Nipissing to celebrate a century of teacher education

Nipissing University
News Release

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Celebrations to mark a century of teacher education in North Bay launch at Nipissing University on Tuesday, January 27, at 10:30 a.m.

To kick off the year of celebrations, the university has transformed the Vittorio Fedeli Business Centre (F210) to resemble a 1909 classroom, complete with wooden desks, chalkboard slates and discipline-conscious headmaster and schoolmarm (so leave your bubble-gum at home).

Events in the time-travelling Fedeli room include a dramatic re-enactment of a 1909 class, a video presentation documenting the history of teacher education in North Bay, guest speakers and a cake-cutting.

A century ago, in 1909, the North Bay Normal School opened its doors for the first time, launching a legacy of teacher education in this city, in existence today as Nipissing’s renowned faculty of education.

“The Normal School, the Teachers’ College and the Faculty of Education have all had an indelible impact on this region. They have touched the lives of literally millions of individuals around the world,” said professor Jack Jones, lead organizer of the centennial celebrations. “We are going to rekindle a lot of memories and create new ones as we celebrate the 100th anniversary of teacher education in North Bay. It all begins with the launch.”

Other events for the week include: A Teachers Meet `n Greet at Nipissing’s downtown location (100 Main Street East) on January 28 from 7:30 -9:30 p.m., and a Teaching Research Open House at Nipissing University on January 29 from 6:30 -9:30 p.m.

The week’s festivities culminate on January 31, with the Celebrating a Century Dinner. The dinner features guest speaker Dr. David Booth, recipient of the Dr. Elizabeth Thorn Chair in Literacy, and the launch of a new book, Walking the Talk, putting theory into practice, by Nipissing professors Dr. Warnie and Dr. Carole Richardson. It takes place at the Wall beginning at 5:30 p.m. Tickets cost $40. Call 705-474-3450 ext 4014, or email [email protected] to reserve your tickets.

Booth is the recipient of several awards in Canada and the United States for his classroom teaching, contributions to language and literacy, the arts in education, and his picture books for young people. He received an honorary Doctor of Education from Nipissing University in 2008.

More events will follow throughout the year to celebrate a century of teacher education in North Bay.

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