About the Teacher
This will be year 5 at IRJC. I love what I do! I lead my classroom as a student centered place where everybody is welcome. It is a place to take risks, try new things, learn from mistakes, and grow as people. I am never content with the status quo and constantly look for new elements, teaching methods, etc. to bring into the classroom. I am originally from Saskatchewan but have lived in Alberta for ten years. Outside of school, I am busy with my wife and two children, either coaching baseball or watching the kids participate in their other activities.
Communication Between School and Home
An open communication line between school and home is essential to student success. While email and phone are always options, our class will use two tools to help open a window into our classroom.
Freshgrade is an online program that allows parents/guardians to track assessments, progress, and announcements. They can leave comments for the teacher or their student. It is a place to check
Freshgrade for Parents |
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Google Classroom is more for students than anybody. It is their one-stop for assignments and due dates. They can digitally turn in their work, which can be reviewed and sent back. It stores their work in a Google Drive folder. Students can post comments for the whole class to see which allows for an online discussion to take place. By allowing parent access, parent/guardians are able to view updates on class activity, assignment status (turned in or not), and upcoming work. These updates are sent based on your preference.
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Gamification
Gamification is a popular word in education right now. Essentially, it is introducing game elements into the class. Some teachers do this for assignments, units, or whole school years. In our class, the fictional world of Lakeshore is the home of our game. Students are characters in an ongoing story. As they complete assignments and activities, they will learn more about Lakeshore and the characters found there. They will develop their character by earning XP and leveling up. They will earn items and abilities that will be used in class. In our class, this is an element that is designed to bring a bit more fun into school. It aims to engage students and encourage collaboration, imagination, and creativity.