In this conversation, Brendan Browne, the Director of Education at the Toronto Catholic District School Board, shares insights from his extensive career in education. He discusses his upbringing, the impact of technology on childhood, and the importance of philosophy in education. Brendan emphasizes the significance of creating inspiring classrooms where students feel loved and safe, the role of trust in leadership, and the challenges of managing large school districts. He also highlights innovative initiatives in special education and his vision for the future of education, focusing on critical thinking and independence.
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Timestamps:
[00:00:00] Sponsor Message – Education Perfect
[00:00:27] Opening Reflection: The Power of Ideals in Education
[00:01:11] Introduction to Dr. Brendan Browne
[00:03:31] Kite Metaphor – Freedom and Structure
[00:03:54] Starting the Conversation
[00:04:25] Current Role at Toronto Catholic DSB
[00:06:20] Career Path: From Burlington to Director of Education
[00:08:18] Childhood and Family Influences
[00:10:24] Growing Up Without Devices – Being Present
[00:12:20] Philosophy, Ideals, and Meliorism
[00:16:17] Academic Background – Literature, Sociology, Philosophy
[00:18:21] The Case for Philosophy in High Schools
[00:22:14] What Makes a Great Classroom? Love and Safety
[00:25:50] Conditions for Scaling Loving Classrooms
[00:27:00] Parents and Partnership with Schools
[00:29:09] Challenges of Leading Large Districts
[00:32:16] Leadership Lessons: Trust and Teamwork
[00:36:09] Story: Trusting a Teacher in Charge
[00:40:56] Building Effective Senior Leadership Teams
[00:43:22] Special Education & Independence Rubric Initiative
[00:49:19] Changing the Narrative: Support vs. Independence
[00:53:26] Kite Metaphor Revisited – Structure and Freedom
[00:55:22] Education 50 Years in the Future
[00:58:36] Magic Wand: Inspiring Staff Daily
[01:00:29] Media Recommendation: In Rainbows by Radiohead
[01:03:01] Closing & Acknowledgements