The View From Here:

A Superintendent's Perspective

Hand holding drawing virtual lightbulb with brain on bokeh background for creative and smart thinking idea concept iStock - lightbulb brain graphic
November 22, 2024

Learning is Easier and Harder than You Think

I spoke with an elementary student recently. He was a hockey fan and could easily recite NHL players' names. He knew their jersey numbers, the positions they played, and sometimes the number of goals and assists they scored. I suspect you might know a sports fan like this, too.

Hand holding drawing virtual lightbulb with brain on bokeh background for creative and smart thinking idea concept iStock - lightbulb brain graphic
Hourglass on laptop computer concept for time management and countdown to deadline iStock Image - Hourglass + Laptop
October 22, 2024

The Value of Time: Leading Through Connection and Presence

Most of us understand that time is a precious commodity. There is no going back when a moment, a week, or a year has passed. So how we spend our time ought to be a key consideration. What is more, the demands of life and career are such that it can often feel as if there is not enough time to do the things we want or need to do. Time pressure is real, and I am certainly not immune.

Hourglass on laptop computer concept for time management and countdown to deadline iStock Image - Hourglass + Laptop
AI Generated image with a picture frame that reads "30 Years. Lessons." 30 Years. 30 Lessons
August 10, 2024

30 Years. 30 Lessons.

The coming school year will be my 30th in public education.  It hardly seems possible, but I’ve double checked the math. It’s been an extraordinary journey so far, and I am beyond grateful for the wonderful experiences and opportunities that have been afforded me. Inspired by my friend and colleague Chris Kennedy, who is well known for posting lists on his Culture of Yes blog, I have decided to commemorate the occasion by posting a list of my own.

AI Generated image with a picture frame that reads "30 Years. Lessons." 30 Years. 30 Lessons
Detail view of graduation caps during commencement. iStock Image - Grad Cap
June 26, 2024

From Caps and Gowns to New Beginnings

As I reflect on the many high school graduations I have attended over the years, the occasion never loses its magic. Each time I see our students donning their caps and gowns, I am filled with a profound sense of pride and accomplishment. The nature of our work in public education often means the fruits of our labour are not immediately visible the way they are, for example, when a developer hands over the keys to a new home. Our equivalent moment comes at graduation. It is a symbolic turning of the keys, marking the beginning of a new chapter for our graduates.

Detail view of graduation caps during commencement. iStock Image - Grad Cap
Marathon running race, large group of runners
June 4, 2024

The Home Stretch: Finishing Strong

Many years ago, as I trained for my first marathon, one of my mentors—a seasoned runner with countless marathons behind him—shared invaluable wisdom about the importance of finishing strong. He emphasized the need to maintain enough energy to cross the finish line with a smile and a strong pace, regardless of how the race began.

I can still recall his words echoing in my mind: “Remember, it’s not about how you start the marathon; it’s about how you finish. Finish strong.”

Marathon running race, large group of runners
Superintendent Nosek and Chair Wilson, stand with Abby Schools student who won an award at the Cultural Diversity Awards Diversity Awards - 2024
March 15, 2024

Connecting and Celebrating: A Journey Across our District

I think it is important for a Superintendent to try and stay connected to what is happening across the district and the broader community. While there are never enough hours in the week, I do my best to make regular rounds and to take in community events. And wherever possible, I like to share the good things I see.

Superintendent Nosek and Chair Wilson, stand with Abby Schools student who won an award at the Cultural Diversity Awards Diversity Awards - 2024
Sunrise light at the famous Capilano Suspension Bridge Park on a foggy morning, suspended walking bridge in middle of forest, North Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. iStock - Capilano Suspension Bridge
February 1, 2024

The Bridge to Anywhere

There are no guarantees in life, but wherever you want to go or can imagine going, education is probably the best way there. How does a child in Kindergarten one day become an architect? How does a grade nine student become an arthroscopic surgeon or an agriculturist? How does one become an electrician or a chef? You guessed it - education. This is why I often describe education as the bridge to anywhere.

Sunrise light at the famous Capilano Suspension Bridge Park on a foggy morning, suspended walking bridge in middle of forest, North Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. iStock - Capilano Suspension Bridge
June 29, 2023

Outgoing Superintendent's Message of Gratitude

With my last blog post as superintendent (I still have a few more to write in my retirement), I would like to close with gratitude and appreciation for the many people with whom I have travelled this thirty-six-year path. I mentioned in my last post that it was because of the inspiration and encouragement of teachers, and one in particular, why I chose to become an educator. The journey to finding and fulfilling my purpose, particularly in leadership, has been filled with meandering adventures and learning. What resonates most with me are the people who have been on the journey with me.