Mr. KeoughanThe New Brunswick School District 16 Education Council (DEC) hosted a symposium for the Parent School Support Committees (PSSC) of district schools on Tuesday November 9that Dr. Losier Middle School. After enjoying a light supper parental representatives from area schools received a presentation given by Rick Hayward, D16 Technology Coordinator, as the first item on the evening’s agenda. Mr. Hayward reviewed many instances of where approaches to teaching and educational projects that exist presently in the district, comply with what are considered requirements for student learning in the 21st century. Mr. Hayward then made the point that efforts are being made to extend and support these concepts in all classrooms throughout the district. There is really nothing new but through promotion and peer encouragement, more teachers can easily adopt innovative teaching strategies for today’s learners. A significant approach that is highly regarded amongst educators, titled Project Based Learning, allows learners to make a large contribution to the learning process and thus become engaged with it, while at the same the teacher is meeting the required curriculum outcomes in a specific subject area. Although the presentation was made by the District 16 Technology team it was pointed out that the ideas being promoted are not necessarily technology related. The second part of the symposium involved break-out sessions led by DEC Chairperson Patricia Lee and District 16 superintendent Laurie Keoughan. PSSSC members were given a chance to discuss issues such as developing school improvement plans, communication with all parents, graduation requirements, community schools, and student assessment and how their respective school committees are involved with them.