FSD’s 18 Learning Commons Facilitators gathered on September 30th for their first professional development session of the 2014-15 school year. The highlight was a tour of all High Country Learning Commons including Longview, C. Ian McLaren, Oilfields, Turner Valley and Millarville as well as Red Deer Lake and Heritage Heights schools. The purpose was to share the physical changes they have made to their spaces as part of FSD’s transition from libraries to Learning Commons, utilizing funding allocated in 2013-14. Each school developed a “wish list” and has
tackled priorities based on the funding provided, while several schools have also benefited from additional funding through school council fundraising.
Interactive Media Commons (I.M.C.) Coordinator Barb Eagles said it’s amazing to see how the changes in name – from library to Learning Commons – and physical space has spurred a shift in attitude among students and staff: “Students have embraced these invigorated learning spaces, and it’s exciting to see our schools’ Learning Commons alive with the hum of students collaborating and co-creating.” Barb explained that with the
physical environments taking shape, the group will turn their attention to digital resources within the spaces.
Superintendent John Bailey, who met up with the group for lunch along with other members of FSD’s Executive Team, applauded the Learning Commons Facilitators for their hard work, commitment and considerable enthusiasm!