08/27/2026
📚 Northland School Division New Principal and Teacher Orientation Highlights
New principals and teachers have been busy learning more about the communities, students and families they will serve.
During orientation, staff learned about the importance of building connections with local language instructors, Elders and Knowledge Keepers when weaving local language and culture into learning. They also received introductory information from departments including Human Resources, Technology and Inclusive Education.
Teachers took part in Northland School Division’s adaptation of the KAIROS Blanket Exercise, an interactive learning experience that explores hundreds of years of Indigenous history. The exercise is one way Northland helps prepare new staff for working in First Nations and Métis communities.
New principals and vice-principals had a different learning opportunity. Veteran principals Shelley Steven of St. Theresa School, Bernard Woodfine of Conklin Community School and Michelle Deering of Grouard Northland School joined a panel to share their experiences and answer questions.
💬 The conversation included lesson planning and preparation, prioritizing tasks, and preparing for difficult conversations.
