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Dr. Van Zoost is a professor at Acadia University (Wolfville, Nova Scotia) in the School of Education with an expertise in classroom assessment. He has 30 years of teaching experience in the Nova Scotia public school system while simultaneously working as a part-time professor in the Education Department at Mount Saint Vincent University (Halifax, Nova Scotia). He has also been a curriculum writer for the Nova Scotia Department of Education (Halifax, Nova Scotia), a senior author for McGraw Hill Ryerson (Whitby, Ontario), and an educational consultant, writer, and speaker. He has travelled to seventy-six countries and has conducted teacher training in India, Guyana, Belize, Jamaica, and Barbados, as well as offered curriculum development support in the United Arab Emirates and Mongolia. Steven is frequently a keynote speaker at education conferences.
Steven is the recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal for his dedicated service to Canada, the Prime Minister’s Award for Excellence in Teaching, the Governor General’s Gold Medal for his graduate research, the Lieutenant Governor’s Teaching Award to represent the teaching profession in Nova Scotia, the Canadian Teachers Federation Roy C. Hill award for his innovative teaching practices, and five Golden Leaf Awards from the Canadian Educational Press Association for his professional writing. His PhD was awarded from the University of South Australia for researching student identities in classroom assessment practices. Dr. Van Zoost has been granted heraldic emblems by the Chief Herald of Canada: Link to the Public Register of Arms, Flags, and Badges of Canada.
Far from home, Steven’s singing has echoed in places such as the Acton Tunichil Muknal caves of Belize, the cistern of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, the Baptistery of Pisa, the fjords of northern Norway, and the inlets of Ha Long Bay in Vietnam. In New York, Steven has been a tenor soloist in Carnegie Hall. In Nova Scotia, he has sung with the Halifax Camarata Singers, Nova Voce, and the Symphony Nova Scotia Chorus. At home, he creates a musical journal of vocal, piano, and saxophone recordings.
Countries Visited: Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Barbados, Belgium, Belize, Bolivia, Botswana, Brazil, British Virgin Islands, Cambodia, Canada, Cayman Islands, China, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cuba, Cyprus, Czechoslovakia, Denmark, Egypt, England, Estonia, Fiji, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Guyana, Hong Kong, India, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Jordan, Korea, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Mexico, Monaco, Mongolia, Montenegro, Namibia, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Oman, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Poland, Puerto Rico, Qatar, Russia, Saint Lucia, Saint Maartan, Serbia, Scotland, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United States (including Alaska, Guam, Hawaii, and the Virgin Islands),Vatican, Vietnam, Wales, Yugoslavia, Zimbabwe
This page contains information about Steven's education, awards, teaching experience, publications, presentations, leadership, media appearances, and more.
Steven is the recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal for his dedicated service to Canada, the Prime Minister’s Award for Excellence in Teaching, the Governor General’s Gold Medal for his graduate research, the Lieutenant Governor’s Teaching Award to represent the teaching profession in Nova Scotia, the Canadian Teachers Federation Roy C. Hill award for his innovative teaching practices, and five Golden Leaf Awards from the Canadian Educational Press Association for his professional writing. His PhD was awarded from the University of South Australia for researching student identities in classroom assessment practices. Dr. Van Zoost has been granted heraldic emblems by the Chief Herald of Canada: Link to the Public Register of Arms, Flags, and Badges of Canada.
Far from home, Steven’s singing has echoed in places such as the Acton Tunichil Muknal caves of Belize, the cistern of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, the Baptistery of Pisa, the fjords of northern Norway, and the inlets of Ha Long Bay in Vietnam. In New York, Steven has been a tenor soloist in Carnegie Hall. In Nova Scotia, he has sung with the Halifax Camarata Singers, Nova Voce, and the Symphony Nova Scotia Chorus. At home, he creates a musical journal of vocal, piano, and saxophone recordings.
Countries Visited: Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Barbados, Belgium, Belize, Bolivia, Botswana, Brazil, British Virgin Islands, Cambodia, Canada, Cayman Islands, China, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cuba, Cyprus, Czechoslovakia, Denmark, Egypt, England, Estonia, Fiji, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Guyana, Hong Kong, India, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Jordan, Korea, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Mexico, Monaco, Mongolia, Montenegro, Namibia, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Oman, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Poland, Puerto Rico, Qatar, Russia, Saint Lucia, Saint Maartan, Serbia, Scotland, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United States (including Alaska, Guam, Hawaii, and the Virgin Islands),Vatican, Vietnam, Wales, Yugoslavia, Zimbabwe
This page contains information about Steven's education, awards, teaching experience, publications, presentations, leadership, media appearances, and more.
Academic and Professional Credentials
Degrees Granted
Doctorate in Philosophy, Education, University of South Australia, 2008
Concentrations: classroom assessment, student identity, equity, pedagogies, practitioner research
Thesis: Mark me: Student identities in authentic assessment practices
Thesis Advisor: Phil Cormack, PhD
Master of Education, Curriculum, Acadia University, 1999
Concentrations: curriculum, middle schools, adolescents, school transition, qualitative research
Thesis: This is Me in Grade Nine: Transition from a Middle School to a High School
Thesis Advisor: Heather Hemming, PhD
Bachelor of Education, Mount Allison University, 1994
Concentration: Methods area in English
Bachelor of Arts, Mount Allison University, 1993
Concentration: English
Bachelor of Commerce, Mount Allison University, 1992
Concentration: Accounting
Study Abroad Program, Université Canadienne en France, 1990-91
Concentration: Arts and Humanities courses concerning The Enlightenment Period
Graduate with Honours with Distinction, Amherst Regional High School, 1988
Professional Certificates Granted
Certificate in Critial Incident Stress Management, School of Social Work, Dalhousie University, 2007
International Baccalaureate North America Certificate, 2005
Concentration: Level 1 Training, Theory of Knowledge, International Baccalaureate Diploma Program
Leadership Certification, Nova Scotia Teachers Union, 2000-2002
Certificate Level: Level I in 200, Level II in 2001, and Level III in 2002
Teacher’s Certificate, Province of Nova Scotia, Department of Education, 1994
Certificate Level: Level 5 in 1994, Level 6 in 1998, and Level 8 in 2008
Teacher’s Certificate, Province of New Brunswick, Department of Education, 1994
Concentrations: Major in English and Commerce, Minor in French
Academic Honours and Awards
Graduate Awards
Educational Research Award, Nova Scotia Teachers Union, 2009
Awarded for the research Mark Me: Student Identities in Authentic Assessment Practices
The award recognizes the contributions of teacher research to public education
Governor General’s Gold Medal, Acadia University, 1999
Awarded for the research This is Me in Grade Nine: Transition from a Middle School to a High School
The medal is offered to an outstanding graduate student who has achieved the highest level of academic achievement in both their course work and thesis research. It was the first Governor General’s Gold Medal awarded to a student in the Education Department at Acadia University.
Undergraduate Awards
Dean’s Honour List, Mount Allison University, 1988-89, 1992-93, 1993-94
Awarded for with excellent academic performance
Undergraduate Scholarship, Mount Allison University, 1989-90, 1993-94
Awarded for an outstanding academic record
Allisonian Award, Mount Allison University, 1992-93
Awarded for outstanding contribution to university life
Marjorie Young Bell Entrance Scholarship, Mount Allison University, 1988-89
Awarded for outstanding academic ability and contribution to the general life of the university
Employment History
University Employment
Assistant Professor, School of Education, Acadia University, 2024-present
Undergraduate course topics: assessment for teaching and learning
Part-time Faculty, Faculty of Education, Mount Saint Vincent University, 1998-present
Graduate course topics: assessment literacy, creative pedagogies and practices, research literacy
Part-time Faculty, Faculty of Education, St. Francis Xavier University, 2010
Graduate course topics: assessment for learning, classroom assessment, assessment literacy
Full-time Loan of Service, Faculty of Education, Mount Saint Vincent University, 2004-2005
Undergraduate course topics: classroom assessment, educational measurement and evaluation
Part-time Faculty, Faculty of Professional Studies, Education Department, Acadia University, 2000
Graduate course topics: middle level education, adolescents
Public School Employment
Teacher, Nova Scotia Virtual School, Nova Scotia Department of Education, 2013-2024
Assessment Lead, Nova Scotia Virtual School, Nova Scotia Department of Education, 2019-2020
Marker, Correspondence Study Program, Nova Scotia Department of Education, 2018-2019
Teacher, Avon View High School, Annapolis Valley Regional Centre for Education, 2003-2024
Lead Teacher for the English Department, Avon View High School, Windsor, Nova Scotia, 2003-2010
Teacher, Windsor Regional High School, Annapolis Valley Regional School Board, 2001-2003
Teacher, Windsor Regional Middle School, Annapolis Valley Regional School Board, 1994-2001
Secondary courses taught: Advanced English 12, Advanced English 11, Academic English 11, English Communications 11, Law 12, Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies for Talented and Gifted Students 11/12, Vocal Music 11, Film and Video Productions 12, Seminar (International Baccalaureate), Theory of Knowledge (International Baccalaureate), Coordinator for Creativity, Action, and Service (International Baccalaureate), English Language Arts 8, Social Studies 8, Core French 7, Core French 8, Personal Development and Relationships 7, Personal Development and Relationships 8, Related Studies 7, Related Studies 8
Teaching and Advising of Students
Graduate Courses Designed and Taught
Mount Saint Vincent University
2024 S2 GLIT 6757 160 - ST: Literacy and Assessment 1
2024 S2 GLIT 6756 062 - ST: Literacy and Assessment 1
2024 S1 GLIT 6756 060 - ST: Pedagogies and Practices
2024 S1 GLIT 6756 061 - ST: Pedagogies and Practices
2024 W GLIT 6756 060 – ST: Literacy and Assessment II, taught online
2023 FA GLIT 6756 061 – ST: Literacy and Assessment II, taught online
2023 FA GEDU 6170 176 Seminar: Focus on Research Literacy, taught in St. John’s, NL
2023 S2 GLIT 6756 060 – Literacy and Assessment 1, taught online
2023 S2 GLIT 6756 061 – Literacy and Assessment 1, taught online
2023 S1 GLIT 6757 023 – Pedagogies and Practices, taught online
2022 FA GEDU 6170 174 – Seminar: Focus on Research Literacy, taught in St. John’s, NL
2022 FA GLIT 6756 023 – ST: Literacy and Assessment 2, taught online
2022 S2 GLIT 6757 023 – ST: Literacy and Assessment 1, taught online
2021 FA GEDU 6170 175 – Seminar: Focus on Research Literacy, taught online for St. John’s, NL
2021 FA GLIT 6756 164 - Literacy, Numeracy, and Assessment, taught online for CornerBrook, NL
2021 FA GLIT 6756 165 - Literacy, Numeracy, and Assessment, taught online for CornerBrook, NL
2021 S2 GLIT 6756 177 -ST: Literacy and Assessment 1, taught online for Gander, NL
2021 S2 GLIT 6757 161– ST: Literacy and Assessment 1, taught online for Charlottetown, PE
2021 S2 GLIT 6757 162– ST: Literacy and Assessment 1, taught online for Charlottetown, PE
2020 FA GEDU 6170 176 – Seminar: Focus on Research Literacy, taught online for St. John’s, NL
2020 S2 GLIT 6756 166 -ST: Literacy and Assessment 1, taught online for Gander, NL
2020 S2 GLIT 6757 160 – ST: Literacy and Assessment 2, taught online for Charlottetown, PE
2019 FA GEDU 6170 174 – Seminar: Focus on Research Literacy, taught in St. John’s, NL
2019 FA GLIT 6756 164 - Literacy, Numeracy, and Assessment, taught in CornerBrook, NL
2019 S2 GLIT 6756 166 - Creative Pedagogies and Practices, taught in Gander, NL
2019 S2 GLIT 6757 160 - Literacy and Assessment I, taught in Charlottetown, PE
2019 S1 GLIT 6756 170 - Literacy, Numeracy, and Assessment, taught in Mississauga, ON
2019 S1 GLIT 6756 01 – Literacy and Formative Assessment, taught on campus
2018 GEDU 6170 175 - Seminar: Focus on Research Literary, taught in St. John’s, NL
2018 GLIT 6757 166 - Literacy and Assessment II, taught in Gander, NL
2018 GLIT 6756 166 - Literacy and Assessment I, taught in Gander, NL
2018 GLIT 6757 160 - Literacy and Assessment II, taught in Charlottetown, PE
2018 GLIT 6756 172 - Literacy, Numeracy, and Assessment, taught in Mississauga, ON
2017 GEDU 6170 174 - Seminar: Focus on Research Literary, taught in St. John’s, NL
2017 GLIT 6756 165 - Literacy, Numeracy, and Assessment, taught in Corner Brook, NL
2017 GLIT 6757 160 - Literacy and Assessment I, taught in Charlottetown, PE
2017 GLIT 6756 166 - Literacy and Assessment II, taught in Gander, NL
2017 GLIT 6756 172 - Literacy, Numeracy, and Assessment, taught in Mississauga, ON
2016 GEDU 6170 174 - Seminar: Focus on Research Literary, taught in St. John’s, NL
2016 GLIT 6757 160 - Literacy and Assessment II, taught in Charlottetown, PE
2016 GLIT 6757 166 - Literacy and Assessment I, taught in Gander, NL
2016 GLIT 6756 175 - Creative Pedagogies and Practices, taught in St. John’s, NL
2016 GLIT 6756 174 - Creative Pedagogies and Practices, taught in St. John’s, NL
2015 GLIT 6756 165 - Literacy, Numeracy, and Assessment, taught in Corner Brook, NL
2015 GLIT 6757 160 - Literacy and Assessment I, taught in Charlottetown, PE
2015 GLIT 6757 166 - Literacy and Assessment II taught in Gander, NL
2015 GLIT 6756 263 - Literacy and Assessment I, taught in Sydney, NS
2015 GLIT 6756 169 - Literacy, Numeracy, and Assessment, taught in Mississauga, ON
2015 GLIT 6757 263 - Special Topics in Literacy Education, taught in Sydney, NS
2014 GLIT 6757 160 - Literacy & Assessment II, taught in Charlottetown, PE
2014 GLIT 6757 166 - Literacy & Assessment I, taught in Gander, NL
2014 GLIT 6756 169 - Literacy, Numeracy, and Assessment, taught in Mississauga, ON
2013 GLIT 6757 160 - Literacy & Assessment I, taught in Charlottetown, PE
2013 GLIT 6757 166 - Literacy & Assessment II, taught in Gander, NL
2013 GLIT 6756 060 - Literacy & Assessment I, taught in Sydney, NS
2013 GLIT 6756 171 - Literacy, Numeracy, and Assessment, taught in Mississauga, ON
2012 GLIT 6756 166 - Literacy & Assessment I, taught in Gander, NL
2012 GLIT 6756 163 - Literacy & Assessment I, taught in Summerside, PE
2012 GLIT 6757 161 - Literacy & Assessment I, taught in Charlottetown, PE
2012 GLIT 6756 170 - Literacy, Numeracy and Assessment, taught in Mississauga, ON
2011 GLIT 6756 67 - Literacy and Inquiry, taught in Mississauga, ON
2011 GLIT 6756 63 - Literacy & Assessment I, taught in Sydney, NS
2011 GLIT 6757 62 - Literacy & Assessment II, taught in Gander, NL
2011 GLIT 6756 67 - Literacy and Assessment, taught in Mississauga, ON
2011 GLIT 6756 62 - Assessment Literacy, taught in St. John's, NL
2011 GLIT 6756 63 - Assessment Literacy, taught in St. John's, NL
2010 GLIT 6757 60 - Assessment Literacy and Practice, taught in Charlottetown, PE
2010 GLIT 6756 63 - Assessment Literacy and Practice, taught in Gander, NL
2010 GLIT 6756 61 - Assessment Literacy and Practice, taught in Corner Brook, NL
2010 GLIT 6756 66 - Special Topics in Literacy: Assessment, taught in Toronto, ON
2009 GEDU 6170 60 - Seminar: Focus on Research Literacy, taught in St. John’s, NL
2009 GLIT 6757 63 - Assessment Literacies and Practices I, taught in North Syndey, NS
2009 GLIT 6757 62 - Assessment Literacies and Practices II, taught in Gander, NL
2009 GLIT 6757 91 - Assessment Literacies and Practices I, taught in Summerside, PE
2009 GLIT 6756 65 - Special Topics in Literacy: Assessment, taught in Mississauga, ON
2008 GLIT 6757 60 - Assessment Literacies and Practices I, taught in Gander, NL
2008 GLIT 6756 61 - Classroom explorations in literacy: Assessment Literacy, taught in Charlottetown and Summerside, PE
2006 GLIT 6758 65 - Assessment Literacies and Practices, taught in Summerside, PE
2005 GLIT 6756 - Assessment Literacy (two sections), taught in St. John’s, NL
2005 GLIT 6757 - Assessment Practices, taught in Summerside, PE
2004 GLIT 6756 - Assessment Literacy, taught in Summerside, PE
2001 GLIT - Literacies and Differences, taught in Charlottetown, PE
1999 GLIT - Teaching towards the millennium: Beginning with the adolescent student, taught in Halifax, NS
St. Francis Xavier University
2010 EDUC 569.21 - Assessment for Learning, taught in Halifax, NS
Acadia University
2000 EDUC 5673 - Current Research & Theory in Curriculum: Middle Level, taught in Bridgetown, NS
Undergraduate Courses Designed and Taught
Mount Saint Vincent University
2005 EDUC 5451 - Introduction to Educational Measurement and Evaluation (two sections), taught in Halifax
2005 EDUC 5451 - Introduction to Educational Measurement and Evaluation (two sections), taught in Kingston and Port Antonio, Jamaica
2005 EDUC 5451 - Introduction to Educational Measurement and Evaluation, taught in Bridgetown, Barbados
2004 EDUC 5352 - Evaluating Learner Progress (two sections), taught in Halifax
Graduate Thesis Examination
2009 External examiner for M. Ed thesis by Angela D. Gillis, St. Francis Xavier University
Thesis: Beginning teachers’ perspectives on and involvement in the Nova Scotia Teachers Union
Supervision of Independent Studies with graduate students at Mount Saint Vincent University
2024 S2 GEDU 6160 DS 03 - Literacy and Assessment 1
2024 S2 GEDU 6160 DS 03 - Literacy and Assessment 1
2024 S2 GEDU 6160 DS 02 - Literacy and Assessment 2
2024 S2 GEDU 6160 DS 02 - Literacy and Assessment 2
2024 S2 GEDU 6160 DS 02 - Literacy and Assessment 2
2024 S2 GEDU 6160 DS 02 - Literacy and Assessment 2
2024 S1 GEDU 6160 DS 01 - Literacy and Assessment 1
2024 S1 GEDU 6160 DS 01 - Literacy and Assessment 1
2024 W GEDU 6160 DS 01 – Literacy and Assessment 1
2024 W GEDU 6160 DS 01 – Literacy and Assessment 1
2023 S2 GEDU 6160 DS 01 – Social Justice in Literacy Education
2023 S2 GEDU 6160 DS 06 – Social Justice in Literacy Education
2023 S2 GEDU 6160 DS 07 – Literacy and Assessment I
2023 S2 GEDU 6160 DS 02 – Literacy and Assessment II
2023 W GLIT 6757 DS 01 – Literacy and Assessment 2
2022, S1 GEDU 6160 DS 3 – Literacy and Assessment 1
2022 S1 GEDU 6160 DS 3 – Literacy and Assessment 1
2022 S1 GEDU 6160 DS 3 – Literacy and Assessment 1
2020 S2 GEDU 6161 DS 02 -Literacy and Assessment 2
2020 S2 GEDU 6161 DS 02 -Literacy and Assessment 2
2020 S1 GEDU 6160 DS 02 – Literacy and Assessment 1
2020 S1 GEDU 6160 DS 02 – Literacy and Assessment 1
2020 S1 GEDU 6160 DS 02 – Literacy and Assessment 1
2020 S1 GEDU 6160 DS 02 – Literacy and Assessment 1
2020 S1 GEDU 6160 DS 02 – Literacy and Assessment 1
2020 S1 GEDU 6160 DS 02 – Literacy and Assessment 1
2020 S1 GEDU 6160 DS 02 – Literacy and Assessment 1
2020 S1 GEDU 6170 DS 01 – Research Literacy
2020 W GEDU 6160 DS 01 - Literacy and Assessment 2
2019 S2 GLIT 6756 IS 01 - Literacy and Assessment 1
2019 S2 GLIT 6756 IS 01 - Literacy and Assessment 1
2019 S2 GLIT 6756 IS 01 – Literacy and Assessment 1
2019 S2 GLIT 6757 IS 03 - Literacy and Assessment 2
2019 S2 GLIT 6757 IS 03 - Literacy and Assessment 2
2019 S1 GEDU 6170 IS 01 – Research Literacy
2018 S2 GEDU 6150 IS 01 - Literacy and Assessment
2018 S2 GEDU 6150 IS 01 - Literacy and Assessment
2018 S1 GEDU 6150 IS 01 - Literacy and Assessment
2018 W GEDU 6150 IS 01 - Literacy and Assessment
2018 W GLIT 6757 IS 01 - Literacy and Assessment
2018 W GLIT 6756 IS 166 - Literacy and Assessment
2017 S2 GEDU 6756 IS 167 - Literacy and Assessment
2017 S2 GLIT 6756 IS 167 - Literacy and Assessment
2017 S2 GEDU 6756 IS 167 - Literacy and Assessment
2016 S2 GEDU 6152 IS 167 - Literacy and Assessment
2016 S2 GEDU 6152 IS 167 - Literacy and Assessment
2016 S2 GEDU 6152 IS 167 - Literacy and Assessment
2016 S2 GEDU 6152 IS 167 - Literacy and Assessment
2016 S1 GEDU 6151 IS 263 - Literacy and Assessment
2016 S1 GEDU 6151 IS 263 - Literacy and Assessment
2016 S1 GEDU 6151 IS 263 - Literacy and Assessment
2015 GEDU 6151 IS 167 - Literacy and Assessment
2015 GEDU 6152 IS 166 - Investigating Classroom Assessment
2015 GEDU 6152 IS 167 - Literacy and Assessment
2014 S1 GEDU 6151 IS 167 - Literacy and Assessment
2014 S1 GEDU 6151 IS 167 - Literacy and Assessment
2014 S1 GEDU 6151 IS 167 - Literacy and Assessment
2014 S1 GEDU 6151 IS 167 - Literacy and Assessment
2014 S1 GEDU 6151 IS 167 - Literacy and Assessment
2014 S1 GEDU 6151 IS 167 - Literacy and Assessment
2013 GEDU 6151 IS 164 - Literacy and Assessment
2013 GEDU 6151 IS 164 - Literacy and Assessment
2012 S1 GEDU 6151 IS 63 - Literacy and Assessment
2012 S1 GEDU 6151 IS 63 - Literacy and Assessment
2012 S1 GEDU 6151 IS 63 - Literacy and Assessment
2012 S1 GEDU 6151 IS 63 - Literacy and Assessment
2012 W GEDU 6151 IS 02 - Literacy and Assessment
2011 W GEDU 6150 IS - Literacy and Assessment
2010 F GEDU 6151 IS 01 - Assessment, Literacy, and Practice
2010 W GEDU 6151 IS 60 - Issues in Assessment
2010 W GEDU 6152 IS 25 - Qualitative Research Methods
2009 F GEDU 6151 IS 60 - Issues in Assessment
2009 F GEDU 6151 IS 25 - Issues in Assessment
Instructional and Programme Development
1998-2020 Advisor for Programme Development, Nova Scotia Department of Education,
Advisor and leader for province-wide initiatives: Grade 10 Pre IB English curriculum, Nova Scotia Virtual School Assessment Audit, Literacy Success 10-12,
Teaching in Action 10-12, Advanced English 11, Advanced English 12, Arts in Our Schools, Challenge for Excellence, Junior High School Network Consortiums,
Reviewer for the Authorized List of Resources.
2006 Co-founder of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program at Avon View High School,
Co-writer of the application for Avon View High School to participate in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program with a focus on Theory of Knowledge
as well as the Coordinator of Creativity, Action, and Service
2005-2006 Leader in School Success Planning and Accreditation, Nova Scotia Department of Education, Co-chair and co-writer of the Internal Review at
Avon View High School, School Success Planning and Accreditation for the Annapolis Valley Regional School Board, supporting school-wide instructional
development
1996-2004 Leader in Instructional Development, Annapolis Valley Regional School Board,
Leader for board-wide initiatives: Race Relations, Cross Cultural Understanding, and Human Rights Leadership Team; Assessment Leadership Team;
Fine Arts Leadership Team; School-wide Enrichment Leadership Team; Language Arts Leadership Team; Middle Level Education Leadership Team.
1995-2003 Creator of Locally Developed Courses, Annapolis Valley Regional School Board,
Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies for Talented and Gifted Students 11/12, Advanced English 11, Advanced English 12, Related Studies 7, Related Studies 8
Curriculum Development
Provincial and National Curriculum Writing
Van Zoost, S. (2014). Nova Scotia Virtual School: Advanced English 11. Curriculum Contract writer for Nova Scotia Department of Education: Halifax, NS.
Van Zoost, S. (2012). Nova Scotia Virtual School: Advanced English 12. Curriculum Contract writer for Nova Scotia Department of Education: Halifax, NS.
Van Zoost, S. (2011). Teaching in Action 10-12: A Teaching Resource. Curriculum Contract writer for Nova Scotia Department of Education: Halifax, NS.
Van Zoost, S. (2007). Advanced English 12 Curriculum Guide and Advanced English 12 Curriculum Web Site. Curriculum Contract writer and Web Site Developer
for Nova Scotia Department of Education: Halifax, NS.
Van Zoost, S., Tungalag, D., Bayasgalmaa, J., Altantsooj, G., Bayarmaa, T., Sarantsetseg, P., et al. (2002). Learning English is Fun: Grade 7 [textbook].
Ulaanbaatar: Education International, Canadian Teachers Federation and the Mongolian Enlightenment of Trade Unions.
Supporting Curriculum Implementation
Van Zoost, S. (2011). How to write a University Paper—a High School English Lesson. A High School Teacher Resource for University Preparation. English and
Theatre Department, Acadia University: Wolfville, NS.
Van Zoost, S., & Guevremont, J. (2010). Imagination 9-12: Using Vital Signs to Initiate Social Action. Canadian Teachers Federation: Ottawa, ON.
Special Projects in Curriculum Innovation, Secondary Teaching
Dr. Van Zoost's academic and professional expertise in student-involved assessment fosters curricular innovation in his work with secondary students. Such curriculum innovations include place-based education, interdisciplinary projects, social action projects, youth inquiry projects, technological innovation, multi-school projects, as well as school and university collaborations. Below is a selected list of projects that demonstrate a history of curricular innovation in his teaching.
Selected Projects
2019 Snaps for You! An interactive performance for Grade 5 students, Advanced English 12
2019 Truth and Reconciliation, a blended learning unit of study, Advanced English 11
2017 Interactive Instruction with HTML5, technology innovation for Law 12, Nova Scotia Virtual School
2017 Where ART Thou? A digital and face-to-face installation, Advanced English 12
2016 360Films in Virtual Reality, Film and Video Productions 12, AVHS
2016 Assessment Practices for Advanced English, technology innovation, Nova Scotia Virtual School
2011 Three Miles Plains Poetry, Wikipedia Writing, place-based education, Advanced English 12
2011 realfriends: stop cliquing, start connecting, a Social Action Project, Advanced English 12
2010 Stanley Poetry, Wikipedia Writing, place-based education, Advanced English 12
2010 21st Century Communities: A Youth Inquiry Project, Advanced English 12
2009 What’s it Like to be a Teacher? A multi-school project with Grade 5 and Grade 12 students and staff
2004 Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day? A high school interdisciplinary performance
2003 AVHS: School of Dreams. A high school interdisciplinary performance
2002 WRHS: A teenage romance. A high school interdisciplinary performance
2002 What’s so funny? A high school interdisciplinary performance
2001 Remembrance. A high school interdisciplinary performance
2001 Whose line is it anyway? An interdisciplinary project with multi-school and university involvement
2000 The Gift of Giving. A middle school interdisciplinary unit
1999 Pipeline of Dreams: Off-shore Oil Anyone? A middle school interdisciplinary unit
1998 The Holocaust. A middle school interdisciplinary unit between English and Social Studies courses
1997 Survivor: Atlantic Canada. A middle school interdisciplinary unit
1996 Big Books. A multi-school project with middle school students visiting elementary schools
1995 Magic Shows. A multi-school project with middle school students visiting elementary schools
Teaching Awards and Honours
Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, 2012
Commonwealth medal for dedicated service to peers, to community, and to Canada that was awarded for contributions to the field of education and teaching
Prime Minister's Award for Teaching Excellence, 2009
National award for innovative teaching practices, technology integration, and instilling a love of learning in students
Lieutenant-Governor's Teaching Award, 2007
Provincial award chosen by teaching colleagues to represent the teaching profession in Nova Scotia in recognition of contributions to students, school community, and the teaching profession
Roy C. Hill Award from the Canadian Teachers Federation, 1997
National award for innovative classroom practices
Excellence in Student Teaching, Education Department, Mount Allison University, 1993-94
Departmental award given to a Bachelor of Education student
Scholarly and Professional Activity
Dr. Van Zoost's areas of scholarly research include classroom assessment practices, authentic assessment, student-involved assessment, assessment for learning, student identity, practitioner research, qualitative research, and policy analysis.
Dr. Van Zoost's professional activities have created further areas of expertise in creative pedagogies and teaching practices, blended-learning classrooms, online teaching, teacher leadership, teacher education, teaching methods, and secondary education. His publications have focused on professional resources for teachers and classroom resources for students.
Scholarly and Professional Publications
Refereed Academic Articles
Clarke, C., Van Zoost, S., & Broders, J. (2023). A call for change in summative assessment: Students’ ideas during the COVID-19 pandemic. Journal of the Canadian Association for Curriculum Studies. [Manuscript submitted for publication].
Van Zoost, S. (2011). Changes and possibilities: A case study of Nova Scotia classroom assessment policies. Journal of Education Policy 26(1): 83-94.
Non- Refereed
Text Books, Senior Author
Van Zoost, S., K. A. Shaikh, et al. (2015). Beyond Five Paragraphs: Advanced Essay Writing Skills. Whitby, McGraw-Hill Ryerson.
Van Zoost, S., C. Petrie, et al. (2013). From txt to talk: Communication skills for today and tomorrow. Toronto, McGraw-Hill Ryerson.
Chapters in Teacher Resources
Van Zoost, S. (2015). How to Assess Student Essays. In Beyond Five Paragraphs: Advanced Essay Writing Skills, Teacher’s Resource. Whitby, McGraw-Hill Ryerson: 1-10.
Van Zoost, S., & Reid, J. (2012). Assessment in iLit. In R. Landon, J. Robinson, and N. Walker Strength and Struggle: Perspectives from First Nations, Inuit and Metis Peoples in Canada, Teacher's Resource. Whitby, McGraw-Hill Ryerson: 7-14.
Van Zoost, S., & Reid, J. (2012). Assessment in iLit. In K. Whytock Reality Imagined: Stories of Identity and Change, Teacher's Resource. Whitby, McGraw-Hill Ryerson: 7-14.
Van Zoost, S., & Reid, J. (2012). Assessment in iLit. In D. Desjardins-Kolo and S. Lambert From Discord to Discourse: A Collection of Contemporary Canadian Essays, Teacher's Resource. Whitby, McGraw-Hill Ryerson: 7-14.
Van Zoost, S., & Reid, J. (2012). Assessment in iLit. In R. Cooke and D. Giacalone-Miller Remix: A Revolution in Text Forms, Teacher's Resource. Whitby, McGraw-Hill Ryerson: 7-14.
Book Chapters
Van Zoost, S. (2011). Impact on Engagement: Place-based Learning [a case study]. In K. Hume Tuned Out: Engaging the 21st Century Learner. Toronto: Pearson Canada: 151
Van Zoost, S. (2011). Fostering social action and student leadership. In S. Van Zoost realfriends: stop cliquing, start connecting. Lulu.com: 60-63.
Van Zoost, S. (2010). The pedagogy of individual inquiry questions. In S. Van Zoost 21st Century Communities: A Youth Inquiry Project. Montreal, Learning for a Cause: 48-51.
Text Books, Editor
Van Zoost, S. (Ed.) (2011). realfriends: stop cliquing, start connecting, Lulu.com.
Van Zoost, S. (Ed.) (2010). 21st Century Communities: A Youth Inquiry Project. Montréal: Learning for a cause.
Text Book Advisor/ Consultant
Publisher: Nelson Canada
Nelson Canada (2023-present). Edwin (online), English Language Arts Grades 7-9. Advisor under Retainer Contract.
Mackenzie, J. (2010). Nelson Literacy 10. Scarborough, Ontario: Nelson.
Hodgkinson, D. (1998). Language & Writing 7. Scarborough, Ontario: Nelson.
Hodgkinson, D. (1998). Language & Writing 8. Scarborough, Ontario: Nelson.
Publisher: Pearson Canada
Pearson Canada. (2018). Thematic Collections for Grades 7-8: Nova Scotia review. Toronto, ON
Pearson Canada. (2011). PeerScholar: an online peer-editing and assessment process. Toronto, ON.
Pearson Canada. (2010). Live Ink Teacher’s Handbook: Get Real! Toronto, ON
Airasian, Peter W. (2006). Classroom assessment: Concepts and applications (1st Canadian ed.). Whitby, Ontario: McGraw-Hill Ryerson Ltd.
Publisher: McGraw-Hill Ryerson
McGraw-Hill Ryerson. (2015). iLit additions – Nova Scotia and New Brunswick Review. Whitby, ON
McGraw-Hill Ryerson. (2013). iLit – Nova Scotia and New Brunswick Review. Whitby, ON
McGraw-Hill Ryerson. (2012). iLit Assessment Front Matter and Assessment Consultant. Whitby, ON
Academic Conference Papers
Van Zoost, S. (2004, April). “A call for assessment theory.” Paper presented to the Prince Edward Island Department of Education, Charlottetown, PE.
Van Zoost, S. (2000, Nov). “Student identity and voice in authentic assessment practices.” Paper presented at the Atlantic Educators Conference. Halifax, NS.
Professional Column, “So there I was...”
Van Zoost, S. (2016). Creativity Honouring Humanity. Aviso 33 (1), 18-20.
Van Zoost, S. (2016). In Botswana, Rethinking the Scale of Zeds. Aviso 32 (3), 24-25
Van Zoost, S. (2016). In Virtual Reality. Aviso 32 (2), 18-19.
Van Zoost, S. (2015). Racing in Belize. Aviso 32 (1), 18-19.
Van Zoost, S. (2015). On deferred salary leave. Aviso 31 (3), 26-27.
Van Zoost, S. (2015). Reflecting on my day. Aviso 31 (2), 24-25.
Van Zoost, S. (2014). Showing pictures in Guyana. Aviso 31 (1), 20-21.
Van Zoost, S. (2014). Becoming an early dinosaur. Aviso 30 (3), 26-27.
Van Zoost, S. (2014). Teaching for Nova Scotia Virtual School. Aviso 30 (2), 22-23.
Van Zoost, S. (2013). Waiting for an epidural. Aviso 30 (1), 14-15.
Van Zoost, S. (2013). At Anchor Wat. Aviso 29 (3), 22-23.
Van Zoost, S. (2013). Learning with women. Aviso 29 (2), 22-23.
Van Zoost, S. (2012). Being a fanboy. Aviso 29 (1), 22-23.
Van Zoost, S. (2012). In a Heartbeat. Aviso 28 (3), 30-31.
Van Zoost, S. (2012). In a Brueghel. Aviso 28 (2), 30-31.
Van Zoost, S. (2011). Rethinking Citizenship. Aviso 28 (1), 28-29.
Van Zoost, S. (2011). Making realfriends. Aviso 27 (3), 30-31.
Van Zoost, S. (2011). On Wikipedia, again. Aviso 27 (2), 30-31.
Van Zoost, S. (2010). Getting rid of excess. Aviso 26 (1), 30-31.
Van Zoost, S. (2010). In Abu Dhabi. Aviso 25 (3), 30-31.
Van Zoost, S. (2010). On a Métis trapline in northern Alberta. Aviso 25 (2), 30-31.
Van Zoost, S. (2009). A living curriculum. Aviso 25 (1), 30-31.
Van Zoost, S. (2009). In Jerusalem. Aviso 24 (3), 30-31.
Van Zoost, S. (2009). Mindful of a mantra. Aviso 24 (2), 30-31.
Van Zoost, S. (2008). At Auschwitz...crying. Aviso 24 (1), 30-31.
Van Zoost, S. (2008). With GoogleEarth behind me... Aviso, Spring, 30-31.
Van Zoost, S. (2008). At the end of the runway. Aviso, Winter, 30-31.
Van Zoost, S. (2007). Protecting the aliens. Aviso, Fall, 30-31.
Van Zoost, S. (2007). When I went to school... Aviso, Spring, 30-31.
Van Zoost, S. (2007). Under the tree... Aviso, Winter, 30-31.
Professional Articles and Essays
Van Zoost, S. (2012). realfriends: A student social action project. Education Canada 52 (1): 25-27.
Van Zoost, S. (2011). Fostering social action and student leadership. Perspectives (4): 37-41.
Van Zoost, S. (2006). Equity in today's schools. Aviso, Fall, 20-21.
Van Zoost, S. (2005). School Culture: Fireworks in our school. Aviso, Spring, 13-15.
Van Zoost, S. (2005). You make the difference. Aviso, Winter, 14-17.
Van Zoost, S. (2004). Strike up the band! Aviso, Fall, 12-14.
Van Zoost, S. (2004). Get a Life! Aviso, Winter, 13-15.
Van Zoost, S. (2004). Just a teacher. Aviso, Spring, 16-19.
Van Zoost, S. (2003). Project Overseas 2002 - Mongolia. The Teacher (January), 8.
Van Zoost, S. (2003). Healthy Self-portraits. Aviso, Winter, 15-17.
Van Zoost, S. (2003). PD, Me, and Thee. Aviso, Spring, 14-16.
Van Zoost, S. (2003). Bully! Bully! Bully! Aviso, Fall, 12-15.
Van Zoost, S. (2002). Have you heard the news? Aviso, Winter, 13-15.
Van Zoost, S. (2002). Spirituality in Teaching. Aviso, Spring, 14-17.
Van Zoost, S. (2002). So you want to be an administrator... Aviso, Fall, 14-17.
Van Zoost, S. (2001). Sunalizo's Grains of Wisdom. Aviso, Fall, 17-20.
Van Zoost, S. (2000). Golden - a one act play. Aviso, Winter, 22-26.
Van Zoost, S. (2000). The Educator's Eco-tour. Aviso, Fall, 19-21.
Van Zoost, S. (1998). Our sick schools: It's all in your head, isn't it? Aviso, Fall, 10-13.
Van Zoost, S. (1997). The Business of Education: Collision of Worlds. Aviso, Fall/Winter, 10-12.
Professional Column, “Starting Points: for new teachers by new teachers”
Van Zoost, S. (1999). Classroom climate. The Teacher (January), 7.
Van Zoost, S. (1998). Welcome. The Teacher (October), 7.
Documentary Videos, Avon View High School
2017. Where ART Thou?: An installation about where art takes us [Documentary]. Producer: Steven Van Zoost.
2011. realfriends: Part 1 and Part 2 [Documentary]. Producers: Steven Van Zoost, Ian Mancini, Adam Maynard.
2010. Questions to Learn [Documentary]. Producers: Steven Van Zoost, Duncan Armour, Peter Gibson.
National Publishing Awards
Golden Leaf Award, Canadian Educational Press Association, 2010
For outstanding work in the category of Print Publications – Writing: Column, in the magazine, Aviso: “On a Métis trapline in northern Alberta”
Golden Leaf Award, Canadian Educational Press Association, 2004
For outstanding work in the category of Writing and Editing for the theme anchor article in the magazine, Aviso: “Bully, Bully, Bully!”
Golden Leaf Award, Canadian Educational Press Association, 2003
For outstanding work in the category of Writing and Editing – Professional Development Feature for the theme anchor article in the magazine, Aviso: “So you want to be an administrator…”
Golden Leaf Award, Canadian Educational Press Association, 2002
For outstanding work in the category of Educational Issues Reporting for the anchor article in the magazine, Aviso: “Teaching in Troubled Times”
Golden Leaf Award, Canadian Educational Press Association, 1998
For outstanding work in the category of Writing and Editing of the anchor article in the magazine, Aviso: “The Business of Education”
External Collegial Service
International Education Consulting and Leadership
2018 Formative Assessment Consultant for Teacher Education Institutions, Government of Belize and Mount Saint Vincent University, Belize
2015 Assessment Consultant for The Implementation of an Interactive, Visible, and Tangible Teaching Model for Math, Science, English, and Language Arts, Government of Belize and Mount Saint Vincent University, Belize
2014 Formative Assessment Consultant for Intensive Coaching of Teacher Educators at CPCE and UG School of Education and Humanities on Improving the Teaching of Science, Improving Teacher Education Project, Government of Guyana and Mount Saint Vincent University, Georgetown, Guyana
2009 Assessment Consultant for EduNova Schools in Abu Dhabi, EduNova and Mount Saint Vincent University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
2002 National Curriculum Writer and Advisor, Project Overseas, Canadian Teachers Federation, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
1998 Workshop Developer and Facilitator, Project Overseas, Canadian Teachers Federation, Bhubaneswar and New Delhi, India
Committees and Professional Organizations
Editorial Advisory Board
2019 Invited peer-reviewer for the Journal of Education Policy
2007-2009 Editorial Board of the Canadian Online Journal of Queer Studies in Education, Member
National Advisory Board
2012-2013 National Advisory Council for Holocaust Education Conference, Member, Canadian Society for Yad Vashem
Nova Scotia Department of Education
2019-2020 Authorized Learning Resources, Reviewer
2019-2020 Grade 10 PIB English Curriculum Development Team, Member
2007-2010 Literacy Success 12 Leadership Team, Member
2006-2007 Advanced English 12 Curriculum Development Team, Lead Teacher
2005-2006 Advanced English 11 Curriculum Development Team, Member
1998-2001 Junior High School Network Consortiums Leadership Team, Member
Annapolis Valley Regional School Board
2007-2012 Race Relations, Cross Cultural Understanding, and Human Rights Leadership Team, Member
2003-2004 Assessment Leadership Team, Member
2003-2004 Fine Arts Leadership Team, Member
2000-2001 School-wide Enrichment Leadership Team, Member
1996-2000 Language Arts Leadership Team, Member
1996-1998 Middle Level Education Leadership Team, Member
Nova Scotia Teachers Union
National Roles
2018-2020 Advisory Committee on the Teaching Profession, Canadian Teachers Federation
2003-2006 Elected delegate for the Canadian Teachers Federation
Provincial Roles, Nova Scotia
2008-2010 Chair of the Provincial Public Affairs Committee
2005-2007 Chair of the Provincial Equity Committee
2006-2007 Provincial ad hoc committee: GLBTT, Member
2001-2004 Chair of the Provincial Professional Development Committee
1997-2001 Chair of the Provincial Curriculum Committee
1997-1998 Founding executive member of the Association for Teachers of Young Adolescents
Regional Roles, Annapolis Valley
2003-2004 Chair of the Regional Professional Development Committee
2000-2004 Secretary of the Regional Representative Council
2000-2004 Regional Representative for Professional Development
Local Roles, Hants West
2005-2012 Vice-President of Communications, Hants West Local
2000-2004 Vice-President of Professional Development, Hants West Local
1994-1999 Secretary, Hants West Local
Professional Presentations
Invited Keynotes at Education Conferences
2022 What can you see? A Post-pandemic Vision Check for Educators. Contact Conference, a forum for Atlantic Canadian Educators
2017 Globalization and Diversity in Education: What does it mean for Canadian Teacher education? Canadian Association for Teacher Education CATE/ACFE Working Conference
2011 Assessment in a 21st Century Classroom: Plenary for Prince Edward Island Teachers Federation Conference
2011 Assessment in a 21st Century Classroom: Teaching in Action, Nova Scotia Department of Education
2011 21st Century Literacies and Learners: Technology Education Special Interest Council Conference, Newfoundland and Labrador Teachers’ Association, Newfoundland
2010 Defining the next wave: Association of Communication Teachers Conference, Nova Scotia Community College
2010 21st Century Literacies and Learners: Western School Board of Newfoundland and Labrador
2009 21st Century Literacies and Learners in Nova Scotia: Literacy Success, Nova Scotia Department of Education
2009 Taking Pride in Equity: Five Directions for Equity in Our Schools: Equity Conference, Nova Scotia Teachers Union
2007 Leading is an Act of Hope: Keynote for Nova Scotia Educational Leadership Consortium
2005 Creating and Sustaining Safer and More Inclusive Classrooms: Plenary for Prince Edward Island Teachers Federation Conference
2005 Authentic Assessment Practices: Eastern School Board of Prince Edward Island
2005 Leading for Learning: Canadian Association of Administrators, New Brunswick
2005 Supporting New Teachers through NSTU Professional Development: Provincial Professional Development Conference, Nova Scotia Teacher Union
2004 So you want to be an administrator: Halifax Regional Administrators Conference
2004 The Reflective Teacher: Contact Conference, a forum for Atlantic Canadian Educators
2004 From the Inside: Nova Scotia Teachers Union Special Associations Conference
2003 Literacy Lifelines: Association of Teachers of English in Nova Scotia
2003 Elevating the Profession through PD: Provincial Professional Development Conference, Nova Scotia Teachers Union
Invited Conference Workshops and Guest Presentations
2019 Transformative School and Classrooms: Critical Pedagogy, Language and Cultural Diversity Course, Ontario Institute of Secondary Education, University of Toronto
2018 Transformative School and Classrooms: Critical Pedagogy, Language and Cultural Diversity Course, Ontario Institute of Secondary Education, University of Toronto
2017 Creativity in Teaching, B.Ed Secondary Methods Course, Mount Saint Vincent University
2017 Creative Teaching, High School Showcase, Annapolis Valley Regional School Board
2016 Creative Pedagogies and Practices, Nova Scotia Teachers Association for Literacy and Learning Conference
2015 Beyond Five Paragraphs: Helping students with their essay writing skills, Nova Scotia Teachers Association for Literacy and Learning Conference
2014 Transmediation: Skills that students need, Nova Scotia Teachers Association for Literacy and Learning Conference
2013 Five techniques to teach communication skills, Nova Scotia Teachers Association for Literacy and Learning Conference
2011 Why Integrate Technology? Technology Education Special Interest Council Conference, Newfoundland and Labrador Teachers’ Association, Newfoundland
2011 realfriends: An Imagineaction Project: Equity Conference, Nova Scotia Teachers Union
2011 realfriends: Developing social action projects with students: Nova Scotia Teachers Association for Literacy and Learning Conference
2011 Working with assessment for learning: Yellowknife Catholic School Board
2011 Working with 21st Century Literacies: Nova Scotia Teachers Association for Literacy and Learning, Nova Scotia Teachers Union
2010 Six ways to engage students in classroom assessment: Western School Board, Newfoundland and Labrador
2010 How to plan assessment for learning: Western School Board, Newfoundland and Labrador
2010 Equity and identity issues in our assessment practices: Western School Board, Newfoundland and Labrador
2009 Six ways to engage students in classroom assessment: Workshop for Bridgetown Regional High School, Nova Scotia
2005 Assessment Practices: Full Day sessions for Three Oaks High School, Prince Edward Island
2005 The Reflective Teacher: Conference presentation, Prince Edward Island Teachers Federation
2005 Leading for Learning: Conference presentations, Canadian Association of Administrators
2001 Differentiated Instruction: Challenge for Excellence Conference, Nova Scotia Department of Education
2000 Integrating the Arts into the Curriculum: Southwest Regional School Board
1999 Classroom Management: Atlantic Provinces Educators Foundation Leadership Conference
1998 Workshop Presenter in India: Project Overseas, Canadian Teachers Federation
Multi-year Professional Development Support for Teachers
2007-2008 Literacy Success 12: Workshops for secondary school teachers, Nova Scotia Department of Education
2006-2008 Advanced English 12 Leadership: Workshops for English teachers, Nova Scotia Department of Education
2003-2004 Assessment Practices: Workshops for Prince Edward Island Department of Education staff
2001-2003 Creating Intentionally Inviting Classrooms: Workshop for Western School Board of Prince Edward Island
1998-2001 Assessment Practices: Workshops for the Junior High School Network Consortiums, Nova Scotia Department of Education
1998-2001 School Transition Programs: Workshops for the Junior High School Network Consortiums, Nova Scotia Department of Education
1997-2005 Recommended presenter in a national directory: Innovations, Canadian Teachers Federation
1996-2000 Language Arts Methods and Instruction: Workshops for the Annapolis Valley Regional School Board
Media Appearances
Featured Educator in Professional Films
2011. High School Best Practices [Documentary]. Producer: Nova Scotia Department of Education, Learning Resources and Technology. Featured educator.
2009. Create!: Get inspired by the Arts in Our Schools [Documentary]. Producer: Nova Scotia Department of Education, Learning Resources and Technology. Featured educator.
2007. Promises and Pitfall of ICT in Education [Documentary]. Producer: Barbara Cottrell, Equity and Technology Alliance Research Project. Featured educator.
1998. Education with an Edge: The Junior High School Network [Documentary]. Producer: Nova Scotia Department of Education, Learning Resources and Technology. Featured educator.
Radio and Podcast Interviews
2017, March. Stories of Getting There. Podcast Interview on the EdCan Network, Amplifying Voices in Canadian Education.
2011, April. Tomorrow’s Classroom. Information Morning Nova Scotia, CBC Radio. Radio Hosts: Don Connolly and Elizabeth Logan. Featured educator.
2009, October. Valley Teacher wins Prime Minister Teaching Award. [Two Interviews]. Local News. AVR Network. Radio Host: Brian Mumford.
2003, September. Are you satisfied with our schools? Is your child getting a good education? Cross Country Check-up. CBC Radio. Radio Host: Rex Murphy. Featured educator.
Television Reports
2007, September. Lieutenant Governor’s Teaching Award. CBC News: Nova Scotia at Six, CBC Television. Reporter: Mari Ito.
Online News Media
2011, May. Spring 2011 Valedictorian Profile: Brianne Bezanson. Mount Saint Vincent University.
2010, September. Teachers use Vital Signs to connect classrooms with communities. Vital Signs and Community Foundations of Canada. http://canadasvitalsigns.wordpress.com/2010/09/07/teachers-use-vital-signs-to-connect-classrooms-with-communities/
2009, October. Featured Educator for Media Literacy Week, November 2-6, 2009. Media Awareness Network and the Canadian Teachers’ Federation. http://www.medialiteracyweek.ca/en/involved_featured.htm#vanzoost2008, May. What Kind of People Does High Stakes Testing Make Our Students Into? NCTE Elementary Section. Blogger: Dudley-Marling, Curt. http://ncteelem.blogspot.com/2008/05/what-kind-of-people-does-high-stakes.html
Print News Media
2011, June. AVHS students receive prestigious provincial award. Hants Journal. Reporter: Ashley Thompson.
2010, December. Celebrated poet visits Three Mile Plains. Hants Journal. Reporter: Ashley Thompson.
2009, November. Local student earns Legion honour. Hants Journal. Reporter: Christy Marsters.
2009, October. A+ for Rural Educators. Hants Journal. Reporter: Nadine Eagles-Harvie.
2009, October. Six N.S. teachers to receive awards: Educators singled out for instilling love of learning in their students. The Chronicle Herald.
2009, January. Hants West Local program promotes teaching profession. The Teacher, Nova Scotia Teachers Union. Reporter: Angela Murray.
2009, January. Diplomatic Corps at Yad Vashem in advance of International Holocaust Remembrance Day, Yad Vashem Press Release. Reporter: Estee Yaari.
2009, January. Torontonian aids Yad Vashem expansion project, The Canadian Jewish News. Reporter: Mark Elliott Shapiro.
2008, January. Students take hands-on approach to learning. Hants Journal. Reporter: Nadine Armstrong.
2007, October. Teacher lauded by peers for numerous accomplishments, The Chronicle-Herald and The Mail Star. Reporter: Les Walker.
2007, September. Head of the class: Windsor teacher wins Lt.-Gov.'s award, The Chronicle-Herald. Reporter: Davene Jeffrey.
2007, September. Windsor teacher wins 2007 Lt. Governor's teaching award, Nova News Now. Reporter: Jennifer Hoegg.
2002, October. Project Overseas influences teacher, The Chronicle-Herald and The Mail Star. Reporter: Les Walker.
2001, September. More than a thousand words, The Teacher. Reporter: Angela Murray.
1999, October. Governor General’s Award. The Chronicle-Herald.
Volunteer in School Communities, Windsor, Nova Scotia
2015-2020 Crisis Committee, Avon View High School
2003-2015 Creator and producer of the Avon View Film Festival
2008-2009 Creator and Facilitator of What’s it like to be a teacher? a program for selected Grade 5 students
2007 Teacher-leader in a school exchange program to La Universidad Magna, Mexico
2005-2006 Co-chair of the Internal Review of Avon View High School
2000-2004 Creator, writer, and director of high school interdisciplinary performances
2003 Creator and director of the first high school choir in West Hants municipality
1999-2003 Creator and facilitator for a Canadian Literature Club, community group
1999 Creator of Nova Scotia’s Provincial Snowboarding Competition, NSSAF
1994-2000 Coach for school ski team and snowboarding team
on-going Chaperone for school dances and band trips
Theatre
Selected Performances:
Mamma Mia (musical with Quick as a Wink Theatre)
Side by Side by Sondheim (musical review by Stephen Sondheim)
The Affections of May (comedy by Norm Foster)
Dreams in a Box (educational play by Mary Oxley, Katrina, and Steven Van Zoost)
Bye Bye Birdie (musical by Michael Stewart)
God: A comedy in one act (comedy by Woody Allen)
A Doll's House (drama by Henrik Ibsen)
In Your Own Back Yard (musical by Raeanne Garnhum)
Sinners (comedy by Norm Foster)
A Little Bird Told Me (children's musical by Nells Van Loon)
Unto the Earth (one-act opera by Dean Michael Burry)
Antigone (drama by Jean Anouilh)
Rhinoceros (drama by Eugene Ionesco)
Fiddler on the Roof (musical by Bock/Harnick/Stein)
Sorry, Wrong Number (radio drama by Lucille Fletcher)