Blog Posts

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
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
A male technician working on a switchboard with fuses.
May 28, 2024

Optimizing Energy Use with Direct Digital Controls in Our Schools

Direct Digital Controls (DDC) automate the operation of building Mechanical systems like heating, cooling, water consumption, security/fire systems, and lighting based on present schedules and occupancy patterns. By adjusting settings according to occupancy and time of day, DDC systems ensure that energy is used only when necessary, reducing waste and optimizing energy consumption for maximum efficiency.  The purpose of DDC is to help save energy through efficient scheduling.

A male technician working on a switchboard with fuses.
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
School Bus on a lift for repairs Transportation - School Bus
February 28, 2024

Student Transportation Bussing

The Abbotsford School District bus fleet provides transportation to approximately 2900 students daily. This service also allows schools to book field trips and sporting events.  

The Transportation Department has student safety ‘top of mind,’ and we have two certified commercial technicians dedicated to working on the buses daily. Our staff follow a top-notch preventative maintenance program covering vital inspections that align with Federal Safety Standards and provincial Commercial Vehicle Safety Enforcement (CVSE), which meets all safety requirements.  

School Bus on a lift for repairs Transportation - School Bus
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.

Elderly man holding man and speaks at his 90th birthday Mr. Marshall - KG - Superintendent Newsletter Image
June 20, 2023

A Road Not Taken

With all the recent retirement festivities I have had cause of late to reflect on my journey in the education system.  One of the frequent questions I have been asked is why I decide to become a teacher “all those years ago.”  I have had occasion over the years to mention it on World Teacher Day, but for me, the decision had everything to do with my school experiences, and a challenge extended to me by a very special human being.

Elderly man holding man and speaks at his 90th birthday Mr. Marshall - KG - Superintendent Newsletter Image