This February, Board Office administrators stepped into our schools to “walk in someone else’s shoes” for a snapshot of the day. From classrooms to offices and beyond, this initiative highlighted an important truth: every role matters, and sometimes switching roles is an adventure!
We’ll be sharing a few great moments from these experiences. A heartfelt thank you to our valued staff for welcoming administrators into their schools and roles; not always an easy task, but one that truly strengthens understanding, appreciation, and teamwork across our community.
February 26
Our Adult Education and Vocational Studies Director stepped into Mrs. Thivierge’s shoes for a lively gym class, leading students through a series of fun and energetic activities. From rock, paper, scissors to dribbling their way through games, Mr. Reddick brought enthusiasm and great spirit to the class at Harold Sheppard School.
February 25
I recently visited Mercedes-Anne Toussaint, our special education technician at Courtland Park International, as part of our “Walking in Your Shoes” initiative. The experience underscored the profound impact our support staff have on school climate.
What stood out immediately was the deep level of relational trust she has cultivated with the students. Her calm, steady demeanor serves as an anchor and the intentional care she takes in “checking in” with students throughout the day ensures that their social-emotional needs are met before academic tasks begin.
By prioritizing student wellbeing, she creates a warm and supportive environment where students feel safe, seen, and—most importantly—ready to learn. Her dedication is a testament to the fact that student success is built upon a foundation of care. It was truly inspiring to see such expertise and heart in action.
Terry Wan Jung Lin, Director of Educational Services and Technology
February 25
Chantale Scroggins, Director General, visiting Royal Charles School, to walk in Brittany Lucas’ shoes (Special Education Technician).
February 25
Switching roles, stepping into someone else’s shoes, isn’t easy… what a challenge! But what a pleasure and what a revelation! John McLaren, Secretary General, stepped into the shoes of Ms. Cotter, a kindergarten teacher for 5-year-olds at Saint-Lawrence School.
February 20
Josie, Assistant Director of Educational Services, who stepped into Sarah’s shoes at St. Mary’s to read to the students.
February 18
Our Secretary General, John McLaren, walked into the shoes of Grade 6 teachers at Boucherville Elementary. After a brief introduction to the legal profession, the students took part of an activity namely a mock civil trial.
February 12
“As part of our “Walking in My Shoes” staff appreciation initiative, I had the privilege of spending time with Sabrina Hepworth, our documentation technician at CRHS. This experience served as a reminder of the vital “human element” that anchors our learning commons. What struck me most was the intentionality Sabrina brings behind every detail; she doesn’t just manage a collection, she curates an inclusive sanctuary for all students.
I was particularly impressed by the subtle yet impactful ways she sparks a love for literacy through themed curation, such as the Valentine (love)-themed book suggestions surrounding her desk that create an immediate sense of warmth and seasonal engagement. Her displays and meticulous arrangement of new arrivals ensure that students of every interest and background can see themselves reflected on the shelves.
The care she brings ensures that the library is designed to be welcoming, effectively lowering the barrier for students to explore and discover. It is often said that the library is the heart of the school, and it is clear at CRHS. Her dedication to these “small gestures” makes a profound difference in our students’ educational journey.”
Terry
February 10
Can you guess who shoes those are?
Our Service Director of AGE and VT (and also a former Phys Ed teacher) Dave Reddick was able to honour Ms. Galardo in teaching her grade 2 class at St. Johns School, yesterday. From 4 corner Rock, Paper, Scissors relay to directional dribbling exercises, students got to learn about spatial awareness while in movement along with the value of teamwork.
Thanks, Ms. Galardo, for all you do, and thank you St. Johns for warm welcome to Mr. Reddick!
