Walnut Grove Staff Chronicles

Deb has been working as a teacher at Walnut Grove since the early 90s. Anyone who has worked with Deb will learn to appreciate her so much more by hearing the incredible way she has been willing to try new things, often when she had no previous experience. But this willingness to embrace a can-do attitude is such a valuable example for new teachers and for students. Deb has lived her life, both personally and professionally, with a growth mindset, not shying away from opportunities but diving right in and excelling in so many ways. Think of this teacher of Walnut Grove the next time you feel you can't handle the challenges placed in front of you.

Gary Lutes is one of the special teachers that started his career in the first year that Walnut Grove Secondary opened it's doors. In this episode, we find out how early life experiences crafted by a caring family that modelled hospitality, developed Gary into the warm and fuzzy guy that he is. But also, how it made him one of BC's most successful track coaches, perennially a top 3 team with almost innumerable provincial banners. This is a great episode for any teacher starting out. Follow Gary's example and see how developing community through care and respect, belonging and acceptance can make for a very rewarding and memorable career.

Glenn has taught at Walnut Grove Secondary School for 30 years, and as such, he has a perspective on teaching that only comes with experience. This is a podcast that will be very interesting to long-time WGSS teachers, but will also be very inspirational for new teachers looking to make their mark. Find out how Glenn was almost an Olympic athlete, listen for the moment when I can't remember the name of a legendary WG teacher, and share a few laughs with this Scottish icon from the math wing.

Julia is a long time teacher at Walnut Grove Secondary School. In this episode, Julia starts right away by dropping a bombshell of a story! I was shocked to hear how her life started. She will describe some of her adventures as a high school student, some of her travel exploits, and some of the life lessons that she has to share. But towards the end of her interview, in a very emotional segment, Julia shares how her family, separated by circumstance and tragedy, comes back together in the most beautiful way. I had to hear it twice just to understand but I'm glad I did. I think you will appreciate this amazing educator even more after listening to her story.

Eric has taught at Walnut Grove since 1994. But his involvement in academics precedes that! And where did his love for adventure come from that we see in his leadership in Edge and the Harrison Hike? Learn about this and more as we hear from this great educator.

This is a very interesting conversation with Doug McGinn, fitness expert and teacher at Walnut Grove Secondary School in Langley, BC, Canada. Learn more of his background, from his education, his family growing up, family tragedies, ideas about staying in shape and travel tips. Quite a collection of topics and a very good listen.