Dear MindShare Learning Community,
As we close the digital book on 2024, I want to take a moment to reflect on an extraordinary year of growth, innovation, 'Human Connection' and collaboration in the world of education technology. This year has been marked by groundbreaking advancements, inspiring achievements, and milestones that are reshaping the future of learning across Canada and beyond.
From celebrating global icons like the University of Toronto’s Dr. Geoffrey Hinton, the "Godfather of AI," receiving the Nobel Prize, to recognizing the incredible accomplishments of students, educators, and institutions alike, 2024 has been a testament to the power of passion and purpose in education.
Among the highlights:
- K-12 Transformation: Edwin continues to lead digital learning initiatives, setting benchmarks for innovation.
- Recognition for Excellence: West Vancouver Schools and Ottawa Catholic School Board were named K-12 Districts of the Year, reflecting their exceptional leadership and dedication to student success.
- AI’s Expanding Role in Education: C21 Canada AI Report and AI Use Case Projects in partnership with Dell Technologies. The OECD and York University gained global recognition for their leadership in AI research, while initiatives like New Brunswick’s AI in Education Think Tank paved the way for meaningful dialogue and solutions.
- Empowering Teachers and Students: From Let’s Talk Science’s STEM leadership to Peel’s all-girls robotics teams making Canada proud on the world stage, the drive for equity and excellence has never been stronger.
We also witnessed transformative innovations, like the Minecraft simulations of First Nation lands, to Peel District School Board investing in 170 Innovation projects district-wide, and significant innovations such as Canva emerging as the #1 most-used EdTech tool. These are clear signals that we’re not just responding to change but actively shaping it.
On a personal note, I was deeply inspired by the people, projects, and partnerships that have flourished this year. Whether it was co-hosting the 15th Annual Canadian EdTech Leadership Summit or collaborating with organizations like Dell Technologies, Literatu, and Contact North, the passion for improving education remains our shared purpose.
Looking to 2025, we are poised to explore new horizons, guided by our collective mission to connect, empower, and transform learning experiences. I am especially excited about expanding AI’s potential for good, enhancing digital equity, and fostering human connections in an increasingly interconnected world. We welcome new partnerships and collaborations!
If you are attending the Future of Eduation Technology Conference (FETC), please plan to join us at the 31st CanAm Celebration of Excellence Meetup. We are honoured to be leading the CanAm EdTech Trade Mission in partnership with the Canadian Consulate of Miami.
In closing, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to you—our MindShare Learning community—for your unwavering support and collaboration throughout the year. Together, we continue to build a brighter future for education. From passionate education experts, teachers, students, sponsors, partners, advisory board members and our team here at MindShare Learning. We look forward to 2025 with great anticipation of what's come and look forward to sharing your inspirational stories and insights.
A final notes, on Well-Being my #24: I couldn't resist higlighting, Outlive, in my estimation the 'Book of the Year' by Toronto born Dr. Peter Attia, who embraced a prevention mindset. I did the audio version of the book and it changed my state of well-being significantly. Hence, I felt compelled to share with my community who I care so immensely for! I encourage you to have a read, or listen and work toward a more balanced lifestyle as I see too many education folks who tend to be selfless! I plan to catchup with friends and family over the holidays, get outdoors and definitely play some hockey too!
From our team to yours, wishing you and your family a very special holiday season. Stay safe, take good care of your health and keep the digital learning curve steep!
