HAPPY NEW YEAR - JANUARY 2026

Welcome 2026 and welcome back!  Whether you travelled, spent time with friends and family, or recovered from getting sick this winter break, we hope you had a wonderful holiday. Wishing the new year will bring health, happiness and peace for all!

Here are some themes and topics to teach in January:

Educational & Cultural Days

·        January 4: World Braille Day (Learn about accessibility and communication).

·        January 10: Science Fiction Day (Explore imagination, technology).

·        January 17: Kid Inventors' Day (Inspire problem-solving).

·        January 24: International Day of Education (Discuss learning's importance).

·        January 25: Opposite Day (Fun with antonyms and critical thinking). 

Canadian Seasons & Weather: Discuss winter weather, temperatures (Celsius), winter clothing, and seasonal activities (skating, snowshoeing).

Health & Wellness: Learn about Canadian healthcare (family doctors, walk-in clinics), healthy eating in winter, and self-care. Discuss mental health, and the winter blues.

Community & Settlement: Explore public services like libraries, community centers, and essential local resources.

New Year & Goal Setting: Use goal-setting worksheets (PBLA style) for personal and language goals, focusing on future aspirations.

Community & Recreation: Discuss local events, multicultural celebrations (like Lunar New Year if relevant to your group), and recreational activities. 

With reporting period coming up, we know you will be busy gathering as many assessments and skill-using activities as possible.  There is a vast array of resources online, but make sure to check out the “PBLA” tab as well as www.Tutela.ca

Try to update your assessment tracking log after each assessment and skill-using activity you do with your classes to keep track of the 6-8 artefacts needed per skill to change one CLB level. Keep an eye out for any emails with instructions from Carolyn on the reporting procedures.

Finally, remember to check out the “Avenue” tab on our blog to see updates from Danielle, and also drop by our Google Classroom. Stay tuned for more information on upcoming Avenue and HARTs workshops. Anyone who needs help with using HARTS to complete progress reports is welcome!  Zoom link with time and date to come.

Thanks to everyone who continues to share with our team, you are all awesome. Wishing you all the very best in 2026!

Haleema and Liudmila