Chris Toy

Chris recently facilitated a hands-on, interactive two day workshop with 100 building administrators from the Vancouver BC School Board.  Topics included using Web 2.0 tools for leadership, digital storytelling, using multimedia tools to communicate the district's mission and vision, and using blogs and wikis for forming and sustaining professional learning networks.

Here are a few reflections by participants. They provide a sense of how Chris engages participants in thinking and sharing deeply rather than simply sitting and listening to yet another speaker!

"Any Century Skills" are essential. Without them we are unable to do the most basic activities connected to our daily lives. Without these skills we would not have meaningful relationships or be able to engage with nature. As we become versed in the skills of the new technological age, how we merge these two skill sets appears to be the greatest challenge for the modern educator because both skill sets are essential to making meaning and understanding the modern world. - DW VSB Administrator

It is something to consider when you think that schools drain the creativity out of our students --- or limit their capacity for learning in creative ways --- especially at a time in education where we need thinkers who will dare to go outside of the box -- as we don't even know what skills they will need in 5 years from now --- Education is a work in progress. MJ. & LK - VSB Administrators

If we recognize the influence we have in encouraging (or discouraging) growth in others, we need to take our responsibility as leaders seriously. We need the patience and wisdom of Ghandi. We need to DO not just SAY - role-modeling is so important. ER - VSB Administrator

The one thing that I want you to know is that this workshop helped to visualize how the 21st century classroom is and can be evolving with the added tool of technology, while building my self-confidence with using technology as a tool myself. As a teacher, as a school leader it is important to model this for those we work with day in and day out, so they too can share the vision and build their confidence in preparing the youth of today for the world of tomorrow!

M. Campbell - Principal, Victoria BC, Canada

It was refreshing and engaging to participate in a session that consistently modelled effective, differentiated teaching tools (protocols) throughout. Meaningful learning occurs best under specific conditions (about which you were EXPLICIT)- choice, accountability, collaboration, rigour and relevance, within a safe and supportive learning community. Thank you for becoming part of our learning community. Until next time...

N. Naughton - Principal, Victoria BC, Canada

"Chris's workshops are designed with the end in mind....getting teachers to use in the classroom what they have experienced first hand. If there is a school ready to try something new to improve student learning, then they are ready to work with Chris!"

Kim K. Teacher, Tokyo

"Excellent workshop Chris. Lots of hands-on and minds-on activities. Good practice was demonstrated by facilitating dialogue between and among the participants. The opportunity to reflect was more than adequate, perhaps optimal. I began to think of things that I could at school almost immediately. Great applicability in your suggestions and the ensuing discussions. This Pro-D was thought provoking, useful and practical!

Dean E. Principal, DeltaSD BC