl Colony and The colonies follow the Alberta curriculum, the variety of ways Handhills Colony. He teaches the writing however students only attend until their 15th portion of ELA, Social Studies, Health, birthday so Fielding says there is a lot of key the teaching and PE/DPA and shares mathematics. skills and capabilities to cram into that short support staff instill “It certainly is a unique opportunity to time frame. the above into their experience something very few people in “However, the students are motivated, eager the world get to do,” said Fielding, adding and committed to achieving excellence and children.” the opportunity to teach in the Hutterite setting themselves up for success,” he said. colonies was one he could not pass up. Like anything there are some challenges, such Shaun Fielding, Fielding and his wife Julia, knew they as English is not always their first language PLRD teacher at Neu Muehl always wanted to live abroad and after and the colonies do not allow the use of any Colony and Handhills visiting Canada a few times they knew technology. Colony. they would have a higher quality of life in But kids are kids and Fielding says the are Canada. great fun. They came to Canada in 2008, originally settling in Ottawa. “They are extremely curious, inquisitive and share my dry They then moved to Edmonton, back east to Toronto, then sense of humor so there is quite a bit of banter in the classWhitby, ON and recently back to Alberta. room.” He does his best to encourage the students and introduce “We missed the ‘big skies’ of Alberta when we were in Onthem to new experiences and learning opportunities. tario.” It has not only been a learning experience for the students, but Alberta is also known for its sense of community, particularly for Fielding as well as he found himself immersed in the Hutterin rural communities. ite culture. “Families are incredibly appreciative of what the teachers and educational assistants try to do and they are extremely generous,” he laughs, saying they are fed quite regularly at the colonies. The colony teachers are highly valued by the families. “Colonies understand the importance of what a public education can do for their children in providing the skills, capacities, knowledge, thinking, communication and application necessary to enable them to participate in Canadian society, economy and culture.” “The colonies value the variety of ways the teaching and support staff instill the above into their children,” explains Fielding. With nine colony schools in PLRD, teachers work together to ensure students receive a high quality education. They must also ensure that education expectations of the school division and the province are met while respecting the culture and values of the families. “The sense of collectivity and collegiality among the colony school staff has impressed me during this first year,” he said, adding the other staff members are a great resource. Fielding and his wife Julia live in Drumheller with their boys, Alastair (8) ad Evan (6). Fielding has been teaching since 2004 and has a background Shaun Fielding surveys the Alberta prairie landscape which he now calls home. in academic research and policy consulting. Prairie Land Pride 9 JCC SWAT Team Encourages Healthy Living Group working on naturalized interactive playground. M any students take pride in their school, helping keep classrooms and common areas clean, working to make it a healthier place for students and staff. Junior and senior high students often take a leadership role when it comes to promoting health and wellness in their school. “If students have some investment in their school they take ownership,” said Nadine Hein, the PLRD School Health Facilitator with Alberta Health Services. Hein works directly with the J.C. Charyk Student Wellness Action Team (SWAT) which is made up of seven students dedicated to encouraging healthy behaviors as well as creating a positive school environment. One of the major goals of the SWAT team is to try and beautify the outside of the school, says Hein, adding the group is extremely dedicated to their cause. “The group developed the idea of what they wanted in an outdoor space, interviewed students in grades 1-9 and came up with a plan to build a naturalized interactive playground.” The SWAT team, which is made up of seven students in grades 8, 10 and 11, have a complete design for the outdoor space at JCC which includes a walking path, trees and shrubs, places to sit such as an outdoor classroom and even an outdoor chalkboard. “They are a really inventive group of kids,” adds Hein saying the students have approached numerous community groups for funding and support as well as made presentations to the school board. By beautifying their school grounds and developing inviting outdoor spaces, the group is hoping JCC will become a destination for community members and families. “Our group is striving to develop out- door spaces for both students and community members to enjoy as well as encourage people to develop active habits and enjoy the outdoors more,” said Tia Schnurer, Grade 11. In addition to creating a community gathering place, the SWAT team is also starting the school garden, planting herbs and vegetables for use in the concession and smoothie days. Ultimately the group wants to create a healthy school environment and the students are proud of their work. “The SWAT team is important to me because it allows me to actively participate in changing my school’s attitude and the culture surrounding healthy eating and active living,” said Grade 11 student Jordan Moench, adding while the group gets help from Hein and JCC/PLRD staff, the ideas and final decisions are made by the students. “In this way the SWAT team is truly a student run group.” J.C. Charyk Student Wellness Action Team members take pride in their school. Pictured from left to right are Kaite Wallace, Lindsey Voltner, Jocelyn Graham, Tia Schnurer, Mareena Hein, Jordan Moench and Troy McKeage. Prairie Land Pride 10 Students Learn about Rattlesnake Safety at Berry Creek T safe and what to do if ever bitten by a rattle snake. here are some things that students in Prairie Land The students also learned the differences between a rattlesnake learn that is not taught in other school districts. and a Ball Python, native to west central Africa. Unlike the ratBerry Creek students recently had a special presentatlesnake, the python is non-venomous and is a constrictor. tion about rattlesnakes. They learned about the feaTo the delight of some students (and the fear of others), Martures of the Prairie Rattlesnake, its habitat, and tips if they haptinson brought out Jackie, a Ball Python. pen to come across a snake. “It’s one thing to show pictures and videos of snakes and So why rattlesnakes? whole other experience if students are able to see one in person “Because of where we live,” answered Berry Creek Commuand touch it, if they are up to it,” said Martinson, adding Jackie nity School Principal Ryan Duckworth. is a relaxed, good natured snake and is the perfect snake for “It is also important to know more about an animal that could students to meet. be dangerous and is often misunderstood that lives in our area.” Most of the students, and some staff members, eagerly lined To educate the students, Duckworth brought in rattlesnake up for a chance touch the snake. expert Adam Martinson, who has been studying the rattlesnake “By teaching people a little bit about rattlesnakes, including population since 2008 at Dinosaur Provincial Park, a UNESCO the value that they provide (free rodent control) and that they World Heritage Site located 49 km south of Cessford. aren’t aggressive (no one has ever died from a rattlesnake bite in “Adam Martinson is a wealth of knowledge due to his reAlberta, and the snakes are usually more scared of us than we search and experience with rattlesnakes at Dinosaur Provincial are of them), I think people may look at them differently,” he Park,” said Duckworth, adding Martinson did a presentation a said. few years ago at BCCS and recently offered to come back. Martinson says rattlesnakes are a vital part of the southern The badlands at the provincial park are the perfect habitat for Alberta ecosystem. “If rattlesnakes were to disappear from the rattlesnakes, who like dry grasslands and sagebrush, rock piles land, we would likely see a significant increase in rodent popuand boulders says Martinson. This is also the type of environlations, which would then have a significant effect on vegetation ment found around Cessford and Wardlow so many Berry Creek health and agricultural productivity.” students have their own snake encounter stories, which they “I also believe they are such a unique species that it would be were excited to share with Martinson. a shame for future generations to not have the thrill of seeing a “All of the students are genuinely interested, ask great quesrattlesnake in the wild.” tions, often have excellent snake stories of their own to share, For more information on the Prairie Rattlesnake visit http:// and I hope, walk away with a new appreciation for an often misaep.alberta.ca/fish-wildlife/species-at-risk/species-at-riskunderstood species,” said Martinson, adding it is important to publications-web-resources/reptiles/default.aspx. teach students, as well as adults, about rattlesnakes. You can learn more about Dinosaur Park by visiting http:// “Ultimately the more we know about rattlesnakes and wildlife www.albertaparks.ca/dinosaur.aspx.a in general, the more inclined we are to go out of our way to try and conserve these species,” he explains. “If we want to conserve species in the future, it is today’s students that are going to lead those efforts.” In Canada the Prairie Rattlesnake is found in southeastern Alberta and parts of southern Saskatchewan, and is currently listed as “May be at Risk,” by Alberta Fish and Wildlife. However, because there is not enough information about snake populations, this species has also been designated a “Species of Special Concern.” Conservation of this species is one of the reasons Martinson started his research project, and thanks to projects like his, more information is known about rattlesnakes and how to protect them. “As I learned more about the conservation challenges facing some of these species, I wanted to focus my research on what could be done to help.” During his presentation at BCCS, Martinson tested the students’ knowledge about rattlesnakes by starting off with true and false questions. Many were surprised to learn something new. Students BCCS student Kenzie Lucas pets Jackie, a ball python, during a presentation on learned how to identify a rattlesnake, how to stay snakes. Prairie Land Pride 11 Hanna Primary Spirit Days Build School Culture S chool culture – it is a school’s values and beliefs; symbols and stories; it is the heart of the school. This year central administration put forth a challenge to all of the schools in Prairie Land – “Examine your school and look for new ways to improve the culture of your school.” “In looking at our previous AERR (Annual Education Results Report) and survey results, it was clear that culture needed to be a focal point going forward if we were to enhance student learning,” said Superintendent Cam McKeage. “We recognize that school culture generally refers to the beliefs, perceptions, relationships, attitudes, and written and unwritten rules that shape and influence every aspect of how a school functions, but within PLRD, we also expect to encompass more concrete issues such as the physical and emotional safety of students, the orderliness of classrooms and public spaces, and the degree to which a school embraces and celebrates racial, ethnic, linguistic or cultural diversity.” All PLRD schools have been working to improve their school culture and Hanna Primary has even involved its school council. “When we brought this challenge to the school council, the council chairperson Jackie Gold-Irwin suggested that we look at forming school houses in an effort to help students from grade 4 to kindergarten get to know each other better” said Hanna Primary Principal Audra Limpert, adding Gold-Irwin remembers having school houses when she was a child. She found they were a great way to promote collaboration and pride in the school. Hanna Primary has four spirit teams, made up of students from each grade, that work together during spirit days completing tasks and supporting each other. The Grade 4 students are the leaders for the teams. “The spirit days helped our grade four students to have a leadership role (planning and organizing the day’s events),” explains Limpert. “It has helped to build multi-graded bonds and friendships between students.” The school has hosted four spirit days so far, Pirate Day of Respect, Fall (Halloween), Winter (Christmas) and Spring (Easter). During each of the spirit days there is usually a decorating component (classroom doors, Christmas trees, Easter eggs), a group competition – a mummy wrap, dance off, Easter egg hunt, and grade specific relay races (reindeer races, unwrapping multi-wrapped gifts with mitts on, bunny races, eggs on spoons, etc.). Points are awarded during spirit days, and at the end of the year each team will earn a special field trip within the school district. Students are excited to participate in school events and have formed new friendships thanks to the spirit teams. The staff at Hanna Primary have worked hard to ensure students feel connected to their school and that their contributions are valued, which again is important in developing a positive school culture. School culture is thriving at Hanna Primary, which is evident in the students and staff, as well as parents and community members. When it comes to school culture McKeage says it is important to involve everyone. “PLRD involves all different types and pieces of culture in our division. These cultures include: school culture (student/ teacher/support staff/principal/parents/community), central office culture (students/school staff/CO staff/custodians/bus drivers/maintenance workers/parents/community) and all the interactions between each.” Building and encouraging school culture takes time and focus, however the value is immeasurable. “To be done correctly, this process will take time and effort but will be worth every minute if we are able to strengthen our culture to a place that ultimately benefits student learning,” said McKeage. Hanna Primary Grade 3 students are all smiles as they show off last year's harvest with volunteer Barb Burgemeister. Planting the school garden is underway for this year and it’s another way the school builds and promotes school culture among students, staff and community members. Prairie Land Pride 12 CONNECT WITH YOUR SCHOOL TODAY Altario School Phone: 403-552-3828 Fax: 403-552-3882 Address: General Delivery Altario, Alberta T0C 0E0 Berry Creek Community School Phone: 1-844-566-3743 Fax: 403-566-3736 Address: General Delivery Cessford, Alberta T1R 1E2 Consort School Phone: 403-577-3654 Fax: 403-577-2112 Address: 5215 50 Street Bag Service 1002 Consort, Alberta T0C 1B0 Delia School Phone: 403-364-3777 Fax: 403-364-3805 Address: Box 236 Delia, Alberta T0J 0W0 Hanna Primary Phone: 403-854-3694 Fax: 403-854-2649 Address: 618 1st Street East Box 1237 Hanna, Alberta T0J 1P0 J.C.Charyk Hanna School Phone: 403-854-3642 Fax: 403-854-4759 Address: 801 4th Street West Box 1270 Hanna, Alberta T0J 1P0 Morrin School Phone: 403-772-3838 Fax: 403-772-3868 Address: Box 10 Morrin, Alberta T0J 2B0 Veteran School Phone: 403-575-3915 Fax: 403-575-3870 Address: 201 Lucknow Street Box 649 Veteran, Alberta T0C 2S0 Youngstown School Phone: 403-779-3822 Fax: 403-779-3868 Address: Box 69 Youngstown, Alberta T0J 3P0 Colony Schools Contact Darryl Hern at Delia School Phone: 403-364-3777 Darryl.hern@plrd.ab.ca Prairie Land Pride Learning Physics with RCMP Collision Analyst F or some subjects, it is sometimes hard to show students that what they are learning in class can be used in the real world. Teachers often find themselves trying to engage students, showing them real life applications, which is exactly what Morrin science teacher Roberta Moriarty did for her Physics 30 VC class for Morrin, JCC, Youngstown and Berry Creek students. “It’s important to show students what they do in class can be applied in the real world,” said Moriarty. Moriarty invited RCMP Constable Eric Doucette to show Physics 30 students how he uses physics equations and applications when reconstructing vehicle collisions. Doucette is a Collision Analyst with the Drumheller RCMP. He is responsible for analyzing motor vehicle accidents, reconstructing scenes and determining the cause of the accident “When you go to a motor vehicle accident, one of the first questions is, ‘Was the vehicle at fault, the driver at fault or was it the environment?’,” says Doucette. Doucette takes in all of the evidence at the scene – skid marks, debris fields, scuff marks, tire prints, positions of vehicles, etc. – photographing, recording and measuring every detail. When put together, these details can be used to calculate the speed a vehicle was travelling, stopping distance, vehicle trajectory, etc. It is these real life situations that students can appreciate. “The students liked how they could see a direct correlation outside of the classroom,” said Moriarty. Working with Doucette, the class was able to calculate the outcome of a variety of collisions, such as what happens when a vehicle is rear-ended or what happens when someone is texting and driving and they hit the shoulder of the road. “I was able to give them more than just numbers – the distance of a skid mark, for example – something they could picture,” said Doucette. “A lot of the equations I use are similar to the ones they are learning in class.” Moriarty says this is a great way for students to see the practical applications of what they are learning. Doucette agrees. “It’s great to be able to show them something practical and what they are learning is important.” In addition to showing them math and science being used outside of school, it is also a great opportunity for students to get to know their local RCMP officers. “It’s great for kids to get to know officers, not just as law enforcement officials,” said Doucette who enjoys working with the schools. Doucette, who has a mechanical background has been with the RCMP for five years, and the past three have been as a Collision Analyst. 13 Technology at the Forefront of Prairie Land Classrooms P rairie Land Regional Division is known for making use of cutting edge technology in its schools and classrooms. Whether it is new technology students will use when they enter the work force or a new device or program utilized by teachers, PLRD does its best to ensure its staff and students are at the forefront of technology. While having access to the technology is great, what’s more important is the ability to make use of the technology. “It’s not so much about the technology as it is the teacher's ability to determine how to best incorporate it into learning strategies to maximize learning potential,” said Deputy Superintendent Steven Nielsen. “From visiting other schools and school divisions, I can confidently say that PLRD is one of the leaders in terms of the amount of available technology we have for our students.” This year, each school has received a new Prowise table, a phenomenal tool that combines a computer, a TV, a touchscreen and a smart board all in one. “The Prowise Learning table is basically just a giant IPad but has the ability to have multiple students use it at the same time.” “It can either be used in a vertical (presentation) type of configuration or quickly be moved into a horizontal set up as a table where students can gather around,” explains Nielsen. Known for their ease of use, the Prowise touchscreens offer a 72” 4K Ultra HD screen, with 10 touchpoints, an integrated soundbar and microphone, and numerous features to ensure optimal performance and interactivity. With its sturdy wheels, the Prowise is easy to move from one room to another, making it available to everyone. Staff can just plug it in and get to work without having to worry installing programs or checking for updates. Veteran School Principal Angela Boyes says the Prowise is an extremely diverse and mobile tool. “Everyone in the school, from myself as a principal, to the teachers and educational assistants, even the office staff are excited to use the Prowise,” said Boyes, “and we are all excited for different reasons.” From use during presentations or putting on a slide show during parent teacher Prairie Land Pride Consort Kindergarten students (pictured from top to bottom) Braden, Owen and Grayson play an interactive adding game, Monkey Swing, with EA Miss Sarah Hadwin. The students use iPads to enter their answers and make their monkey climb the vine with every correct answer. Teacher Jenny Gallaway who uses the Prowise table quite a bit says, “This is the kids favorite game on the table.” interviews to teaching kindergartens how to count – the Prowise has something for everyone. “The Prowise table is extremely versatile in the sense that it can be used for so many different learning applications. It also comes with educational programming with a wide range of subjects, subject levels, and interactive activities to hopefully help increase engagement and fun while learning new concepts,” said Nielsen. The Prowise comes complete with a wide variety of apps for students of all ages to learn about math, science, social studies and language arts. Flash cards, memory, competitive math-based activities – these are just some of the interactive activities teachers and students can utilize. Teachers can even use ProConnect, which allows any internet-abled device to connect to the Prowise, allowing students to answer questions on their Chrome Books or tablets and then have their answers show up on the Prowise screen. “It’s amazing,” said Boyes, adding they have a junior high tech team who utilize the Prowise quite frequently. As Nielsen previously stated, it was important to PLRD that staff be trained to use the new equipment. “We also have two awesome IT staff members who have put on individual sessions for any schools who have requested.” To ensure their success, PLRD hosted a professional development session with the company. Jeff Schultz, with Electro- board Education in California was on hand to show staff exactly what the Prowise can do. “The Prowise is an amazing tool, with fantastic resources that are easy to learn,” said Schultz, Sales and Marketing Manager-Education with Electroboard Education. With the Prowise, you can search the internet, looking for images or videos. There are no ads or pop-ups and no inappropriate content, making it perfect for schools. “It opens your mind for endless opportunities,” he said, adding they are always looking for feedback. “We want to know about the things that matter to Canadian teachers.” According to Schultz, Prowise was launched in Canada in May 2015, after two years of use in the United States and Australia. The technology has been used in Europe since 2009. Each school is making use of the Prowise in different ways. “Some schools use the learning table mainly as a learning center for the classroom, some use it for presentations in areas of the school where technology was not available, and some have incorporated it into enhancing video conferencing classes,” said Nielsen. “We continue to listen to our principals, teachers and students and try our best to provide them with cutting edge technology that will be both well-used and act as a tool to help enhance learning.” For more information about the Prowise table visit https://www.prowise.com/. 14 Delia and Morrin Students Take Part in Emotional Poverty Simulation F or many Albertans poverty is a way of life. For those who have never experienced such devastating circumstances, it is hard to comprehend what life is like when you cannot provide the most basic needs for your family. Food, shelter, clothing, education, medical care – the list goes on. These are just a few of the things some people struggle with on a daily basis; wondering how they will make ends meet, how will they feed their family? On April 21, 2016 Hanna FCSS welcomed the United Way of Central Alberta to put on a Poverty Simulation, an event designed to create awareness about the everyday challenges people are faced with who live in poverty and low income situations. “Participants gained a real understanding of what life is like for those who are in this situation,” said Angela McGillion, Community Services Programmer for the Town of Hanna. “People were horrified and shocked to think this is what really happens.” For the simulation, 40 participants were given a name tag, accompanied with a package of information. From single mothers, college students, to young children and retirees – each had a story about their situation and a variety of challenges they had to face. There were four 15 minute sessions, each representing a one week in a month. Participants had to find ways to get their vehicle fixed so they could get to work, or get to the bank to pay their rent when they worked all day, or find a babysitter so they could get to school, etc. While the simulation was aimed towards adults, particularly those who work or volunteer with social service agencies, PLRD Family Resource Workers (FRW) Cayla Martin from Delia and Norma Jean Minchau from Morrin, both took two students to the simulation. “It was very real,” said Norma Jean Minchau, FRW. “You could sense the frustration of what people were going Prairie Land Pride through.” The simulation was extremely detailed said Minchau. From police, banks, day care, social service agencies to food banks, pawn shops and drug dealers – the scenarios were real life experiences. She explained her students were very moved by the experience. “I’m certain they will remember it forever.” “It was a great experience that opened our eyes up to a whole new world and reality,” said Jack Adams, Grade 10, from Morrin. Not only did the students learn about the various obstacles people are faced with, they gained empathy as well as a deeper appreciation for their own lives. “The simulation was so unique because it put you in the shoes of someone you might never be (i.e., a father of four, a teen mom, etc.) so the experience not only allowed you to gain insights into poverty, but also into the lives of others - encouraging that second level of empathy,” said Cayla Martin, FRW. Minchau and Martin believe the exercise was so impactful that they want to bring a similar experience to their schools for their students. “It’s something we need to do,” said Minchau, explaining all students should have a chance to “walk in someone else’s shoes.” The four students agree that the simulation is something everyone their age should experience. “I think after all the students participate in the simulation they will look at poverty in a different way and realize it is a serious thing that many people are dealing with,” said Delia student Taylor Olmstead, Grade 10. As for Hanna FCSS, the individuals involved agreed the experience showed them improvements that need to be made in order to help low income families. “People recognized we needed this simulation to understand what life is like for so many,” said McGillion, adding the overwhelming feedback showed the poverty simulation touched a lot of people. 15