Scribbly Gum

What do you suppose goes on in the Gum Nut classroom? Shall I take a guess at the meaning of Acacia, Banksia, Casuarina and Dryandra...constellations? shampoos?. So long as one puts the word gum at the end of a phrase in Australia it seems to instantly ooze authenticity. Can I go to a restaurant and order cherry gum pie and will I be asked to pay with penny gums?

These are the big questions as I head to my new school. Please be patient with me Canberra.

Principal Jack "Gum" Rice

Hello World

You know...

A man knows when he has shovelled his last scoop of snow. For me it happened last April, with my car stuck in the middle of the road only meters from my house and me digging out from the remnants of yet another Canadian spring time snow shower. The die was cast and my plan came to fruition this fall when I accepted the Principal's position at the Canberra Montessori School.

I have been ordered to report to Australia on January 1, 2010 (or thereabouts) and once I arrive I intend to watch the weather reports from Barrie, Ontario with particular giddiness.

My new school in Canberra presents a great opportunity, and despite my hatred of all things white, fluffy and cold - I will remain a staunch Canadian while nevertheless embracing my new home.

I hope this blog contains a little bit of Canada, a lot about Australia and enough about my experience as the Head of the Canberra Montessori School.

For those that are interested - enjoy the journey.



Jack