Our plan is to develop some perspective on the educational system of a country deemed to be among the world leaders. We will meet with Ministry officials to learn about what they are doing and to tell them about our experiences in Manitoba. During our two-week tour, we will visit schools and education offices across the country to gain an overview of what they do to support effective teaching and learning.
I am leaving Winnipeg this coming Friday and then arriving in Wellington 26 hours later...on Sunday. This will be my first experience with time travel. Given that the time difference is +15 hours from Manitoba, I will actually gain a day as I fly. My ten year old daughter is really excited because I told her I will be calling her from the future. When I talk to her at 7 - 8 pm, it will already be 12-1 pm the following day in NZ.
My intent is to keep a daily record of my experiences on this blog. Speed of posting will depend on what I am doing on a particular evening and whether or not I have an internet connection.
Thanks to the Manitoba Rural Learning Consortium for allowing me to tag along. Thanks also to the Board of Trustees of Park West School Division and our CEO Tim Mendel for their support on this exciting educational and life experience. Finally, thanks to my wife Candace, daughter Alex, and dog Winnie for giving me the most important approval that I required in considering this trip.
While I have some small anxiety about being away from family and work for two weeks, I am very excited about this incredible opportunity. I was mildly disappointed that I was going to be missing the Pink concert scheduled for Winnipeg on Saturday. However, I just learned that she is postponing until January because of laryngitis. I don't think my wife and daughter will be really excited by that news in the morning.
That's it for now. I just wanted to get started tonight with the blog because during the next few days, I will be busy getting ready. Until next time...Kia ora!
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