Graduates launch arts society
The Common Ground Arts Society was launched in 2009 by three graduates of the Victoria School of the Arts, in Edmonton. The Society supports emerging artists in the visual and performing arts. The Society, located in Edmonton’s Avenue Theatre, showcases new artists and provides space for classes, workshops and performances. Two upcoming shows are planned—Edmonton Show V, June 10, and Edmonton Show VI, August 12, 19 and 20. Shows take place at Avenue Theatre, 9030-118 Avenue. Doors open at 7 p.m., and shows begin at 7:30 p.m. Admission is $10.
Youth invited to make a ripple effect
The Global Youth Assembly will see youth and young professionals from all backgrounds turning ripples into waves as they explore the theme of “Our World. Our Water.” The youth assembly will be held July 27–30, in Edmonton. Information is available online at www.youthassembly.ca; on Twitter @jhcentre and #GYA2011, and on Facebook at Global Youth Assembly.
Are in your second or third year of teaching?
Did you graduate from an Alberta faculty of education? Are you interested in telling your story? Researchers at the University of Alberta are interested in learning about the experiences of beginning teachers. Respondents’ identities will be kept confidential. Information about the research program is available by e-mail: teacherattrition@gmail.com; telephone: 780-492-7770 or on Facebook at Beginning Teacher Stories.
Crystal meth subject of free student DVD
The devastating effect of crystal meth is the theme of Wasted Angels by Multi-Youth Productions, in Stony Plain. The student performers, under the direction of school teacher Carol Gilchrist, write and produce theatre productions on subjects of interest to junior and senior high students. Wasted Angels has been filmed professionally and is available at no cost to schools across Alberta. To obtain a free copy of the DVD and teacher’s manual, contact Judy Kesanko, Multicultural Heritage Centre. Telephone: 780-963-2777 (Tuesdays and Wednesdays); e-mail: judyk@multicentre.org.
UNESCO invites teachers to contribute to wiki directory
What are the most successful, effective and productive educational activities promoting a culture of peace in Canada? UNESCO is collecting and publishing a directory of projects that encourage a culture of peace and respect for human rights and democratic values. The project will contribute to UNESCO’s International Decade for a Culture of Peace and Non-Violence for the Children of the World. For more information, visit http://directorypeace.blogspot.com/ (English) or www.repertoirepaix.com/ (French).
Interactive workshops teach students about the UN
“What Kind of World...?” is the title of a free program offered by the Edmonton Branch of the United Nations Association in Canada (UNAC). The program teaches children in Grades 3–8 about the UN, Canada’s role in the UN and human rights. UNAC delivers three one-hour interactive workshops to students. The first workshop introduces students to the UN. The second workshop discusses the UN’s specialized agencies and programs and the third workshop focuses on human rights. For more information, visit UNAC’s website (www.edmonton.unac.org/html/what_kind_of_world_.html).
Visit a working farm and orchard
Sprout Farms offers fieldtrips for students in elementary school. The working farm and apple orchard, located north of Edmonton, provides students with hands-on learning activities. Students learn about bees and their importance in nature, and they learn about trees, soil and sheep. Full-day programs are offered in May and June. For information, visit www.sproutfarms.ca.
Stories and photos wanted
The ATA News is always on the lookout for interesting articles, photos and cartoons. Articles should not exceed 500 words and should be accompanied by a short byline, stating where you work and what you teach. Photos of teachers or students participating in interesting activities are welcome, as are cartoons. Don’t forget to include photo captions. Please note: Receipt of material does not guarantee its publication. Send your submissions to Managing Editor, the ATA News, 11010–142 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5N 2R1 or submit electronically to raymond.gariepy@ata.ab.ca.
