Wednesday, January 29, 2020
I would like to share a memory of Bob McConnell and comment on his ability as Coordinator of Modern Languages.
I was at a French workshop two months into my first teaching position when I met Bob McConnell. The workshop focused on the efficacy of music, song and movement in language acquisition and on the importance of planning meaningful, impactful activities. The workshop was well attended. Some teachers were novices and many did not know each other, a situation which caused some tension amongst the teachers. However, this would soon change. The presenter, after having highlighted the learning benefits of experiential activities, spontaneously got a hold of Bob’s hand and motioned him to join her in a song and dance demonstration. Taken by surprise, he hesitated but then allowed the presenter to lead him in the flurry of steps and fun that followed. By the end of the performance Bob was beet red, likely from exhaustion! A good sport, we all agreed! This incident broke the ice and endeared him to all present. It is one of many memorable workshops coordinated by Bob. These workshops did not only guide us in delivering effective language programs but they also made us feel less isolated in schools where we would often be the only French teachers. Additionally, they filled a need to be in the company of other educators who shared a love of languages.
Bob McConnell was a class act. He acknowledged the efforts of teachers and he supported us in every possible way. For example, I had been out of paper for a number of days and my school was not able to help. Bob overheard me relating my predicament to a colleague at a workshop and the following day a month’s supply of paper arrived at my school. My colleagues have similar recounts exemplifying his consideration, empathy and speed in solving problems. He was a most capable advocate; he raised the profile of French in schools and within the Board. His talents and skills, of which he had many, earned him the respect and admiration of educators who were privileged enough to know him. Upon his retirement from the TDSB French lost its pizazz, the energy and glamour that his Persona had injected into it and the teachers lost their tenacious advocate and outstanding leader.
I can still see Bob McConnell in my mind’s eye at that workshop so many years ago dancing...dancing a French Canadian, traditional dance to an upbeat rhythm... a happy image and one that I will always remember.
My condolences to his family.
M. Antonelli
