"From the Car Seat to the Drivers Seat"
The road trip of a lifetime

December 3, 2014

Yesterday I received an e-mail from the CAIS Executive Director, Anne-Marie Kee and is simply stated:

Subject: Sometimes I forget you are a new head

"How are you?  Just wanted to check in..."

It was an exquisitely brief and kind communication.  These eight words really started me thinking, how were things going?

Instead of slowing down and reflecting too much, I opted to write whatever first came to mind - here is the response:

I am really well - Rundle is a spectacular place to be!  In fact, here's what happened just yesterday. 

After doing my weekly classroom visits in our Primary School, I was exiting through the boot room.  At this very moment, the kindergarten group were on their way in from recess.  One boy showed me his new snow pants, another girl showed me her pink touque with a huge pom pom and a third asked me if she could tell me something.  I responded, "Of course," and she quickly shot back, "I love you."  

From there I worked with administration, staff and students in all grades and divisions.  Nearly 10 hours later, as the day came to a close, I attended our Christmas Gala and had the opportunity to watch our students display their talents.  Their were acts of incredible singing, expressive acting, and several comedic interludes. One of the many highlights was a dance by one of Canada's young and high achieving ballerinas. 

As I drove from the Gala, I thought to myself and smiled, "Where else in the world do you have the opportunity to enjoy this range of experiences in just one day?"   

I'm not sure Anne-Marie was expecting the monologue she received.  However, I am happy she asked the question!  It gave me the opportunity to sit back and reflect on the many gifts that are given to us each and every day.  So I extend the same opportunity to you as I ask - "How are you - just wanted to check in...."

As we enter December and think about the blessings in our lives, I think it's worthwhile to reflect on our shared journey.  The opportunity to experience this trip from the car seat to the drivers seat with our students is one that we should not take for granted.  

Best of wishes in the coming days and I look forward to seeing many of you at the upcoming events that will celebrate the Rundle culture and the holiday season!

All the best,

Jason B. Rogers

"From Our Family To Yours"
What makes the Rundle Experience so unique?

November 14, 2014

With each passing week, I am in continual search of the answer to:

"What makes the Rundle Experience so unique?"

After plenty of reflection this week, I would choose to believe the answer is simply: family.

Over the past 7 days there were more than a few spectacular manifestations of the Rundle Family Experience and I'd love to briefly share a couple of them here.

Sandwich for a Story

Today I received a call from Evan Beck ('12).  Evan was calling me from Queens University, where he is currently studying Political Science, to speak about a project that he and Sam Sawchuk ('12) have been working on together.  This is not the kind of project you might expect a couple 20 year olds to be working on. The project of mention is called, "A Sandwich for a Story" and as nothing to do with university - it is best described as an empathy project.  A great overview of their work was recently captured on CTV News.  

When speaking with Evan, I had two questions for him: 1) What was the inspiration for this project/organization/action? 2) How can Rundle help their cause?  In summary, his response to the first question was that his father inspired him to instigate an empathy project.  He reflected on an experience he had in Victoria, BC one year over Christmas holidays.  When he was just 12 years old, his dad encouraged him and his sister to distribute sandwiches to people who were less fortunate they they were.  This small act of kindness and compassion has inspired Evan, and now Sam, to instigate their "Sandwich for a Story Project."

As for the answer to the second question - I've offered to buy Evan and Sam a 'sandwich for their story!'  When they arrive back in Calgary from their studies, we will get together and see we can create a synergy between their project and ours.

When thinking back to the theme of this week's blog, it is family that has created the conditions that allow them to go forward and make our world a better place.  We are proud to have Evan and Sam as members of our alumni family and look forward to seeing them back at Rundle on December 11th at our Volunteer Day.

Coming Together To Learn

If you've ever wondered what happens during those mysterious PD Days - here's some insight.  On November 10th we brought together all 150+ Rundle College Society employees and learned from each other.  We were graced with presentations on the latest in Brain Research by Ms. Mann, Critical Thinking by Mrs. Kim, Google Applications by Mrs. Armstrong and The Importance of Co-Curriculars by Mr. Domstad (to name only a few).  

Along with these spectacular presentations, we took a little bit of time to 'Know Your Neighbour' when Mr. Sylven gave his principal's inspiration.  Mr. Sylven artfully guided us through the principles of silo vs. system thinking.  These exercises are critical to our organization as we move closer to coming together at 17th Avenue.

Finally, we came together to do a craft, how 'family' of us! A big thank you goes out to our Fine Arts Department who assisted us in our cooperative painting project.

Can you guess what the finished product will be?

A Shared Family Experience

Without getting into too many details here, I was struck by our community's ability to come together in times of loss and celebration.  During this short week we have found time to remember those who have passed, we have celebrated a new citizen of Canada, we have welcomed new ones to the world and have toasted engagements (that's right, engagements is plural).  

It is these authentic moments and shared experiences, whether they are with our faculty, our alumni, students or families, that make Rundle really feel like it is a very special place to work, learn and live.  In fact, earlier this week someone asked me if I liked my job and without hesitation I responded with, 

"Rundle is the best place in the world to work and learn."

As it came out it felt so right, that I know it must be true.

Have a wonderful weekend, 

Jason B. Rogers
Headmaster, Rundle College Society

"A very impressive school" & "Rundle students are exceptional."
Dr. Kent MacDonald
President, St. FX University

November 7, 2014

Just over a week ago I joined all the other Headmasters from across the country at a conference in Ontario.  At this conference we discussed trends in education, strategic planning and the importance of mental health education in our schools.  Beyond these set topics of discussion, another subtopic and focus could be summed up by the question:

"What do we want for our students 20 years from now?"    

Taking the conversation beyond "Let's get our kids into the best universities," really allowed us to think big.  As a group of Canadian school leaders we came back to the fact that we want to graduate great citizens of moral character.  The conversations were affirming as they aligned closely with our school's focus of 'kindness,' 'trust' and 'connection.'  

Generally, when walking down the hallways of Rundle College Society schools we are faced with burgeoning young men and women who are developing the highest levels of respect and overall character.  It is our hope that what they learn in our hallways today, they will take with them and it will influence and help them develop into successful men and women who will ultimately change our world for the better.

I witnessed specific evidence of these renaissance learners twice today:

Remembrance Day

Today, I took in two separate Remembrance Day Ceremonies, one at the Academy and the other at the Jr. Sr. High.   Both ceremonies were heartfelt and touching.  What struck me most was our students' respect.  There were many moments of remembrance, sorrow and thanks shared by every person in the room.  

Upon the completion of the Jr. Sr. High ceremony,  one staff member circulated the following e-mail.

"I am so happy and lucky to be a part of a school and culture like Rundle College, I get to work with some of the most amazing students and teachers in this wonderful world. Thanks you from the bottom of my heart."

That about sums up how the ceremonies left us all feeling.

StFX President, Dr. Kent MacDonald's Visit

Only 30 minutes after the conclusion of the Remembrance Day Ceremonies, I was fortunate to be able to welcome Dr. Kent MacDonald to Rundle College.  He had come to speak to our Grade 11 and 12 students about what is so special about his program!  There is certainly a lot to celebrate at StFX, namely:

- Small Class Sizes
- Great Teaching Faculty
- Meaningful Connections
- Endless Opportunities to Get Involved
- A Focus on the Development of Student Leadership and Character

Remind you of anywhere else?

After his brilliant presentation, I had the opportunity to speak with him personally for a few moments.  As I always do with all guests, I asked him what his initial impression of our school were.  He simply said:

"Rundle is a very impressive school."

& 

"Rundle's students are clearly exceptional."

I couldn't agree more.

With that, I wish everybody in our community a wonderful long weekend.

All the best,

Jason B. Rogers

Experience Rundle
"Headmaster's Monthly Update"

Dear Rundle College Society Families,

Coming Up:

Remembrance Day Ceremonies

Each campus will be hosting a Remembrance Day Ceremony on November 7th. For more information on the timing and event specifics, please contact your school’s administrative assistant.  As a reminder, there will be no classes on November 10th (school wide PD) and November 11th (Remembrance Day).

AGM

Our Rundle College Society Annual General Meeting is taking place at the Elementary campus on November 26th at 7:00PM.  All Society Members are welcome to attend.

Gone By:

419

​Our sincere thanks goes out to our very own Will Ferguson. Mr. Ferguson visited Mrs. Kim's Grade 12 English class earlier this month, and gave a great lecture on his Giller Prize winning novel, 419.  After speaking to the group, he dropped by and gave us all the best compliment, saying (and now I am paraphrasing), "Your students asked better questions than most literary critics do!"  Wow!

Rundle Social

Speaking of WOW - a big thank you to all parents, staff, and community members that came out and contributed at the Rundle Social. Of the $1.5 million we still need to raise, we were able to raise over $270,000 that night!  Beyond the financial contributions, what I noticed was the great energy and community feel. It’s  that energy and community spirit  that  makes Rundle so special, and really no amount of money can buy that.

Celebration of Learning

I was sitting in my office at our Jr. Sr. High campus when I heard ​a shout ​from the Great Hall - "I just got a 94 in ​Bio!" After this rally cry came a resounding applause from all who could hear it!

On a second occasion early this month, I was invited to join the students, staff, and parents at the Primary campus for their Celebration of Learning meetings. My heart was filled ​when I saw the students proudly showing their parents all their accomplishments. One young man even offered me a picture he had drawn. 

Both of these elements are great examples of our community fulfilling our mission and "Celebrating with them when they do."

Field Tripping - Grade 5's to the Academy

In early October I was able to accompany an entire class of Grade 5 Rundle College students to Rundle Academy.  We spent an afternoon eating cookies, sipping juice and learning about learning (or metacognition as the Grade 5's came to know it). An absolute highlight of the trip was our Academy Ambassadors. They did a fantastic job of personifying self advocacy and helping others understand what it means to 'take the "dis"​ out of learning disability.'

Heads Up - Experience Rundle

Happy... more than a ​Pharrel Song. This video was sent to me by a board member last month and I thought it was worth sharing with our whole community. As stated in last month's Heads Up - we only learn from people we connect with. In my experience, we also learn best when we are free from too much negative stress and feel empowered to be happy. This TED talk provides some great strategies to bring that happiness to our lives. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

Kind(er) than i​s necessary. On a related note, earlier this month we were all inspired by an Airdrie girl who truly demonstrated what it means to be 'Kinder than is necessary.'  For those of you who missed it, have a look at this article. I know this motivated me to 'pay it forward' and I hope it does the same thing for you as well. More than anything, I really appreciate the idea that there are many ways to deal with adversity, and to conquer it with kindness is never a bad idea!  Who knew the power those little sticky Post-it notes had!

Even closer to home is this article about two amazing Rundle Alumni who have started a project ​called 'A Sandwich for a Story.' If you read nothing else in this update - take a moment to read about Evan Beck ‘12 and Sam Sawchuk ’12 and the inspirational work they have undertaken!

Lastly on the Kindness theme - World Kindness Day is November 13th. On this day, I challenge our community to find a way to make someone else's day brighter!

Making it Stick

Speaking of sticking...years ago I read a book by Chip and Dan Heath titled, 'Made to Stick.'  I was inspired by the author's divergent insights on how to help create memories that last a lifetime. On a similar note, last month I stumbled upon this article on effective study strategies for students. This is a helpful read for all those parents and educators that are working on making any idea 'stick.' 

Have a wonderful November.

My best,

Jason Rogers

Headmaster, Rundle College Society
"Attention to Excellence"

Experience Rundle
"An insightful discussion with an alumni: 
What is your secret to success?"

October 19, 2014

Last Friday, October 17th, I had the opportunity to visit on of our Rundle Alumni at his place of work, a brewery.  On this occasion, Mr, Hauk, Mr. Goettel and I had the opportunity to travel to Calgary's largest producer of beer and spirits, Minhas Brewery to visit Rundle College's alumni Ravinder Minhas ('00).  Mr. Minhas is the founder and owner of Minhas Brewery and is involved in numerous side projects in Calgary and around the world.

During our visit, Mr. Minhas gave an extensive tour of his beer production facility as well as his video production studios.  That's correct, not only is Mr. Minhas running the fourth largest brewery in Canada, he is also running a film production studio and partnering in building houses on the side.  The tour and conversation with Mr. Minhas drove me to wonder about two things: 1) How does he manage to stay on top of everything? 2) What is your secret to success?

As we neared the end of our visit, I took the opportunity to ask Mr. Minhas these two questions.  Both answers were enlightening and affirming.

1) How do you stay on top of everything?

Mr. Minhas responded simply, "You need to care about what you are doing and you need to put in the hours."

Mr. Minhas is clearly a modest man, and I'm certain it's not that simple, but when he said it I truly believed the answer was at the heart of his success.  The answer is affirming as these are two attributes we ask of our students at Rundle.  We ask them to care about their studies - or for that matter whatever they are involved in - and we ask them to put in the hours.  Over the years these two elements have created exceptional graduates and citizens of the world.

2) What is your secret to success?

The answer to this question was not as short or straight forward.  I will attempt to summarize and do justice to Mr. Minhas' sentiments on success.  The two secrets had to do directly with his background in engineering.  Mr. Minhas attributes much of his success to being able to see problems differently than others and to being able to understand the numbers so deeply that they speak to him.

Mr. Minhas' third and final secret to success is the one that has really stuck with me.  Mr. Minhas said that during his time at Rundle he was exposed to many friends having interesting parents with very diverse careers. Mr. Minhas went on to to say that from Rundle parents he learned about politics, business, engineering, science and the arts.  These lessons and insights have shaped his approach to business and life ever since.

For me, this was a spectacular 'Ah Ha' moment.  Over the past years I have been closely studying and following the principles of 'Design Thinking' and in particular David M. Kelley from the IDEO Lab at Stanford University.

To really simplify the concept of design thinking, one might say that 'Design Thinking involves bringing together talented and diverse perspectives to solve problems in a collaborative and creative fashion.'

I believe that Mr. Minhas's 'secret of success' is really one of the many Rundle Advantages.  In our community we have a tremendously talented parent body who are always willing to share their expertise and points of view.  We have programs like 'Career Mentors,' 'Fine Arts Day' and 'Volunteer Day' that bring our communities expertise to Rundle to infuse our academic program with exceptional and diverse points of view.  Our program and our students benefit from simple proximity of these diverse thoughts and ideas.

All the best,

Jason B. Rogers

Experience Rundle
"We Believe:
Headmaster's Address for the 2014 Rundle Social"

October 18, 2014

This past Saturday, October 18th, Rundle College held it's semiannual "Fundraising Social."  The event was a tremendous success.  Our community came together and raised hundreds of thousands of dollars to support the building of our new Primary/Elementary school.  Beyond the fundraising totals, the event lived up to the billing: "Social Event of the Year!"  Parents, alumni, and staff came together to celebrate our Rundle Community.

Prior to the event, the committee had asked me to say a few words to the group and below is the essence of those comments.

"We Believe"

When asked to say a few words tonight in support of this event, I immediately thought to speak about the unifying purpose of this gathering.  The obvious topics may have been: raising money, great education, our upcoming building project or the great teamwork that so effortlessly brought this social event together.  However, after a short moment of reflection, I conceded that these were all reasons we are here today, but they are not the essential motivation for our coming together.  

We are all here this evening because 

'We Believe' in Rundle College.

To discover the origins of this belief, it is helpful to return to the beginnings of this program.  30 years ago, Dr. Collett and Dr. Conklin believed that if they created a school that had small class sizes and the most talented teachers, they would be able to develop highly educated, well rounded citizens of the world.  In 1985, they were nearly the only people who really believed in their project and vision.  In fact, to get the funding for this school of their dreams, they would need to remortgage their homes and hope that once the program was in place, students would enroll.  

The first year at Rundle College there were a modest 26 students enrolled and less than a half dozen staff were employed.  There were few resources and a legitimate fear that the pay cheques may not be forthcoming at each month's end, but there was always a belief that the vision for the program was sound and in time it's success would be realized.

As we stand here tonight, 30 years later, Rundle College is the gold standard for education in Alberta, arguably Canada and the World.
  

By the numbers:

• 100,000's donated to charities around Canada and the World
• 1500 Alumni - including doctors, lawyers, performers, artists, professional athletes, entrepreneurs, teachers, engineers, etc.
• 1035 Students Enrolled in 2014 - from Preschool to Grade 12 - the College and the Academy
• 150 Faculty - the best of the best
• 100's of Athletic Championships - including 4 this weekend & Andrew Buckley's impressive performance today with the U of C Dino Football Team (500 combined yards and 5 touchdowns)
• 100's of Fine Arts Performances
• 20 Countries Visited by school trip
• 4 Campuses - that are about to become 2
• 1 - The ranking we have received numerous times by multiple 3rd party organizations - including the Fraser Report and the Calgary Herald

Looking back now, it's easy to see why Dr. Collett and Dr. Conklin had such tremendous faith in their vision.

Ultimately, 

'We Believe' because 'They Believed.'

As we move forward with our upcoming project, we hope that you join us in believing that:

• The educational and co-curricular aspects of our program only continue to improve with each passing year
• Barring unpredictable circumstances, we will open the doors on our new school in September 2016
• We have engaged a A+ team to build a world class Primary/Elementary campus to match the education that we already provide
• By changing 4 campuses to 2, we will enhance the 'Rundle Experience' for our youngest and oldest students

We have had a great first thirty years, but we hope you join us in believing that the best is yet to come!

All the best,

Jason B. Rogers

Experience Rundle

"Start with structure."  
Will Ferguson quotation on creative writing.

October 10, 2014

This past week Ms. Kim's Grade 12 English Honours Class were blessed by a visit from Mr. Will Ferguson, Canadian author and recent winner of the Giller Prize.  Mr. Ferguson won the prestigious Giller Prize for his work on the novel "419" and on Wednesday, October 8th, it was exactly this book that he was discussing.  

Over the course of the hour long presentation and discussion, Mr. Ferguson discussed a range of topics including:

• how avoiding a chemistry class may have been one of the most influential career moves he ever made
• how a random trip and how long blond hair can define your future
• how Charlie Chaplin changed has impacted his relationships and career 
• what it's like to take critical feedback from a copywriter on a subject that is so dear to you
• how the adolescent brain reads differently than adults
• how a flash of empathy can change an the entire scope genre of your work
• what happens when you invent a new car and try to pass it by people who love cars

It goes without saying that he really travelled a lot of territory during his time with us!  Among the most impressive elements of his presentation may have been the student questions and his responses to them.  From the pages of their dogeared books came detailed and insightful comments and queries.  Our senior students certainly demonstrated the ability to interpret text and critically think about its' contents. 

At one point during our conversation, a student asked about the writing process and what it's like to be a creative writer.  It was in this moment that Mr. Ferguson replied with a gem of wisdom which has haunted me like that song you just cannot get out of your head.  (now, by no means is this a direct quote, but I do hope I am doing justice to it).  On the topic of creativity and writing, Mr. Fergus simply stated:

"Start with structure."

This simple, yet perfect, statement started my wheels turning and had me reflecting on what Rundle does so well.  

I believe that Rundle College Society has been, and will continue to be what it is, because we have always started with structure.  We know that the simple things like having small class sizes, knowing your students as more than just learners  and having personalized celebrations are the cornerstones to building men and women of character and intelligence.  Examples of our deep commitment to the individual in our schools this week have been the Primary's Celebration of Learning, the Academy's IPP Meetings and 17th Avenue's Fine Arts Day.  

Each of the events start with the defined structure of our mission statement and core values and once this foundation is set we are able to get creative with elements that enhance the overall event.  Each event we host is true to this simple, yet very poetic formula... "Start with structure."

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend.

Jason B. Rogers

Experience Rundle
"Headmaster's Monthly Update"

September 30, 2014

Dear Rundle Parents, 

It's hard to believe we have completed the first month of the school year. With the landmark of a month completed, I would like to welcome you to the first of my monthly updates. In these updates, I hope to celebrate a few things that have gone by, bring your attention to a few upcoming events, and share a little information and inspiration!

Coming Up:

Rundle College Social - October 18th

This is the night for the Rundle College community to gather in an effort to build a world class facility for Rundle's youngest students. With your support, the new school project will accomplish the vision of bringing our College programs together at the 17th Avenue Campus. 

Many parents and volunteers have been working hard to make this a night to remember, while celebrating Rundle's past successes and future opportunities.  There will be live music, food, libations, silent and live auctions!  Follow these links to see a just couple of the spectacular items that will be auctioned off:

• All inclusive Barge Trip in France 
  (including crew, food and drinks)
• A villa for a week in Roatan, Hondouras

Mr. Hauk and I will also be providing some up-to-the-minute updates on the building project you will not want to miss!

If you are interested in contributing your time, sponsorship or other support, please do not hesitate to contact Leslie Tecklenburg. 

Looking Back:

Friday Night Lights

A big congratulations to the entire team at Rundle College Jr. Sr. High for a heartfelt effort!  The Prefects organized and entertained us, the community rallied in support, and the athletes played with true grit! Even though it was cold in the stands, our hearts were warm. I wish the boys and their coaches a successful season.

Parents In Support of Literacy

Last week I stopped by the Primary and happened upon a group of five dedicated parents working hard to organize a beautification project in the  library.  This small group of parents exemplifies the big hearts, hard work and support that all our parents give behind the scenes! Thank you to all the parents who have given their time to help improve our programs!  

Heads Up - Experience Rundle:

As I had mentioned at our 'Meet the Teacher' events, our focuses for this year are: 

• Trust
• Connection
• Being Kinder Than is Necessary 

Below is an inspirational video touching on the topic of connection. In addition, each month I will attempt to add some items that are topical and relevant in the world of educational research - this month's topic is classroom design.

Connection:

"Every child needs a champion" ​

Even though much of this is not applicable to Rundle's students, I really appreciate the moments where ​Rita F. Pierson speaks about connection.  I hope some of it resonates with you as well!

On our minds & in the news:

Classroom design is a topic of interest for teachers, parents and students alike. Recently in the Harvard Education Letter there was a great article on the topic titled "From 'Cells and Bells' to Learning Communities" by Prakash Nair and last week the ASCD Journal published this article.  Further information on the topic can be found in the landmark publication: The Third Teacher by OWP/P Architects, VS Furniture and Bruce Mau Design. It's important to note that Rundle is not one to jump behind trends and we always keep the individual student in mind. The purpose of the deep research on this topic is to ensure that when we move our Primary/Elementary Campus, we are considering our rich tradition and also planning for the future!

​

All the best,​

Jason Rogers

Headmaster, Rundle College Society

"Attention to Excellence"

Experience Rundle
"What does a Headmaster do?"

September 17, 2014

This past week I've been able sit back a little bit and reflect on my first month at work.  I have been assisted in this reflection by many of the students at our campuses.

Early this year I promised the teachers that prior to the end of October, I would visit each of their classrooms.  In an attempt to fulfill this promise, I visited about 20 of our Primary and Elementary classrooms at the College and the Academy.  At these visits the teacher has always graciously greeted me and welcomed me into their room.  After a brief introduction, I always ask the question, "Does anybody know 1) what is my job title (headmaster for those of you who are wondering) and 2) what does a 'headmaster' actually do?"  As is almost predictable - the responses have been spectacularly entertaining!

A few responses went a little bit like this:

"You look after all the kids in our school."

"You are the head hauncho ..."

"You make sure our hallways are clean."

"You are the principal of the principals."

"You are responsible for our milk program."

"You make sure the teachers are doing their jobs."

Aside from maybe the milk comment, the K-4 students were actually pretty close to the description our board of directors provided to me.  Needless to say, it has been a fascinating week of visiting our staff and students.  

This brings us today, the day that may well be the quintessential 'Headmaster' day of all days.  Here's a brief synopsis.

7:00 AM - Meeting with Mr. Clark - Elementary Principal 

8:00 AM - Supervising students arriving at the Elementary Program

9:00 AM -  Attending Rundle Social Meeting with parents and advancement (you can get your tickets here!)

11:00 AM - Meeting with Ross Glenn of RGO Furniture to discuss interior furnishings of our schools

12:30 PM - Attending the Opening Ceremonies of Spirit Day at the Junior High

1:00 PM - Enjoying lunch with some fantastic Senior High faculty

1:30 PM - Conversing with my CAIS Headmaster mentor, Paul Kitchen from Rothesay Netherwood School in New Brunswick 

2:00 PM - Attending  the Closing Ceremonies of Spirit Day

3:00 PM - Visiting with our Academy staff

4:00 PM - Viewing the Rundle College Cobras vs Rundle Academy Rockies Volleyball Game
5:30 PM - Answering e-mails, writing this blog and connecting with our community through Twitter

By no means is this list comprehensive or aimed to draw sympathy - this is a list to be celebrated!  Our schools are alive and vibrant with the Rundle Spirit!  Each and every time I turned around today I saw students making connections, I observed teachers building trusting relationships with students and I witnessed kind acts of giving.  

Really, when you think about it, being Headmaster is a dream position, as I am able to enjoy the successes the 'Rundle Experience' affords everybody inside our community.  If I was to answer the question, what does a Headmaster do... I'd have to say 'a headmaster creates a vision for our society; all the while sharing in the spirit and success of a program that is committed to excellence.' 

All the best,

Jason B. Rogers

Save the Small
subtitle: Is this what makes Rundle so special?

September 8, 2014

Last week I was driving between the Society Office and our Jr. Sr. High campus and I had my radio tuned into CBC.  Fortuantely during this very moment, The host of Q was just about to introduce a guest 'ranter' Torquil Campbell.  For those of you who do not know, Torquil is a member of the Montreal band, 'Stars.'  I was compelled by Torquil's words.  He speaks about trust and about the importance of 'taking care of the small in your life.'  If you have 4 minutes, give it a listen by following the link below.  I will refrain from editorializing too much, Torquil's eloquence speaks for itself.

Podcast - start listening at 4:10

As I was listening to Torquil's rant I reflected on why Rundle is so special.  Quickly, it became abundantly clear that our real strength is in the connected and trusting environment that can be established when classes are under 14 students and entire schools are under 250 in population.  It is that kind of place where 'everybody knows your name' and 'they are always glad you came.'  Rundle - from the top to the bottom - is committed to this philosophy.  Which brings me to this morning and more proof of the power of connection.

A wonderful parent of one of our Primary students brought in this basket and thanked me for my talk at the Meet the Teacher Night.  The basket and these apples are small, but they are a titanic symbol of being 'kinder than is necessary' and the importance of smallness.  I cannot imagine receiving such a kind gift if we were a large district or school division and if we did not connect with each other.

I am looking forward to the coming days and continuing to be a part of the kind, trusting and connected community that embodies the 'Rundle Experience'. 

All the best,

Jason B. Rogers