Throughout the year we’ve had many visitors to the Energetic Learning Campus.  We are always pleased to know that our guests are leaving with a piece of the passion we all have here at the ELC.  We would like to share the following reflections of two teachers from School District #59 that spent their Pro-D day with us.

Reflection of our visitation to ELC on May 18, 2012

          Upon our arrival in the school, both Gus and I recognized the respectful and energetic atmosphere that encompassed the school.  As soon as we entered through the school doors, we were hit with the energy and life within the building.  The day began with all the students and teachers participating in a physical activity.  Everyone appeared to be willingly involved and having fun, whether they were playing dodge ball in the arena, dance on the Play Station, or walking the track.  There were no bells to indicate changes of classes or the beginning of classes.  Students were responsible and knew to go to class at the appropriate time.  We liked the absence of the factory style bells in the school.  We both agreed that this is an environment in which adults would enjoy learning.  Why haven’t schools been built with aesthetics in mind?  This school definitely had it with the vast amount of sunshine, comfortable and varying seating, and a carefree yet respectful environment.  One of the most noticeable aspects was the positive interaction between all members of the school.  Members of this school appear to be “family”.  Students and staff were welcoming to both Gus and myself.  We enjoyed watching some Presentations Of Learning in the afternoon and we were impressed with the quality of learning that had resulted from their Natural Disasters projects.  There is a real sense of working together and helping each other out.  We noticed how students in every classroom were engaged and participated enthusiastically.

This is what I would like to see in all schools.  I left feeling inspired to work towards establishing a similar learning environment within my own school and classroom.  Thank you for a great day!

Submitted by Shannon Delawsky (teacher in Dawson Creek)