Rundle Academy October 2016
A Message from our Principal It is the first day of the 2016-2017 school year at Rundle Academy. A family, new to the school, walks their nervous child down the sidewalk towards the entrance of the building. Upon entering through the doors, the child is immediately greeted by a current student at the school who exclaims, “I remember you from your tour last year, I was your ambassador!”. Following, the student’s anxious feelings begin to fade as they have been inducted into the Rundle Academy Community and have had their first real sense of what to expect at their new school.
Mr. Van der Meer
“Take care of each other” was the message I delivered to students during their assemblies in September. Kindness was stressed as it has been the foundation of what makes Rundle Academy such an amazing place to be. One thing all students who attend Rundle Academy share is an experience where they have struggled in school. This common thread ties us together and helps each student embrace opportunities to be kinder than necessary. The notion of kindness brings to mind a parable that I have found to be insightful and powerful in its message. While I am unsure of its origin, I found an interpretation online that reads as follows: A wise woman who was traveling in the mountains found a precious stone in a stream. The next day she met another traveler who was hungry, and the wise woman opened her bag to share her food. The hungry traveler saw the precious stone and asked the woman to give it to him. She did so without hesitation. The traveler left rejoicing in his good fortune. He knew the stone was worth enough to give him security for a lifetime. But, a few days later, he came back to return the stone to the wise woman. "I've been thinking," he said. "I know how valuable this stone is, but I give it back in the hope that you can give me something even more precious. Give me what you have within you that enabled you to give me this stone.” In essence, the parable is trying to impart the notion that kindness holds great value and leaves a great impact in its wake. Thinking about Rundle Academy, it is the daily interactions among students, reflective of the aforementioned story, that exemplify their capacity to embody and embrace kindness. I continue to be inspired by how infectious the results can be.
#WEARERUNDLE
A Message from Mr. Burla Parenting, Educating, & GRIT This summer my daughter, Daisy, who had just turned 6, began sailing lessons. The club she took them at was right on the ocean and much of the learning happens right outside the marina in the open water.
Mr. Burla
She was anxious, to say the least, but day one went well enough. Day two, however, threw her for a loop. This second day at camp, their first day in the sailboats, the students were instructed to do the “tip test”. This test has the kids in their boats and purposely tipping them over, falling in, and while in the water, levering their boats so they are back upright. Hearing this second-hand once she came home, I could not help but be proud that she was able to accomplish this. It sounded like a monstrous achievement that I am quite sure I would have much difficulty doing myself. Her story revealed that she had to do the test three times before she was able to do it, and once she got it up, and she climbed back in, she apparently got knocked off it and had to climb in again. Knowing nothing about sailing and hearing that a 6 year old did this was impressive. Of course, I ended up explaining to her about grit and trying new things. It sometimes is hard to separate the teacher from the parent. Our students in these past few weeks surely could relate to my daughter’s experience as they took on various challenges at Rundle Academy. Starting the year in a different grade, a different division, or different school, maybe. At orientation camp, being asked to step out of their comfort zones, maybe taking on a sports team or club never tried before, or a host of other opportunities available. The Orientation camps set students up well for “trying new things” and working with each other for the remainder of the year. Thank you parents for the support you provide, thank you teachers for guidance and opportunities you provide, and thank you students for challenging yourself in and out of the class, but always for the betterment of your learning.
#WEARERUNDLE
Elementary Orientation Elementary Orientation Camp at Camp Kindle On September 14th and 15th the students and teachers of Rundle Academy Elementary attended their annual orientation camp at Camp Kindle.
Ms. Kapitza
Over the course of the two days they were at Camp Kindle, the students participated in wall climbing, shelter building, an initiative task course and archery. In addition to the group activities the students and teachers also enjoyed some large group field games and stories and singing by the campfire. All students enjoyed these activities and raved about their time at camp. New friendships were made, old friendships were made stronger. We couldn’t have asked for better weather for this year’s orientation camp. The students and teachers thrived from their time at orientation camp and look forward to more adventures that may come.
#WEARERUNDLE
Grade 7/8 Orientation Camp
Mr. Paz
On only the second day of school this year, the Rundle Academy grade 7’s and 8’s headed out for their annual Orientation camp to Camp Chief Hector. Nearly 55 students and staff went out to enjoy all the wonderful things Kananaskis Country has to offer. Our students tackled the high ropes course, went hiking, horseback riding and canoeing over the three day, two-night adventure. We also managed to reflect on our CORE values, stay active and make some new friendships! Thank you to everyone for an incredible experience!
Ms. Whiting
Ms. Schaffner
Ms. Vesey
Ms. Teh
Ms. Goepen-Wee
Mr. Wolf
#WEARERUNDLE
Grade 9 Orientation Camp
Ms. Adams
The grade nine group had another memorable Orientation Camp experience this year from September 7th to the 9th. The early September camp didn't provide warmer weather but the students were well planned and prepared nonetheless. Students were bused to the incredible world class Kananaskis Country, at scenic Paddy’s Flats along the Elbow River. The grade nine group set up tents and camping areas in good time and were able to grab a snack and hang out along the scenic bluffs nearby the group camp. After discussing layers and hike preparation, students then set out down the valley and traveled the infamous “Diamond T Loop”, an intermediate 4.5 km hike. The students set a blistering pace of 10.21 minutes per km according to our team Strava app. Camp continued with group meals consisting of appetizers and a main course, followed by a dessert. Our evening consisted of a campfire and students presenting Rundle Academy's CORE values and leadership themes, followed by a few marshmallow smores! After a cool night, students woke up to a warm cook shelter and started on their group breakfasts, camp pack up, and clean up. After some group games and some downtime, the nines were heading home, a little wiser and looking forward to the school year. Thank you to parents for the extra support and to Alberta Parks for a great year.
Ms. Scott
Mr. Mellor
Mr. Anderson
#WEARERUNDLE
Grade 10 Orientation Camp   The Grade 10 Pine Grove Orientation Camp
Mr. Lawson
Mr. Lawson
The Grade 10’s had a very successful camp this year. Students hiked into Pine Grove Campground via the Jumping Pound Hiking loop which is located in the Sibbald Flats area of KCountry. Upon arrival the students set up their tents and then engaged in a series of team building activities. After cooking their own meals, the students engaged in a serious conversation about how high school would be different than junior high. Students also set goals for themselves as we sat around the campfire later that evening. Congratulations to the students for making this hike a smashing success. A big thank you to the teachers who organized and supervised.
Mr. Morrow
Ms. Weddel
Ms. Slipp
Ms. Prest
#WEARERUNDLE
 
Mr. Vesey
Grade 11 Canoe Trip The grade 11 orientation camp was a widely successful this year! We set out on the river leaving at Fish Creek Park with all of our gear. The students planned their own meals in groups, and paddled in partners. It was a long day of paddling to get to the area where we set up camp, and the rain and wind were fierce, but the grade 11s pushed through, and before we knew it, we had a fire set up, tents were up, and the clouds cleared. We had a lovely evening around the campfire where the group talked about things that they looked forward to for the year, as well as their reservations. The students had their fill of backcountry cinnamon cake before hitting the sack. On Friday on our way to Carseland, the weather was beautiful, which made for another great day on the river.
Ms. Speidel
Ms. Thomson
Ms. Rushton
#WEARERUNDLE
 
Grade 12 Orientation Grade 12 Camp This year the Grade 12 students attended Circle Square Ranch, in Halkirk Alberta. The students went horseback riding, traversed a low-ropes and a high-ropes course, competed in archery, frisbee golf and some other cooperative games. We closed our evenings with campfire discussions and all of the grade 12’s were honest and reflective in our conversations about the year ahead and what their future may hold. This is an incredible group of grade 12 students and these three days set the tone for the year ahead.
Mr. Waterbury
Ms. Jordan
Ms. Phillips
#WEARERUNDLE
Volunteer Day   Volunteer Day
Ms. Whiting
On September 30th the students and staff of Rundle Academy participated in our 6th annual Volunteer Day. This year we could be seen helping out at Aspen Retirement Lodge, Colonel Belcher Retirement Lodge, Sandwich for a Story, The Mustard Seed, C.U.P.S., The Salvation Army, Goodwill, Weaselhead, Silver Springs Birthplace Forest, and Altadore Baptist Church. With a crisp sunny day on our side, staff and students were able to contribute more than 600 hours of volunteer service in and around our community - an amazing accomplishment we should all be proud of. A huge thank you goes out to our Rundle Academy community for making this day a great success.
#WEARERUNDLE
Kids Helping Kids   Our Kids Helping Kids group has had an enthusiastic start up to the year. We have plenty of members, old and new, who are excited to get to work and spread kindness in and around our community. It was great to start the year off with Volunteer Day - there were Rundle Rockies all over Calgary lending a hand wherever it was needed.
Ms. Kapitza
This year we have continued making weekly sandwiches for Sandwich for a Story, and we are very excited to continue this partnership with two Rundle College Alumni. Sam and Evan took us out on volunteer day, and some veteran Kids Helping Kids members were able to hit the streets of downtown and hand out sandwiches. It was great to see what our sandwich-making efforts have been going towards! On October 12th, a group of students went Brown Bagging. These students helped make brown bag lunches for thousands of school children in Calgary who otherwise wouldn’t have a lunch. Missing class to Brown Bag is hardly a break though - the students need to make sure they follow all of the hygiene rules (of which there are many!) to keep all the kids healthy. Thanks for all your hard work, Kids Helping Kids!
Ms. Speidel
Ms. Staniloff
#WEARERUNDLE
Team Sports Option   Team Sports Option- Fall 2016 In the first semester students from the team sport option have been enjoying and learning the nuances of team sport and strategy. We have applied these skills to flag football, ultimate Frisbee and volleyball so far. This option is a fun, active and high energy class, with a focus on improving stamina, endurance and increased skill. Mr. Paz
Mr. Anderson
#WEARERUNDLE
Student Services Understanding the School Counsellor-Parent Connection All students are able to learn; however, a student who is troubled cannot learn as easily. Divorce, substance abuse, relationship issues, anxiety, violence, disordered eating, depression, and suicidal thoughts are among the social stressors placing numerous students at-risk of educational failure. Early intervention is crucial, and parents play a fundamental role.
Ms. Staniloff
As a parent, your past experiences with a school counsellor may be vastly different than what your child has access to. Today, school counsellors are certified, specially trained mental health professionals who focus on prevention and wellness through a counselling program that meets the needs of all students, not just a few. The counselling program addresses three areas: academic, career and personal/social. School counsellors advocate, mediate, coordinate, consult and, collaborate with teachers, administrators and parents to help students succeed. Professional school counsellors also help children to understand themselves. But just what do school counsellors do? Today’s school counsellors: · Develop a guidance plan based on a campus needs assessment · Counsel students individually and/or in groups · Provide systematic and developmental classroom guidance to all students · Respond to student needs in crisis situations · Orient students to new school settings · Work with absentees, potential dropouts and other at-risk students · Refer students to special programs and/or services when necessary · Analyze test results to provide information about abilities, achievements, interests and needs · Help with individual school, college, and career plans; coordinate school-to-work initiatives and connections with post-secondary institutions · Coordinate efforts with other school specialists · Conduct conferences with parents and facilitate parent discussion groups · Coordinate staff support activities · Adhere to ethical and legal standards · Pursue continuous professional growth and development · Conduct an annual evaluation of the guidance program All of these activities and duties can make a real difference in students’ lives, improving their selfunderstanding and self-confidence, motivation, decision-making, goal-setting, planning and problem solving, interpersonal relationships, communication skills, respect for others and more. Parents contact a school counsellor to help their children with a variety of issues, such as: academic achievement, orientation and transition, test interpretation, special needs, student crisis situations, family transitions, and higher education issues. By focusing on parents’ concerns and respecting why these concerns matter to you, school counsellors offer options, including better ways to communicate with your child. Both parents and counsellors share information, an important part of establishing a helping relationship. Studies have shown that children have greater academic achievement when their parents are involved in their education. Students’ motivation, positive attitudes about self, and sense of control over their environment improve with parental involvement in the schools. You, the parent, are the most important resource for the school counsellor and others. Your involvement is critical in helping your child to be successful! Please feel free to contact me at 403-250-2965 (Ext. 103) or staniloff@rundle.ab.ca if you have questions or concerns regarding your child’s education or wellness.
Grade 7 Social Studies “Making Treaty 7” Field Trip
Mr. Palmer
Mr. Palmer’s social studies 7 class had the opportunity to attend this year’s performance of Making Treaty 7. Making Treaty 7 is a major theatrical work that explores the historical significance and contemporary relevance of Treaty 7 signed in 1877 between Queen Victoria and the First Nations of Southern Alberta. This powerful performance interprets the true spirit and intent of the Treaty and investigates its consequences and implications for life in Canada today. Our students were among 2,000 other Calgary students from the CBE, CSSD and First Nation schools of southern Alberta. Our class is now preparing a presentation that will be shared with other Academy social studies students during our unit on “Canadian Western Expansion and the development of National Policies in post confederation Canada”. Topics such as mass immigration and the effects on Francophone and Native peoples, the numbered treaties, the Indian Act, Indian residential schools, and the role of the North West Mounted Police will be shared through a student created presentation.
#WEARERUNDLE
Grade 9 River Watch Grade 9 RiverWatch
Ms. Adams
This year’s class really lucked out with the fabulous weather experienced during this dynamic field trip. This allowed the students to soak up the sun and the hands-on environmental chemistry and river biology lesson from the experienced staff at RiverWatch. The focus of the RiverWatch trip is to determine the environmental health of a river by comparing conditions above and below a wastewater treatment plant. Students power the rafts and collect all the scientific data. Citizen science programs like RiverWatch help focus attention on the personal impact that we all have on Alberta’s water. Students will certainly have the opportunity to draw on this experience and use their new learning to answer many of the thought provoking topics of our current unit “Amazing Environmental Chemistry Race” that the grade 9 class is now working through. A big thank you goes out to the RiverWatch staff and corporate sponsors that makes this program accessible and available to Calgary schools.
Mr. Palmer
Ms. Schaffner
#WEARERUNDLE
Immigration Guest Speaker Guest Speaker from Immigration Services Calgary Grade 6 Rebeca Andrada from Immigration Services Calgary came to speak to our grade 6 classes during social studies to discuss the process of becoming a Canadian citizen. The students were enthralled with her personal story of immigrating from Argentina. Students learned the important distinction between the terms ‘immigrant’ and ‘refugee’, and were even able to take a practice citizenship test to see how they would do if they weren’t given citizenship by birth. Mr. Locking
Skill testing questions: What province has its own time zone? Which province provides the most hydroelectric power? What does the motto ‘A Mari Usque Ad Mare’ mean?
Ms. Thompson
Ms. Falkenberg
#WEARERUNDLE
Boston Tea Party Skype The Boston Tea Party and American Nationalism
Mr. Lawson
The Social Studies 20-1 and 20-2 class were treated to a fantastic skype session from Boston, Massachusetts. This energetic, interactive, live role playing performance had the students acting the part of certain key characters in the events leading up to the Boston Tea Party. The story was told from the ”Patriot” standpoint, but did well to teach the students both sides of the events and actions that lead up to this defining moment in history. The students enjoyed learning about these events from the perspective of an American who is obviously passionate about the history and nationalism of the United States of America. Although shy at first, many of the students rose to the occasion to make it a worthwhile endeavour. Special thanks to Mrs. Thomson for arranging the Skype session and to the Technological Services team for being on hand to make sure everything ran smoothly during the performance. Huzzah!!!
Ms. Thomson
#WEARERUNDLE
Jr. Boys Volleyball The 6/7/8 Boys Volleyball Team jumped right into a busy season with the Junior High Volleyball Classic at Clearwater Academy and Master’s Academy. It was a terrific experience for the boys with many of them being on the court for the first time. Though they came away without a win, they had fun and learned a lot for the upcoming season. Throughout the start of the season, in practices and games, all of the players have shown perseverance, hard work and positive attitude. Come out and support our young guns, as they continue to show off the skills throughout the season! Go Rockies! Mr. Carr
The 8/9’s started the year with a bang making the playoffs at our first tournament. During every game and set the boys have shown improvement. At practices, we continue to focus on positioning and communicating. Great start to the season, boys! Keep up your hard work!
Mr. Anderson
#WEARERUNDLE
Jr. Girls Volleyball The Junior High girls’ volleyball season is off to a fantastic start. We have many amazing veteran players, as well as a few new faces. This season, the Grade 6/7 girls will be competing in a development league and the Grade 8/9’s in a competitive league, gaining much court time experience. There will be a number of home games throughout the season, so we hope that you can find time to come out and watch our very talented group of athletes. We’ve even had our first tournaments of the year where the girls have shown they can be competitive and they will be a force to be reckoned with. Ms. Falkenburg
Mr. Maitland
Your 2016 JH Girls Volleyball Roster includes: Soleil H. Sarah H. Ellie W. Isabella C. Isabella L. Mary M. Locklyn W. Tess S. Amanda P. Chloe S.
Chloe B. Shea C. Elizabeth H. Trinity H. Braelyn R. Ellie M. Kate H. Jaeda H. Sasha T. Kaitey B. Jordan L. Gabrielle S.
Mr. Burla
#WEARERUNDLE
Rundle Academy Golf Club   Driving, chipping and putting were just a few of the skills built upon this year as part of the Rundle Academy Golf Club. Students headed up to Country Hills Golf Course twice per week in the months of September and October, having the opportunity to utilize first rate practice facilities. Students were also lucky to have the opportunity to take the tips shared by Lauren Brescacin, teaching professional at the course, and transform them into action on the course. All in all it was another successful year in golf and, as the cold October winds prevail, we pack in our clubs for the season dreaming of greener fairways. Mr. Van Der Meer
Mr. Mellor
Ms. Switzer
Ms. Kapitza
#WEARERUNDLE
Cross Country  
Mr. Wolf
The 2016 junior high cross country team has exemplified the elements of what it means to be a team. Despite races where individual runners push themselves to their own personal limits, the format of the cross country league requires a true team effort to succeed beyond personal goals. With only four races to compete in, and only the top 10 runners from each category earning points, every point from our bantam, midget and juvenile runners was crucial to our team total. Our team got off to a very strong start with Tom Stephen winning the juvenile boys race and getting 10 points for our squad, despite it being the first race prior to any practices and coming back from Orientation Camp the previous week. Throughout our practices after school and early mornings, the runners pushed each other to continually improve. As a team, we resolved to push ourselves to our limits and not worry about where we placed in the races. However, the results soon began to follow. In our next three races, we had 5 different runners placing in the top 10 spots, including Tom, who won each of his four races by a large margin! Several runners also continued to improve their personal bests and finished in very respectable positions. After the final race, Rundle Academy finished with the most points, resulting in our first ever banner for the 1J division! The coaches would like to thank all of the runners on this year’s cross country team for their commitment, enthusiasm, teamwork and grit. Congratulations on a very successful season!
Ms. Vesey
Ms. Whiting
#WEARERUNDLE
Football  
Mr. Wolf
The football team started the year off playing some serious competition. Division 1 Ernest Manning was our first game and it was a tough one. The team battled hard against a big school with a big football program. We then went on to beat Highwood 28-9 in our first league game. We lost playing Bishop Grandin in an exhibition game, 20-12. Friday Night Lights had #6 Provincially ranked Rundle against #5 ranked Sylvan Lake. It was a back and forth battle all night. The fans were great, the team played well and it ended in a 28-28 tie, showing just how evenly matched these two provincially ranked teams are. The football team lost their next two contests against bigger schools from Okotoks and Medicine Hat. They will finish their regular season schedule on Friday, October 14th vs Foothills Composite. Please congratulate Carter, Jonathan, Kemarr, Bram, and Brice on a great season thus far.
Ms. Briggs
#WEARERUNDLE
Sr. Boys Volleyball   We have had a very exciting start to the Sr. Boys Volleyball season. After two tournaments and three league games, we have made an appearance in two consolation finals and are 2nd place in our league. The interest in volleyball this year has been tremendous, with eight grade 10s (Emil, Miles, Jared FE, Sam T, Ben T, Isaac, Kai, and Andrew), seven grade 11s (Ben K, Sam G, Oliver, Ian, Jackson G, Adam, and Phoenix), and four grade 12s (Nick, Quintin, Dominic, and Alex) coming out to play. We have two more out of town tournaments and 10 more league games in our push towards a banner. Wish us luck with the rest of our season! Mr. Waterbury
#WEARERUNDLE
Sr. Girls Volleyball  
Ms. Speidel
Ms. Thomson
The Senior Girls Volleyball team has already seen major improvements since the beginning of our season. All the girls had a chance to play at the annual Clearwater Tournament, and we headed out to High River for an overnight trip recently. The Rockies had a great time both on and off the court, and played an amazing game against some challenging small-town teams, and were able to have some amazing rallies. Now that our league play has started, so far we are undefeated and continue to fine-tune our play to improve every game. We are looking forward to playing in the annual Dig Pink tournament at Calgary Academy on Friday, October 21st and Saturday, October 22nd. This tournament is a fundraiser for breast cancer research and it’s a wonderful and sentimental tournament to play in. Stay tuned for other home games as well! Go Rockies! Lara S. Laura Z. Sneh Y. Georgia B. Aia D. Aneisha G. Rowan C. Kendall C. Elisabeth N. Emma B. Nicole S. Taya C.
#WEARERUNDLE
Peer Support   Peer Support This year, our Senior High students began Peer Support in hopes to further develop a sense of pride and community within Rundle Academy. Our students bring forth many unique ideas that will surely make a strong and positive impact on the students. They are looking forward to sharing their knowledge during Anti-Bullying week in November and have many activities for students during that week! Ms. Staniloff
#WEARERUNDLE
Student Council Elections  
Ms. Slipp
Students engaged fervently in the democratic process during the week of September 26th to 30th as they elected the 2016-2017 Rundle Academy Student Council executive. A shift in the organization of our student council has allowed us to adopt the prefect system, which puts us in line with Rundle College Junior / Senior High. Candidates who ran in the election should be proud of their speeches which reflected a strong sense of community, creativity and school spirit. Following the election, our student council retreat took place at the Keg on October 4th, giving our executive the chance to get to know one another and to begin to work towards some impressive goals. This year's student council executive is: Isabella C.- Junior Concession Prefect Soleil H. - Junior Concession Prefect Ethan N. - Elementary Communication Prefect Charlotte W. - Junior Communication Prefect Amy H. - Senior Communication Prefect
Ms. Adams
Murray S. - Elementary Financial Prefect Liam P.- Junior Financial Prefect Sarah R. - Senior Financial Prefect Grade 7 Prefect - Tyler C. Emma B. - Spirit Prefect (Grizzlies) Rowan C. - Spirit Prefect (Mountain Lions) Ben T. - Spirit Prefect (Rams)
Ms. Whiting
Rohan P. - Elementary Head Prefect Carson E. - Junior Head Prefect Sneh Y. - Senior Head Prefect Sepp K. - Senior Head Prefect
Ms. Thompson
#WEARERUNDLE


Ted-Ed Club Rundle Academy TED-Ed Club On September 19th, 30 Students ranging in age from Grade 5 to Grade 10 came out for the third round of the Rundle Academy TED-Ed Club. This number is remarkable, as two years ago we started out with only 7 students. The TED-Ed Club program is part of the TED organization, whose mandate is to amplify the ideas of students. During our weekly TED-Ed Club meetings, students work together to discuss and celebrate creative ideas. While many of our students will spend the next 6 months crafting TED-like talks and developing their Ms. Goepen-Wee presentation skills, we also have a significant portion of our club who have taken on roles as photographers, bloggers, vloggers, and animators. At this point, we have met and started to explore our own interests, passions and hobbies. As well, TED-Ed Club students have been asked the question: what problems would you like to help solve in the world? Our hope is that our students begin to explore some of the issues facing our global community and begin to extend their thinking beyond their own lives and experiences. If there are students who are interested in joining, there is still room! Please see Mrs. Goepen-Wee, Mr. Morrow, Ms. Teh or Ms. Petropoulos. We can’t wait to hear your Rundle Academy’s “Ideas Worth Sharing”! In the meantime, feel free to check out the TED-Ed Clubs official YouTube Channel featuring student talks from TED-Ed Clubs from around the world. Prepare to be amazed by the ideas Mr. Morrow of our youth!
Ms. Teh
Ms. Petropoulos
#WEARERUNDLE
 
If you are interested in attending this free and captivating event, please fill out the form at:
bit.do/tedwomen Please note that that this form enables attendees to register themselves and ALL of their guests in a few easy steps and at one time. However, you could just have each member of your family or circle of friends who wish to attend fill out the form at their leisure as well. We have room for 100 attendees and would love to see you there!
Further information about the speakers and the program can be found at
https://tedwomen2016.ted.com/program
TEDxRundleAcademy Hello Rundle Academy Families and TEDx Affectionadoes! Welcome to another year of exciting TEDxRundleAcademy events. Last year, we were extremely proud of our TED-Ed Club students and speakers who made TEDxRundleAcademy Energies so exciting. Did you know that Sam Sawchuk’s talk Let me Hear Your Story: Putting a Face on Homelessness has garnered 139, 476 views on the official TEDx YouTube channel? Two other talks that we feel deserve as much attention are Rob Fiorentino’s, “Let’s Make the System Better” and Dennis Kambeitz’s, “The Future is Here”. If you have a moment could you Ms. Goepen-Wee view and/or share them? They have messages worth spreading. This year, we will not be hosting our own TEDxRundleAcademy event, but we will be livestreaming a number of TED and TEDx events that we feel will be of interest to our students, families and community. First up this year will be the livestream of the official TEDWomen conference. TEDxRundleAcademy will be able to livestream 1 or 2 sessions from this amazing conference. This year, TEDWomen explores the theme “It’s About Time” in an event that brings together women and men to take a hard look at what it means to be female and involved in building one’s community in 2016. Some of the featured speakers include all of the founding figures in the #BlackLivesMatter movement, Jack Myers, Nancy Pelosi, and Ashley Judd. This event is open to any student from Grade 9-12 (although mature grade 7-8 students are more than welcome), parents, and interested community members. It is also worth noting that TEDxRundleAcademyWomen is not just for women and girls! This conference is open to anyone who is interested in social justice. Furthermore, attendees are encouraged to bring a guest (s). Further information about the speakers can be found here and further information about the program can be found at https://tedwomen2016.ted.com/program. Karen Goepen-Wee Curator, TEDxRundleAcademy
#WEARERUNDLE
Elementary/JH Awards Chaz G. (grade 4) Starting at a new school can be a challenging, somewhat scary endeavour and going on an overnight trip away from parents even more daunting. Chaz modelled to others what being a Rundle Academy student is all about. He was calm, kind, respectful of his peers and teachers, and did all of this with a signature sense of humour and a great smile that was appreciated and noticed by all.
Emerson P. (grade 5) During Orientation Camp Emerson demonstrated fantastic citizenship. He was polite and respectful towards his peers as well as the Camp leaders and teachers. He was encouraging of other students in his group during activities and showed perseverance on the climbing wall even when he wasn't successful at first.
Ethan N. (grade 6) Throughout our time at Orientation Camp, Ethan proved himself to be a student with impeccable character. He was always kind to his friends, encouraging of those he did not quite know yet, and inclusive of everyone. These traits came naturally to Ethan as he demonstrated them even when he thought he was not being observed or overheard. From shouting words of support to the students on the climbing wall to the smile he seemingly always had on his face, Ethan truly has the qualities of a great citizen. Sasha T. (Grade 7) Sasha’s seamless transition into the Junior High was indicative of the time spent at Orientation Camp. Her natural ability to lead, coupled with her care and concern for her peers helped ensure all campers had an amazing time out at Camp Chief Hector. Sasha is truly deserving of this award and there is no doubt that she will continue to set the path of positivity for all students to follow.
Aaron C. (grade 8) Aaron’s time at camp can best be described as a mission to make everyone's experience the best it could be. Through his time at Orientation Camp he was extremely helpful to peers and welcoming to the new students. Aaron demonstrated a true understanding of the purpose of camp which is to ensure all students begin the year on a positive note and begin to create a community of learners.
Jaxon D. (grade 9) At grade 9 camp Jaxon was a quiet leader. He was always willing to lend a hand and was regularly heard asking if there was anything he could do to benefit the group. Jaxon was a great group-mate taking ownership over his group's successful meal prep and campsite. He was enthusiastic on the hike enjoying being out in nature, even with the potential of a big storm looming.
#WEARERUNDLE
GRIT Awards Augusta T. (grade 4) Augusta is one of the toughest young students to attend the Academy. When faced with challenges, she always is able to persevere and give 110%. During the recent elementary trip to Camp Kindle, she constantly took risks without hesitation, and participated in every activity with positivity and a giant smile on her face. On the climbing wall, she was a “rock” star, and pushed herself to reach near the top. Not only is Augusta’s persistence apparent in the great outdoors, but it is also clear when she is at school. She is always eager to share her ideas in class, and pushes herself to do her best. Augusta is a terrific leader, and very deserving of the Grit award.
Asha M. (grade 7) While Asha is new to our school, she has impressed all who have come to know her with her tenacity, willingness to keep on trying, and her ability to step out of her comfort zone even though doing so is sometimes really, really hard.Asha’s “grittiness” might exist due to her understanding of what it means to struggle through challenges. However, her optimism, wisdom and insight into the human condition have enabled her to persevere through challenges. She will be the first to admit that challenges don’t always go away and it is this insight that makes Asha such a worthy recipient of the Grit Award.
Sepp K. (grade 12) Sepp truly impressed all staff and students at camp this year. This 'man of mystery' was cooperative, helpful, and engaged in all of the camp activities, even volunteering to help out testing the quality of camp structures without being prompted. Perhaps most impressive was his honesty and openness during campfire conversations. Sepp is an essential member of the graduating class of 2016 - remember to fulfill your goal and stay true to who you are.
#WEARERUNDLE
High School Awards   Grade 10 Citizenship Jonathan E. The grade 10 camping trip to Pine Grove in Kananaskis Country provided students with lots of leadership opportunities. Jon quickly rose to these challenges. During team building activities he displayed a gentle and effective leadership style, helping his fellow students solve problems without ever being too assertive. Jon was also quick to lead by example, his diligence in helping with cleanup following each meal was commendable and continued to demonstrate his strong citizenship.
Grade 11 Citizenship Jack C. Jack is recognized for the Citizenship Award because of his leadership during the Grade 11 Orientation Camp. Jack was an essential member of his team during the trip - offering help to students and staff when loading and unloading the gear, supporting students who did not feel comfortable on the water as he did as well as providing positive commentary to all he passed while traveling down river. Most important was Jack’s honesty and openness around the campfire - he was an excellent model for peers.
Grade 12 Citizenship Dominic P. At grade 12 camp, Dominic continued to represent himself as a true citizen of Rundle Academy. His willingness to help others, excitement and enthusiasm for each activity and inclusive nature were an embodiment of the leadership he brings to the school. Dominic used camp to start his year off strong, and continues to set a fantastic example for what it means to be a successful grade 12 student at Rundle Academy.
#WEARERUNDLE
Thank you to all who have donated to our fundraising initiative! The auction site is now open. Please follow the link below and create an account. Once that is done, you can bid as often as you would like. The opportunity is also there for you to "Buy it now", and win the item without having to be involved in the auction part of the process. In the end, we will contact all winning bidders, and the items can then be picked up at Rundle Academy. https://www.32auctions.com/Rockies2017 (Feel free to pass this link on to family and friends) *Please note that there are some items that are for events in the coming weeks, and must be bid on and collected in a timely fashion* Lastly, we will still be accepting donations that you are willing to add to this auction until the last week of October. Any and all donations are welcomed, and very much appreciated.
 
3VOEMF "DBEFNZ 1FSGPSNJOH "SUT presents
December 6-9 2016 Fine Arts Centre Doors at 6:30 Show at 7:00 For tickets, go to bit.ly/academytix