I'm so thrilled to share today's episode with you. I am joined today by Matt and Eric as we dive deep into well-being, belonging, and the fascinating world of education. Matt and Eric are wonderful educators in Canada and are doing remarkable work in fostering a sense of belonging for international students and enhancing the well-being of every student in their respective schools.

In this engaging conversation, we explore their unique approaches to creating a vibrant school culture, from multicultural clubs to innovative events like multicultural weeks. Matt, the Vice Principal and International Student Coordinator at Woodland Christian High School, shares his insights into redefining the narrative around international students, emphasizing the importance of fostering genuine relationships and a sense of belonging. Meanwhile, Eric, Athletic Director and teacher at King's Christian Collegiate, sheds light on the collective efforts to prioritize student well-being, especially in the post-pandemic landscape.

As we delve into the challenges and triumphs of education, we touch upon the impactful concept of restorative justice and its varied implementations. Discover how these educators are navigating the evolving educational landscape, tackling issues such as technology barriers, and instilling empathy as a core value in students. Tune in, and join us for this enlightening educational discussion!

To learn more, order Jon's book, Just Teaching: Feedback, Engagement, and Well-Being for Each Student.

The Just Schools Podcast is brought to you by the Baylor Center for School Leadership. Each week, we'll talk to catalytic educators who are doing amazing work.

Be encouraged.

Timestamps:

[0:37] - Today’s guests are Matt Hazenberg and Eric Bulthuis!

[1:43] - Matt is the vice principal international student coordinator at Woodland Christian High School in Kitchener, Ontario, inspired by childhood teachers and a passion for learning.

[2:21] - Matt has been teaching since September 2015.

[2:26] - Eric, at King's Christian Collegiate in Oakville, Ontario, embraces education inspired by his parents, both of whom were teachers.

[3:58] - Matt explains how he transformed the international student program at his school, prioritizing belonging through a multicultural approach.

[6:56] - Eric emphasizes the importance of student well-being and implementing diverse programs.

[9:20] - Addressing student discipline, Matt emphasizes a restorative justice approach to mend relationships and build community.

[11:31] - Eric notes the universal care and love in handling discipline, emphasizing shared values across diverse schools.

[12:34] - Matt discusses alternatives to student removal, highlighting a Mennonite-inspired approach.

[15:17] - Eric envisions a collective effort for student well-being, emphasizing unity and collaboration in achieving goals.

[16:18] - Matt emphasizes the post-pandemic challenge of re-establishing school culture, aiming for renewed student interactions and engagement.

[19:16] - Matt stresses the value of collective effort, acknowledging individual limitations and the need for collaboration.

[19:37] - Eric received advice to avoid smiling until November for classroom management but disagrees, choosing to prioritize building connections.

[20:33] - The best piece of advice that Matt received was about the importance of learning to say no and set boundaries for well-being.

[21:00] - Eric advocates for the transformative power of loving first, erasing labels like "bad kids" for a better teaching experience.

[21:44] - Addressing the challenge of technology barriers, Matt aims to foster present community engagement beyond just the classroom.

[22:17] - Eric emphasizes the crucial task of teaching and fostering empathy for a more compassionate future.

[22:37] - I emphasize leading with love and fostering empathy, viewing AI as an exciting yet challenging educational prospect.

[23:37] - Matt envisions Christian school educators expanding their network, fostering collaboration and learning across North America and beyond.

Connect on Social Media:

Baylor MA in School Leadership

Baylor Doctorate in Education

Jon Eckert: @eckertjon

Center for School Leadership at Baylor University: @baylorcsl

Resources Mentioned:

Rita Pierson - “Every kid needs a champion” TED Talk

Bob Goff - Love Does: Discover a Secretly Incredible Life in an Ordinary World