Youth culture expert scheduled to speak

Max Valiquette, Canada's foremost expert on youth culture and marketing, will be a featured speaker during the Simcoe County District School Board's upcoming professional development session for teachers and school administrators.

Valiquette is the founder and president of Youthography, Canada's leading youth marketing consultancy.

"We are very excited to provide our teachers with the opportunity to hear Valiquette's wisdom and insight about youth interests and culture," said Anita Townsend, principal of curriculum from Kindergarten to Grade 12. "Connecting with students and understanding their viewpoints, interests, and ways of looking at the world are key components to developing positive learning environments."

Elementary school teachers will receive a professional development day Feb. 1. Secondary teachers receive two days of development, which will take place on Jan. 31 and Feb. 1.

Valiquette will speak on Feb. 1 at the auditorium in Barrie Central Collegiate. After the presentation, staff will return to their regular schools. Secondary school staff will be focusing on activities to support their school improvement plans and professional learning programs.

Elementary school staff will be participating in activities such as school self assessment as they work towards implementing the Ministry of Education's school effectiveness framework.