Stepping Outside Their Comfort Zone

Posted: October 13, 2014

Physical Educators from across the province assembled recently at Miramichi Valley High School (MVHS) for the annual “Remember When” conference, hosted by Anglophone North School District on behalf of the New Brunswick Physical Education Society (NBPES). The theme of the conference was “Step Outside Your Comfort Zone” with the intention of encouraging teachers to provide opportunities for their students to determine their own challenges as they participate in an active lifestyle. Great care is taken of course to present the perceived challenges, in a safe, low risk environment. The epitome of such a challenge is demonstrated by the High Elements Challenge Course (HECC) established three years ago on the grounds of MVHS, but challenges can take many forms. The keynote address to conference delegates was made by local family physician Dr. Paula Keating. Dr. Keating, an accomplished runner at many major North American marathons, spoke about the nutritional needs of athletes outlining a number of inappropriate practices. She also included anecdotes from her running career to the delight of the audience. Visit “Remember When” for  photos from the conference including images from a variety of sessions that were offered.   At the conference’s awards ceremony during lunch, four ASD-N educators were recognized for their work. Mr. Brandon Ryan of Gretna Green Elementary School received the Young Professional’s Award from Physical Education and Health Canada. Mr. Chris Noel of St. Andrew’s Elementary School received the NBPES Career Award. Mr. Jim Watters of MVHS received the NBPES Leadership Award and Mr. Ed Pinder, retired district Physical Education Mentor, received the prestigious NBPES Dr. John Meagher Award for his vision and leadership to Physical Education over many years. The presentations were made by NBPES President Ross Campbell. During the ceremony Mr. Pinder’s vision was recognized with the surprise announcement that the HECC at MVHS is being re-named the “Eddie Pinder High Elements Challenge Course”.