Special Review Committee calls for submissions on FOIPOP Act

An all-party committee of the Legislative Assembly is reviewing the provisions of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act — and it's calling for your submissions. Deadline to submit to the Special Committee to Review the FOIPOP Act: January 29, 2010. As part of its review, the Commitee will also hold public hearings and video conferences.

FOIPOP 's purpose is to make public bodies accountable to the public and to protect personal privacy. The Committee is seeking input on how well the Act is doing this, and if some sections need improvement. For more information, contact the Committee.

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By popular demand, a part two of BCSTA's e-Learn session on Board Self-Evaluation

Due to high demand , BCSTA is offering a second part to its Elluminate program on Board Self-Evaluation, Wednesday, November 18 at 9:30 am, repeated at 7:30 pm. BCSTA Board Director Teresa Rezansoff and Senior Education Director Rob Goodall will co-present the program, this time focusing more on board, less on trustee, self-evaluation. Part of e-Learn, the program's purposes are:

1. To clarify the value and process for board self-evaluation;
2. To explain alternative processes for board self-review;
3. To review the characteristics of high functioning boards;
4. To suggest ways that boards could improve their processes;
5. To help your board begin its self-assessment work;
6. To enable trustees to find more easily the educational resources they need to govern well.

During this interactive session, participants can try out some self-evaluation questionnaires, and discuss results and the application to their own boards. You'll need the usual Elluminate resources: a computer, good Internet connection, headset with microphone (or a microphone-equipped laptop). We will send out detailed sign-on and connection instructions to all who register. If you have any questions about completing the registration form, contact Rob Goodall.

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An inspiring finish to 2009, a great way to launch 2010: BCSTA's Ability Academy

Round out this busy year with a stimulating event that will energize you for the challenges and opportunites upcoming in 2010. BCSTA's Ability Academy, December 3-5 at Vancouver's Westin Bayshore, will provide you with a dynamic, topical program of speakers and sessions. Sessions range from "Conflict of Interest" to "Local Education Agreements" to Facilitating Community Consultations," and many more. Keep checking the program for updates! Contact Senior Education Director Rob Goodall for more details.

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Lights, camera, action: announcing the national "Racism: Stop It!" competition

In preparation for March 21, 2010, the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, the federal government announces a nation-wide "Racism: Stop It!" video competition for students. With this competition, Citizenship and Immigration Canada encourages Canadians aged 12-20 to create videos expressing their thoughts and ideas on how to eliminate racism. An exciting project for schools, the competition allows each video team to consist of up to five members. However, the video itself can feature the whole school, if the young filmmakers so desire.

CIC is holding the competition in partnership with the United Nations Association in Canada and the National Film Board, among others. Contact CIC for more information.

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