COEO NEWS
Conference Announcement
The Council of Outdoor Educators of Ontario is excited to invite you to attend COEO’s Annual Fall Conference to be held at Camp Muskoka, September 23 – 25, 2022.
Plans are coming together and anticipation is building for this year’s very special 50th anniversary conference! That’s right, 50 years – as an organization we have a great many things to celebrate as well as many accomplishments to be proud of. And as we come together to reflect and look back upon all of the significant work we have done, we will also make time to look ahead, and imagine all of the possibilities that the future may hold.
Our conference theme,“Gather ‘Round the Fire”,is an invitation to all COEO members – past, present and future – to come together and learn from one another as we have traditionally always done. Using the campfire as a metaphor, we will explore the varied roles we can all play as professionals, colleagues, innovators in education, leaders both outside and within our organization, and members of a very unique community of practice. We will ask ourselves: how can we “be the spark” or “feed the fire”? And in what ways can we “tend the embers”, “fan the flames”, or take time to “warm ourselves”? As we discover the many ways in which we can engage and support learners, we are also preparing ourselves for the great many changes and challenges our province and planet will face in the next 50 years.
As with our 40th Anniversary Conference, COEO’s original founders and long-time sustainers will be invited to return to share in the celebration of how our organization was born and nurtured; we’ll showcase current best practices and together envision what our future can be.
Please plan to join us as we explore new ideas and perspectives, learn and share, refocus and rejuvenate for this special 50th anniversary year ahead!
EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN – REGISTER TODAY AND SAVE!!!
COEO – Through the Years
We need your help to celebrate! We are looking for images of COEO Events from the past 50 years, to help us celebrate COEOs Golden anniversary. We would gratefully accept scans of photos or slides. There are lots of great stories from conferences, workshops and other COEO events, and we would love your help sharing them.
Please send photos to COEO Membership Secretary Bill Elgie at membership@coeo.org.
Congratulations COEO! 2022 winners of OTF’s Special Recognition Award
In the year of our auspicious anniversary we are honoured to be recipients of OTF’s Special Recognition Award! The OTF Special Recognition Award is presented annually to an organization, group or individual in recognition of outstanding contributions to publicly funded education in Ontario, beyond the school board level.
Triennial Constitutional Review
The Constitution Review Committee is pleased to present the constitutional review for your consideration, as a triennial requirement of our Council bylaws.
We encourage all members to review not only the proposed amendments but the constitution in its entirety. This is our legal governance document. A robust review necessitates rigorous engagement from our membership. This is the opportunity for all members in good standing to suggest amendments.
Please submit your suggested amendments to the committee by 11:59 PM on Monday, August 1st. The committee will review and compile all suggested amendments, and report back to council members by Thursday, September 1st. Please note: a two-thirds vote of the members present and voting at the Annual Meeting is required to amend or revise the Constitution.
We are a membership organization because of our collective love for outdoor education. The committee would like to thank everyone in advance of their engagement with this vital process.
Submit suggested amendments to info@coeo.org.
June Webinar – Chi-miigwech to Elders Peter Schuler & Lois Thomas
Those who joined our final webinar this June were so gifted by the powerful teachings of Elders Peter Schuler and Lois Thomas. Peter and Lois have been friends and advisors to COEO now for almost a decade. What they choose and are moved to share is always just what we who are able to gather with them need. Talking and learning with them in June was as always a beautiful gift. We look forward to joining with you again in person this fall Peter and Lois!
COEO Awards Nominations
Our annual awards provide an important opportunity to recognize both individual and group efforts, celebrating the many and varied expressions of outdoor education within our membership and throughout the province of Ontario. These awards also allow us to recognize members who have gone above and beyond to support the work of COEO; their contributions are invaluable to COEO, who depends upon members stepping forward to carry out the important mandates of our organization.
Our next set of awards will be given out at our 50th Fall Conference in September 2022. We are accepting award nominations throughout the year, and the deadline for submissions is September 1st. Since we did not distribute awards in 2020 or 2021 due to the pandemic we will likely give out 2-3 of each award category, depending on nominations.
For information about each of the COEO awards visit the Recognition page of our website.
Know a deserving outdoor educator or organization? Nominate them using this form: https://forms.gle/7SB8grn6qyXQznun9
COEO Outdoor Learning Tips Document – Now available in French!
CLICK HERE to check out the French translation of our popular Outdoor Learning Tips document – Conseils pour faciliter l’apprentissage en plein air. Many thanks to Jennifer Bernier from Ecole La Fontaine, in Kleinburg, ON, for translating the English version and to Danielle Barrett (current COEO Board member) for editing. Feel free to download and share this version of the document with any French speaking colleagues!
Call for Articles – Pathways: The Ontario Journal of Outdoor Education
*Fall 2022 Special Theme Issue: Learning Through the More-Than-Human
The presumed separation of humans from non-human animals, plants, objects, things, or the elements represents a distinctively Western conception of a world divided. It could be argued that these values permeate dominant educational models but are not universally upheld. In what ways can we learn through a critical exploration of our “more-than-human” encounters? What exactly is “more-than-human”? Is there a division between the human and non-human, and if so, where does it begin? In this issue we want to explore the capacity for outdoor education, or educational praxis more broadly, to engage with these questions, or to otherwise introduce alternative teaching practices that incite critical explorations of place, being, and matter. Submissions may discuss but are not limited to: Outdoor, environmental, and experiential education; wild pedagogies; land-based artistic practice; Black, Indigenous, People of Colour, Queer, or otherwise anticolonial teaching pedagogies; Object-Oriented Ontology, and more.
Below are suggested guiding questions and topics for submission; however, one is not limited to the following.
-What does more-than-human entanglement look like in an educational context? How can it shape the way we move through the world?
-What meanings might arise from intra-actions with the more-than-human? What are the affects and effects of such encounters?
-What does making space for more-than-human agency look, sound, or feel like within teaching practice? Could the more-than-human be a co-teacher?
-Embodiment and more-than-human encounters: Does the human body have a boundary? What can we learn from questioning that boundary?
-In what ways do encounters with non-human animals lead us to question the human/animal separation or hierarchy? How can education connect different species or challenge species binaries?
Pathways parameters:
–Pathways will be seeking theme related artwork to support this issue. Please note that the journal does not typically does not make use of photos. Black line art is preferred.
-We aim to present many diverse ideas and experiences, and so are seeking submissions that are succinct and focused — ideally 2-4 pages in length (i.e., 1100 to 2400 words). Authors proposing articles of a greater length (5+ pages in length) should seek prior approval from the Guest Editors for this theme issue.
Guest Editors: Nina Bakan, Aaron Lefler, and Megan Tucker.
See all the Submission criteria here. The deadline for submissions is August 1st, 2022. For questions or to submit, please contact Issue Editor, Megan Tucker: mct14@sfu.ca
*Winter 2023 Special Theme Issue: Snow and Outdoor Learning
The winter months in Ontario always provide an abundance of active and experiential outdoor learning opportunities for students. However, these opportunities are also accompanied by a variety of challenges and barriers. In many areas of Ontario, freezing temperatures and precipitation often combine to transform our communities and schoolyards overnight, suddenly erasing what was once familiar and known to students, and replacing it (actually covering it) with something completely new – snow. Snow has many special and unique properties, one of which being the ability to drastically change our local landscapes and outdoor learning environments – the places where our students travel, explore, play and learn. So why all this talk of snow you ask? The Pathways Editorial Board has decided to set aside a future issue (Winter, 2023) and dedicate it to a special theme: Snow and Outdoor Learning. Our hope is that by announcing this call for articles early, we will give potential authors the opportunity (this upcoming winter season specifically) to experiment and explore, research and reflect, in and about the snow with their students, colleagues or on their own. Theme related topics could include, but are not limited to: Snow-based forms of transportation and physical activity; field studies within the subnivean environment; the material qualities of snow and snow as a “loose part” for creative and imaginative play; climate change and the impact on snow conditions in Ontario; winter camping and snow shelters; the administration and policing of snow and ice in schoolyards. As always, guidelines for authors and artists can be found on the Pathways webpage (www.coeo.org/pathways-journal/) and all submissions for this special theme issue must be received by September 1, 2022. For questions or to submit, please contact pathways@coeo.org.
OTHER OEE & RELATED NEWS
Human Kinetics Book of the Month
Outdoor Leadership, Second Edition, is the definitive text for developing student leadership in outdoor and adventure settings throughout the world. Crafted by an author team internationally recognized for their research, teaching, and experience in outdoor and adventure leadership, this new edition provides students with the foundational knowledge they need to develop as competent professionals in the field.
This unique approach to outdoor and adventure leadership will help students meet current professional standards in the field as they prepare for careers in education and recreation. The students move step by step through the materials and assignments, gaining and demonstrating leadership competencies, which they will document through a portfolio of their course experiences. The development of these portfolios is a highly practical and valuable takeaway for students looking to get a leg up as they ready themselves for their career.
For more information, click here.
Use code B721 to receive 40% off regular price. Offer expires 7/31/2022
Survey Request for Outdoor Activity Leaders
Bringing a group outside is a beautiful role filled with important responsibilities. Properly preparing group leaders requires good and accessible training options. To do this, a working group preparing for the Canadian Outdoor Summit in 2022 is developing a proposal for a framework on competencies and training for Led Outdoor Activities. To create something that will work for the sector and honor the quality training already in existence, they have prepared a survey to better understand the scope and distribution of training providers in Canada.
If you have worked and/or volunteered for an organization bringing people outside, your participation in this survey is important and meaningful.
CLICK HERE to complete the survey!
Educational Policy and Practice in an Age of Climate Uncertainty, Lakehead University – Call for Teachers
Are you a teacher integrating climate change education into your classroom?
Researchers at Lakehead University (Drs. Ellen Field and Paul Berger) are conducting research on K-12 climate change education practices and teacher beliefs. We are interested in diverse and creative ways that climate change education is being integrated in schools across Canada as well as barriers that teachers experience. This research is voluntary and has two parts: 1) 15 minute survey 2) follow-up interview. Interviewees will receive a $50 honorarium.
For more info, contact: efield@lakeheadu.ca
Survey Link: https://forms.gle/C2ys7f1e6TZDDDiv9
OEE P.D. OPPORTUNITIES
Outdoor Learning Webinars, hosted by LSF
Some of the newest webinar offerings include:
A series of webinars designed specifically for and by secondary teachers
Tips for getting outside even in cold winter months!
Connecting primary and middle school math curriculum to the outdoors
For an up to date list of upcoming webinars, continue to check LSF’s R4R outdoor learning page
Check out the recorded webinar sessions for each grade group:
Kindergarten/Early Years: Webinar recording | Webinar slides
Grades K-6: Webinar recording | Webinar slides
Grades 4-10: Webinar recording | Webinar slides
UPCOMING CONFERENCES
International Outdoor Education Research Conference
July 18-22, 2022, Ambleside Campus, University of Cumbria, Ambleside, United Kingdom
NAAEE Research Symposium and Conference
October 11-15, 2022, Tucson, Arizona, USA
AEE 50th Annual International Conference
November 10-13, 2022, YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly, Black Mountain, North Carolina, USA
JOB POSTINGS
Teacher, Claremont Nature Centre, TRCA
Under the guidance of their Supervisor, the Teacher isresponsible for the development and delivery of education programs at Claremont Nature Centre. Teachers must be in good standing with the Ontario College of Teachers and coordinate specific education related portfolios within the division. This position demands an individual with strong facilitation abilities. They are expected to provide superior customer service to education stakeholders. Expectations outside of formal education delivery can include support for recreational programs, youth volunteer programs and specialized audience programming.
To view the job posting CLICK HERE
Outdoor Education Intern, Camp Kawartha
Are you passionate about outdoor education and environmental stewardship? Are you interested in building your teaching skills in nature and outdoor education? Would you like to work for an award winning outdoor and environment centre? Are you available to work from early September until December 2022 with the possibility of extending the contract? With over 60 curriculum linked programs on offer and plans to become a nationally recognized environmental leadership centre, Camp Kawartha is seeking a dynamic and enthusiastic educator to join our talented team. We need educators who are creative, dedicated and are keen to learn. This is a great first step towards becoming a professional outdoor educator.
To view the posting https://campkawartha.ca/employment-opportunities/
Norval Outdoor Education Instructor, Upper Canada College
The Norval Outdoor Education Instructor is a wonderful opportunity to develop experience,
be mentored by outstanding seasoned faculty members, and have phenomenal exposure to a
top quality educational experience. The position is responsible for planning, implementing, and
evaluating programs and curriculum at the Norval Outdoor School. A prime focus of the position
is to stimulate learning and an appreciation of the environment and the community. The Norval
staff team assumes all in-class and outdoor supervisory duties while students reside at the
school, as well as maintaining and developing resources and equipment on site.
To view the job posting and apply CLICK HERE
Program Manager (F/T) and Program Faciliatators (Spring and Fall), Adventureworks
At Adventureworks! our mission is to create opportunities for people to develop and practice the values, attitudes, knowledge, and skills required to create healthy communities. We believe that meaningful involvement in adventure-based programs enables participants to develop a greater capacity for understanding themselves, build healthy relationships, exercise effective leadership, and enhance their environment. Join us and add your skills and passion to the diverse talents of our professional team.
To view all job postings CLICK HERE
Instructor – Outdoor Recreation Theory and Practices I, Brock University
This course includes outdoor recreation theories and engagement in a variety of introductory outdoor field experiences. May involve backpacking, winter camping, rock climbing, canoeing, snowshoeing and cross country skiing.
To view the full posting CLICK HERE
Assistant and Lead Instructors, Free Bird Nature School
Free Bird Nature School is hiring assistants and lead instructors for our 2022-2023 school year.
The contracts run from September 2022 to June 2023 (option to remain on for Summer Camps 2023. If you thrive outdoors immersed in nature, rain or shine and love getting dirty you may be a good fit for a nature school instructor.
Full time (Monday to Friday) or part time (3 days a week) Compensation ranges vary depending on experience and position ($15/hour-$19/hour).
To view the full posting and to apply CLICK HERE
Multiple Positions, Pine River Institute
Pine River Institute is a live-in treatment center for youth 13 to 19 years of age struggling with substance
abuse and addictive behaviours. Our program includes; a therapeutic wilderness program phase near
Algonquin Park, followed by a live-in phase at our campus located on a 200-acre site 100 kms northwest
of Toronto. Our program uses a progressive discharge approach that is complemented by an aftercare
program. Our family-centered program is innovative and highly structured, and creates opportunities
for adolescents to engage in a focused transformation process through a fusion of education, therapy,
recreation, and life skills.
The Pine River Institute is looking for:
Wilderness Field Support: EJP OLE Field Support 02022022
Full-time Wilderness Instructor: EJP Wilderness Instructor FT
Senior Director of Operations and Campus Life: Senior Director of Operations and Campus Life 20220324
Instructor, ALIVE Outdoors
The root of ALIVE Outdoors is the belief that how well we know and understand ourselves is what determines the quality of our lives. ALIVE has over 20 years of history developing and facilitating meaningful and engaging outdoor, international, and city-based experiential programs. Our programs focus on helping students discover their potential and unique strengths while nurturing an authentic connection to the natural environment and their peers.
Each year ALIVE brings together a team of over 120 passionate and dedicated instructors to facilitate our programs. We are currently looking to build our instructor teams for the Spring and Fall with individuals who bring a variety of skill sets to working with youth. We are seeking instructors, trip leaders, teachers, teacher candidates, and educationally minded individuals who are passionate about teaching, learning, exploring, and helping young people reground in the outdoors. Positions are available for single week or multi-week contracts at various Ontario Outdoor Centers and on Canoe Trips in the Spring and Fall 2022.
We encourage you to learn more about ALIVE instructor opportunities: https://www.aliveoutdoors.com/instructors
Apply Online here: https://www.aliveoutdoors.com/apply
Teachers, Outdoor Educators, and Counsellors, The Boundless School
We are looking for teachers, outdoor educators or those with counselling experience to join our band of merry maniacs, and help kids have the adventure of their lives.
If you are audacious enough to actually join our team, you will engage teenagers (sometimes laden with baggage) in high school education, OE and mentorship. The gig takes place on a 600-acre piece of wilderness paradise in the Madawaska Valley of Eastern Ontario. It’s a venue that will seduce your soul.
To apply, please complete this application form found at theboundlessschool.com/staff and email this, along with your resume, to steven@theboundlessschool.com
ONTARIO CAMPS ASSOCIATION – JOB BOARD
The OCA Job Board is always an excellent place to find job postings in the field of outdoor education. Check out their website, as many full-time positions at outdoor centres and camps are now being advertised.
Find us, friend us, like us, tag us or follow us online:
Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/coeo.org
Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/coeo.org
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/COEOoutdoors
Twitter https://twitter.com/COEOoutdoors @COEOoutdoors
ABOUT THIS ELECTRONIC NEWSLETTER
For consistency, the COEO electronic newsletter is now published on the first of each month. Anyone having an item of interest to outdoor & experiential educators and desiring publication in this newsletter needs to submit it to newsletter@coeo.org at least two days before the publication date.
The newsletter is generally organized according to the following headings: COEO News, Other OEE & Related News, P.D. Opportunities, Opportunities for Students, Resources, Job Postings. If your organization wishes to post information (e.g., notice of upcoming events, etc), it needs to be an organizational member of COEO.
If you would like to be removed from COEO’s eNewsletter mailing list, please send an email to newsletter@coeo.org and ask to be unsubscribed.