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Greg MacCollum
Teacher at Edmonton Public Schools
Professional Background
Greg MacCollum is an accomplished educator and skilled linguist, known for his extensive experience in teaching and educational leadership. He has dedicated his career to fostering a love for learning in students through both traditional and innovative pedagogical approaches. Currently, Greg serves as a Social Studies, International Baccalaureate (IB) History, and Theory of Knowledge teacher at Lillian Osborne High School, part of the esteemed Edmonton Public Schools. He is deeply committed to enhancing the educational experience for his students, emphasizing critical thinking, intercultural understanding, and academic excellence.
With a rich history of teaching positions, Greg has made a profound impact in various educational environments. He previously held notable roles at J. Percy Page High School, where he served as a Teacher-Librarian, IB Coordinator, and Social Studies Teacher. His comprehensive understanding of curriculum development and pedagogical strategies has been instrumental in guiding students through the complexities of their academic journey. Prior to that, Greg shared his expertise in social studies and foreign language instruction at ME LaZerte High School, where he taught students French and Spanish as a second language, along with IB History.
Greg also boasts international teaching experience as he worked as an Assistant Language Teacher with the Towada City School Board in Aomori Prefecture, Japan. This role allowed him to immerse himself in Japanese culture and education, enhancing his teaching skills while also enabling him to teach English as a second language. His journey in education is marked by a commitment to embracing diverse perspectives and fostering an inclusive classroom environment that respects and celebrates cultural differences.
Education and Achievements
Greg MacCollum’s educational background is robust and commendable. He studied for his Bachelor of Education and Bachelor of Arts at the University of Alberta, where he laid the groundwork for his dual passion in education and the arts. His studies equipped him with the necessary skills to become an effective communicator, an inspiring educator, and a strong advocate for student success. Greg's academic training has enabled him to develop comprehensive curricula that cater to a range of learning styles, thereby ensuring that all students have the opportunity to excel.
In addition to his formal education, Greg is a fluent speaker of several languages, including French and Spanish, and has conversational proficiency in Japanese and German. This multilingual ability enhances his teaching practice, allowing him to connect with students from diverse linguistic backgrounds and instilling in them the importance of language and cultural appreciation.
Notable Contributions
Throughout his teaching career, Greg MacCollum has made significant contributions to the field of education. His role as an IB Coordinator at J. Percy Page High School marked a high point in his career, where he was responsible for overseeing the International Baccalaureate program, which is renowned for its rigorous assessment standards and its emphasis on critical thinking and cultural awareness. His leadership within this program has helped shape the young minds of future leaders and global citizens.
Moreover, Greg's work as a Teacher-Librarian allowed him to promote literacy and research skills among students. He understands the pivotal role of libraries in schools as centers for learning and exploration, and thus he has been dedicated to creating engaging programs that inspire students to read and reflect critically. His efforts in nurturing a love for reading and research have resulted in enhanced student performance and a richer educational environment.
Personal Philosophy and Impact
Greg believes that educators play a critical role in shaping the future of our society. His philosophy centers around the idea that teaching is not merely about imparting knowledge, but about inspiring students to question, explore, and develop their own perspectives. He emphasizes the importance of creating a dynamic and interactive learning environment where every student feels valued, respected, and encouraged to share their opinions.
In summary, Greg MacCollum is a passionate educator who has dedicated his career to enhancing the academic experience of students in diverse educational settings. His extensive language skills, varied teaching experiences, and commitment to fostering a culture of learning not only highlight his proficiency as an educator but also his dedication to nurturing well-rounded global citizens. As an integral member of the Edmonton Public Schools community, Greg continues to inspire and influence the lives of many students, preparing them for success in their future endeavors.