We spend a lot of time talking about how our network influences our professional lives and how technology often assists in that networking. But, when B.C. educators talk about “THE NETWORK” it means something quite different.
For more than a decade, the Network of Performance Based Schools — school-based teams with an administrator and teachers — have focussed on B.C. Performance Standards with some of the deepest, most powerful professional learning in our province.
Instrumental to this professional learning, Judy Halbert and Linda Kaser have brought a network of teachers and administrators together in ongoing conversations about improving education opportunities for all students.
And just what is the Network?
The Network of Performance Based Schools is funded by the British Columbia Ministry of Education and is designed to improve quality and equity through inquiry, teamwork across roles, schools and districts, and a concentrated focus on applying coaching forms of assessment to assist learners to take greater ownership of their learning. Participation in the Network is on an annual basis and is voluntary. There has been a steady growth in Network membership since its inception in 2000.
Dedicated to the vision of EVERY learner crossing the stage with dignity, purpose and options, the network is supported by volunteer leaders in sixteen regions of the province.
Schools participate in an annual spiral of inquiry that provides the structure for their improvement and innovative work. School questions, case studies, resources and reflections are shared in a spirit of generosity and curiosity. The BC performance standards provide a framework for educators, parents and learners in developing a deeper understanding of content area progressions and assist learners in answering three key learning oriented questions identified by John Hattie and Helen Timperley:
Where are you going with your learning? How is it going? Where to next?
The six key strategies of formative assessment are used to assist learners in taking ownership of their learning. Without clear learning intentions, the thoughtful use of criteria and informative descriptive feedback, it is virtually impossible for learners to answer these questions.
Judy Halbert and Linda Kaser have an amazing way of making everyone feel special in the Network — they link what we do to the very best work they have seen and heard of around the world. Part cheerleader, story-teller, social connector and deep co-learner, Judy and Linda have invited thousands of teachers and administrators to join in the journey.
The Network has brought the BC Performance Standards to life as guiding documents for teachers, administrators, parents and students as we continue to move from a sorting to learning system. And, the Network continues to evolve; it has moved from a strict focus on reading, writing, numeracy and social responsibility to asking the essential questions about Aboriginal learning, healthy living, and focussing all of our work to be better tomorrow than it was today.
When asked about the one professional development experience I recommend for teachers or administrators, I always say “to get a team in the Network”. The connections that come out of this participation can improve us as professionals, and help move our schools forward.
As another successful year of the Network comes to a close with the recently held Leadership Seminar and School Project Showcases / Celebrations around the province, much thanks goes to Judy and Linda for continuing to lead this conversation. More than a decade in, the Network is one of the quiet, non-political and powerful ways that differentiates our system and how we work from so many others in North America.
The Network of Performance Based Schools is by far the most transformative professional development I have had the pleasure of experiencing. The Network demands conscious teaching, continuous questioning, thorough self-reflection, respectful sharing, and deep, professional conversation. Whenever Network teachers get together they buzz with energy. It’s refreshing and always makes me so proud to be teaching in BC.
Nicely said Brooke. It has been so wonderful that you have been able to connect your fine work at Rockridge to other work around the province and around the world.
I love being part of this Network. Thanks for recognizing two powerful women who work so hard at keeping the Network a positive part of professional development for both teachers and schools.
…and administrators too! I’ve participated as a teacher and now a vice principal, and soon to be principal. I appreciate how the Network encourages us to develop in a collegial, collaborative manner, across politically imposed boundaries.
Absolutely Dan – one of the best aspects of the Network is that it has never become political.
Yes Kelly – the Network has been some of the best learning I have had over the last decade. As I have switched roles and districts, the Network has continued to be a wonderful professional learning space.
Thanks, Chris, for highlighting the work of two remarkable educational leaders in our province. Judy and Linda have found a way to support incredibly diverse communities across BC and make us all feel like a family. The shared vision of teachers and administrators to move learners forward and make sure that everyone crosses the stage with dignity, purpose and options, keeps us focused on making a real difference for kids. Powerful learning for students and educators through inquiry, reflection and thoughtful, respectful professional dialogue. What could be better?
Thanks, Chris, for highlighting the work of two remarkable educational leaders in our province. Judy and Linda have found a way to support incredibly diverse communities across BC and make us all feel like a family. The shared vision of teachers and administrators to move learners forward and make sure that everyone crosses the stage with dignity, purpose and options, keeps us focused on making a real difference for kids. Powerful learning for students and educators through inquiry, reflection and thoughtful, respectful professional dialogue. What could be better?
+1
Thanks Chris for recognising The Network and Judy and Linda. I formed a Network team years ago as a VP. It was by far the best Pro D of my career to that point: it redirected my thinking about assessment and instruction. And of course, any who have been a part of it will agree to the masterful direction and leadership provided by Judy and Linda.
I was active in The Network for a number of years (I plan to return to it in the fall), but left it with a change of school. I have not been a part of it for six years. I had to wait most of the six years for a different but equally valuable professionally developing experience. That came when I was lucky enough to be enrolled in one of the BCELC cohorts in Vancouver. These sessions gave me outstanding professional learning that I draw on now and will for years to come. This was perhaps a career-topping opportunity.
It is no surprise at all that alongside the wonderful organisation, facilitation and leadership of Yrsa Jensen , were the equally talented and inspirational Judy Halbert and Linda Kaser. These are master educators to be sure, and we are all lucky to have them share their learning with us.
Well said Topher. Everyone I have spoken with who participated in BCELC mark it as a career highlight around their learning. As opportunities have come and gone, the Network has endured. I have had a decade of connections with it through various roles in three districts, and it has held to its principles.
As you rightly point out – with all of these opportunities – they are defined by the people involved.
Thanks for connecting – great to see you blogging again!
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