Our Philosophy
We all want to feel CONNECTED.
Let’s face it, people today are inundated with information. Our technological tools afford us a near-constant connectivity we find incredibly difficult to unplug from.
What was once private spaces are now public forums. Sometimes we feel utterly exposed, yet alone. At times, we find ourselves reacting to social media or situations in ways that compromise our relationships and reputations. And there’s no escaping it! Kids are being bullied at home; employees are expected to be available 24/7. …more
The Latest
Self. Other. Community. What an Event!
I'm so very grateful for the people who attended my event: Self. Other. Community. on July 24th! Everyone was open and vulnerable and that' something to celebrate. We shared some truths, stepped outside our comfort zones, and immersed ourselves in learning about one...
Testimonials
It’s not about you…but then again (SEL workshop for educators)
“Fantastic! Motivational! Inspiring! Eye Opening!”
Rabbi Lichtman
4-week Bullying Buster
“Jodi made a real effort to get to know our school community, and throughout our time together, it was evident that she cared about the students. She provided us with high-energy, interactive sessions and helped students build a repertoire of strategies to use in social situations. She was flexible in adjusting her activities to meet our students’ needs.”
Colette Foran, Principal, Immaculate Conception School, Vancouver
It’s not about you…but then again (SEL workshop for educators)
“Really powerful ways to encourage self-reflection and growth. I loved how you reframed ideas in new and innovative ways to promote developing into our best selves and teachers.”
Eliana
The Rules of !mprovisation are the Rules of life
“I was so afraid to do this workshop but I’m glad I did. It’s important that I learned how to go with the flow more and to listen to my colleagues without too much attachment to my own agenda. Super powerful!”
F. Blakely, Vancouver teacher
Bullying for Educators Define. Resolve. Prevent
“Good, important information to share. And, very interesting!”
Mary K., Columbia College
It’s not about you…but then again (SEL workshop for educators)
“Jodi helps you focus on the value of education as a tool to help every student maximize their potential. This truth, although universally accepted, is rarely discussed and implemented in schools – which is a huge disservice to our children. Fantastic!”
Devorah
It’s not about you…but then again (SEL workshop for educators)
“This workshop was useful is many ways: a time to reflect on my teaching practices; an opportunity to examine ways to help students deal with anxiety and their emotions through meditation and mindfulness; and a chance to reflect on how to be a happier, more positive person and find ways to help my students in these areas too!”
D. Lawrence, Vancouver
Mindfulness Workshop
“A meaningful and powerful workshop that could positively transform our educational system if its teachings were to be implemented on a regular basis.”
J. Sullivan, VSB
Negotiation for Women
“Jodi really demystified a lot of the mystique around negotiating at her workshop. So many women are uncomfortable and unsure about making demands at the beginning of a relationship. In addition to the validation, Jodi also offered alternative ways of phrasing and approaching situations that are effective and still true to who we are.”
Jade, Vancouver
The Rules of !mprovisation are the Rules of life
“Jodi led us through one exercise after another and before I knew it I was telling a story, in front of others, and having a blast! I didn’t know I was that creative!”
M. Mclallan, North Vancouver
4-week Bullying Buster
“Best professional development course I’ve attended in years! Jodi has great energy and is able to connect with her audience 100%.”
Jo, VSB
Negotiation for Women
“Thank you for the encouragement, wisdom and practical advice.”
Sophia, Vancouver
It’s not about you…but then again (SEL workshop for educators)
“Jodi talks to you in a meaningful, relatable, and humorous way. She uses her own life and vulnerabilities to help us look at ourselves. Her practical examples can be used immediately in the classroom or in our other relationships.”
Lisa Altow
Mindfulness Workshop
“Empowering. Awareness on the development of your soul. A start to a better life. Jodi has opened up my eyes.”
Fuzzyb, VSB
It’s not about you…but then again (SEL workshop for educators)
“Jodi is a captivating and dynamic presenter! Her workshop was a refreshing change from other workshops. It was fun, engaging and reflective, and covered important aspects of self care, and connecting with student and our school community. I’m left rejuvenated and refreshed!”
Denise @Killarney, Vancouver
From Our Blog
Mindfulness and Lessons during Covid19
If you need help with mindfulness, home schooling, teaching, and self-care then read this post and visit the Imperative Education YouTube Channel for support! I’m here for you during this Covid19 crisis. Jodi Derkson, founder, Imperative Education
Pink Shirt Day beyond just wearing pink
A portion of the classroom lesson for you to use:
Your friends start calling you names, sending you nasty text messages and forcing you to give them things or do things that you aren’t comfortable with. You feel so torn. What should you do?
1. Nothing. You must have done something wrong to make your friends act like that.
2. Start calling them names in return and threaten them.
3. Speak to your parents or teacher and tell them what is happening.
4. Something else (Open corner).
On February 26,2020 try this lesson to broach the important topic of how we handle conflict and power imbalances both in school and in our communities.
Teaching is so Lonely!
Last week I gave a workshop on Mindful Self-Care and started by asking the following question: Isn't teaching so lonely? Heads nodded! I sensed the relief flooding the room - this is going to get real! Nobody ever talks about how lonely teaching is. In fact, when I...