ETFO Reaches out

ETFO members in Algoma and Sault St. Marie residents were able to take advantage of a unique opportunity last December to learn more about enhancing student learning by building children’s self confidence.

Algoma ETFO, in partnership with the provincial federation, held a regional Positive Kids conference attended by one member from each of the board’s schools and by community residents.

“We wanted to connect with parents, local agencies, and the community in general,” said Gayle Manley, Algoma Teacher Local president. “It highlighted our members’ professionalism and allowed the public to see the professional side of the federation.”

The conference began with a Thursday evening address by Barbara Burrows, a syndicated columnist who writes on parenting issues. She spoke on “Discipline Not Punishment.” Invitations were sent home with children. Flyers went out to local agencies and news releases were sent to local media. In all 150 people, including 55 ETFO members, attended the discussion.

Burrows was also part of a community panel on “raising positive kids.” Other panellists and workshop leaders included Aboriginal elder Conradrad Bobiwash, public health nurse Maddy Kasubeck,and ETFO members Dan Cheletti, Heather Jessop, Carolyn Lewis, and Joanne Myers.

"It’s the first time we had a public component,” Manley said. “The feedback was very positive.”

Media partner, the Sault Star, donated advertising space for the event. There were a variety of displays. A silver collection, the price of admission for Thursday night, collected about $200 for a local charity – Christy’s Light Foundation an organization that raises awareness about eating disorders.

For more information about ETFO’s Positive Kids conferences contact Jan Moxey, at provincial office: jmoxey@etfo.org.