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

Meet the Teacher
subtitle: Headmaster meets parents & vise versa

September 5, 2014

This past week I have had the opportunity to attend and speak at the Primary and Elementary's  'Meet the Teacher' nights.  For me, this has been an absolute highlight of my initial experience in my role as Headmaster.  These night have really illuminated the fact that we are all on the same page.

My conversations with parents at the events have been filled with optimism and support.  I have left each event feeling energized and enthusiastic about the coming months and years!  To keep these words and sentiments to myself would seem like a little bit of a crime - so on this blog I thought I'd share a few of them with our community.

Here are some of your words:

On how you found Rundle College:

"Our friends have been sending their daughter to Rundle for years and we just had to come over and see what they have been talking about!  It has been a great experience for our son and we look forward to the coming years."

On our students: 

"You know what I love most about these schools, we've simply got great kids in this program!"

On returning to school after summer:

"As a parent, I tried not to take offence, but my son was actually excited to go back to school?!?"

On what Rundle really offers:

"I want my daughter to receive a well rounded education, I know Rundle will provide that for her."

On my choice of cheering for the Riders:

"It's okay that you cheer for the riders... secretly we do too."

On what really matters:

"Everyday my child comes home from Rundle, he has a smile on his face.  

Nothing else matters to me."

On the future of education:

"In a world of change, we need to offer an education that will prepare my son for a world that is changing faster than we can predict.  With small class sizes and outstanding educators, I am able to ensure I am providing my son with the best opportunity to be prepared for the world he is inheriting."

Upon leaving a teachers classroom:

"These teachers are just the best."

I am looking forward to the coming open houses and even more opportunities to connect and to discuss our shared 'Rundle Experience'. 

All the best,

Jason B. Rogers

Trust, Connection and Kindness

Headmaster's Message - Staff Opening

August 28, 2014

Yesterday I had the immense honour and privilege of addressing the outstanding faculty of Rundle College Society.  In true Rundle College form and fashion, we took some time to talk about our program's potential and to celebrate with our colleagues.  In particular, our community took the opportunity to salute Bob Foreman and Pietro Sarro for serving Rundle College for 20 Years!

Perhaps the most touching moment of the gathering was a standing ovation that was given to Mr. Dave Hauk as he officially stepped down from being our Headmaster.  Mr. Hauk has been a tremendous inspiration to all members of our community and his day to day contributions are going to be dearly missed.

Much of the inspiration for my closing comments came from the image of one hiker helping another up a cliff of a mountain.

For me, this image is really the embodiment of who Mr. Hauk has been for the Rundle College community.  Each person he has come into contact with has learned to Trust him to help them up when they needed it, he reached out to each of us and made the Connection you might feel as one hand grasps the other and every step of the way we all realized the Kindness of his being.

Given this inspiration, I put the challenge of trusting, connecting and being kind to our faculty.  Asking them what we can do on a daily basis to embody these characteristics and values.  Knowing the calibre of our staff, I have no doubt that they will live up to the challenge.

As we move forward, I will ask the same of our parents and students.  Rundle College Society is a strong team and will only become stronger as we consider these values in the coming year.

To close, I know our teachers are filled with optimism and enthusiasm.  We cannot wait to see our students on this coming Tuesday and we genuinely hope they are excited to see us too.

All the best,

Jason B. Rogers