It's all about perspective!

posted by: Mitch Zeltzer

This is one of those videos that can blow your mind, and really get you thinking...  Enjoy!



Too often we only try to see things from one perspective, our own!  To be a true team player you must put yourself in other people's shoes and really try to understand where they are coming from.

Cooperative Learning Conference (GLACIE)

posted by Mitch Zeltzer

If you want to learn more about Cooperative Learning and the incredibly effective strategies and structures  you can bring to your classroom, the GLACIE conference is a must!

"GLACIE is proud to present its 25th annual Cooperative Learning Conference, Achievement through Active Engagement, to be held in Toronto, Ontario, Canada on May 27 and 28, 2010. This worthwhile event will provide an opportunity for educators to come together to learn and share structures and strategies of Cooperative Learning through active participation."

read more and register at: www.glacie.ca

The coolest 'Make a Wish' ever

Not much to say about this except, turn your speakers on,maybe grab some Kleenex, and enjoy.

Deep down, everyone wants to be a superhero...

What humans can learn from dogs

posted by Mitch Zeltzer

WARNING:  The videos in this post do have some graphic footage of injured people and dogs, that may not be suitable for everyone. While the lesson that can be learned here is valuable, please be aware that viewer discretion is advised. If you are under the age of 18, please consult with your parents/guardians before watching these videos.

I think the contrast between these two videos speaks for itself.

First, let's examine some disappointing and tragic human behaviour.




Now, let's look at an amazing lesson we can learn from our canine friends.




Too often we see others ignoring those in distress and just moving about their business.  It isn't always as dramatic as the video above.  It can be as simple as holding a door open for someone whose hands are full.  Or letting someone ahead of you in a line.  It doesn't need to be a grand gesture, but these small, simple gestures can have a grand affect over time.

And for the children out there who are reading this blog and have watched the videos above.  When you see someone being teased at recess, do you just walk by and ignore it, like the first video?  Or, do you step in to help like the second video?

I think we can all learn a valuable lesson from that very brave dog!

A tribute to Steve Hannon: Amazing Camp Director, Incredible Role-Model...

posted by: Mitch Zeltzer

While this posting is long overdue, I still felt it necessary to pay homage to Steve Hannon, who was not your typical camp director.

Steve was one of those people who was just amazing at what he did.  And, what Steve did best was find a way to make a difference in the life of every child who passed through Camp Kennebec, in Arden Ontario.

Kennebec was the first sleep away camp I attended.  I can safely say that my experiences there helped mold me into who I am today. The life skills and the relationships I gained at Kennebec have made a lasting impression on my life and are, in many ways, responsible for the path I have chosen for my life.

Sadly, Steve Hannon passed away in Kingston, Ontario on February 24, 2010 at the age of 66.  I know I speak on behalf of anyone who had the privilege to be apart of Steve's world when I say that Steve was an amazing man that everyone loved, respected, and admired.

For me, Steve continues to be a role model.  I can only hope that I can do him justice as I try to emulate Steve and the incredibly positive impact he had on those around him, particularly kids.

There was a great article on Steve in the globe and mail.  Visit this link to read more about Steve: http://v1.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/LAC.20100410.OBHANNON10ATL/EmailTPStory/Obituaries

Thank you Steve for amazing memories that will last a lifetime!

Humanity prevails

I have no doubt when a school board in the Bronx was searching for their 6th principal in 2 years their profile did not match that of a man named Shmuly. After watching such a heartfelt story about overcoming the odds and accomplishing a feat that defies all logic, you have to ask yourself - How can I impact the lives of young people? This story just proves that with the right tools, dedication and the human heart, every child has a chance to succeed.

enjoy!

A GOLD-en story...

Just a really quick entry today... In case you were doubting if kids are being inspired by what we're seeing transpire out in Vancouver, here's a nice experience I had today that brought a smile to my face.

I was running an after school program and the kids were split up into two teams. When we make teams, I always like to have the kids come up with a creative team name to be used the rest of that session. Each team had 10 seconds to come up with a name that they all agreed with and was chosen in a fair way.

One team took a long time to come up with something, electing instead to be named by me (I named them Silly Monkeys, but I digress). The other team though, chatted for only 3 seconds, turned to me, and shouted with loud enthusiasm "OK we have our team name!" What did they name themselves?

The Bilodeau's.


Go Canada Go! We're all watching and cheering you on...