Blog: Mark's Notebook

One of the best parts of being a teacher was that you never knew what question was coming next. Kids will say or ask the darndest things.

Before one of our school hiking trips to the Walker Living Campus, at the Woodend Conservation Area, we were getting psyched up to head out onto the trails when a student raised a hand.

"Mr. Gunning... do we have to wear boots? Can't we just wear shoes?"

Now, if you've ever walked a muddy trail after a good rain, you already know the answer.

"Boots," I replied....

Today feels a bit like the first day of school, minus the lost lunchboxes and awkward gym shorts. I’m excited (and only mildly nervous) to officially welcome you to my brand-new website! It’s been rebuilt from the ground up to be cleaner, easier to use, and much friendlier on phones—because let’s face it, most of us are scrolling while waiting for something else to finish.
But this launch isn’t just about a new look.
This website marks the start of a new chapter for me as an author. Along with...