Problem Solving in Action at Orchard Park PS

Michelle – Vice Principal
Orchard Park Public School, Simcoe County District School Board

When I led a recent professional learning session with our K–8 staff, I wanted them to engage with math the same way we ask students to—by thinking visibly, collaborating in groups, and problem solving in real time.

So I gave each team a Wipebook Flipchart, one marker, and a rich task. The goal was to get them up, talking, and working together.

“We used Wipebooks for the entire session. Showing work, collaboration, problem solving, and looking at other teams’ work.”

The session was active and engaging. Educators were fully involved—discussing, moving, comparing solutions, and supporting each other’s thinking.

Building Confidence Through Collaboration

Something changed after that session. Teachers brought the same energy back to their classrooms.

“The Grade 1 class says, ‘Math is the best!’ and ‘Math is my favorite subject!’”

In Grade 2, students now request randomized groupings and ask for the Flipcharts—even in subjects beyond math. Teachers report stronger collaboration, more strategy sharing, and a boost in student confidence.

This shift is visible. Students take risks, test ideas, and revise their thinking—all without needing a screen or special tech.

“All educators who use them LOVE them.”

Accessible, Low-Prep, High-Impact Learning

The beauty of Wipebook Flipcharts is their simplicity. No setup required. Just mount them on walls or windows, give students a task, and let the thinking unfold.

They’ve become a go-to tool for co-creating, consolidating, and extending ideas. Students see each other’s work. They compare strategies. They ask new questions. And they’re excited to do it.

We’ve watched as even our youngest learners use the boards to explore new math concepts, work through challenges, and support their classmates—all with one marker and a shared space.

A Strategic Part of Our School Plan

Wipebooks aren’t just a teaching tool at Orchard Park—they’re part of our school-wide vision.

“We plan to add Wipebooks into our Math goals, specifically to support 21st-century skill development across subjects.”

As part of our School Action and Equity Plan, Flipcharts help us create inclusive, collaborative learning environments where every student can participate. They support critical thinking, communication, and creativity—skills that go beyond the math classroom.

District Leaders: Want to Bring This to Your Schools?

Michelle’s team at Orchard Park is one of many seeing real results with Wipebook Flipcharts.

They’re easy to implement. They promote risk-taking. And they help students and teachers engage in meaningful problem solving, together.

Want to explore how Flipcharts could support your classrooms?

If you're a district instructional support leader, let's chat about our volume discounts for PO orders

Let’s talk.

 

Check out these other Wipebook blogs: