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CALP Connections: December 2024

A Message from Tanya Klappe, Vice Chair of the CLN Board

It was six or more years ago that I was participating in a Symposium workshop, led by the now retired Karen Plourde, where she walked us through her methods for supporting adults with learning disabilities. The workshop incorporated her Reading by Sight and Sound System as well as information on how to involve other senses in the learning process. With my own background being primarily EAL instruction, this was a lot of new and exciting information for me. It was a very engaging session and one that genuinely impacted and solidified my passion for the work we do in CALP.

Is that to say my confidence was also immediately impacted by Karen’s presentation? No, I’ll admit that wasn’t the case. But then, Karen informed the room that she was retiring soon and that it was important to share her many years’ expertise working with literacy learners. Karen commented that the people in the room were the future leaders in the CALP system and she wanted to impart her learned knowledge on us before retiring. After hearing this, I remember my exact thoughts…."me? I’m included in Karen’s statement about the future leaders in CALP? How can that possibly be? I mean, who am I?”

But wait, my second thought soon followed. “Actually, sure, why not me? I’m in the room, participating in order to contribute, aren’t I? So, why not me?!”

Fast forward six or so years, and I was being encouraged to join the CLN Board. My first thought, “Really?... Me?” Second thought, “Sure, why not me?!” And I am so pleased I did. My first weeks on the board have been welcoming and engaging.  I have been working in the system in various roles since 2006 and yet, this new experience is offering me a wealth of new learning and ways to contribute.

In fact, my experience on the CLN Board has led to a further consciousness of the CALP system as a whole and how all the moving parts come together to make it such a strong and impactful program in our province. The CLN Board is just one piece of this system and working together with all the individual CALPs and PD providers etc., we are making a difference in the lives of the Albertans we serve.

So, during this month of December, as we wrap up 2024, let’s all take a moment to reflect on colleagues’ and our own considerable contributions to the CALP system. There is so much knowledge and leadership coming from every corner of Alberta and I’m encouraging everyone to take notice. We’re doing great work around the province and we need to celebrate it with confidence!

With that, please be reminded that the CLN Board is currently accepting nominations for the 2025 Outstanding Contributions Award and we welcome and encourage internal nominations. Remember you and your colleagues are in the room ‘participating’ in order to contribute. So, why not you?!

Nominations can be made here:  https://calp.ca/resources/call-for-nominations-outstanding-contribution-award-2025.htm 

Deadline for submissions is March 14, 2025.

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CALP Connections: November 2024

A Message from Monica Sczyrba-Davis, Chair of the CLN Board

I walk my dog out behind our home each morning and watch the sun come up; it is an opportunity to connect with the earth beneath my feet and observe what nature is up to.  As the leaves change colour and let go of the trees they were attached to, I am reminded that November is an opportune time to reflect on the changes we are experiencing.

The deer and the birds are starting to gather in their family groups in preparation for what it is to come with the transition to winter. I have had the gift of gathering with my family for Thanksgiving and also gathering with my CALP team, our learners, my board, the CLN board and sitting around many tables to listen and share. A common theme around these tables is the impact we have on those in our circles through how we spend the hours we are given, and how we choose to show up in the world each day.

This time of year often feels hurried and full of deadlines; perhaps there are some “leaves” we could let go of so we can focus on staying connected to ourselves and our purpose. In my own learning journey, I am shifting my energy to being present with the people I am with for the time I have with them and letting go of the feeling of being prepared for all the tasks ahead. There is value in trusting in the knowledge we have and the stories that come to mind in the moment, generated by the people we share time with through the day. For example, I let go of my scripted Executive Director’s Report for my CALP Board AGM and opted for sharing learner experiences that illustrate our best work and the challenges that remain. This created less rush and more impact: it was real. An insightful story from one of my CALP team is more important to take time and listen to, than completing the next five items on my to-do list that day. There is an expression I read on the tag of my tea bag a couple of years ago: “Nature never hurries, yet everything is accomplished.”

I have observed that we miss out on learning, joy and opportunity when we place too much attention on completing tasks.  Perhaps a few less tasks, with focus and intention on what we have capacity for, will provide just as much of the growth, connection and collaboration we seek. These are lofty goals for someone with a desk full of lists and sticky notes! I wish each of you clarity in your purpose and that you create space to take care of all the parts of yourself that need tending to in this season of transition. Our connections to ourselves and between each other are our greatest strength as a learning community. Thank you for all that you do, and know that your CALP work has even greater impact than what you see in your classrooms, you matter to many people and you help learners know that they matter to all of us.

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CALP Connections: October 2024

Community Learning Network's 2024 - 2025 Board of Directors

Thank you to everyone who joined us for CLN's 37th Annual General Meeting virtually on September 24th.

We are pleased to share with you the CLN Board of Directors for the 2024 - 2025 year:

                            
Monica Sczyrba-Davis                      Natasha Bozek
         Chair                   Vice Chair & Governance Committee Chair

                               
     Tanya Mercredi                               Tanya Klappe
        Treasurer                                       Secretary

                              
       Dave Albrecht                               Stephanie Brown
          Director                                           Director

                        
         Leslie Carbone                        Claudinei Saunders-Cruz
           Director                                            Director

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CALP Connections: September 2024

A Message from Colleen Thiessen, CLN Board Chairperson

I have always loved the fall season with its warm days and crisp evenings. My fall wardrobe makes an appearance and a more structured routine begins. Everything in my life, both personally and professionally, seems to move back into a natural rhythm when September rolls around.

September brings a big change for me this year, as later this month my time on the CLN Board of Directors will come to an end. I didn’t really know what to expect when I joined the Board back in 2017, but I can tell you being on the CLN Board gave me the opportunity to take a step back from wearing my “CALP hat” to see things through a different lens wearing my “CLN Board hat.” The experience I have gained being on the CLN Board has given me not only a much better understanding of how to work effectively with my own board, but how to work successfully with a diverse and passionate group of my peers. I also learned to listen to what people have to say – everyone has a story that deserves to be heard.

Being in leadership doesn’t come without challenges and change (and I have experienced both during my tenure on the CLN Board), but it’s moving from the chaos and back into a natural rhythm that has kept me grounded.  

Thank you for your support. It has been a real privilege leading the CLN Board of Directors.

Colleen Thiessen

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CALP Connections: Summer 2024

A Message from Colleen Thiessen, CLN Board Chair

What is the role of the Community Learning Network (CLN) Board? This is a question that pops up, especially this time of year when the Board of Directors is actively recruiting new members to join.

The CLN Board is a governance board that is outcomes focused. We have both a Governance Plan and a Sustainability Plan in place to maintain focus in both spectrums. The Governance Plan speaks to “How we Govern” which essentially means “nose in – fingers out.” We work collaboratively with Lisa Dickner, our Executive Director, to create a strategic direction. Lisa ensures outcomes are achieved at the strategic, tactical and operational levels. The CLN Board is responsible for advocacy, policy, and having a business mindset, as well as being customer focused.

Our Sustainability Plan speaks to “What we Govern” and contains our annual required outcomes. The Sustainability Plan includes the purpose of the CLN, specifies who the CLN’s customers are, and outlines our organizational sustainability pillars as the following: Customer; Mastery; Financial; Culture & Structure and Partnerships. The organizational pillars reflect the most critical aspects of the CLN’s overall purpose, and ongoing health and sustainability. The pillars are outcomes based, and the Board reviews these pillars annually to ensure outcomes are achieved.

This is a high level overview of what the CLN Board of Directors focus on, but I think it’s important that CALPs know what the role of the CLN Board is. The board is comprised of CALP staff and board members from around the province, and we work hard in our roles on the CLN Board. It is rewarding to hear different perspectives from each board member, and we have lots of fun getting to know one another.

I hope this information piques your interest and may even inspire you to submit your application. We are thrilled to already have received some applications, and for the first time in over a decade, there may even be an election at our Annual General Meeting in September!  

The deadline to apply at board@calp.ca is June 30, 2024.

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CALP Connections: May 2024

A Message from Chelsey Friedt, CLN Board Secretary

As I reflect on my two-year journey with the Community Learning Network (CLN) Board, I find myself filled with appreciation for the opportunities and insights it has provided.

One of the most rewarding aspects of being on the board has been the chance to work alongside passionate individuals like Colleen Thiessen and Lisa Dickner. Their leadership has not only inspired me, but has also deepened my understanding of effective governance and community engagement.

Through our collaborative efforts, I've come to appreciate the collective strength that comes from diverse perspectives and shared goals. Together, we've tackled challenges, explored new ideas, and celebrated successes, all while fostering a sense of unity and purpose.

What I value most about this experience is the chance to contribute to something larger than myself. Each meeting, each decision made, has been an opportunity to make a positive impact on our community and support the vital work of Community Adult Learning Programs (CALPs).

As my time on the board comes to a close, I'm grateful for the friendships forged and the lessons learned. While I may be stepping back, the experiences and insights gained will continue to guide me in my future endeavors.

Thank you to my fellow board members for your dedication and camaraderie. It has been an honor and a privilege to serve alongside you. Here's to the CLN and the remarkable journey we've shared together.

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CALP Connections: April 2024

A Message from Tanya Mercredi, Director

Tánsi AyÎkipÎsim (eye-ee-ghee-pee-sim)

AyÎkipÎsim is a Cree word for Frog Moon which is the name for the month of April. 

Although the weather can still be a bit unpredictable, winters grip isn’t as strong and it is an exciting time of year!  Longer days are waking and warming the land, the waters open up and frogs start calling out. Hints of green are everywhere and gathering energy to start their big show!

AyÎkipÎsim is also a time of excitement within the CLN and CALP world with many things happening. I always appreciate attending the Symposium and look forward to all the connections, new insights and memories I will take away. I hope to see you there!

This is also a month that the CLN Board gets to meet in person!

As I reflect back, I was quite apprehensive but very curious about joining the CLN Board. I wondered if I was the right fit.  Did I even know enough to contribute?  Could I join the board and still do my job?  Would my thoughts and opinions matter? The answer was a resounding yes. Becoming part of the team has helped me grow both personally and professionally in many ways and has given me a real sense of satisfaction and belonging. I have a much broader sense of how boards should work, I get great ideas on connecting with stakeholders, and it has given me a better understanding of my own board.  The opportunity to work with this team is always a highlight for me.  If you are curious about the CLN Board, I urge you to reach out to our Chair, Colleen Thiessen, or any other member for more information. We’re always willing to share our experiences.

I hope everyone is able to get out and enjoy even a little bit of what nature has to offer during AyÎkipÎsim. May you find all the happiness, help, health, and healing you need.

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CALP Connections: March 2024

A Message from Jana Thomson, Vice Chair

Happy March, everyone! This is my favorite month of the year because it means I get to start planting my seedlings at home, the sun is out noticeably longer each day, and it’s my birthday month!

My name is Jana Thomson, and I am the Vice Chair of the Community Learning Network Board. For those who don’t know me from my previous tenure on the CLN Board, I am the Executive Director at the Rocky Community Learning Council in Rocky Mountain House.

This is my first year back on the CLN Board after serving six years, completed in 2021. I am thrilled to be serving on the Board again, and there are numerous benefits to being a part of the Board that I would love to share with you. My top three are:

Connection: I am thankful for the connections made with CALPs throughout the province, other CLN Board members and staff, as well as our grant managers and funders at Advanced Education. We can often get caught up in the happenings of our communities and forget that there are supports and information to be shared from others who have walked similar paths. Often I find other CALPs are going through the same or similar situations as I am, and it is so nice to be able to reach out and learn how others are overcoming their obstacles or celebrating their achievements.

Contribution: My experience in my CALP and working with learners for over 10 years in my community means that I can contribute to meaningful conversations. Working with the CLN to determine, develop, and provide the professional development needs of CALPs throughout the community, I have seen quite a few changes in the CALP world, which means I can help contribute healthily and positively when we see changes in our field.

Experience: Wow, I have experienced so many learning opportunities because of my time on the CLN Board! Meeting with ministers, chairing the Governance committee, and being a part of the team that makes up the CLN Board has allowed me to experience new things that I would not have had the opportunity to learn from otherwise.

For anyone considering a term on the CLN board, I encourage you to reach out to a current CLN Board member. We would always love to share the benefits of serving on the Board and being a bigger part of the CLN and CALP community.

I hope you all have a wonderful spring and spend plenty of time in your gardens, enjoying your favorite books, or whatever you like to do to bring in the new season.

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CALP Connections: February 2024

A Message from Stephanie Brown, Treasurer

During February, I hear people comment about how Valentine’s Day is so commercialized, and how it does not affect them because they are single. Here’s the thing, though - it does affect them. It affects how they view love with themselves, not just with those around them. 

One of the many ways to love is to cleanse oneself. Cleansing is for everyone, and wouldn’t you know... the word 'cleanse' is in the word, 'February!'

February comes from the Latin word 'februa,' “to cleanse.” In the Roman calendar, the month of Februarius was named 'Februalia,' a festival of purification and atonement during this period.(www.almanac.com)

Ways to include ‘februa; into your daily lives and classroom settings:

• Smudge your space – this is an ancient practice that is used to cleanse a space or person. You can use sage, cedar, sandalwood, mugwort, or other dried herbs that you may have on hand. Of course, not all spaces will allow for smudging due to allergies or policies not in place. We do it after hours when the space is not being used.
  
  
• Ringing of bells/windchimes/bowls – this has been constant in many of my learning spaces with CALP and CLN, and I do find them to be calming. Bringing them into literacy practice can also benefit the learner to become more present in their learning space. The bells help welcome a change in space and energy. The ring itself tells the learner that it’s time to shift into their learning space.
  
  
• Open a window – upon opening the window, set the intention for the air to cleanse your space. Visualize the negative and stagnant air leaving and being replaced with love and flow.

As CALP Practitioners, we must ensure we are cleansed and in the right mindset before any help can offered to an adult learner. This is your reminder!

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CALP Connections: January 2024

A Message from Monica Sczyrba-Davis, Director

On behalf of the CLN Board, I would like to wish each of you in the CALP community a happy 2024!

My name is Monica Sczyrba-Davis, I’m the Executive Director at Pincher Creek CALP and will be celebrating 14 years in the CALP world this March. A new beginning is often a time to reflect and look back on where we started and how far we have come. In our little corner of south western Alberta and all across the province, CALPs have grown their capacity, complexity, sophistication, leadership, and skills to serve Albertans most in need of guidance to move their lives forward.

As we consider the peaks and valleys of the journey we have been a part of, I would like to invite each of you to take a moment to let go of what no longer serves you and fill the void with what you are each most in need of this year. In Pincher Creek, we are reviewing our services and creating time to work with community partners to continue offering strengthening relationships and resources to our learners, while prioritizing our energy and funds on what our CALP does best: Skills for Learning programming. 

Our CALP will be possibility-focused, while nurturing interactions that grow us closer to our organization’s vision of compassionately coaching our 2024 learners towards completion of their self-identified learning, employment and education goals.

In life and in learning, I believe that if we are not at least a little bit scared of the dreams we envision, it’s not a big enough dream! Our CALP community has the most incredible connections to mentors, skills, backup, and resources, as well as answers to questions and opportunities to connect with kind peers. We strive to model what we each hope to offer those we serve.

I look forward to connecting with many of you through the various gatherings and trainings ahead of us, and I wish each of you the bravery and connections you need to accomplish your own vision for 2024!

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CALP Connections: December 2023

A Message from Natasha Bozek, Director

Hey everyone, I hope you are enjoying this very balmy winter!

This fall I became one of your newest Directors on the CLN Board. I have sat on several Boards over the years, most often as a Secretary, Treasurer or staff member and these Boards have run the gamut from highly structured to no structure and very productive to barely surviving. Luckily the CLN Board has found a very happy medium between the two where we can have very productive meetings while having fun doing it in a relaxed and supportive environment.

I still consider myself a relatively new CALP staff, I’ll hit my 2-year mark in the new year! In my two years in the system, I have met some fabulous people and learned a lot about the need for foundational literacy support in our communities. Having said that, I still have so much more to learn and what better way to learn than by joining the Board. By doing this I hope to better understand the system, the role of CLN, and hope to contribute to the overall growth of the organization as we continue to support CALP staff across the province.

If you are interested in finding out more about the CLN Board, please contact Colleen Thiessen at 780-352-7257 or send an email to board@calp.ca 

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CALP Connections: November 2023

A Message from Chelsey Friedt, Secretary

Dear Friends,

It’s a joy to be able to share with you as we all embark on another exciting, if not stressful, journey of the CALP application! I’m located in Peace River at the Vision Learning Centre. We're fortunate to be facing a remarkable challenge, one I believe you can relate to - a surge of eager learners seeking knowledge. It's an inspiring situation, but it also poses a puzzle. Our dedicated team is working tirelessly, but we're in need of additional resources to ensure no learner is left behind.

What do you do when you have too many learners and not enough time or big enough team?

Our community is a diverse tapestry of backgrounds and dreams. Many people have come to Peace River seeking work, refuge, or a fresh start. Our English Language Learning program warmly embraces newcomers and our Foundational Literacy Instructors have also had an abundance of learners coming to us with hopeful eyes and nervous smiles.

To keep our community thriving and ensure that we can support the aspirations of our learners effectively, we're reaching out for support. Increased staffing, made possible through additional funds, will enable us to serve more individuals with foundational learning and enhanced support for our English Language Learning program. One of our amazing staff members has worked really hard to create relationships with industries in the region to support our efforts financially.

So what’s on the Horizon?

• Growing our Team: We plan to expand our team, ensuring that everyone in our community can access the education they need.
• Building Partnerships: Collaboration is the key. By partnering with other community organizations, businesses, and individuals, we aim to create a robust support network that empowers people to achieve their educational goals.
• Evaluating what Works FOR US : Our commitment to foundational learning, job readiness and English Language Learning proficiency remains unwavering but knowing our own community plays a vital role in this. We are not Edmonton or Calgary. We must move the way our community moves.
• Promoting Life Long Learning: Learning is for everyone. We’re dedicated to inspiring and supporting individuals to pursue their educational dreams through relationship and goal driven learning!

As you work on your applications, let’s remember that learning should be boundless and every individual deserves the chance to dream and for those dreams to flourish regardless of their start point.

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CALP Connections: October 2023

Community Learning Network's 2023 - 2024 Board of Directors

Thank you to everyone who joined us for CLN's 36th Annual General Meeting virtually on September 28th.

We are pleased to share with you the CLN Board of Directors for the 2023 - 2024 year:

                        
 Colleen Thiessen, Chair               Jana Thomson, Vice Chair

                                      
   Stephanie Brown, Treasurer       Chelsey Friedt, Secretary

                               
   Tanya Mercredi, Director           Monica Sczyrba-Davis, Director

       
   Natasha Bozek, Director

We also had the pleasure of Advanced Education Deputy Minister, Sherri Wilson, joining us! Watch our conversation here.

To contact the CLN Board of Directors please email board@calp.ca.

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CALP Connections: September 2023

A Message from Colleen Thiessen, CLN Board Chairperson

I recently saw a story on Instagram about eagles and how they deal with one of their biggest pests - crows. A crow will get behind an eagle, sit on their back and peck at the eagle’s neck incessantly. It seems hard to believe this can happen, but it’s true. Here’s where it gets really interesting. In order to get rid of the pesky crow, the eagle takes flight and soars extremely high up into the sky. Eagles can fly higher than any other bird, so what ends of happening is the crow can no longer breathe at such high altitudes, loses consciousness, and falls off the back of the eagle. The eagle is left to soar without the weight of the crow on its shoulders.

September is here and despite having enjoyed some well deserved rest and relaxation time, it sometimes feels like we already have a pesky crow on our back. Getting back into the swing of things can be exhausting as we navigate new routines, schedules, programs, learners and the many “unknowns” that inevitably arise as we settle back in.

Instead of becoming overwhelmed, I encourage us to set our sights higher, rid ourselves of distractions, and learn to fly like an eagle. Not only is the view better, the load gets lighter. The sky is the limit and it’s ours for the taking!

The CLN Board of Directors look forward to seeing you online on September 28, 2023 for our Annual General Meeting. Keep an eye out for the AGM package to arrive in your inbox. See you soon!

Colleen Thiessen

CLN Board Chair

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CALP Connections: Summer 2023

A Message from Colleen Thiessen, CLN Board Chair

June is a month to celebrate. Here are just a few reasons people celebrate June: it marks the half way point of the year; long summer nights; warm weather; wedding season; and the longest day in the northern hemisphere kicks off the start of summer. For many of us, a nice summer break awaits.

If you are now in a state of panic thinking you need to start your Christmas shopping, you might want to relax and take time to celebrate the small things. We often get so caught up in our everyday tasks, we think there has to be a “big” reason to celebrate. If you google “things to celebrate in June,” you will find there is a day to celebrate pretty much anything, from silly to serious. It feels good to celebrate and, for the sake of our mental health, the time we spend celebrating ourselves, and others, is a reminder there is more to life than just our daily duties.  

CALPs play an important role in learner’s lives. We help our learners with their learning journey, we support them emotionally and we provide connections in our communities, but we also need to celebrate them. Can you think of a time where you took time to celebrate success with a learner who reached a milestone?  It may not seem like much to us, but to the learner it’s monumental. A big part of our role with learners is to build relationships, and celebrating their success is a great way to show we care.

I want to celebrate CALPs for the tireless work that is done to help learners succeed every day. I heard many great stories at Symposium about the work CALPs are doing, and the innovative ways you are helping learners succeed.  I knew I would be remiss if I didn’t celebrate you, and thank you, for being so awesome. Your hard work does not go unnoticed!

Now I need to figure out how to get “Celebrate your CALP day” added to the google list of June celebrations!   Have a great summer, and remember to take time to celebrate YOU!

Colleen Thiessen
CLN Board Chair

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CALP Connections: May 2023

A Message from Rochelle Galeski, Director

The CLN Board’s recent April meeting was engaging with time for many thoughtful conversations. One discussion focused on, “What do CALPs need from the Minister of Skilled Trades and Professions or their local MLA to be able to continue their work with foundational learners?” We brainstormed a variety of responses that distinctively represented our diverse board. We discussed family literacy programs and where they “fit” under STP; challenges such as board and volunteer tutor recruitment; and regional differences that are unique to each CALP and, more broadly, how change can be difficult.

We acknowledged the resilience exemplified by CALPs. Running successful programs in CALP requires fluidity, resiliency and flexibility in communities that are complex and diverse. Learner needs and community demographics are distinctive and constantly shifting. CALPs adapt to government changes, funding changes, ever-changing workloads and changes in learner population and needs. As we navigate these shifts and changes the CLN continues to provide professional development opportunities that are relevant to our needs.

As a result of our conversation, we have resolved to give voice to CALPs with some unique and participatory solutions. We invite you to join the CLN Board for a focused conversation in our upcoming Coffee with the Board on May 24, 2023, from 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm. We want to hear your ideas about how Minister Madu can help us and what we need from his ministry to be successful. The CLN Board will ensure the Minister receives the feedback from this meeting

Ultimately, your voice and your stories are meaningful and are an important part of advocating for your CALP. We hope to hear your story so we can learn from one other.

Rochelle Galeski
Medicine Hat College CALP

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CALP Connections: April 2023

A Message from Melanie Patenaude, Director & Governance Committee

Who can believe it’s April already? April is such a fun month. We can play practical jokes, see our gardens and yards blooming and eat chocolate eggs! Here are a few silly spring jokes to get us in the April frame of mind:

Q: Can February March?
A: No, but April May.

Q: Why is everyone so tired on April 1st?
A: Because they’ve just finished a long, 31 day March.

For CLN, April means it’s time to start thinking about the Outstanding Contribution Award.

This is an honour that is given to an exceptional organization or individual annually at the Literacy and Learning Awards ceremony. Every year, the Community Learning Network accepts nominations from our learning community so we can acknowledge and recognize the amazing work that is done in the CALP world.

If you would like to nominate a deserving person or organization, please consider the following:

• Do you know someone/an organization that has shown leadership in the adult learning field?
• Do you know someone/an organization that has inspired their CALP or community to advance lifelong learning?
• Do you know someone/an organization that has increased their capacity to better meet the foundational learning needs of adult Albertans?

Please consider taking the time to complete a nomination form with a letter and references. Submissions for the 2023 Outstanding Contribution to Community Adult Learning Award will be accepted until June 30th. Click here for the nomination form. 

One more item for April: have you ever considered joining the CLN Board? The Board is currently looking to recruit new members as some are nearing the end of their terms. I can say that my time on the Board has been a learning journey. I was very hesitant at first, thinking that I didn’t have the required skill set. However, I quickly realized that I was being welcomed, trained and made to fit right in.

During my time we had training sessions, professional development opportunities and a chance to sit on other committees and learn even more. If you think this sounds like something you’d like to try, please take a moment to fill out the application. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact myself or any other CLN Board member.

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CALP Connections: March 2023

A Message from Tanya Mercredi, Vice Chair & Chair of the Governance Committee

Welcome, March! March 20th is the official start of spring and I couldn’t be happier! 

The days are getting longer at the farm, where I live with my husband. We’re shaking off our semi-hibernation winter routines and are getting ready for brand new seasons of renewal, growth and change. We’re preparing for new babies, new plants, and learning new and better ways of doing things. I always approach these new seasons with curiosity because I know that nature is going to teach me something new – it does every time. I am very much an adult learner in these situations. 

My name is Tanya Mercredi and I am the Rimbey Coordinator of Ponoka & Rimbey Adult Learning. Last month marked my sixth year in this role, and much like at home, my curiosity has driven me in this position and I found there’s always something new, exciting, and relevant to learn.  

My curiosity sparked when I first read that the CLN Board was recruiting new members.  I knew I was going to apply, but then I became curious about other things:

• Do I even know enough about being a board member and have the confidence to make a valuable contribution amongst such esteemed colleagues? Hint: You do!
• Am I going to look like a fool if I have to ask questions because I don’t understand something? Not in the slightest.
• Will my voice (and opinions) be heard – and matter? Absolutely.
• Will the demands of being on the board interfere with my job? It hasn’t yet, and because the time away is minimal and my travel is compensated, my own board is more than willing to support my involvement. 

On top of sharing the answers to my own questions, I would like to highlight a few of the benefits I have found serving on the CLN Board of Directors. 

• I am working with some wonderful committed and knowledgeable people who are both generous and kind in sharing their expertise.
• The conversations are always insightful, engaging, and forward-thinking.
• I’ve learned so much about being on a provincial board and board governance and always felt supported in learning the role. This, in turn, has helped me work with my own board.
• The networking opportunities are outstanding!
• There is something that makes me feel very “connected” working with a group of people who share a passion for helping adult learners and the adult learning community.
• All of this has contributed to my growth both personally and professionally.

The CLN Board has gone through and will continue to go through renewals, growth, and change and I am very grateful to be part of this ‘season’ on the board.

We are looking for CALP members to join our board!  I would encourage anyone interested in becoming a board member to contact our Chair, Colleen Thiessen at ed@wetaskiwinlearning.ca. Colleen is very gracious in answering any questions you might have. You may also reach out to any of the other board members.(Find out more about the board members on the CALP Portal here: https://calp.ca/cln-board-of-directors.html).  

CLN Board nomination and applications can be found on the CALP Portal:

CLN Board Member Position Description

CLN Board Member Nomination Form

I hope everyone is well and has a wonderful spring!

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CALP Connections: February 2023

A Message from Colleen Thiessen, CLN Board Chairperson

Exciting things are about to happen in February that I hope will spark your interest to learn and connect. You might be wondering what could possibly be inspirational about February, other than we survived the long month of January and are one month closer to leaving the dark days of winter behind us. Let me brighten your day by saying…

Symposium 2023 registration is now open! The CLN team has been working hard to provide professional development opportunities that encompass a variety of interesting topics for CALPs, and I know there will be some amazing learning happening at Symposium 2023. CALPs around the province are so good at providing connections and inspiration to learners, while learning, being innovative and curious right with them.

I encourage you to register and plan to attend Symposium 2023 to see your spark ignite!

Colleen Thiessen
CLN Board Chairperson

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CALP Connections: January 2023

A Message from Cindy Heidecker, Secretary

Happy New Year, CLN Family!

My name is Cindy Heidecker and I am thrilled to be in the second year of my Board of Director term. This year I am also responsible for the secretarial duties for the Community Learning Network. I am connected to the CALP system through my position as the program manager for Paintearth Adult Learning. Our organization serves County of Paintearth learners in the east central Alberta communities of Brownfield, Castor, Coronation & Halkirk. When I am not supporting community learning opportunities I am a passionate sports fan and enjoy spending time with family, travelling, quilting, reading and being outdoors.

I had the pleasure of completing my Masters in Open, Digital & Distance Education from Athabasca University in October, 2022. During my final presentation my amazing professor asked me to share my thoughts on the following Adam Grant (professor of organizational psychology in the United States) quote; “Beating yourself up doesn't make you stronger. It leaves you bruised. Being kind to yourself isn't about ignoring your weaknesses. It's about giving yourself permission to learn from your mistakes. We grow by embracing shortcomings, not punishing them.”

We see bruised learners walk through our door. The CALP philosophy of providing warm and welcoming space assists learners through the process of being kind to themselves. Together CALP staff and learners identify where they are at in their learning journey and where they want to be. This is all part of the lifelong learning process.

Celebrate the learners that you have witnessed move from beating themselves up to embracing their shortcomings and hold space for those that were not ready yet.

Cheers to the work that each and every one of you does to give your students permission to learn from their mistakes, not punishing them!

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CALP Connections: December 2022

New to the Board - Chelsey Friedt, Director

I hope you’re all having a great week!

I joined the Community Learning Network Board this fall. With a bit of confidence and a whole lot of nerves I stepped in, and what I found was surprisingly wonderful. I’m sure that many of us in the CALP world have served on boards. They all have their own life, their own personality and their own challenges. Some boards are delightful, full of people who become our friends, and others could be found with their profile in the dictionary next to “dysfunctional” or “exhausting.” I joined the board on a Zoom format run very professionally by both Colleen Thiessen and Lisa Dickner.

I had little to no relationship with any of the members on the board. While my experience with Lisa had been very warm in the past, nerves were eating me alive as I wondered “what did I just sign up for? Am I up to the task? Is there room for an overly social butterfly?” All through that meeting I had computer issues, with my profile picture flashing on and off. I stumbled through an introduction about myself with imposter syndrome definitely kicking into high gear! As the meeting came to a close, I took a deep breath and joined the next one. It was there that I found myself in an online group of friends – warm, friendly and seriously efficient.

This November we had a meeting in Edmonton. As I took in the room and the interactions of the board members my biggest take-away was that this is a group of women who champion one another. They challenge each other and they encourage questions and opinions. They are open to change and learning from one another. I walked away from the meetings feeling challenged, encouraged and empowered.

I know there will be much to learn from each of these women who have much more experience in the Adult Learning world than I do at this point - and I am looking forward to all of it. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to be involved with such an amazing organization!

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CALP Connections: November 2022

A Message from Rochelle Galeski (Director)

One of the things we discussed as a Board was our new ministry. As many of you know CALPs have moved to the Ministry of Skilled Trades and Professions. We talked about the impact this change may have and how to share a message that is brief and concise when explaining foundational learning to government, to our community and to our families and friends who ask what we do.

As we sat around the “table” (some virtual and some actually at the table), it was profound for me to hear everyone’s explanation of what foundational learning means to them.

I am always working on my “elevator” speech and am curious to know how you would explain foundational learning in 2- 3 sentences. I am progressing towards creating a description of foundational learning knowing that whoever hears it may begin to identify as a foundational learner or know someone who might feel safe enough to reach out to our program for help.

I pose this question to you: How do you describe foundational learning? In your own words, I would love to have as many people as possible post their “elevator speech” of what foundational learning means to them. I will anxiously await your responses.

Have a beautiful month of November. Stay connected to yourself and to others as we begin another programming year.

-Rochelle

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CALP Connections: October 2022

Thank you to those that attended CLN’s 35th Annual General Meeting virtually on September 28th.

Please share with us in welcoming our Board for the 2022-2023 year:                 

                
Colleen Thiessen, Chair                  Kimberly Cairns, Vice-Chair 
                                                         & Governance Committee

                
Stephanie Brown, Treasurer          Cindy Heidecker, Secretary 

               
Chelsey Friedt, Director                   Rochelle Galeski, Director

                 
Melanie Patenaude, Director           Tanya Mercredi, Director
& Governance Committee               & Governance Committee   

We would also like to recognize Lois Polege for her contributions to the CLN Board over the past six years.  We wish you all the best, Lois and will miss your energy and sound advice.

Congratulations to those who have continued their service with Community Adult Learning Programs in Alberta for over 20 years!

Dee Palichuk, Community Association for Lasting Success – 25 Years

 Kathy Richards, Cardston & District Community Adult Learning – 35 Years

“Success is no accident.  It is hard work, perseverance, learning, studying, sacrifice, and love of what you are doing or learning to do.” - Pelé

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CALP Connections: September 2022

It’s the end of summer and September is here,
With another Fall season about to appear.
Across the province CALP doors open wide,
To welcome learners back on inside.

With new programs ready and instructors in place,
We’re ready to tackle this grant year with grace.
We’ve taken some time to practise self care,
Recognizing it’s healthy to be self aware.

Learners are demanding and the world is unstable,
It’s easy to focus on how we’re unable.
Do this; change that. Adjust, move and blend –
Tell me when does the chaos come to an end?

Probably never, it’s now our “new normal,”
But that’s ok, CALPs are used to abnormal.
Like metal that is shaped and forged in fire,
A CALP becomes stronger; their goals, higher.

So as we embrace sweater weather and crisp fall days,
I’m saying “welcome back” in a new kind of way.
I’m hopeful you’re relaxed and your mind is revived,
Ready to welcome this season and truly thrive!

That was fun! I hope my poetry brought a smile to your face.

Just a reminder to Save the Date for the 35th Annual CLN AGM on September 28, 2022. I hope to “see” many of you online for our AGM beginning at approximately 2:30 pm, immediately following the 2022 Literacy & Learning Awards Ceremony. Watch your email for your AGM Package or check out the link in this newsletter.

Colleen Thiessen, CLN Board Chair
Executive Director, Wetaskiwin Learning Program

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CALP Connections: Summer 2022

What an exciting time of year! Summer is just around the corner and many of us are looking forward to some much-deserved vacation time. Just before we embark on our summer adventures, I want to take a moment to thank each CALP and their staff for continually rising to the challenges of the world we live in. It hasn’t been easy to constantly adapt and pivot the way we do business; however, each of you has done an exceptional job of serving the learners in your community.

It has been said that consistency and persistence are two of the main components required to build a strong team. As a team, the CLN Board of Directors has continued to build on the strong relationship we have with Minister Nicolaides and his staff at Advanced Education. As you know, CALPs fall under the Foundational Learning and Skills Development unit of Advanced Education, and there was a reorganization during this past grant term. Just recently we have been introduced to some new team members who will be our primary contacts, and on behalf of the CLN Board of Directors, I want to officially welcome Brian Yaeck and Pratima Lobin to team CALP! Having these two new team members will provide consistency to CLN staff and the CALP system, and I know both Brian and Pratima will soon find out just how persistent we can be! If you haven’t already done so, reach out and say hello.

The CLN staff have done a great job of consistently reaching out and making themselves available to CALPs. The quality and availability of professional development opportunities that have been available virtually, and in-person, have enabled CALPs to build strong teams of staff who are both knowledgeable and persistent with learners. I encourage you to start thinking about the professional development opportunities you will be part of in the fall, and if there is something you feel is missing that would be valuable training for CALPs, please reach out to your CLN regional support staff.

The poet John Keats once wrote, “Impossible is for the unwilling.” Over the past 10 years, I have been in the CALP system, I can honestly say that nothing is impossible because I have consistently seen the CLN staff and CALPs find unique and creative ways to thrive. When I read that quote, I see possible is for the willing, and that is how I see the Community Learning Network and Community Adult Learning Programs working together: a strong team filled with consistency and persistence, working together, willing to do whatever it takes to make learning possible.

Enjoy your summer!

Colleen Thiessen
Chairperson, CLN Board of Directors

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CALP Connections: May 2022

It is hard to believe that six years have flown by since I first joined the CLN Board. I am so glad that I decided to invest my time in this role. Let me tell you why.

• My local CALP is stronger because of what I have learned about governance, policy and board organization. We have been able to build on the example that CLN sets as a board directed organization.
• I am a better leader because of the leadership I have sat under. I have learned so much from each chair and committee head - about communication, organization, conflict management, inspiration and dreaming big dreams.
• I have deeper connections with a great group of colleagues, who have stepped out of their busy lives, and often their comfort zone, to invest in strengthening our joint work in adult learning and literacy.
• I have a broader insight into the opportunities and challenges that face our field, and understand more clearly the work that goes on behind the scenes.
• I have the satisfaction of knowing I have made a contribution to an organization that is a vital resource for our CALP programs.
• We have had a lot of fun! We have shared stories, laughs, frustrations, resources (and some great meals!) and I always come away encouraged.

Ok, now I am feeling sad about all I will miss! As I complete my term on the board this September, I want to thank you for the opportunity to be your representative, and I hope you will consider if perhaps the time is right for you to start your own journey on this adventure.

Lois Polege, CLN Board Vice Chair
Adult Education Coordinator, Flagstaff Community Adult Learning

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CALP Connections: Special Edition

CLN Support Services Regional Realignment

For the past two years, the CLN has concentrated on delivering professional development, training, services and supports through a virtual/online format. As we move forward, CALPs will notice CLN Staff “out and about”, offering support in-person. We will continue to offer services online through a variety of blended formats. We look forward to “seeing” more of you, more often, while maintaining ease of access to professional development and supports in a timely way.

In order to best meet the needs identified by CALPs across the province, CLN is making a few regional boundary adjustments, effective July 1st, 2022. The realignment will assist CLN staff with maintaining targeted professional development, training, supports and connections.

This chart provides a listing of all 83 CALPs by Region, along with the name and contact information of CLN’s Regional Support Staff. Organizations directly affected by the realignment are highlighted.

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CALP Connections: April 2022

Spring has sprung! I know this because of the bird couple nesting in the eave outside of my bedroom window. Every morning their little chirps awaken me to the arrival of a new day. They remind me that the dirty and drab world of winter ending is about to become alive with the rebirth and renewal of spring. The birds chirping outside my bedroom window in March has been a continuous cycle of love, hope, joy and transformation for the past 10 years. 

Just like Spring… one thing that is continuous in CALPs is Change.

Our 2022 Outstanding Contributions to Community Adult Learning Award would usually be celebrated with Symposium this Fall. With Symposium moving to Spring 2023, there have been some changes occurring to our timeline for when we will be celebrating.  

This year’s celebration will occur at the CLN AGM at the end of September 2022.

We, the CLN Board, are seeking nominations that recognize the exceptional contributions to the adult learning field over the past year, July 2021 to June 2022.  

What kind of nominees should you be thinking about?  
Well, the Nominees must be CALP organizations, or an employee or board member from a CALP organization, and be a CLN member in good standing.

Do you know of an individual or an organization that has shown leadership in the adult learning field?  (July 2021 to June 2022)
If you have answered yes to this question, here is the next one for you to ponder…

Has this individual or organization inspired their community or CALP to advance lifelong learning? (July 2021 to June 2022)
Still answering yes?  Here’s the final question for you to really help you visualize who your nomination will be…

Has this individual or organization increased capacity to better meet the foundational learning needs of adult Albertans in their community? (July 2021 to June 2022)

Now that you have this person or organization in your mind, why not give them a nomination for the 2022 Outstanding Contributions to Community Adult Learning Award?  

I have nominated in the past and have found it to be a rather simple process. 

1. Complete the nomination form, 
2. Attach a nominating letter, and
3. Include 2 letters (minimum) of support from members of the community. (This could be a Board member, the Mayor, or a CALP member. Someone who can give specific details highlighting the nominee’s successes and accomplishments in the past year.)

Once you have completed the nomination process you will submit it all to the CLN Board at board@calp.ca.

As I mentioned above, I have done this process in the past. It felt a bit daunting at first about how I would recognize all the valuable contributions this individual has displayed in their community and organization.  

I have a couple of tips to tell those of you that are doing the nominating…

1. Don’t tell them. The genuine surprise will make the wait all worthwhile.
2. Work with other members of your team to get those letters of support. We all have different relationships with members in our community. Having someone that has a strong relationship, with say the Mayor, may be able to get that letter of support provided more quickly then someone who has a low relationship level.
3. It doesn’t have to be one person doing the nominating. It can be the whole team contributing to showcase those exceptional qualities that the nominated individual owns.
4. When submitting, scan into your email as one package. This helps to eliminate misplaced items. 
5. Enjoy the nominating process!
6. Reach out to any of the CLN Board members with any questions that may arise.

“Spring is far more than just a changing of seasons; it’s a rebirth of the spirit.” - Toni Sorenson.

For more information and to fill out the nomination form go to: 2022 Outstanding Contribution to Community Adult Learning Award.

This year’s celebration will occur at the CLN AGM on September 28th, 2022. Deadline for nominations is Thursday, June 30, 2022 and you can send your nomination to board@calp.ca.

Stephanie Brown, CLN Board Treasurer
Essential Skills Coach/ GED Coordinator, Hinton Adult Learning Society

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CALP Connections: March 2022

Welcome to March… with longer days, melting snow, and spring around the corner, woo hoo!!

My name is Kimberly Cairns, and I am the Adult & Family Literacy Program Manager with the Grande Prairie Council for Lifelong Learning. I was first introduced to CALP through friends who facilitated Family Literacy programs. My interest was piqued, and I applied to be a part-time Family Literacy Facilitator. Even though I enjoyed my other full-time work, I quickly realized that the highlight of each week was leading these parent-child programs that supported literacy learning. Couple this with the joy that came from seeing adults gain confidence as I taught a Basic Computer Skills class triggered a desire to shift my work focus. In the Fall of 2014 this desire was met as I hired on to be a coordinator with GPCLL.

Looking back, I was ill equipped to take on the coordinator role, but I am grateful for the quality training provided through the CALP system, by our own fabulous CLN. My personal learning and growth have been significant and has enabled me to more effectively serve the learners who come through our doors.

I am also privileged to serve as a CLN Board Member. When I was asked if I had ever thought about applying to be a Board Member, my first thoughts were that I haven’t been in the industry long enough and don’t have the ‘training’ to be on the Board. My lack of equipping and confidence would have held me back, but to be able to serve in this new way pushed me to complete the application.

I am new to serving on the CLN Board but not new to serving others. Over the years I have found that the benefit of serving greatly outweighs my inadequacies and fears. I resonate with Anne Frank’s words, “No one has ever become poor by giving.” Serving others is a form of giving that has benefitted me perhaps even more than those to whom I’ve reached out. I have met new people and made lifelong friends. I have learned new skills and tried things that I didn’t think I could do! I have had to look beyond myself and my circumstances, which in turn boosted my mental and emotional health. I have had a sense of purpose and achievement when contributing to a broader picture. There are so many benefits to serving!

As I begin my journey on the CLN Board, I look forward to what I can contribute from my learning and skills as well as to what I will gain because of time with these ladies. I hope you too have found benefit in your service! If you are looking for new areas to serve, consider joining the CLN Board.

I encourage you to serve to become rich!

Kimberly Cairns, CLN Board Director
Adult & Family Literacy Program Manager, Grande Prairie Council for Lifelong Learning

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CALP Connections: January 2022

2021 Reflections

Literacy is the great enabler and the foundation on which you build more sophisticated skills. We are living in a world where skills are constantly changing and people with higher literacy skills can adapt more easily to these changes. There are people without jobs and jobs without people and in my opinion, literacy is the root of prosperity and economic growth. It is not the only solution but what is so beautiful about the work we do is that it impacts not only our learners but their children or families and the future.

I often call this work “The Silent World of Literacy”. To be completely honest in some ways it must remain silent. Many Canadians with proficient or higher literacy skills, couldn’t imagine Canadian-born adults who have low literacy skills. However, I also believe that much of what we do must remain silent because Canadian-born adults have low literacy skills. In our work, the importance of privacy and confidentiality is, in my opinion, the most important aspect of our jobs. Especially for those of us that work in small towns and rural areas. While we strive to shine the light on our services, we are required to maintain confidentiality to ensure dignity for our learners.

Our learners whether immigrant or Canadian-born, take a risk in being vulnerable when accessing help. This vulnerability can be honoured through our professionalism and commitment to show our learners that the risk is worth the reward. The vulnerability will pay off in personal growth, confidence and development of skills.

In November 2021, I challenged myself and a group of local community service providers to take note of every time they accessed their digital skills, reading skills, and numeracy skills as they went about their day.

What we found is that everywhere we went we encountered the need for literacy skills. The Covid-19 pandemic has exponentially increased the need for basic literacy skills. The areas that were identified after brief discussion were as follows: 

• meetings/job requirements moved online
• vaccination bookings online
• health updates on social media
• downloading/printing your vaccine passport from the AHS website
• standing in line at the grocery store appropriately
• spacing yourself between other people (at least 6 feet)
• masking rules/spacing while attending events
• online school
• supporting our children with online school
• navigating Zoom and Google meet

It is a daunting task when you consider yourself somewhat skilled in digital, numeracy and literacy skills. Our learners often have basic knowledge and lack tremendous confidence in their abilities. 

I encourage you to reflect on the work that you do as a leader to build trust, to provide a safe and welcoming space, professional working relationships and develop honest communication.

I would say that this is not a small task, this is powerful work. There’s not one of you reading this today that doesn’t have a story of witnessing incredible growth and success in a learner. We might not get to see the impact of change this week or this year, but I will tell you that the countless hours and commitment to each learner have lasting effects on generations to come.

As we enter 2022, I would like to thank you for working through 2021 and courageously encountering every change, every challenge and every joy. 

Thank you for holding space for your learners, thank you for referring your learners to community service providers, for being a shoulder to cry on and for adjusting your personal schedules to accommodate your learners' needs.  

It does not go unnoticed when you recognize the needs your learner has when they need childcare in order to concentrate or if you are calling a taxi for your learner on those cold winter days. 

Thank you for curiously engaging with your learners, for providing the very best instructional materials, for caring for yourself so you can better care for others and for silently celebrating with your learners while keeping their dignity and vulnerability at the front of your thoughts each day. Thank you for being a lifelong learner. The choices we make in our daily work are what change our learners’ lives and the generations to come.

My wish for you in 2022 comes from Mandy Hale: 

Trust the wait,
Embrace the uncertainty.
Enjoy the beauty of becoming.
When nothing is certain,
Anything is possible.

Happy New Year! May you find peace and calm in the year to come. 

Rochelle Galeski, CLN Board Secretary
ABLE Coordinator, Medicine Hat College A.B.L.E. Program – Brooks Campus

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CALP Connections: December 2021

Welcome to December, fellow CLN members.  

My name is Cindy Heidecker and I am honoured to be a new Board Member on the 2021-2022 CLN Board of Directors. As the program manager for the Paintearth Community Adult Learning Council I have had the great pleasure of meeting and interacting with amazing learners and instructors in East-Central Alberta communities within the County of Paintearth, including Brownfield, Castor, Coronation & Halkirk, for over 11 years.  When I am not supporting learning opportunities I am a super sports fan and enjoy spending time with family, travelling, quilting and being outdoors.

The CLN is fortunate to have amazing staff members that ensure adult learning organizations have the tools and skills to support lifelong learning in Alberta. I am also thankful for the current and former CLN Board members that have worked so hard to govern professionally and stay ahead of the curve. My first couple of months as board member have provided me with the opportunity to think about adult learning policy and practice from a provincial lens in the company of great leaders from across the province. I look forward to growing with the CLN over the next few years as we navigate the evolving learning climate.

Literacy and learning are at the heart of every community's strength.

Best Wishes for a super holiday season and a great start to 2022!

Cindy Heidecker, CLN Board Director
Program Manager, Paintearth Community Adult Learning Council

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CALP Connections: November 2021

Meet Tanya Mercredi!

Hello! My name is Tanya Mercredi. I am a Coordinator with Ponoka & Rimbey Adult Learning and I’m brand new to the CLN Board. I would like to tell you how stumbling into the CALP system became one of the most rewarding accidents of my life.

I was hired part-time to offer programs in my community. I fully believed that I knew what our Adult Learning Society was all about and felt pretty confident because community programming was in my wheelhouse! I was excited and I had all kinds of ideas swirling in my head about all the things I would do – and then the phone rang.

As I was settling into my office, on my very first day, I got a call from Cheryl Lovstrom who said she was from the Community Learning Network. She welcomed me as a new coordinator and asked if I would have time to meet with her in the near future and I replied that my day was wide open if that was not too soon. She said, and I quote: “That works for me. I will see you in a few hours.” I had no idea what to expect from our meeting, but I can tell you this – I got more than I bargained for!

Cheryl introduced me to CALP. We talked about the Guidelines, required programming versus general interest programming (bye-bye wheelhouse!), foundational learning and learners, reporting expectations, outcomes and measurement evaluations and, how our organization was a bit of an anomaly because we are two fully functioning sites sharing one grant. Oh, and on that note - your grant application for next year’s funding is due in just over a month so you might want to discuss this with your partner Krista…who is also brand new to CALP.

Mentally, I was formulating my getaway plan and like she knew what I thinking, Cheryl said, before you run for the hills, know that you will not have to do this alone. She assured me that learning the ins and outs of the CALP system was achievable and went on to explain all the professional development and supports that were available to us through the CLN and Rural Routes, and how supportive other CALPs would be in helping us learn the ropes.

Why is my almost comedic story of ineptness important? Because although I felt woefully unprepared in the infancy of my job, with the help of so many, I was able to “roll with it”. The CLN and the numerous other CALPs we reached out to who listened, explained and mentored, had given me tools and resources that were immediately useable and enabled me to connect with and serve learners. I didn’t have to do it alone. And while I grew in my role, each new training gave me confidence and sparked a curiosity to learn more and it reignited my passion for advocacy and involvement.

As I move into a new phase of learning and growth through the CLN Board and not knowing exactly how I will “fit”, I still do so with excitement and passion, because I know I am not going it alone. 

Tanya Mercredi, CLN Board Director
Coordinator, Ponoka & Rimbey Adult Learning Society

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CALP Connections: October 2021

Community Learning Network's 2021-22 Board of Directors

Thank you to everyone who joined us for CLN's 34th Annual General Meeting virtually on September 28th.

We are pleased to share with you the CLN Board of Directors for the 2021-22 year:

                                  
Colleen Thiessen, Chair          Lois Polege, Vice Chair       

Stephanie Brown, Treasurer     Rochelle Galeski, Secretary 

                     
Cindy Heidecker, Director               Kimberly Cairns, Director

                     
Melanie Patenaude, Director         Tanya Mercredi, Director

To contact the CLN Board of Directors please email board@calp.ca.

A note from Kate Glover:
Life turns on a dime, so quickly that I have regretfully had to resign from the CLN board. I wish the very best for the new board and hope to see everyone next year at another excellent symposium.

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Literacy and Learning Symposium 2021 (Virtual) Special Edition

In this special edition of CALP Connections, please find some important information about the Literacy and Learning Symposium 2021 (Virtual), including how we will honour September 30, the first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, Chime Live details, and what to look forward to in the mail!

We are so excited about the upcoming sessions, the networking aspects, the celebrations and seeing all of you online at this year's event! 

If you have any questions regarding Symposium please contact Pat Halewich at 306-821-6030 or pdevents@calp.ca.

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CALP Connections: September 2021

Ah….September. The air is a bit crisper; the days are a bit shorter and we begin to see a beautiful transformation as fall begins to color our world in spectacular fashion. For many of us, the arrival of September is welcome as it means a return to our regular programs and routines. Schools, Colleges and Universities will be open and filled with enthusiastic learners of all ages. CALPs around the province will see a surge in new learners, eager to start their learning journey, and we’ll welcome back our long time learners who will continue learning. It’s impossible to ignore the energy that fall brings!

I have been watching all the wonderful professional development courses and classes fill the calendar on the CALP Portal, and once again, I feel rich with opportunity! The CLN team has been busy scheduling and planning many excellent courses for CALP staff, and I want to give a “shout out” to the team for their hard work ensuring we have such a variety of diverse learning opportunities. The Literacy and Learning Symposium (virtual), the last week of September, is something I look forward to every year, and the 2021 Symposium will not disappoint! I encourage you to register, if you haven’t already done so. You don’t want to miss out on the opportunity to learn and connect with your peers either virtually, or as part of a Symposium Spoke.

As we welcome September and settle into our routines, take a deep breath of the crisp autumn air and let it rejuvenate and inspire you to make this a “September to Remember.”

Colleen Thiessen, CLN Board Chair
Executive Director, Wetaskiwin Learning Program

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CALP Connections: Summer 2021

Remembering the Children

On behalf of the Board of Directors and Staff of the Community Learning Network (CLN), we invite you to pause with us, as we mourn and honour the 215 children whose remains were discovered at the site of the former Kamloops Indian Residential School last week.

We offer our deepest condolences to the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc First Nation, and to all Indigenous and Metis communities who are grieving this loss, and the loss of countless other children who never came home from Indian Residential Schools.

While we join in the collective mourning today, we recognize that each of us has a role to play to bring about meaningful change, in the spirit of reconciliation.

We invite you to join us. Here are some ways we can start:

• Learn more about the impact of the Residential School System through the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation at https://nctr.ca/
• Read and reflect on the Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. You can download the Commission’s Final Report and the Calls to Action that were released in 2015 from http://www.trc.ca/

We hold in our hearts all Residential School Survivors, their families and their communities.

Colleen Thiessen, CLN Chair
Lisa Dickner, CLN Executive Director

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CALP Connections: May 2021

I was always curious about the Community Learning Network; curious as to how it worked to serve the needs of CALPs across the province. My interest and curiosity led to my decision to become a CLN board member. These six years have been a wonderful journey. As this year, three directors will finish their terms, there is an opportunity for you to join the CLN board.

Is there a typical board member? They share some characteristics but are different in other ways. They are members of the Community Learning Network, and come from one of the 85 CALPs across the province. Their CALP roles vary. They could be learning coaches, executive directors, coordinators of literacy programs, essential skills coaches, assistant coordinators or have other roles as in their CALP. Some may have been in their CALP role for a few years, others for many years. All are passionate about serving the adult learners in their communities.

New board members bring new ideas and energy that is exciting and creative for everyone. All bring unique ideas and perspectives from their region of the province, contributing to the thoughtful discussions that shape the direction of the CLN, resulting in practices and programs that serve CALPs across the province.   

Board members are rewarded in so many ways. They include learning new roles, working with talented board members, the CLN staff, the Regional Support Staff, and meeting those from other CALPs, community managers, and those in government roles. In addition, I would be amiss if I didn’t mention the memorable meals, locations personally selected by Shaba, from the CLN team, whose talents include being  a connoisseur of fine food. It has been a rewarding six years. Please consider becoming a board member, and you will see what I mean!

Click here for the 2021 Board Member position description and here for the 2021 CLN Board of Directors Application Form. For more information call 1.877.485.4926 or email board@calp.ca

Lil Radley, CLN Board Director
Coordinator, Read On Adult Literacy and Learning Program - Lethbridge Public Library

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CALP Connections: April 2021

Each year, at the CLN March Board meeting, we have two important items on our agenda; Outstanding Contribution to Community Adult Learning Award and Board Member Recruitment.

For those new to the CALP system, the Outstanding Contribution Award is an honour bestowed upon an exceptional individual or organization annually at the Literacy and Learning Symposium. Each year the CLN accepts nominations from the field so we can all recognize the incredible work that is done in our province! 

For those who have been in the CALP system for some time, you have seen many of our fellow coordinators honoured for the work they do. Perhaps you have nominated a person or organization or you may have been the recipient of the award.

If you know of an organization or individual who has:

• Shown leadership in the adult learning field
• Inspired their CALP or community to advance lifelong learning
• Increased capacity in their organization and/or community to better meet the foundational learning needs of adult Albertans

Please consider taking the time to complete a nomination form with a letter and references. Submissions for the 2021 Outstanding Contribution to Community Adult Learning Award will be accepted until June 30, 2021. Click here for nomination form. 

The next order of business is, of course, Board Member recruitment. My time on the CLN Board is coming to an end this year. I do feel that I have learned so much about our CALP system and made incredible relationships with the CLN Staff, Board Members and Advanced Education staff throughout my 6 years. 

Highlights of my time on the CLN Board:

• Learning about governance from some of the very best
• Reviewing and updating the CLN Policies and making them shareable with the CALP system
• Working with all of the CLN office and RSS staff
• The process of developing a Sustainability Plan for the CLN
• Every board meeting was positive and successful
• Stepping out of my comfort zone and being Treasurer
• Shaba’s dinner recommendations

We have three board members who will have completed their terms this year. We are looking for some bright, new, keen faces to help steer the CLN into the future. So please take a minute to consider what you would like to bring to the CLN Board and then apply!

2021 CLN Board Member position description
2021 CLN Board of Directors Application Form (Word Document)

If you are interested in nominating an individual or organization for the Outstanding Contribution to Community Adult Learning Award or for more information on applying as a CLN Board Member you can call the CLN office at 1.877.485.4926 or email board@calp.ca.

Jana Thomson, CLN Board Treasurer
Program Coordinator, Rocky Learning Centre

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CALP Connections: March 2021

Every year around this time, the CLN Board of Directors start the recruitment process to find new board members. You may wonder why this is important and why we do this on a regular basis. You may have even considered putting your application in to become a CLN board member, but are still unsure. Here’s how I came to be a CLN Board member and why it’s been a valuable experience for me.

I have always had an interest in leadership, driven, in part, by my strong organizational and relational skills. I like to be on “the inside” and learn about the “moving parts” that drive an organization. I also like to have a good understanding from the outside looking in before I move forward, and this is exactly what happened for me. I was the Executive Director of a CALP in Wetaskiwin for 7 years before joining the CLN board, so I had built a solid understanding of the system in my CALP role, which gave me a strong foundation and prepared me to move to the next level.

I had already been thinking for a while about submitting my application to become a board member, and even had the application filled out and ready to go. I had just led my organization through a successful merger so the timing seemed favorable to consider the CLN board. When I was approached about joining the CLN board by the CLN chairperson at the Literacy and Learning Symposium in 2017, I knew the time was right. I am currently serving as the Chairperson on the CLN Board of Directors, and have the privilege of advocating for the entire CALP system.

One of the things that was important to me when I was considering joining the board was feeling confident that I had skills and assets to bring to the Board, and it wasn’t just about me being able to check a task off of my career “to do” list. Being a board member involves your time, hard work and innovation to tackle important issues. Each board member has a responsibility to bring ideas and skills that will benefit the board, and ultimately, the entire CALP system. I have valued my time on the CLN board because it has been mutually beneficial. I have learned a lot about the CLN and have been challenged by my fellow board members to think outside the box. In exchange, I have brought value to the board through my unique experience and perspective. It’s a win-win!

2021 CLN Board Member position description
2021 CLN Board of Directors Application Form (Word Document)

Colleen Thiessen, CLN Board Chair
Executive Director, Wetaskiwin Learning Program

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CALP Connections: February 2021

Hello February! The month of “love”.

When you think about February, what do you think about?

My first thought is Valentine’s Day. I think about making handmade cards, fluttering cupids with their arrows, cinnamon hearts that burn your tongue when you eat too many, the scent of beautiful flowers, chocolates wrapped in shiny red foil and love.

When I reflect on what love truly means to me, it is all about relationships. The relationships with my family, friends, work colleagues, clients, professional networks and community. Each of these relationships are unique, however they have commonalities. Whether a personal or professional relationship; to be healthy and effective they must have trust, honesty, shared expectations, no judgements, boundaries, open communication, respect, compromises and accountability. The CLN Board is mindful of our role to be relationship weavers for the CALP System. Identifying and establishing new relationships as well as growing and strengthening existing relationships.

This is the perfect opportunity to remind everyone that the CLN Board will be hosting a 1-hour discussion on Tuesday, February 9th at 10 am all about, you guessed it…… “relationships.” For more information, please see Board Chair, Colleen Thiessen’s, January 8th portal post, CLN Board Meets with Advanced Education Minister: Call for CALP Staff Input. I am looking forward to the valuable conversation.

Stay well, be kind and take care of one another. 

It’s all about Relationships!

Doray Veno
Director CLN Board

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CALP Connections: January 2021

“The future depends on what we do in the present.”  Mahatma Gandhi

Sometime this month, everyone will celebrate the advent of another trip around the sun…and celebrate is the operative word. After the festivities are over and the gifts opened, now what? Our outlook is a little blurry right now, but one positive effect the New Year can have on us is we want to do things better and become better people. There is an old European custom regarding resolutions:

What one does on this day one will do for the rest of the year.

This is our chance to take a deep, deep breath, look at the beauty of Mother Earth that surrounds us and make a renewed pledge to our family, friends, colleagues and learners. Everyone’s method will be different and that’s what makes our community of CALPs work so well. We can share our experiences, seek and find support, with a common goal to improve our lives and the lives of others with whatever means we have at hand.

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed people can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”  Margaret Mead

…And that’s a good reason to celebrate!

Happy New Year and Happy Life Everyone!

Kate Glover
Program Director, Willow Creek Community Adult Learning Society
CLN Vice Chair

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CALP Connections: December 2020

“There is divine beauty in learning…To learn means to accept the postulate that life did not begin at my birth. Others have been here before me, and I walk in their footsteps.”
~ Elie Wiesel

I had other plans and ideas of how I wanted to grow after I finished my upgrading and none of those involved becoming a teacher. I always loved helping people with their life and learning goals and didn’t realize that was what CALPs provide for communities. In fact, I wasn’t even aware of what a CALP was. I was strongly encouraged to drop a resume off to Deena at Hinton Adult Learning in the latter half of 2012 by a former teacher. It took me until January 2013 to build the confidence needed to actually see that what I had to offer was an asset to the community, so I sent a resume off to Deena. At that point in time, I figured my learning journey was over and I was going to work now. I had the requirements to be a tutor and I was satisfied with that for a career. I was in for a grand wake-up though, because as you know, we never stop learning. Lifelong Learning has now become a favorite mantra of mine.

Since joining CALP in 2013, I have pursued many learning opportunities as they arise. I have become an experienced staff member due to my love of learning of everything adult learning related. So when I joined the CLN family as a Board member in September this year, I felt I was ready to rise to the challenge. I know I am going to learn immensely from my fellow knowledgeable Board members. 

Attending my first hybrid Board meeting, I sat in awe at how intelligent and unruffled each of these wonderful board members present themselves. Each member brings with them unique life experience and a love of learning. The safe space for the meeting was created naturally with no judgment or arguing over differences with opinions. The professionalism displayed from each member really represents how dedicated our team is to adult learning communities around Alberta. I am motivated by this board and am thrilled to be able to work alongside and learn from each of them during my term. 

A little holiday wish to each of you:

"Christmas is most truly Christmas when we celebrate it by giving the light of love to those who need it most." 
~ Ruth Carter Stapleton

May each of you receive that light of love during the season and beyond.

Stephanie Brown
Essential Skills Coach, Hinton Adult Learning
CLN Board Director

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CALP Connections: November 2020

In the midst of this crazy year, I have been reflecting on the roles we all play in Adult Learning programs across the province. There are so many variations amongst us. However, one thing I believe we all share is our motivation to make a difference in the lives of our learners. As we roll with the waves of change, let’s not forget that we can still find ways to encourage, to cheer and celebrate and honour our learners and each other. What none of us could do alone, we CAN do together! 

Thank you to all of you who have inspired and strengthened me on my journey – sharing stories, resources, and strategies along with laughter and the occasional tear (or growl ). Thanks for being part of the Community Learning Network family. 

“A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.” Ecclesiastes 4:12 NLT

Lois Polege
Adult Learning Coordinator, Flagstaff Community Adult Learning
CLN Board Secretary

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CALP Connections: October 2020

Community Learning Network's 2020-21 Board of Directors

Thank you to everyone who joined us for CLN's 33rd Annual General Meeting virtually on September 29th.

We are pleased to share with you the CLN Board of Directors for the 2020-21 year.

The newest member of the CLN Board is Stephanie Brown from Hinton Adult Learning Society

Colleen Thiessen, Chair
Wetaskiwin Community Learning Program

Kate Glover, Vice Chair
Willow Creek Community Adult Learning Society

Jana Thomson, Treasurer
Rocky Learning Centre

Lois Polege, Secretary
Flagstaff Community Adult Learning

Doray Veno, Director
Hanna Learning Centre

Lil Radley, Director
Read On Adult Literacy Program (Lethbridge Public Library)

Stephanie Brown, Director
Hinton Adult Learning Society

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CALP Connections: September 2020

Who would have ever believed time would fly during a pandemic? Well it sure did! Welcome Back!

I’m quite sure that many of you have hit the ground running. (Final Reports submitted, Fall Programming planned…Programs started…Registering for our Virtual Symposium...connecting with colleagues and learners…..) I hope you shared some peaceful time, with family and friends because you deserve it. The opportunity to refuel is a key component to doing the meaningful work in your programs and communities.

While many CALPs are just returning to the office, the CLN Team has been busy over the summer months with several activities including converting our annual Learning and Literacy Symposium from in person to virtual professional development and networking opportunity! Registration deadline is Wednesday, September 16, 2020.

With all the additional time everyone has been and will be spending online, I leave you with these tips borrowed from the below U of A article, How to Handle Digital Overload. https://www.folio.ca/how-to-handle-digital-overload/

• Take breaks away from the screen
• Keep it short
• Be animated
• Don’t be a distraction
• Avoid multitasking during meetings

See you at our CLN Annual General Meeting and the 2020 Learning and Literacy Symposium (Virtual) September 29th to October 2nd!

Stay well!

Doray Veno
Executive Director, Hanna & District Association for Lifelong Learning
Chair, Community Learning Network

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CALP Connections: Summer 2020

2020 It’s been quite the “ride”!

This time of year, I schedule the opportunity for reflection. Well, I certainly have no shortage of situations and events to reflect on!

But first, some thanks. Thank you to our membership and staff for your outstanding commitment to the CALP system during this unprecedented time. Thank you for your tireless and collective efforts to mobilize so quickly. From ensuring the well-being of our learners and each other to offering and attending trainings on how to leverage technology, to creating new learning activities and programs, and to planning for almost every possible contingency. The passion and commitment that you have for the CALP system is not only tremendous, but on display in a way like never before. Thank you, just doesn’t seem like enough. My appreciation for you is much greater than these words.

Final Reports

As the second year of your three-year CALP agreement wraps up, please reach out to your Community Learning Network Regional Support Staff and your Grant Manager if you have questions on grant reporting. Deadline for submitting is no later than August 31st. The new CALP Guidelines 2020 are now available on the CALP Portal under the CALP Grant tab, as well as a series of FAQs about the CALP Guidelines 2020. The 2020 CALP Guidelines will be in effect for your third year of your agreements, starting July 1, 2020.

Welcome Summer

Many CALP programs are preparing for a summer break, so I wanted to send you off with best wishes for an amazing summer! Be safe, be well and take good care of yourselves. Have a fabulous summer.

Cheers!                                                

Doray Veno
CLN Board Chair

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CALP Connections: May 2020

Changing But Not Changing

So much has changed yet so much remains the same. As we are all adjusting to this changing reality of every day life, we take comfort in what has not changed.

I’m thinking specifically of our Community Adult Learning Programs who continue to do amazing work, perhaps in different ways. Across the province, CALPs are there reaching out and connecting with learners. Building relationships with prospective students, tutors, and partners has always been important. In this time of uncertainity, continuing those relationships is more important than ever for everyone, for they help maintain a sense of normalcy. There are no short conversations these days; those that we are reaching value these interactions.

What has not changed are the supports that are there for CALPs. These include the CLN’s Provincial and Regional Support Staff, the Rural Routes team, the urban Professional Development Specialists from ECALA and Calgary Learns, and everyone who has readily shared ideas and resources via the Portal and online meetings. It seems that without missing a heartbeat, CALPs have acquired the skills and resources needed to continue learning activities for their students.

And at the heart of all this is the Community Learning Network - always there, proactive and responding. Now is an opportune time for CALP Staff, who want to share their skills and talents in a new way, by becoming part of the governing body of the Community Learning Network, the CLN Board.

For more information please see the CLN Board Recruitment package on the CALP Portal (member login required) or email board@calp.ca. The deadline for nominations is August 25th. 

I also wanted to share how we celebrated Read On Volunteers during National Volunteer Week. 

We invited our tutors to join us at a Tim Horton’s drive-thru, where they ordered a coffee and a doughnut, courtesy of Read On. They came, some in cars, bikes, and our intrepid tutor Teena, on her motor scooter. 

Learning to do things differently!

Lil Radley, CLN Board Director
Literacy Services Coordinator, Lethbridge Public Library Read On Program

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CALP Connections: April 2020

“Encourage, lift and strengthen one another. For the positive energy spread to one will be felt by us all. For we are connected, one and all.” ~ Deborah Day

In this time, like no other we have known, we need one another in ways we could not have predicted. While we may not be physically close, let us be close in ways that matter and give us all strength to face each new day.

The CLN is but a short virtual connection away and ready to support you on this evolving journey. We’ve put on our dancing shoes and will move fast or slow, creating new moves or trusting in steps we know by heart – just say the word. And if you’re not sure of the word, we’ll sway in time to the music and just be with you.

Our team continues to assess your training and professional development needs and recognizes that the pace of change and new learning is relentless right now. We will lead when it’s helpful, follow you where you go or walk beside you – today, tomorrow and in the days to come.

Warm and healthy wishes from our team to yours.

Doray Veno                     Lisa Dickner     
CLN Chairperson           CLN Executive Director   

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Special Edition - Covid-19 Updates for CALP

Cancellation of CLN Trainings, Events and Site Visits

As the situation around COVID-19 (coronavirus) continues to evolve, we are reaching out to let you know that CLN has been closely monitoring the situation, and reviewing our plans for all face-to-face training, events and Regional Meetings.

As of today, Monday, March 16th, all face-to-face trainings, events and site visits scheduled between March 17th and April 15th are cancelled.

Your safety and comfort are our first concern.

We will continue to monitor the situation, and plan to reschedule trainings when it is safe to do so.

CLN will ensure that any CALP staff booked into a training will receive a full refund. Your Regional Support Staff will be reaching out to you directly, if they have not done so already, to confirm your understanding of the refund process and cancellation of the event(s) you have registered for.

Those who are currently registered for a training will be contacted directly, to be given priority to register when we are able to confirm a new date.

Messaging from the CALP Team at Advanced Education

Earlier today, the following information was sent out from the CALP Team at Advanced Education:

Following the announcement Sunday from Alberta’s Chief Medical Officer that there are now indications of COVID-19 community spread, Alberta has increased its measures to limit the acceleration of the COVID-19 spread. These measures include mandating the suspension of post-secondary classes (campuses remain open), as well as closing K-12 schools and daycares.

Advanced Education advises the CALP system to take the same precautionary measures to limit the spread of COVID-19 and suspend in-person learning until further direction is provided.

We understand that CALP serves a vulnerable population and that your organization may be the only safe space in the community for your learners. It is up to your organization’s board and staff if you want to remain open to provide learner support services. Where possible, we encourage all CALP grant recipients to explore the online delivery of foundational programming online.

Should you choose to remain open, please refer to Alberta Health Services, for the best hygiene practices, the latest public health restrictions, and other information on COVID-19.

If you have any questions, please contact your grant manager.

Keep Up to Date with Current and Credible Information

It's important in these times of uncertainty to ensure you have accurate and up to date information, the Government of Alberta has created a page on their website where you can access information, resources and the most recent news. Please visit this link regularly to keep current on the latest news and developments. https://www.alberta.ca/coronavirus-info-for-albertans.aspx

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CALP Connections: March 2020

Is that spring around the corner? At this time of year, I often think of new starts and what could develop in the year ahead. I’m hopeful that some exciting new adventures will appear, and wondering what I will learn and how I will change in the coming months. Perhaps (probably) there will be challenges, but aren’t they also part of our journey?

As we seek out new opportunities in 2020, I encourage you to consider whether this is the year you join the CLN Board! If you recognize the value of this organization, why not support it by putting yourself forward as a prospective Board member? You will find it a fantastic source of learning new skills, discovering new perspectives and building new friendships. We would love to have your contribution and voice as we strengthen the Community Adult Learning system in Alberta. Please feel free to contact any Board member with questions and suggestions. We look forward to hearing from you!

For more information on the Board Member position or to see the application form click here. 

Lois Polege, CLN Board Secretary
Adult Learning Coordinator, Flagstaff Community Adult Learning Society

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CALP Connections: February 2020

We are already a month into 2020 and we survived the very cold deep freeze Mother Nature set forth. 

In the summer the CLN Board felt it was time to realign the CLN’s strategic plan. This is a process we all know Boards take part in in different capacities on a regular basis…right?!? During our discussions on how to proceed it was mentioned that Brad Kotowich may still be in the business of strategic planning. (For those of you who have been in the CALP world for a while, you may remember Brad from past Symposium sessions.) We immediately agreed we should reach out to Brad to find out if he is interested in working with the CLN again.

Turns out, Brad was very keen to work with us again, however he is no longer in the business of “strategic planning”. His school of thought being that you can’t be strategic if you are not first sustainable. The Board set out to create a Sustainability Plan for the Community Learning Network that includes our five “organizational sustainability pillars”. The pillars reflect the most critical aspects of the CLN’s overall purpose, and ongoing health and sustainability. Our annual planning and intentional work throughout the organization will encompass each of these pillars and the outcomes within. The CLN’s sustainability pillars were determined to be as follows:

• Customer – satisfaction, quality and services
  • Who are the people or organizations we serve?
•  Mastery – skills, knowledge and capability
  • What do we need to know and be able to do to be great in our roles throughout the organization?
• Financial – revenue, efficiency, cash flow and expenditures
  • What do we have in place to ensure accountability, transparency, and to ensure we are spending responsibly, with an eye to getting the best possible value?
• Culture and Structure – staff retention, morale, operational effectiveness and capacity
  • Do we have policies, procedures and strategies in place that build a healthy culture? Are our policies and procedures supporting efficiencies and effectiveness in our operations?
• Partnerships – community, funders and other resources
  • Who are our other partners? What do our relationships look like?

We were so excited and pleased to see our new creation and in January we were able to share it with the CLN Staff.

The staff were assigned to look at our Sustainability Plan creation and tear it apart. Find any and every gap and ask the Board to defend it. We had a “great debate” and it was GREAT! By the end of the activity the Board and Staff were able to look at the new plan from a variety of different perspectives and we are now in the process of making final edits and minor adjustments. 

We rounded off our time in January with Board and Staff trying out our culinary skills by creating some cuisine inspired by New Orleans. Jambalaya, coleslaw and ribs were on the menu followed by a fantastic bananas foster. What a wonderful team we have in the CLN and CALPs throughout the province. 

We know you want to see how our Sustainability Plan turns out so stay tuned for the unveiling in the Spring!

Jana Thomson, CLN Board Treasurer
Program Coordinator, Rocky Learning Centre

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CALP Connections: January 2020

2020 Vision

How many times over the years have you heard if your eyesight is 20/20, you have perfect vision? I certainly have been reminded lately that my eyesight is not perfect and sometimes I need help with my vision.  

I have personal and professional visions of how I would like 2020 to unfold; however, I am old enough to know that things will not always be perfect. Some things will drift out of focus. I’ve learned that I can regain clarity by adjusting my attitudes and expectations. Nevertheless, I still need help from family, colleagues and friends along the way.

My challenge for each one of us is to have a 2020 vision, do our best to fulfill it, and be ready for the challenges life will toss our way.

They say hindsight is 20/20, so who knows? If we don’t get it right the first time, we can learn from mistakes, make adjustments and see where life takes us. My guess is the future will be better than we envisioned.

Wishing you all an insightful 2020!

Colleen Thiessen, CLN Board Vice Chair
Executive Director, Wetaskiwin Learning Program

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CALP Connections: December 2019

CLN Board Welcomes Kate Glover as Director

Meet Kate Glover

I live in a 112-year-old home in a one-horse town called Fort Macleod, one hour from the U.S. border, once home of the North West Mounted Police. I have one daughter and one granddaughter and so far, everything I learn in this phase of my life is through their eyes.

I began as a CALP coordinator 17 years ago offering general interest courses in the MD of Willow Creek under the old CALC grant system. It was fun, but once we shifted our focus to Literacy and Foundational Learning, that’s when I began to find meaning in what I do every day in my job. It gives me a chance to walk in other people’s shoes and understand how we all live different lives on the inside while living and working together on the outside.

I was elected to the CLN Board in October, and attended my very first board meeting recently, and as I sat at the same table with my colleagues and Demetrios Nicolaides, Minister of Advanced Education, I thought, well this was unexpected! I was impressed with the knowledge and sophistication that this board shared with the Minister and I wondered if I was in over my head. Then I remembered we are all learners our whole lives and it’s my turn to soak up the accumulated years of experience that these talented, erudite, compassionate people share.

I will do my best to live up to the challenge.

May the season bring us peace, love and understanding.

Kate Glover, CLN Board
Program Director, Willow Creek Community Adult Learning Society

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CALP Connections: November 2019

Think Outside the Box!

Symposium spurred new innovation and energy that was taken back to our programs. This month I challenge you to think outside the box! What can you do differently in your program to better serve or reach learners? The word challenge may scare you at this point in time but in the end it could be your rescue.

Many of us may experience the same blocks year after year. Not enough tutors, not enough time, not enough program awareness...STOP. If we keep doing what we have always done, we will get the same results. Sometimes this is good, and sometimes this isn’t getting us to where we need to go. Have you ever taken the same route on a trip and wondered when they would repair the bumpy road? Take a different route next time. It may be a bit longer but it may be a smoother ride.

Now how does this apply to your CALP? Have you been trying to recruit learners or tutors with little success? I am going to give you one KISS today! “Keep It Simple Speaker”. Often our message when promoting our programs through advertising or public speaking engagements are too high level for the audience we are trying to engage with. Keep it real and keep it simple. Instead of saying “We offer adult foundational learning in... “ say “We help adult Albertans improve their skills for everyday life”. Or “Our tutors love getting to know our adult learners and can’t believe how many great friends they have met volunteering for our program.” Testimonials are another great way to bring to life what we actually do. I have found most people find the word “literacy” boring; they certainly don’t find a success story boring though. So I challenge you to think outside the box of what you can do differently to produce new results in your program. Also, please “SHARE” what has worked well for you in the comments belowl. We would love to hear from you.

Until we meet again, enjoy your learning journey in your programs over the coming months.

From your grassroots Director in the South - Jackie Seely
CLN Board of Directors, and Program Director at Newell Further Education Council

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CALP Connections: October 2019

Community Learning Network's 2019-20 Board of Directors

Thank you to everyone who joined us for CLN's 32nd Annual General Meeting at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Edmonton on September 24th.

We are pleased to share with you the CLN Board of Directors for the 2019-20 year.

From left to right: Doray Veno (at podium), Lisa Dickner (CLN Executive Director), Jackie Seely, Georgina Supernault, Colleen Thiessen, Jana Thomson and Lois Polege

The newest member of the CLN Board is Kate Glover, from Willow Creek Community Adult Learning Society

Doray Veno, Chair
Hanna Learning Centre

Colleen Thiessen, Vice Chair
Wetaskiwin Community Learning Program

Jana Thomson, Treasurer
Rocky Learning Centre

Lois Polege, Secretary
Flagstaff Community Adult Learning

Jackie Seely, Director
Newell Further Education

Lil Radley, Director
Read On Adult Literacy Program (Lethbridge Public Library)

Georgina Supernault, Director
Manning Community Adult Learning & Literacy Council

Kate Glover, Director
Willow Creek Community Adult Learning Society

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Literacy and Learning Symposium 2019 Special Edition

In this special Literacy and Learning Symposium 2019 newsletter edition we will talk about how to download our new, free Symposium2019 app, registration deadlines, the Attendee Survival Guide, how to review you sessions and any other last minute Symposium items we think you should know!

We are so excited that Symposium 2019 is just a few days away!! We are looking forward to seeing friendly faces and meeting new CALP folks. 

If you have any questions regarding Symposium please contact Pat Halewich at 780-628-7127 or events@calp.ca.

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CALP Connections: September 2019

Well……That’s a wrap! Where did you go summer?

Welcome Back!

I hope you had some tranquil time, because you deserve it. The more time I spend in the CALP system, the more I realize how tough the job has become. Supporting learners with such diverse needs can be taxing. The opportunity to refuel is a key component to doing the meaningful work in your programs and communities. We want you to have the tools and resources you need to do great things. While we may not be able to provide everything you'd like, please continue to share your thoughts, ideas and wish list for professional development. We trust that you'll take ownership of your own learning in the same way you want your learners to own theirs. See you at Symposium!

It's time for some new stories of great learning. It begins now. Go be awesome!

Doray Veno,
Executive Director, Hanna & District Association for Lifelong Learning
Chair, Community Learning Network

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CALP Connections: Summer 2019

WOW! Summer is right around the corner……. I have started to hear Alice Cooper’s Schools Out for Summer playing in my head. No more hiding my age! 

On a more serious note, as the first year of your three-year CALP agreement wraps up, please reach out to your Community Learning Network Regional Support Staff and your Grant Manager if you have questions on grant reporting.

Many CALP programs are preparing for a summer break, so I wanted to send you off with best wishes for an amazing summer and a message of many thanks. Thank-you to the entire CALP System, for making the positive impacts in our province, communities and individual’s lives. My appreciation for you is much greater than these words.

I would like to share one of my beloved Margaret Meads quotes:

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.” Margaret Mead

Hope to see everyone September 24th at the CLN Annual General Meeting and at the Learning and Literacy Symposium “Connect Learn Contribute” September 24th – 27th.

 Be safe, take good care of yourselves and have a great summer.

Doray Veno
Executive Director, Hanna & District Association for Lifelong Learning
Chair, Community Learning Network

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CALP Connections: May 2019

It is that time of the year again. We are coming to the season of wrapping up one year and looking ahead to new opportunities. I am looking forward to several days of training in May and incorporating what I learn into our plans for the fall. It is also the time to plan for involvement in the wonderful network we call CLN.

As you schedule in some awesome training opportunities for the coming year, have you considered what you could learn as a member of the CLN Board?! I have found serving on the Board to be a great way to understand the creativity and breadth of the adult learning world, to meet leaders in our field, and to explore best practices for governance, risk management, program and staff evaluation, and much more.

Each of us has so much to learn from each other, and you have a valuable contribution to make. Please check out the application form on the Portal – deadline is June 30!

Lois Polege
Adult Learning Coordinator, Flagstaff Community Adult Learning
Secretary, Community Learning Network

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CALP Connections: April 2019

On any given day in the many CALP organizations across the province, there are extraordinary and outstanding stories of learning unfolding. Some stories are short while other stories are a work in progress. One thing is for sure, we all have a story to tell, and by telling our stories we learn, connect and contribute to each other.

Part of the CLN’s commitment to community-based adult learning and literacy in Alberta involves the recognition of exceptional individuals and/or organizations who have made an outstanding contribution to our field. The Outstanding Contribution to Community Adult Learning Award is presented to those individuals and/or organizations who have met the following criteria:

• Shown leadership in the adult learning field
• Inspired their CALP or community to advance lifelong learning
• Increased capacity in their organization and/or community to better meet the foundational learning needs of adult Albertans

If you know of someone in a CALP-funded organization, or a CALP-funded organization that meets this criteria, and you want us all to hear their story, the CLN Board of Directors would love for you to nominate them for this award. Just fill out and submit the nomination form, with letters of support, that you can find on the CALP Portal at https://calp.ca/forum/?discussion=5948&group=1 (member login required).

The CLN Board of Directors is also repeating our call for nominees to join the Board. This is a wonderful opportunity to gain valuable experience, meet new people, and have a role guiding and supporting the direction of the Community Learning Network. You can download a Board Member Position Description and an Application form for the CLN Board at https://calp.ca/forum/?collection=105 (CALP Portal login required). If you have questions or require more information, please contact Doray Veno, Chairperson, at doray.veno@hannalearning.com. Completed nomination forms can be submitted to board@calp.ca.

Colleen Thiessen
Executive Director, Wetaskiwin Community Learning Program
Director, Community Learning Network

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CALP Connections: March 2019

Welcome to March everyone!

Let’s hope that L.M. Montgomery’s beautiful description of the coming of March rings true for us.

“March came in that winter like the meekest and mildest of lambs, bringing days that were crisp and golden and tingling, each followed by a frosty pink twilight which gradually lost itself in an elfland of moonshine.” - Anne of the Island, by Lucy Maud Montgomery.

March is a busy and exciting time for all programs across the province. Serving on the CLN Board provides members with opportunities to look beyond their immediate program and gain a picture of CALPs across the province. Being part of the Community Learning Network team, we contribute in different ways to shaping the various supports that CALPs receive. This extensive, responsive support includes the provincial Regional Support Network, which includes PD, training and support for CALPs from our partners at Rural Routes, NorQuest College, Calgary Learns and ECALA, the annual Literacy and Learning Symposium, and soon, Spring Regional Meetings. It is so rewarding to see how all of these resources increase the capacity of the CALPs, for the benefit of the learners.

Following is an example from the Read On Adult Literacy and Learning Program, of how learner needs become requests for training for CALP practitioners, and how this specific training (Tech Talk) is now benefitting learners. Being able to use different devices, be it a tablet, iPad, smartphone, etc., has been increasingly identified as a learner need in many programs. Now thanks to Tech Talk training, Read On has used strategies to develop specific classes. In partnership with Lethbridge Family Services – Immigrant Services. Read On has developed the Women’s ESL Technology Class for a group of newcomer ladies. This supplements their Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) classes. With the assistance of translators, these keen, enthusiastic ladies from Eritrea, Sudan, Nepal, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo are acquiring the digital literacy skills and experiences that they will need for everyday life activities and future employment.

Serving in my second term on the CLN Board is so rewarding, and I encourage others to join us. Our diversity is our strength, and we thrive on all the ideas board members bring. We are passionate about the work we do! At our upcoming Regional Meetings you will have the opportunity to meet CLN board members and staff. Be sure to ask any questions you may have, including questions about serving as a CLN board member.

Lil Radley
CLN Board of Directors

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CALP Connections: February 2019

Welcome to February!

Last month the CLN Board and Staff came together in Edmonton for a day of celebration, professional development and visioning. We celebrated with a team building experience by cooking Thai Food (of course we got to eat our creations) and having a Christmas Gift Exchange.

Have you, our CALP Membership, seen the variety of different personalities among the CLN Board and Staff Teams? This diversity adds to the hilarity of a gift exchange that includes being able to steal from each other, and seeing which of the heartfelt gifts were to be fought over until the bitter end.

Our professional development and team building assignment had a “Then, Now, Next” theme stemming from reflections on our growth in the past five years. Here is a short excerpt from our assignment:

Then (2013 – 2014):

• Number of Community Adult Learning Council Members: 82
• CLN Board restructures staffing at CLN
  • Director (Full-time)
  • Communications Specialist (Full-time)
  • Admin Staff (15 hours/week)
  • Finance Contract (5 hours/week)
• Budget: AE funding: $292,353 + $65,000 for Culture of Collaboration grant (year 2)
• 7 Regional Resource Leaders (5-15 hours/month)

Now (2018-2019):

• Number of Community Adult Learning Program Members: 101
• CLN Staff: 10 full-time and 2 part-time
  • Executive Director
  • Training Manager
  • Communications Specialist
  • Events Specialist
  • Indigenous Liaison
  • Program Support
  • Financial Coordinator
  • Regional Support Staff (North, East, West, Central and South)
• Budget: AE (Delivery Stream) Grant: $1,252,000 + AE (Development Stream) Grant: $345,000 (2018-2020)

Next (2025 only six years away):

I am not going to define what this vision board means. It holds a different meaning to everyone but I think every person in the room was amazed to see that, despite our multitude of backgrounds, we have common goals, values and desired outcomes. As you, our members and system partners, view this vision board, I hope each of you feel empowered and enticed to add to it. The vision board will be awaiting your arrival at the September 2019 Symposium where each of you will be able to add your own images and words.

The diversity of the CLN team is representative of our entire CALP system (much like our own communities). Every person has a different background; rural/urban, cultural, years of experience, professional field such as family literacy, adult literacy, some have children, some don’t. Our individual stories are so varied but we all come together with the same purpose and vision: to lead a visionary network of learning communities, where Community Adult Learning Programs are the hub for adult learning in every community.

Jana Thomson
Vice Chair, CLN Board of Directors

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CALP Connections: January 2019

Happy 2019!

2018 saw many successes province-wide in our Community Adult Learning Programs; and I can tell by the wide-spread enthusiasm and passion for our programs that 2019 will bring many more! Whether your program is big or small, every day you play an integral role in shaping the lives of Albertans by running programs that increase literacy skills, opening doors that a learner may not have thought was possible.

While we have challenges every day in our programs, let us remember to celebrate our successes. Take a moment to reflect on how many new learners you have in your program. What goals have they accomplished for themselves? How has your organization adapted to learner needs?

Then, take a moment to acknowledge the investment you have made in yourself as an adult learner to acquire the skills needed to perform the role of a literacy practitioner. While great weight is on your shoulders to succeed, the number of hours often exceeding the number available, you have thrived in balancing helping learners while being a learner yourself. This level of dedication comes from the desire and passion to see others succeed.

Thank you for your commitment to the Community Adult Learning Program.

I wish everyone success in 2019. I am extremely thankful to have such a great group of people to work with province-wide. It is my honour to serve on the CLN board and I am looking forward to seeing everyone at training throughout the year. All the best in 2019!

Jackie Seely
Treasurer, CLN Board of Directors

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CALP Connections: December 2018

CLN Board Welcomes Georgina Supernault as Director

This fall at the 2018 CLN AGM, Georgina Supernault, Coordinator at Manning Community Adult Learning & Literacy Council, was elected to join the CLN Board of Directors.

Meet Georgina Supernault

My husband and I live on a farm in Sunny Valley where our backyard is the beautiful Peace River. I am a proud Metis Kokum (grandmother) of seven adorable grandchildren who keep me grounded and help lay the foundation of my learning.

I have been with the CALP system for over a decade and it has always been a learning experience. First as a board member making sure community needs were identified, then as a family literacy coordinator learning to develop programs that met client needs. Lately, it has been as a PDAC member and a curriculum developer finding practical tools for addressing Indigenous needs in our CALP spaces. It is always challenging, always interesting and always an honour to do the work I do. 

I am so humbled to be a part of the CLN family, so excited to learn and grow with this amazing group of dedicated people. I hope to bring to this position what I have learned in programming, board development, community consultation, and curriculum design.

Wishing you all the hope, wonder and joy that the season can bring!

Merry Christmas and May the Creator bless you and your loved ones throughout the New Year.

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CALP Connections: November 2018

Greetings from the Chair

Inspiring Leadership: Dare to care

As I prepared to write the Welcome Message for our November newsletter, I came across an article, Inspiring Leadership: Dare to Care. Well, that title sparked my interest! I would like to share some of the key messages from the article and encourage you to take five minutes to read the entire article.

The following information is taken from Charity Village - Village Vibes Issue 23.44 (https://charityvillage.com/cms/content/topic/inspiring_leadership_dare_to_care#.W9iQ0pNKjcc). “To be an inspiring leader, you have to care. And, just as importantly, you have to demonstrate that you care. You have to show it. And you have to show it in a number of different areas in order to be truly inspiring. And although I give this advice to leaders in every sector, caring is fundamental to our work in the nonprofit sector. If you don't care, no one else will either. CARING is the MOST important thing you need to do to be an inspiring leader. If you don't do this, all of the other approaches and techniques won't matter.”

I have definitely taken the first step, or more like jumped in with both feet. I care! I care for the CLN members, staff, directors, funders and the CALP system.

Chairing this amazing organization is truly an honour for me. Thank you to immediate Past Chair, Karen Plourde, for her passionate leadership of the CLN, and to all the past board members who worked together to govern this successful organization. As I take the role as the new Chair, I plan to support the mission of the CLN and to continue its legacy with spirit and enthusiasm.

I would like to take this opportunity to welcome our newest Director:

Georgina Supernault from Manning Community Adult Learning & Literacy Council

And I would like to thank all returning Board Members:

Jana Thomson, Vice Chair from Rocky Learning Centre
Jackie Seely, Treasurer from Newell Further Education
Lois Polege, Secretary from Flagstaff Community Adult Learning
Lil Radley, Director from Read On Adult Literacy Program (Lethbridge Public Library)
Colleen Thiessen, Director from Wetaskiwin Community Learning Program

Thank you to each and every one of you who “Dare to Care”.

Doray Veno
Chair, CLN Board

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CALP Connections: October 2018

Meet the 2018 - 19 CLN Board of Directors

Thank you to everyone who joined us for CLN's 31st Annual General Meeting at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Edmonton on September 25th.

We are pleased to share with you the CLN Board of Directors for the 2018 -19 year.

 Top row (left to right): Lil Radley, Doray Veno, Jana Thomson, Colleen Thiessen
Front row (left to right): Jackie Seely, Lois Polege, Georgina Supernault

Doray Veno, Chair
Hanna Learning Centre

Jana Thomson, Vice Chair
Rocky Learning Centre

Jackie Seely, Treasurer
Newell Further Education

Lois Polege, Secretary
Flagstaff Community Adult Learning

Lil Radley, Director
Read On Adult Literacy Program (Lethbridge Public Library)

Georgina Supernault, Director
Manning Community Adult Learning & Literacy Council

Colleen Thiessen, Director
Wetaskiwin Community Learning Program

This year we had two Board members, Karen Plourde and Brenda Adams, retire after completing their three 2-year terms. We thank them for their service to the association.

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CALP Connections: September 2018

Welcome back to the 2018/19 CALP year which will surely be filled with inspiration, innovation, meaningful connections and fulfillment!

I hope you all had a break and a chance to recharge. On this, my last letter in Connections newsletter, and my last year of service on the board, I wanted to take the opportunity to tell you that it has been a privilege to serve on the CLN board on your behalf. Connecting with CALP people, a mighty group, has been a continuous inspiration and revitalization. Let me share with you a picture taken in Yellowknife this summer where Brenda Adams met me at the Wildcat Café for supper. This image illustrates a friendship connection made while serving (six years) on the CLN board.

Serving the CLN board… adventures await!

Karen Plourde
Chair, CLN Board of Directors

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CALP Connections: Summer 2018

Summer is here! As another CALP year comes to a close, take time to reflect on all you have accomplished this year. Pat yourself on the back and force yourself to brag a little about your accomplishments. 2017/18 has been a year of innovation by CALP staff around the province. It has been a year of increased connections among CALPs and the CLN. Collectively, we have served adult learners in our province in innumerable ways, positively impacting our Alberta home. Bravo!

Most of you are looking forward to some summer time off and the chance to recharge. Enjoy your summer, and we will see you in the fall at Symposium.

I want to give a shout out to the CLN staff who have kept us all connected; you have helped us with mentoring, training, PD, and so much more. Your hard work is appreciated by all! Together, we make a mighty contribution.

This will be my last year on the CLN Board: what a grand experience it has been. I have enjoyed the experience as well as the opportunity to acquire perspective and insight from the extraordinary members who serve on this board. People like you…CALP people.

Knowledge gained by serving on the board has helped me communicate better with my own board about the broader provincial scope. It has enabled me to better insure that my local board is meeting Advanced Education expectations and directions. Even board development of our local CALP has been enhanced by experiences learned on the CLN board. Everything I learn as a board member has helped me serve my community better. Serving on this board is a win-win.

Think about joining the CLN board for yourself, your local board, your community, your province and for all CALPs. Expand your horizons. Try something new. Many of you have already served, but even seasoned board members might want to consider serving again, as the CLN board has undergone so many changes, even in my short experience.

You can download the CLN Board Member Position Description and Application Package from the CALP Portal in the "All Members and Partners" Documents folder.

If I don’t see you before then, I look forward to connecting with you at CLN’s Annual General Meeting at the Symposium in September!

Karen Plourde
CLN Board Chair

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CALP Connections: May 2018

A look into how the CLN Board is Working for You!

Six times a year, the CLN Board of Directors meet, either online or face-to-face, to conduct our “business”. Recently, the board met in Edmonton on April 19 and 20.

CLN’s Board members come from across the province; Karen Plourde from the North, Jackie Peterson and Lil Radley from the South, Brenda Adams and Colleen Thiessen from West-Central, Lois Polege from East-Central and Doray Veno and Jana Thomson from Central. Lisa Dickner, Executive Director, joined us for the meeting. Lindsay Manz and Ben Hartt, from Advanced Education also joined us for an afternoon.

As always, these meetings are productive and busy. Karen Plourde, the Chair, keeps the meeting on track as agenda items are covered, questions asked, issues discussed, and decisions made. For example, at this meeting agenda items included:

• CLN’s Human Resource policies were reviewed and updated. With the introduction of new legislation for HR and Employment Standards, it was timely to ensure all our policies were up to date. CLN will post our draft policies as samples that CALPs can reference for their own policy. If you missed it earlier in the year, and have questions about how the new legislation could impact your organization, you can view the recording of a webinar CLN hosted with a representative from Alberta Labour this past January. The recording and the answers to some follow-up questions are available to CALP staff with a Portal login at https://www.calp.ca/?lid=8QBVM-6HAJ3-QUKDU&pkGroup=1&pkGroups[]=1&pkGroups[]=6&comaction=discussion&pkDiscussion=607&q=bill+17&sort=-dtCreated
• We reviewed and approved the CLN’s PD Support Services grant application and budget for Advanced Education for the 2018-19 funding cycle. CLN submitted our application to Advanced Education on May 1st.
• Lindsay Manz and Ben Hartt shared information from Advanced Education, including the recent review of Family Literacy, and the CALP grant focus on foundational learning.
• Lisa Dickner, Executive Director, brought us up to date on many items including regional training needs and trends, Symposium registration and planning, and other CLN activities and initiatives.
• The Alberta Food Bank Conference – This year, CLN will be a community sponsor for this event, and we are proud that our board will be represented at this event. We are looking forward to making connections with service agencies like Alberta’s food banks, that could grow to strengthen local partnerships for CALP programs across the province.
• The Digital Literacy Exchange Program grant application – If successful, CLN and NorQuest College will work together to develop an electronic application or platform that will build digital literacy among adult learners across the province, and potentially across the country. Our proposal is to develop the app, which would be made available to CALP staff and other adult learning practitioners at no cost, as well as to develop and deliver “train-the-trainer” materials and face-to-face training for practitioners so you can get the most out of the app when you work with learners.

These meetings are vibrant, packed with meaningful discussion by passionate talented board members. Each bring their unique community perspectives, united by the common goal of promoting and advancing foundational learning for all adult learners in every region of the province.

I am confident that those in the field will be happy to see the results of our board meetings; this could be additional training opportunities, information on the portal, regional training, and soon, the Symposium.

Lil Radley, Secretary
CLN Board of Directors

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CALP Connections: April 2018

My beliefs, values, and philosophies are strong, real, and community-driven. I am passionate for lifelong learning, building capacity within groups and individuals and community development in rural Alberta.

As Executive Director of the Hanna Learning Centre, I bring an enthusiasm and commitment to my chosen career pathway and adventure. My team leadership style brings an innovative perspective to the successful multi-program organization offering learning, literacy, career and employment, connecting community, small business and voluntary sector services. I play a regional convening role in citizen engagement, organizational development, and community capacity building. For the last 23 years I have had the opportunity and pleasure to work and volunteer in the government, private and not for profit sectors, as a business owner, board director, municipal councilor, employee and community leader.

My tenure on the CLN Board continues to be beneficial in building and expanding my networks professionally and personally. The experiences and knowledge gained have been of added value to our organization and community. The opportunity to share my passion, skill sets and develop new skills are rewarding. I appreciate learning about and understanding the CALP system through a variety of lenses. One of the greatest benefits to serving on the CLN Board is engaging with amazing people, who empower others.

If you are interested in exploring what you could bring to the CLN Board, and what you could gain from serving, be sure to check out the Nomination Package below. We are currently accepting applications and nominations to the CLN Board of Directors for the 2018-19 term.

Doray Veno, Vice Chair
CLN Board of Directors

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CALP Connections: March 2018

Is it spring yet?!! If you are like me, we seem to have been enjoying this winter for a long time, and I’m ready for an infusion of some new life and energy! I love to see the days get longer, and count the weeks until some greenery will appear.

Fortunately, we don’t have to wait for spring weather to find splashes of optimism and joy in our work. There is the sparkle in the eye of a learner who suddenly “gets it”, or one who realizes they’ve achieved that goal that seemed so hard. There is the energizing challenge of a new opportunity popping up. There are the words of support from colleagues, Regional Support Staff and volunteers as we work toward our common goals. There are amazing opportunities to learn and stretch and grow. So as we dive into applications and reports, let’s celebrate why we do this work. How many people get paid to make a difference in someone’s life? I’m glad to be a part of this team that chooses to invest in the lives of individuals and communities.

Lois Polege
CLN Board of Directors

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CALP Connections: February 2018

Brrrrrr, has it been cold outside! Beautiful but chilly.

Had it been warm, it might have been difficult to stay indoors and focus on all of the things that need our attention now that the 2018-19 Grant Application and Reporting materials are on the horizon to be shared by Advanced Education! The CLN team has been hard at work assessing all the implications of the renewed Logic Model. We are thinking about the new Outcomes, Indicators and Measures, and how best we can support you and your colleagues as you start to plan for the year ahead.

In the coming weeks, we’ll be updating the e-Learning workshops on the CALP Portal, as well as updating or modifying documents, templates and videos to align with the new vison and logic model for CALP. We’ll keep you up to date on our progress online and with updates to the field at spring Regional Meetings. We want to make sure you have current resources at your disposal through this time of transition. And remember, you can always call or email your RSS if you have any questions about the latest changes.

We look forward to hearing from you in the coming months, and learning more about how we can best support you on this next leg of your journey!

Lisa Dickner
Executive Director

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CALP Connections: January 2018

New Year… New Beginnings!

Happy 2018 to all! I hope everyone is well rested and spent some quality time with friends, family, and loved ones over the holidays.

While I had my feet up by the fire, I pondered what I would like 2018 to be. January is known to be the month for goal setting, personally and professionally.

Some of the questions I ask myself are:

• What do I want to accomplish by the end of June in my program?
• Do I need some PD to make it happen?
• If so, what type of training do I need, and when would be a good time to take it?
• How will I manage my work/life balance? How will I manage my stress level? 

A personal journal is a great place to record your thoughts and goals. Your professional goals can be added to your profile on the CALP Portal under Training and Events, click on “My Learning Plan and History”. At the end of the granting year, it is a great place to refer back to and record your PD on the Final Report. Please set SMART goals: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Reasonable, and Time Bound.

As long as the needle is moving, we are making progress. Wishing all of you great success in 2018!

Jackie Peterson
Treasurer, CLN Board of Directors

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CALP Connections: December 2017

Winter Wishes from Team CLN

It's hard to believe December is here again! As the calendar year winds down, many people enjoy taking some time to reflect on the year that was, and to look forward to what the year ahead may hold.

2017 was a special year for the Community Learning Network, as we celebrated our 30th Anniversary. Thank you to all those who shared their "Pearls of Wisdom" throughout the year, and to those who joined us to celebrate in person at the Literacy and Learning Symposium. What a cake!

2018 promises to be another year of change and growth within the Community Adult Learning Program. We can't wait to set off on the next leg of this journey with all of you!

Many CALPs will be taking a break through the winter holiday season, and the CLN team will be too. We hope you all have the opportunity to spend some well-earned time resting, relaxing and rejuvenating. We look forward to reconnecting with you all in the New Year!

- Team CLN

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CALP Connections: November 2017

Please note: we sent out this month's newsletter without the link to important information about the Call for Presenters for the 2018 Literacy and Learning Symposium. We are resending the newsletter with the appropriate link.

Greetings from the Chair

By now all of us are deep into our programming…planning, hiring, arranging, booking rooms, statistic gathering and all that is required of us to meet the needs of our communities. Hold on! Christmas break is coming next month.

Do you know that you belong to one of the best organizations in our province? If you don’t know it already, you will as you continue within this organization!

I would like to take this opportunity to welcome to the CLN Board, Colleen Thiessen, the Executive Director of Wetaskiwin Community Learning Program, as she becomes an ambassador for the CALP system we serve.

In this, my last year on the CLN Board, I am looking forward to do my part serving as Chair of this dynamic organization. As in every year on this Board, I am so looking forward to the range of resource-rich expertise, strategically engaged talent and fresh perspective sure to be present at every meeting.

My involvement with the CLN Board has been a conscientious journey with changes brought about by our collaborations, engaging discussions and live presentations, provoking new insights. Consequently, we have evolved into a well-organized, accomplished organization which gives me great pride.

The board environment has been dear to me because I am here with board members committed to making a difference in our province; with this experience, I have grown and deepened my ability to serve.

I look forward as chair of the CLN Board, to continued interaction with inspirational board members who represent achievement in their professional lives, and are willing to share ideas and love of the work. I recognize and honor their work, their lives, and the diversity and friendships cultivated. I look forward to the upcoming discussions, one more year of learning, and what we will accomplish together.

As we prepare to meet the challenges that persist or arise. I am proud that we continue to push for diversity, equity, and inclusion as we seek ways to integrate literacy initiatives into the public experience.

I cherish and hold dear friendships made and look forward to one more year of an awesome experience, working with all of you who are optimistic, bright and fearless!

Karen Plourde, Chair
CLN Board of Directors

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CALP Connections: October 2017

Presenting the 2017 - 2018 CLN Board of Directors

Thank you to everyone who joined us for our 30th Annual General Meeting at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Edmonton on September 27th.

This year, there were no new Board members elected, as the current Board were all eligible to either continue their current term, or stand for a new two-year term. Following the AGM, the CLN Board of Directors met to select the Executive positions on the Board. We are pleased to share with you the CLN Board of Directors for the 2017-18 year.

Back (left to right): Doray Veno, Karen Plourde,
Jana Thomson, Lil Radley

Front (left to right): Jackie Peterson, Brenda Adams, Lois Polege

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CALP Connections: September 2017

Welcome back!

It truly is the most wonderful time of the year! I love the cool fall air, leaves turning brilliant colours and reconnecting with everyone, near and far.

Our team is excited to hit the road to meet with new staff and to catch up with those jumping back in the saddle, so to speak. This fall, like many others, will be filled with opportunities to learn, network, collaborate and celebrate.

Read on to learn more about what we're up to and how you can join us!

Lisa Dickner
Executive Director

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CALP Connections: June 2017

As my time as Chair for the CLN ends I have been thinking a lot about gratitude. I am grateful I woke up this morning. I am grateful for the strong, supportive, dedicated staff at the CLN. I am grateful the roof in my office did not leak during the last rainfall. I am extremely grateful for the incredible group of women who have served on the CLN Board with me. I would like to use this, my final insert to the CLN Newsletter as Chair of the Board, to express my supreme gratitude to these women whom I have had the privilege of calling colleague and friend.

Thank you so much for volunteering to serve on the CLN Board over the years. I know that for all of you, it was an “add on” to the many other things that you do; including your CALP, your family, other volunteer opportunities and your social life. I appreciate that you were willing to serve and I hope you know your time and input was valued.

Thank you for taking calls and responding quickly to emails and helping brainstorm solutions. Thank you for taking the time to govern our organization appropriately.

Thank you for bringing your passion, intellect, insight, experience and resources to the table. Thank you for not allowing things in our organization that you would not have allowed in your own. I appreciate that you used all of your experience, skills, knowledge and education to move our organization forward.

Thank you for your humour and patience.

I have thoroughly enjoyed my time serving as the Chair of this incredible organization and working with each one of you amazing, marvelous, fabulous people. I look forward to continuing to support the work of the CLN, as I move into a different role.

New thinking: Be Bold. Engage Others. Be Inclusive. Collective Voice. Empower. Generate. Enable others. Be the change we want to see. Be Interested. Be Curious. Be Engaged.

Have a wonderful summer!

Brenda Adams,
CLN Board Chair

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CALP Connections: May 2017

Hello Month of May!

After a rather longish and cool’ish start to spring, I am ever so hopeful that this month will bring colourful flowers, fresh air and green grass so we can step outside and enjoy the sights and sounds!  Speaking of getting outside – I have been enjoying our Regional Meetings over the past month and send my thanks to all of you for attending and sharing. We’ve had great participation and engagement so far and look forward to our last two events coming up this week in Big Valley and St. Paul.

This spring also brings back a crowd favourite – year-end evaluation and membership renewal!  While some may not share my enthusiasm for the collection of feedback and information, it is very important for CLN to collect this data and use it to guide our plans for the year to come.  Who needs what, when, where and how?!  We also share system trends and data with the CLN’s Board of Directors, Advanced Education and the Professional Development Advisory Committee (PDAC) to continuously shape the professional development system to meet your needs. 

We need your voice!  As you reflect on the past year, please share your thoughts, learnings and recommendations so we may continue to bring colour and fresh air to our system planning!

Lisa Dickner,
Executive Director

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CALP Connections: April 2017

Happy spring to all of you!

At this time of the year, rejuvenation stirs in us all. For me, enthusiasm for being a CALP coordinator seems to increase with each year that passes. So many possibilities, and not enough time in a year to explore them all!

We are in a new era in terms of our ability to serve with the Portal at our disposal, clarity in the guidelines, and grant managers who work so diligently to improve our system and communicate openly with us. We are better connected now, with the ability to provide a rich environment for inquiry and practice for us all. Incredibly, everything from development to inspiration is provided by each of you, and it is just a click away.

We grow and change throughout the years, but commitment to improving our communities remains the core of our collective effort. This strong backbone of commitment, splendidly demonstrated by all of you, positively impacts, our learners, our communities, our province and in turn, our country.

CALP staff, boards and partners, represent the epitome of inspiration, innovation, and dedication to our learning communities. Each of you are uniquely outstanding. Within the many responsibilities you work tirelessly to fulfill, lies an opportunity for any one of us to shine a bright light on someone we know. With so many pressing duties to be fulfilled, taking the time to recognize others is easily neglected.

Each year, the CLN recognizes people in our system who provide an outstanding contribution. I know that encompasses each of you. Take the time, right now, to nominate an individual or a group who you know deserves this recognition. Click here to review the award guidelines and download the nomination form.

Enjoy the month of April and give thanks to be a part of the most dynamic organization in the province. I am honoured to be among you.

Karen Plourde
Vice-Chair, CLN Board

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CALP Connections: March 2017

March Is Optimism Month

Some of us tend to look at optimistic people as those with their heads ‘in the clouds’ – out of touch with reality. However, optimistic people are not always smiling and chipper – they get mad and angry. Nevertheless, they are not stuck in their emotions and they appear to be better at doing one thing than those with a different attitude or outlook on life; Optimists are better at problem solving – they move quickly from problem-identification to problem solving. They believe that situations will work out, so they spend their time and energy on making these situations work, rather than focusing on their own emotional reactions.

Optimism is not a disposition you are born with. It is a learned skill, and a very important ingredient in determining your level of happiness.

Brenda’s Tips for Celebrating Optimism Month:

• Act like an optimist. Use the word choices and body posture of optimistic people. The words we use can affect our mood. Optimists take big steps, walk faster and stand taller. Do not shuffle your feet, do not take tiny steps or walk slowly and slouch.

• Move swiftly from problem-identification to problem solving. We all get angry and upset, but the challenge is to move past these emotions and start looking for strategies and solutions that will help you to deal with whatever the challenge is.

• Avoid emotional leeches. Minimize your contact with those who look on the negative side of everything, who criticize you, mock, or sabotage your dreams and aspirations.

• Be grateful. Grateful people report lower levels of depression and stress.

Remember:

• Optimists enjoy better health.
• Optimists find more success.
• Optimists feel less stressed during stressful times.
• Optimists tend to have more supportive networks and resources.

“Optimism is essential to achievement and it is also the foundation of courage and true progress.”

-- Nicholas M. Butler

Brenda Adams, Chair
CLN Board of Directors

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CALP Connections: February 2017

Think of February – think of passion, hearts, and love.

Think of anyone involved in literacy – think of passion, hearts, and love. The jobs that we initially liked are now jobs that we love. We are passionate about our work and strive to find ways to help learners achieve their goals.

CALP staff have the biggest hearts, managing to do everything that is involved in their multi-layered positions.

And so are our fantastic Regional Support Staff across the province. Need help? Just call them. They are diggers, finding out what we need to know, supporting us in our work, and being there when needed.

Although the name changes from time to time – currently the Indigenous and Community Connections Branch Advanced Education - what doesn’t change is the enthusiasm and passion of all of the government CALP team.

I see the passion of my fellow CLN Board members and the rest of the CLN team, committed to investing their time and energy for the community adult learning programs across the province.

Passion, big hearts, and love from all involved in this literacy and foundational learning work is positive and impactful; it changes lives! As Roberto Benigni said in the movie “Life is Beautiful”

La vita e bella; la vita e amore.
Life is beautiful; life is love.

Thank you, everyone, for helping make life beautiful for so many learners. Happy February, and a special Valentine’s Day!

Lil Radley, Secretary
CLN Board of Directors

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CALP Connections: January 2017

Happy New Year!

Can you believe it is 2017? It is very difficult to believe that 2016 is now in our past. The last twelve months have been busy and full for everyone, and we hope you all had the opportunity to spend some well-earned time relaxing, enjoying the holiday season and making memories with family and friends. 2017 promises to be another exciting year full of accomplishments and developments within the Community Adult Learning Program.

“In this new year, may you have a deep understanding of your true value and worth, an absolute faith in your unlimited potential, peace of mind in the midst of uncertainty, the confidence to let go when you need to, acceptance to replace your resistance, gratitude to open your heart, the strength to meet your challenges, great love to replace your fear, forgiveness and compassion for those who offend you, clear sight to see your best and true path, hope to dispel obscurity, the conviction to make your dreams come true, meaningful and rewarding synchronicities, dear friends who truly know and love you, a childlike trust in the benevolence of the universe, the humility to remain teachable, the wisdom to fully embrace your life exactly as it is, the understanding that every soul has its own course to follow, the discernment to recognize your own unique inner voice of truth, and the courage to learn to be still.”

- Janet Rebhan

Wishing our Community Adult Learning Community all the best for 2017.

Doray Veno
CLN Treasurer

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CALP Connections: December 2016

Reflections from the Board: Embracing Change

I recently heard a business speaker challenge us on our willingness to adapt to change, because our world is moving so quickly in new directions for technology, culture and expectations. As part of a learning based organization, I was reminded that learning is, by definition, change. We are always looking for new ways of doing things, new information and skills, and new connections.

For me this year, one new opportunity has been joining the CLN Board of Directors. I am enjoying being part of an organization committed to growth, to innovation and to change. What a great journey to be on! It is exciting to see lots of new projects coming up, such as the e-learning modules and new professional development projects. I appreciate so much the great amount of time, skill and resources which are being invested to provide us all with intriguing new ways to build our skills.

The ability to adapt and learn is perhaps the most essential skill. So here’s my challenge to us all – let’s be nimble, let’s be quick, let’s jump over the “candle stick” – whatever it may be. Change - and learning – takes effort, but we have proven that there are great things ahead as we invest in ourselves and our communities.

Looking forward to “changing” in 2017,

Lois Polege
Director, CLN Board
Flagstaff Adult Learning, Killam

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CALP Connections: November 2016

Updates from Team CLN:
Welcome, Farewell and Congratulations!

Many of you may have heard that we have recently gone through some staffing changes, and we are delighted to give you the following updates:

In October, we welcomed Pat Halewich to the CLN Team in the new position of Events Specialist. Pat will continue to oversee the planning and delivery of the annual Literacy and Learning Symposium, as well as support the coordination of increased regional delivery of a variety of training opportunities. She will also play a key role in helping the provincial PD system collect, report on and reflect on the new Outcomes-Based Measurement and Evaluation framework for Professional Development throughout the province.

Here at the provincial office in Edmonton, we are also saying a fond farewell to Mahsa Jalali, who has been with us as our Program Support over the last 18 months. Last year Mahsa earned her license as a realtor, and is leaving us to dedicate herself to her new career in real estate. We have enjoyed her sense of humour and helpfulness, and she will be missed. We wish her all the best in her new adventure.

We will be welcoming a new member to Team CLN later this month to fill the Program Support position. Be sure to check out the December newsletter to meet our new staff member - we can't wait for you to meet her!

And finally, we would be remiss if we did not also update you on the change in Central Alberta. Not to worry, Cheryl is still your trusty Regional Support Staff, but she now has a new last name. Last month, Cheryl got married! Cheryl's phone number and email address remain unchanged, but she has now taken the name Cheryl Lovstrom. If you are in the Central region, be sure to update your contact information for Cheryl.

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CALP Connections: October 2016

Reflecting on Symposium 2016

The Literacy and Learning Symposium 2016 is a wrap! What a fantastic week of new connections, reuniting with our CALP neighbours and our brains being filled with so many interesting tidbits of information. I always return to the office with tons of new ideas and people to call to ask “What was that you said about….?” Thank you to the team at the CLN and the Centre for Family Literacy for hosting and organizing the event of the year for our CALP partners.

My first year on the CLN Board is a wrap as well. I was asked to Chair the Governance Committee back in November. This means I get to work with a great little team in reviewing the CLN policies to ensure they stay relevant and up-to-date. I know, most of you are cringing at the idea of policy review, but I love it!

The team that makes up the CLN Board of Directors is wonderful to work with and Lisa keeps us motivated, engaged and in the loop about all of the wonderful things the CLN is doing throughout our province. Be sure to check out our 2015/16 Annual Report with just some of the highlights of this last year.

Now we are back at our desks ensuring Final Report for 2015/2016 is complete and ready to send to our Grant Managers, making sure our programs are ready to go for the fall and our teams return to their regularly scheduled eating habits!

Great work to all of the CALPs in the field and award winners from the banquet. We have a wonderful network and your work does not go unnoticed.

Jana Thomson
CLN Board of Directors

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CALP Connections: September 2016

September 8th is
International Literacy Day!

This year marks the 50th anniversary of International Literacy Day and UNESCO is celebrating it under the banner:

“Reading the Past, Writing the Future”

International Literacy Day 2016 celebrates and honours the past five decades of national and international engagement, efforts and progress made to increase literacy rates around the world. It also addresses current challenges and looks to innovative solutions to further boost literacy in the future.

- retrieved from http://www.unesco.org/new/en/unesco/events/prizes-and-celebrations/celebrations/international-days/literacy-day/, August 4th, 2016.

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CALP Connections: Summer 2016

Happy Summer from Team CLN!

From the CLN Board and Staff, thank you to all our members and partners for contributing so much to the 2015-16 CALP year!

We hope, whether your program closes over the summer months or not, that you will all have the opportunity for some well-earned rest and relaxation in the weeks ahead.

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CALP Connections: May 2016

Thoughts for Our Friends

On behalf of the CLN Board and Staff, our thoughts and best wishes are with all our friends and colleagues in Fort McMurray and surrounding communities, and others who are currently under threat of wildfire - and all the learners you serve. In difficult times, remember:

Tough times never last, but tough people do.

- Robert H. Schuller

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CALP Connections: April 2016

Spring Greetings from the Board

Spring is here, and the sense of growth and renewal is all around us!

This month, the CLN Board will meet in Edmonton for our annual Board Advance, to reflect on our accomplishments over the past programming year and to plan for the future. As I think about how far we have come as an organization and as a provincial community over the past few years, I am truly inspired and excited for the opportunities that lie ahead.

I’d like to invite you to consider being a part of the next stage of our collective journey.

The CLN Board is currently recruiting Community Adult Learning Program Staff and/or Board Members to join our team. We’re looking for individuals who will bring their passion and their skills to the CLN Board, and help advance our vision, where “Community Adult Learning Programs are the hub for adult learning in every community.” If you are interested in learning more, please see the CLN Board Recruitment package on the CALP Portal (member login required) or email board@calp.ca. Note that extensive time and travel are not required, as we hold the majority of our meetings online.

I’d also like to share an opportunity to recognize and acknowledge the accomplishments of your colleagues and peers. As part of our commitment to adult learning, each year the CLN Board presents the Outstanding Contribution to Community Adult Learning Award. Please see below for all the details on how to nominate someone outstanding in your community or program.

On behalf of the CLN Board,

Happy Spring!

Brenda Adams, Chair

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CALP Connections: March 2016

Meet the CLN Board: Lil Radley

When I started in Read On, the adult literacy program at Lethbridge Public Library, I knew that this was the job for me! Working in adult literacy is all about learning, helping others to learn, and engaging with people. It continues to be so. Dr. Seuss said it all, “The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more you learn, the more places you’ll go.”

I’m now on another learning journey going to new places as a member of the CLN board. Joining the CLN board last fall has provided me with new experiences, opportunities to meet new people, and to keep learning. If I can help you, please let me know!

Lil Radley, Director
CLN Board

Lil is the Literacy Services Coordinator at the Lethbridge Public Library.

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CALP Connections: February 2016

Welcome to February!

How wonderful is it that Family Day and Valentine's Day will fall on the same weekend this year? I hope all of our CALP community is able to spend the long weekend with their loved ones and take advantage of the beautiful weather.

I joined the CLN Board of Directors in October 2015. I have experience on several non-profit boards and every single one is different. My first months with the CLN Board have been very educational. I am currently chairing the Governance Committee, and I am enjoying the learning opportunities associated with being on the committee, and on the Board overall.

Jana Thomson, Director
CLN Board

Jana Thomson is the Program Coordinator at the Rocky Learning Centre in Rocky Mountain House.

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CALP Connections: January 2016

Welcome back! Can you believe it is 2016? We hope you all had the opportunity to spend some well-earned time relaxing, enjoying the holiday season and making memories with family and friends. 2016 promises to be another year full of change and development within the Community Adult Learning Program.

"I hope that in this year to come, you make mistakes. Because if you are making mistakes, then you are making new things, trying new things, learning, living, pushing yourself, changing yourself, changing your world. You're doing things you've never done before, and more importantly, you're Doing Something." - Neil Gaiman

Wishing our CALP Community all the best for 2016.

Doray Veno, Treasurer
CLN Board of Directors

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CALP Connections: December 2015

"Creating Learning Partners" Now Available Online, Winter Wishes from Team CLN, Portal User Snapshot Survey

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CALP Connections: November 2015

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CALP Connections Special Edition: Portal Launch