Retool: Why We Must Equip Our Students to Succeed in a World Where Competencies Will Rule Over Content

Myron Dueck, Educational Consulting

When content was our focus, we delivered ample amounts of it with specific pedagogy. However, it’s obvious that the cutting edge of global education has shifted towards competencies such as problem-solving, critical thinking and creativity. The global forum rewards the competent learner who has a sliver of innovation over one who has a broad but shallow knowledge base. Given that learning is a dynamic endeavor with multiple pathways to achieve it, how we design the context for learning becomes paramount.  As we teach students who will see the 22nd century, we should not guess what will be required, but rather help our students develop the tools that have always been necessary for both advancement and survival. ‘Retool’ means to ‘adapt or alter something to make it more useful or suitable’; perhaps this is exactly what we need to do to remain relevant. 

Over the past 23 years, Myron has worked as an educator in both Canada and New Zealand in subjects ranging from grades 4 to 12. In 2006 Myron began to develop a number of grading, assessment, and reporting systems which gave students a greater opportunity to show what they

understand and play a significant role in the reporting of their learning. Myron has also been a part of district groups, school committees, and governmental bodies that have further broadened his access to innovative ideas.

Discipline Wins: Strategies to Improve Behavior, Increase Ownership, and Give Every Student a Chance

Andy Jacks, Senior Fellow, Centers for Advancing Leadership

Student discipline is one of the most important areas for improvement and yet one that many educators feel least equipped to handle effectively. This session draws on insights from my book, Discipline Win, incorporating research on best practices and discussions on actual disciplinary scenarios. Implement practical and proactive strategies to teach social skills, grow empathy, and build a community of students that fights for each other, not with each other. Maximize your interventions through feelings, fidelity, and follow-through. Understand your students’ needs and help them lead own their own self-development journey!

Andy Jacks, Principal at Ellis Elementary School, is a well-respected and experienced leader with a track record of connecting with colleagues and creating powerful professional networks. Jacks’ role is to facilitate learning and professional growth related to current and emerging issues; identify and share best practices, current research and resources; promote the essential leadership role of the principal; and create a network of colleagues with an interest in expanding their learning.