Manitoba public schools operate within a system that reflects a Eurocentric and conservative approach to education. Historically, this existing framework has not met the needs of its student population. The overarching question asks what changes are needed for a diverse student population in a Southwestern Manitoba school that sits in Treaty 2 Territory, and which includes many newcomer students. Secondary research supports the underpinning theories within this Problem of Practice (PoP) and was examined to seek viable solutions. Secondary research theory is based on qualitative and quantitative findings by Khalifa, Banwo, Mackey, Pagán and Tintiangco-Cubales. Selected leadership models of culturally responsive leadership and distributed leadership are used to move away from the “top down” approach. A hybrid change framework using Kotter’s Eight Stage model and Greiner’s Five Phases of Organizational Growth models were selected to their tiered structure to support a two-year change model. This change model allows effective transition time for readiness assessment, coalition building and monitoring. Monitoring tools such as the Plan, do, Check, Act (PDCA) and Strengths, Weakness, Opportunities and Threats (SWOT) are integrated to monitor and adjust changes needed. Knowledge mobilization (Kmb) strategies support the PLC to focus on both linear and non-linear approaches. This hybrid model navigates Meadow School’s PoP and provides methodologies which maintain accountability to the TRC’s Calls to Action (2012). Recommendations to create change require culturally responsive leadership and the influence of Indigenous education framework methodologies.

Authors:
S. Michelle Kolbe, Western University, Canada

About the Presenter(s)
Susanna Michelle Kolbe (Michelle) is currently a grade 8 classroom teacher in Manitoba, Canada and a third year EdD student at Western University. Michelle's professional teaching career has 25 years of experience, including German language instruction, a Past President of the Manitoba Teachers of German, a former small school principal, English as an Additional Language teacher/coordinator and Indigenous education representative for her local union association (current).
Her hobbies include outdoor recreation such as cross country skiing, snowshoeing and hiking. One of her best memories is hiking Ireland's Kerry Way. Michelle's interests also span from camping in Canada's wilderness to new pursuits and interests that are presented such as attending music festivals, art exhibits and theatre productions. Michelle is currently focusing on her Dissertation in Practice and planning a three day long outdoor education-based camping trip for Grade 8's in her Manitoba school.

See this presentation on the full schedule – Saturday Schedule

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