My name is Shawne Callihoo and I am so pleased to be the principal of Meadowbrook Elementary. On behalf of our teaching, clerical and support staff, I welcome you to Meadowbrook Elementary School's web site.
Meadowbrook School is BC's first Reggio Influenced Public School , hosting Kindergarten through Grade Five with a current enrollment of 200 students from around the district. At Meadowbrook, we have interpreted the Reggio approach based on our own cultural traditions, experiences and environmental influences. All teachers follow the BC curricular and core compentencies when planning and assessing learning.
The Reggio Emilia vision is of an 'education based on relationships'. Education must focus on individual children in relationship with the family, other children, the staff, the school environment, the community and society. These relationships are interconnected and reciprocal.
The Reggio Emilia approach has several guiding principles. Children are powerful, capable, and resourceful. They should be given some choice over their own learning. Parents are partners in their children’s education. Projects are based on the children’s interests, ideas and questions. Teachers encourage children to spend a lot of time on projects to make sure they get a deep understanding of the information they are learning. The classroom itself is a teacher, and the look and feel of the classroom environment is very important. Children’s work and ideas are documented regularly through photos and transcripts.
Children are encouraged to be involved in their community and be aware of how they interact with others. Through this approach we work towards developing greater student engagement, self-regulation, creativity, and cooperation. At Meadowbrook we emphasize the development of Social and Emotional Learning. Across the grades, we use the Mood Meter to help students identify their emotions and teach strategies to help move from one emotion to another more productive one.
We boast an incredible staff of professionals, paraprofessionals and support staff who are dedicated to creating a rich, exciting, and extensive educational experience for every child who comes through our doors.
In fact, our mission statement reads:
The community of Meadowbrook builds on the strengths of all learners helping them to develop socially, intellectually and physically in order to become responsible members of society.
Parents are a vital part of what makes Meadowbrook a fantastic community school. Check out the PAC link to see more information on how you can get involved and join the team. Please do not hesitate to call for an appointment to see our school. We will be proud to show you our building, and the wonderful people within its walls.
I believe in ongoing communication between the community and the school.. Do not hesitate to contact me should you have any questions, comments or concerns about the school. I can be reached by telephone 604-464-5813 or by email: scallihoo@sd43.bc.ca
Of course, I welcome parents to come and see me personally to discuss any concerns, suggestions, opinions on any school related matters.
