5 minute read
Learning Without Limits
FOSTERING GLOBAL AWARENESS IN & OUTSIDE THE CLASSROOM
BY DEANNA RADFORD , WRITER
Since stepping into the role of head of school in 2005, Chris Shannon, Pre-U ’76 has led by example to further LCC’s mission of fostering globally-minded learners and leaders. He has embraced opportunities and challenges at home and internationally, showing a deep commitment to nurturing a culture of continuous learning among students, staff, and faculty.
Reflecting on Chris’s tenure, Mark Salkeld, deputy head, as well as longtime colleagues Michele Owen, director of student learning and engagement, and Gillian Shadley, school counsellor/coordinator of outreach programs, highlight the importance of global mindedness in education. They discuss Chris’s philosophy on learning and leadership in an international context and the collaborative approach they have shared in advancing Chris’s vision.
“Chris opened the school to a more global view of everything,” Gillian says. “He insisted the school take advantage of opportunities to partner and get involved with whatever global opportunities were available. He came with ideas, as did faculty, and we developed projects in these areas. He made it a priority to ensure that there were no financial barriers so it was accessible to all. He said, ’We should do this. Our students need to get beyond these walls.”
Michele adds, “From the outset, Chris engaged with classes by reading, discussing books, and fostering conversations on global mindedness. He encouraged projects and supported teachers in integrating these themes into their lessons, while also placing a strong emphasis on understanding Canadian history. As a history teacher himself, he highlighted connections between historical events, Indigenous rights, and Indigenous history, ensuring these topics were explored in Junior School and throughout the LCC educational journey.”
Mark underscores that empathy has always been a key element: “To be Montreal’s leading global school, which was Chris’s vision, our students must understand the world beyond our walls—its diversity, perspectives, and cultures. The more we prepare them in their formative years, the better equipped they will be to participate and thrive in an interconnected society.”
LCC’s approach to nurturing the development of global citizens has continued to evolve. Student exchanges, international conferences, and a variety of initiatives for staff as well as students across all grade levels have become the cornerstone of the school’s commitment to fostering a globally aware community.
For example, September 2018 marked a milestone for LCC, when it hosted the prestigious Round Square International Conference. In a once-in-a-generation opportunity, the school welcomed nearly 400 delegates from 60 schools across 20+ countries, all united around the theme of “Bring Your Difference”. Students collaborated, shared ideas, and participated in workshops and discussions on topics related to global citizenship. “Chris ensured every faculty member had a role, fostering a real sense of pride,” Gillian says. “Parents also played a vital part, hosting students from around the world. It was an unforgettable experience.”
The robust student exchange program, which offers students a unique experience to attend school abroad while living with a host family, is also a testament to Chris’s international focus. “Chris was adamant that every student should be able to seize this opportunity regardless of their academic standing,” Gillian says. “What is important is that they are good model representatives of LCC.”
The Duke of Edinburgh Awards program, designed to help young people develop essential life skills and challenge themselves, is another program introduced at LCC during Chris’s headship that cultivates a broader world view among students. “We emphasize purposeful travel, ensuring each experience has inquiry and engagement,” Gillian says.
Finally, the Certificate of Sustainable Global Leadership, an LCC-created initiative, recognizes students who have prioritized environmental and global learning throughout their Senior School careers. “They take part in United Nations sustainability courses, and we meet biweekly to explore global citizenship, school development, and their ideas,” Mark says. “We discuss the environment, immigration, freedom of speech, and media bias, encouraging students to think critically about the world. These conversations have been incredibly enriching over the years.”
The impact of Chris Shannon’s leadership and his collaboration with faculty, staff, partners, and community are woven into every conversation, experience, and perspective gained along the way. Both Mark and Michele confirm that this impact can unfold over time. “Students have told us that our programs have influenced their university and career paths,” Mark says.
The testimonials of Mark, Michele, and Gillian highlight Chris’s unwavering commitment to the professional growth of his colleagues which, in turn, significantly enhances the learning experiences of the students. Throughout his impressive tenure, he has nurtured new partnerships while strengthening existing ones, ensuring lasting connections within the LCC community. With a strong foundation in place, LCC is poised for continued expansion in global education opportunities and programs, empowering future generations of students to succeed in an interdependent international landscape.
