PRE-REGISTRATION WILL OPEN ON JANUARY 11, 2024 AT 8:00P.M. and CLOSE FEBRUARY 11 AT 8:00 P.M. We have decided to start pre-registration on January 11th to make sure everyone is informed of the start time and has time to check out the sessions as the first week back to school can be quite hectic. FOR PRE-REGISTERED SESSIONS PLEASE USE THE PRE-REGISTRATION LINK BELOW THE SESSION DESCRIPTION IN SCHED.Adding the session to your Sched schedule does not mean you are pre-registered. The number in the title shows how many will be allowed to attend the session. We do allow more names to be added, but they will be on the waiting list. This is explained on the pre-registration page. https://www.pdtca.org/pre-registration.html
REASON TO CREATE A PROFILE IN SCHED You do not need to create a profile and log in to see sessions in Sched. However, if you want to add yourself to a session to create a schedule or evaluate a session you must be logged in.
PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITY “On the two school days of your assigned teachers’ convention, you have a legal and professional responsibility to attend convention. If you are not able to make it safely to your assigned convention, however, your collective agreement may include impassable roads or inclement weather clauses that you can access. If your collective agreement does not include language specific to road conditions or weather, you may make use of the personal leave clauses of your agreement in most cases. Please be aware that using any of these types of leave may require you to pay substitute costs, forego a portion of your salary and benefits, or report to your school or another work location in your district. Refer to your collective agreement for more information. Should you require any additional information or if you need assistance interpreting your collective agreement, please contact Teacher Employment Services at 1-800-232-7208 or 780-447-9400.” This information is also found on the Frequently Asked Questions page on the www.ataconventions.ca website. If you have any further questions regarding this, please contact Daniel.Maas@ata.ab.ca.
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We have all heard that the key to supporting, teaching and reaching kids lies in building connection and relationships, but why is it so important?
This session will focus on what the current research tells us about making connections, and more importantly, the conditions that make it possible! Participants will be asked to reflect on their own practices and experiences, and we will look at Siegal’s 4 roadblocks that keep us from connecting.
We will challenge these assumptions and fears and start laying the groundwork to explore classroom and kid-tested strategies and examples to empower participants to connect against all odds!
As a student with ADHD, mental health difficulties and behavioral issues, Rita experienced the impact a dedicated professional could make. She obtained a BSc/BEd with a Special Education Specialization, and now teaches at a Junior High Behavioral Outreach program.Rita’s passion... Read More →
Are you interested in creating a welcoming, inclusive, safe, and healthy environment for your students? A space where all students feel valued, safe, represented, and have a sense of belonging? If you are, and I am sure you are, please join me for an engaging session on culturally responsive teaching and the brain. You will leave this session with a wealth of practical strategies that can be immediately implemented in your classroom, as well as theoretical knowledge to further support all your students.
Youssra is an Arab, Muslim, Canadian. She holds a Bachelor of Arts with a double major in Psychology and Sociology, a Bachelor of Education, and a Master's in Theoretical, Cultural, and International Studies from the University of Alberta. Her professional experiences include front... Read More →
Whether you are teaching Physical Education or Drama, this session will provide you with the tools to help students find their groove and discover their capacity through movement. Participants in this session will gain skills to facilitate creative movement and dance through structured choreography and improv activities, which supports student confidence and overall well-being. This session is open to all teachers who are keen to step out of their comfort zone and explore their own capacity to move and groove in new ways!
Are you an educator in Alberta passionate about integrating environmental, climate, and sustainability action into your school curriculum? Join us for an engaging workshop that focuses on the EcoSchools program—a curriculum-linked initiative designed to empower students, educators, and schools to take meaningful environmental action. Discover practical strategies, resources, and best practices for implementing EcoSchools in your educational setting and fostering a culture of environmental stewardship and sustainability.
The Alberta Council for Environmental Education (ACEE) works collaboratively to advance environmental education in Alberta. Although we embrace and support environmental education for all audiences in Alberta, we're particularly interested in supporting young people: we believe that... Read More →
Can students listen to music while they study? When might note-taking actually harm learning? What’s the one key to forming deep, lasting memories? During this session, we will explore several principles of how human beings learn. Drawn from brain, behavioural, and educational research, these principles are learning 'nuggets' that can shine a light on more traditional classroom practices. Beyond learning about each principle, we will also consider how these principles can be adapted to tweak/improve teaching & learning practices.
Jared Cooney Horvath (PhD, MEd) is a neuroscientist, educator, and author of the best-selling book Stop Talking, Start Influencing: 12 Insights from Brain Science to Make Your Message Stick. He has conducted research and lectured at Harvard University, Harvard Medical School, the... Read More →
This session will offer the opportunity to meet with President Schilling in a group setting to discuss matters and issues that are of importance to you and your colleagues. The session will open with a few focus questions from President Schilling followed by an opportunity to have open dialogue on topics generated by the discussion.
Les concepts de science peuvent devenir une plus grande source de curiosité et d'émerveillement grâce à l’usage de simulations en ligne. Cet atelier vous permettra de découvrir comment l'approche « explorer avant d'expliquer » mène à une compréhension conceptuelle approfondie. Vous verrez comment l'utilisation des Gizmos démontrant des phénomènes naturels peut susciter l'intérêt et l'engagement de vos élèves. La démonstration d'une leçon de sciences, prévue dans cet atelier, vous permettra de voir en action les meilleures pratiques d'enseignement. Les enseignants de M à 6e année ont accès à plusieurs Gizmos grâce à Alberta Education. Alors, du temps sera accordé pour chercher et explorer les Gizmos qui peuvent appuyer le nouveau programme de sciences. Si possible, les participants à cet atelier devraient apporter un appareil numérique.
Consultante en mathématiques/Math Consultant, RLM Consulting
Renée Michaud is an independent Mathematics Consultant. She provides professional development to a variety of schools and school districts in French and in English in Western Canada and beyond. She has presented various math sessions at Alberta Teachers’ Conventions over the past... Read More →
This session will describe and demonstrate several categories of speaking activities that can be adapted to different topics of study and be scaffolded from beginner to intermediate competency.
Repetition is key in developing skills, and these games and activities provide an opportunity for exactly that. Games present a low-stakes, yet engaging, environment for learners to practice their skills and develop confidence. Students can be gently introduced to basic, repetitive interactions that can become more complex and include more vocabulary over time. When it's time to start a new topic of study, there's no need to teach new rules and activities, just the vocabulary.
Katrina has been teaching grade 7-10 for 5 years in Strathmore. Her original assignment included post-intensive French, where there was a strong focus on oral proficiency using the neurolinguistic approach. While the teaching assignment and approach have shifted, a focus on providing... Read More →
This session offers practical ways that educators can build their catalog of coping strategies for mental well-being. A former teacher turned mental health counsellor takes you through exercises that can take between a few seconds to a few minutes to intentionally practice self-nourishing habits on a daily basis. Learn about some of the science behind the power of mindfulness and self-regulation for overall well-being. Practice fine tuning coping strategies to be adaptive and tailored to your specific needs. Coping strategies range from cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) derived material to holistic mind-body connection practices. Participants will leave with some key strategies to monitor and help prevent/manage burnout symptoms and a handout with easy-to-use techniques that can be applied both in and outside of school.
Meg Lindemulder is a Canadian Certified Counsellor and educator who holds a B.Ed in Secondary English Language Arts and a Master of Counselling in Applied Psychology. With her experiences as both a private and public school teacher, and her current career as a mental health therapist... Read More →
Megan Oviatt is a Registered Provisional Psychologist and educator who completed her undergraduate degree in Educational Psychology and holds a Master of Counselling Psychology. She previously worked as an elementary school teacher and is currently practicing as a mental health therapist... Read More →
Providing a flexible environment is key for students to achieve success in Outreach Settings. An ongoing question has been how do we provide structure around the flexibility to support student success.
Join us to discover how we created systems that provide high levels of support while holding high expectations. This method has enabled our campuses to truly reach students where they are at and reach their personal goals.
Kelly Beaton is currently Assistant Principal of the Rocky View Schools Community Learning Center. She has been in an Outreach Environment for the last 13 years in two different school divisions, serving as a teacher, Guidance Counsellor, and now Administrator.
Greg Rankin is currently the Principal of the Rocky View Schools Community Learning Center. His leadership experience covers both High School and Middle School. He has always had a passion for alternative education and co-created the Rockyview School Division Building Futures Pro... Read More →
This session is designed for participants to explore several authentic recommended Métis educational materials that help to create teachable moments and provide foundational learning opportunities throughout the school year. Building your foundational knowledge about Métis will empower you to select authentic, accurate resources that honour distinct Métis perspectives to weave into your current teaching practice. Together we will explore resources designed by Métis educators that weave Métis voices into your learning.
Rupertsland Centre for Teaching and Learning develops comprehensive foundational knowledge resources, engaging lesson plans, meaningful professional development opportunities and authentic classroom learning tools that speak accurately and meaningfully to topics in Métis educati... Read More →
Please join Phyllis Webstad, the founder of Orange Shirt Day, as she speaks about her life before residential school, what it was like to lose her orange shirt and the complex work of healing.
Phyllis is well respected for her work as an ambassador for the Orange Shirt Day, her courage and for striving to heal communities and Nations through speaking her truth.
Phyllis Webstad (nee Jack) is Northern Secwepemc (Shuswap) from the Stswecem’c Xgat’tem First Nation (Canoe Creek Indian Band). She comes from mixed Secwepemc and Irish/French heritage. She was born in Dog Creek and lives in Williams Lake, BC, Canada. In 2018 Phyllis Webstad launched... Read More →
Did you know that pretty much anyone who thinks they're "not a math person" has math trauma they haven't worked through yet? We’ve all had math teachers before, but how many of you have had a math therapist?! This session will empower you to teach your students that they are capable of everything and that anything is possible - starting with math!
Gizmos online simulations can inspire your students to think like mathematicians. Explore how using online math simulations can deepen conceptual understanding in students through modelling and inquiry. Engage in a modelled mathematics lesson using online simulations to experience how Gizmos can support your lessons. Investigate Gizmos resources that you can incorporate immediately into your classroom! Gizmos are available to all teachers on the New Learn Alberta Curriculum Site. Teachers are encouraged to bring a device.
Lindsay Beaulieu has previously taught in Alberta and has witnessed the impact of Gizmos on student understanding. She has used Gizmos in the classroom since she began teaching. She enjoys working with educators to provide meaningful professional development for all Alberta educa... Read More →
Come prepared to play math games that target Pre K - K and Grade 1 concepts including: subitizing, comparing numbers, developing the foundations for early operations including doubles, make 5, 10 and 20, counting on and back, skip counting, patterns and more. Games will integrate the use of cards, dice, shakers and multi-sided dice. Handout will include gameboards and concept skill checklists for assessment. Lots of whole body movement. Come prepared to PLAY - and oh the math that they'll know! Great for small group instruction Grade 1 - 3 who need review of basic concepts.
Jane has spoken for years at the Palliser Teacher's Convention. She has over 30 +years of teaching and consulting experience across North America. She is the author of Box Cars and One-Eyed Jacks - award winning math and literacy game resources. She is passionate about engaging all... Read More →
This presentation will discuss creating a team dynamic with the intent to have an intentional positive impact on our players. The focus will be about taking all our good habits, to create an intentional plan, with the goal of making a positive lasting impact on all our student-athletes. Making a positive impact should not be left by chance, it should be a part of our regular coaching…. a part of our regular planned coaching.
Leigh is the Athletic Director at Oilfields High School and President of the South Central Zone with the ASAA. Leigh has been a core member and presenter for the Canadian Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (CIAAA).
This presentation is designed for teachers who are planning to retire during the current year or within the next few years. It provides detailed information about deciding to retire, the Steps to Retirement process and forms, the pension options, and post-retirement considerations.
Computational thinking is at the foundation of problem solving and students who can apply these principals are more successful. Explore computational thinking as it relates to the creativity, design, and the new Alberta curriculum. This session provides a gentle introduction to decomposition, pattern recognition, abstraction, generalization, and algorithms. Discover how these principles can be applied and taught in your classroom, regardless of subject or grade level. No experience teaching computer science needed!
Whitney Horban (she/her) has worked in both formal and informal education and enjoys bridging the gap between the two. She has been atthe TELUS World of Science Edmonton for 8 years, traveling to schools around Alberta with the Science in Motion team and now heading up the Northern... Read More →
Saddle Up! Experience the Calgary Stampede Coming to Life Through the Upcoming Sam Centre Join us for an interactive 1-hour session where you'll get an exclusive preview into the future Sam Centre, a cutting-edge immersive gallery that will revolutionize how you and your students experience the Calgary Stampede year-round.
Immerse yourself in this hands-on session that goes beyond the annual summer celebration in July. Through experiential learning, you will dive into the spirit of Southern Albertans through engaging activities, thought-provoking information, and inspiring stories that highlight the values of grit, determination, and community. You will leave knowing about the educational opportunities that the Sam Centre will offer, giving you and your students the chance to actively participate in our region's vibrant heritage.
Colleen Johnson is a passionate Education Coordinator at the Calgary Stampede Foundation, dedicated to fostering a love for learning among students. With over a decade of expertise in designing and implementing engaging field trips, Colleen strives to ignite curiosity through place-based... Read More →
Off Site - Okotoks Curling Club Whether you are interested in curling and have never tried it before or are a seasoned curler, this session will teach you something new about the game. There will be on and off ice instruction as well as a short game at the end. Should participants have questions about how to incorporate curling into elementary PE, resources are available. OKOTOKS: Curling Club 99 Okotoks Dr, Okotoks
Don Bachek has been curling for about 10 years and became interested in curling when his son had a desire to curl at an early age. Since then, Don became passionate about curling and looked to further his knowledge by becoming a Competition Trained Coach by Curling Alberta. Don volunteers... Read More →
Tenielle has over 30 years of experience as a curler. She curled competitively in university and now curls recreationally while running a successful junior program and helping with Learn To Curl Programs. She is a Competition Level Trained coach and has had the opportunity to work... Read More →
Friday February 21, 2025 9:00am - 12:40pm MST
Off-SiteCheck Session Description for Address
We are presenting a workshop on Indigenous Perspectives that includes "hands-on" experiential sessions with teachers actively participating in an "Educational Teaching" Sweat Lodge, Indigenous games and traditions, and discussions with regards to the application of foundational knowledge regarding Alberta Education's curriculum and First Nations, Metis, and Inuit.
Where: Camp Horizon ( Located about 50 minutes West of Calgary just past Bragg Creek) Hwy 66 10 KM Southwest of Bragg Creek, Bragg Creek, AB T0L 0K0
What: Our planned Indigenous Perspectives workshop will include the following: 1.) Teaching/Educational Sweat Lodge Experience conducted by Indigenous Elders 2.) Indigenous Traditional games and talking circle 3.) Applying Foundational Knowledge about First Nations, Metis, Inuit and curriculum connections.
George Taven of Seeds Connections will be hosting the day and coordinating the logistics. Walter White Bear will be the Keynote speaker and Sweat Lodge Elder.
Walter will also engage several other locally recognized and respected elders to assist with the other sessions throughout the day.
KEY POINTS
1.) This workshop will be conducted at Camp Horizon from 8:30am - 3:00 pm . Teachers are responsible for their own transportation.
3.) We can have up to 50 people register.
4.) It is vital to read the attachments which are descriptions of each of the sessions as well as expectations and appropriate dress and details of what people should be aware of if they are planning to participate in the Educational Teaching Sweat Lodge.
5.) Teachers need to bring their own bag lunches. Participants should bring their own water bottle.
6.) Teachers wanting to participate in the Teaching Sweat must bring appropriate change of clothes and towel.
7.) We will require each participant to fill out and sign an Acknowledgement of Risk form when they first arrive.
George recently retired from the Calgary Board of Education after 41 years as a teacher and Program Administrator. He worked closely with Alberta Education in designing the CONNECTIONS program as a 5 credit high school program. CONNECTIONS is a Diversity, Anti-Racism, Leadership program... Read More →
With over 25 years experience working within the education system and social services sectors, as an advocate for First Nation Youth and Families, Walter MacDonald White Bear is a bridge between cultures, confusion and healing. A student himself, of the traditional teachings, Walter... Read More →
Friday February 21, 2025 9:00am - 3:00pm MST
Off-SiteCheck Session Description for Address
This course is focused on giving you a foundation and tools to support and understand Autism in the classroom and how to effectively support the varying needs presented by our students. Starting with How is Autism diagnosed and moving through the topics of sensory processing, sensory overload, motor skills, theory of mind, executive functioning and communication. We will also delve into activities of daily living, family and social life. Through a blend of presentation and audience participation these topics will be tied to effective teaching strategies, practical strategies and supports. Case studies will be provided. THERE WILL BE NO PARTICIPANT FEE COLLECTED. Off-site Address: 2651 Chinook Winds Drive NW Airdrie Alberta T4B 0B4
Kelsey Bagnall is currently Learning Supports Specialist for Rocky View Schools . She has taught in schools from Kindergarten to Grade 12 over the last 15 years. She obtained a Masters of Education in Special Education at the University of Alberta. Her passions include Inclusive Learning... Read More →
This session offers warm up activities for grade 7-12, semester of ideas/projects that incorporate the curricular objectives, Canadian Artist Project for Ted Harrison, as well as Reverse Painting, rubrics for marking, as well as supplementary lessons for guest teachers. These lessons can be done with minimal access to supplies or be modified for more advanced skills and programming. Participants will leave with two art projects and digital copies of lessons that can be used immediately in the classroom.
I have been a junior high and senior high drama, art, and filmmaking teacher since 2014. After obtaining my undergraduate degree in Theatre Arts from Trinity Western University, I received a Bachelors of Education from Vancouver Island University. I have produced over a dozen plays... Read More →
Explore the world of both two- and three-dimensional media, such as acrylic paint, oil pastels, colored pencils, watercolour pencils and stencils to add texture and dimension to create a few artworks. This session includes an image transfer project as well as an unique ground effect for a landscape painting. The techniques presented (creating textures, blending colours and overlapping) can be modified/ adapted for all grade levels and are suitable for all levels and abilities. All the supplies are being provided and the fee for this session is $10.
Over the past few years I presented numerous sessions at various Teacher Conventions, Fine Arts Conferences, Professional Development Days, and private organizations/groups. As an art teacher, my main goal is to inspire others to love, appreciate, and explore the artistic paths using... Read More →
Are you looking for ways to create meaningful learning experiences for your students that go beyond just rote memorization and recall? In this session we will share how to:
align performance tasks with learning outcomes and standards,
create success criteria and design tools for gathering evidence and
incorporate technology and multimedia resources to enhance student engagement and understanding.
Join us to discover how to create assessments that challenge and engage your students, and help them develop the critical thinking and problem-solving skills they need to succeed in the real world. Please note we will use both elementary and secondary examples in this session.
Field Service Facilitator, Alberta Assessment Consortium
The Alberta Assessment Consortium is a not-for-profit education partner in the province, focused on everyday assessment to support student learning. Our facilitators combine their experience as Alberta teachers and teacher leaders with the expertise of the organization.Presenter Shelly... Read More →
This 2 for 1 session will be an overview of the first two barriers to connection highlighted in the Connecting Against All Odds presentation.
Barrier 1: "Why can't you 'control' your class?!?": How a fear of being judged by our colleagues, supervisors and community keeps us from connecting. Shifting our thinking from a position of fear to one of expertise and success is key! This section will focus on working WITH students to find success. We will cover specific strategies and look at personal experience and stories that reinforce the powerful practice of empowering or most difficult students!
Barrier 2: “What if all the kids start to think it is OK to act that way?”: How worrying about reinforcing behaviour is keeping us from seeing the bigger picture! Behaviour is Communication! We will spend time breaking behaviour down and working on developing our translating skills. Shifting our thinking and looking at each “crisis” as an opportunity to build connection. More on the ground strategies and great stories here!
As a student with ADHD, mental health difficulties and behavioral issues, Rita experienced the impact a dedicated professional could make. She obtained a BSc/BEd with a Special Education Specialization, and now teaches at a Junior High Behavioral Outreach program.Rita’s passion... Read More →
Do you want your students to have a happy life, a good life or a successful life. What is the difference between HAVING a good life and LEADING a good life? The Career and Life Management curriculum has such great potential to help students transition into adulthood and yet so many say that CALM is a waste of time, or they become adults and ask, “why didn’t we learn that in school?” Michael will share his insight and lead a conversation about how to pack value and inspiration into CALM class.
Michael Koehler is a much better CALM teacher now that he has been married, had children, finished an Apprenticeship and taught in Australia. After 30 years of teaching CALM, math, construction, automotives and off-campus programing, Michael knows how to look at a curriculum and pull... Read More →
Sometimes it can make us laser-focused, and other times it leaves us floundering. What is the deal with stress and why can it have so many different outcomes? During this session, we will explore this topic and differentiate between good and bad stress. Furthermore, we will dive into the issue of digital technology and consider what impact computers have on student relationships, stress, and learning. Spoiler alert: your intuitive assumptions about digital technology are probably correct.
Jared Cooney Horvath (PhD, MEd) is a neuroscientist, educator, and author of the best-selling book Stop Talking, Start Influencing: 12 Insights from Brain Science to Make Your Message Stick. He has conducted research and lectured at Harvard University, Harvard Medical School, the... Read More →
Les simulations en ligne Gizmos peuvent inciter vos élèves à penser comme des mathématiciens. Découvrez comment l'utilisation de simulations mathématiques en ligne peut favoriser la compréhension conceptuelle des apprenants grâce à la modélisation et à l'enquête. Vous participerez à une leçon de mathématiques durant laquelle un Gizmo sera utilisé. Vous découvrirez ainsi comment les Gizmos peuvent appuyer la mise en oeuvre du nouveau curriculum. L'objectif est de vous montrer comment les intégrer immédiatement dans votre salle de classe ! Les enseignants de M à 6e année ont accès à plusieurs Gizmos grâce à Alberta Education. Si possible, les participants à cet atelier devraient apporter un appareil numérique.
Consultante en mathématiques/Math Consultant, RLM Consulting
Renée Michaud is an independent Mathematics Consultant. She provides professional development to a variety of schools and school districts in French and in English in Western Canada and beyond. She has presented various math sessions at Alberta Teachers’ Conventions over the past... Read More →
This workshop offers practical ways that you can build grounding into your daily classroom routine. Learn and practice strategies specifically adapted for junior high and high school students. We will explore the leading evidence-based strategies for classroom stressors including managing test anxiety, trouble with focus/concentration, and emotional dysregulation. You will leave with a toolbox of strategies to incorporate grounding in your classroom, which can help students of all backgrounds and abilities. Strategies range from quick 10-second techniques, daily habits, longer exercises, and tips for how to create sensory-friendly classrooms without spending a lot of money.
Meg Lindemulder is a Canadian Certified Counsellor and educator who holds a B.Ed in Secondary English Language Arts and a Master of Counselling in Applied Psychology. With her experiences as both a private and public school teacher, and her current career as a mental health therapist... Read More →
Megan Oviatt is a Registered Provisional Psychologist and educator who completed her undergraduate degree in Educational Psychology and holds a Master of Counselling Psychology. She previously worked as an elementary school teacher and is currently practicing as a mental health therapist... Read More →
Please join Phyllis Webstad, the founder of Orange Shirt Day, as she speaks about her life before residential school, what it was like to lose her orange shirt and the complex work of healing.
Phyllis is well respected for her work as an ambassador for the Orange Shirt Day, her courage and for striving to heal communities and Nations through speaking her truth.
Phyllis Webstad (nee Jack) is Northern Secwepemc (Shuswap) from the Stswecem’c Xgat’tem First Nation (Canoe Creek Indian Band). She comes from mixed Secwepemc and Irish/French heritage. She was born in Dog Creek and lives in Williams Lake, BC, Canada. In 2018 Phyllis Webstad launched... Read More →
Come prepared to play our favorite games and learn out most effective strategies for helping your student with basic multiplication fluency. Games and strategies will focus on the following: square facts used as benchmarks, pattern and skip counting using number lines, building arrays and area models, commutative and associative properties - all ways to mastering basic facts. Engaged practice with games incorporating the use of cards, dice, math shakers will be taught. Games are easy to differentiate and use either whole class or in small group instruction. Grade 3 teachers, as well as Junior high teachers may want to attend this session if they have students still needing work on basic multiplication. Handout will include gameboards, concept skill checklists for assessment.
Jane has spoken for years at the Palliser Teacher's Convention. She has over 30 +years of teaching and consulting experience across North America. She is the author of Box Cars and One-Eyed Jacks - award winning math and literacy game resources. She is passionate about engaging all... Read More →
What do Lizzo, Taylor Swift, Lady Gaga, Steven King, Michael Jordan....and Albert Einstein have in common? They all faced massive amounts of failure before getting to where they are today! Let's be real. Fear of failure is one of the biggest reasons that so many students have math anxiety. It prevents students from asking questions, speaking up in class, and even supporting their peers. But one thing no one talks about is this: most mathematicians and scientists in real life get paid to fail! ln this workshop we will explore the powerful role of failure in math class and how you can harness it to inspire your students to embrace failure in math class - and in real life!
We live in a society where the word purity has become entangled in a gray area of post modernism & self-indulgence. Teaching authentic worship goes beyond just a faith or catechism class in school. It needs to be integrated into our systems as a whole. Accomplishing this requires a paradigm shift in both our mentality and our approach. Drawing from concepts laid out in his book, Peter guides us through the beginnings of what this shift might look like. Participants are invited to reflect, to journey, and to share.
Peter is a licensed minister, author, motivational speaker, and math teacher. During the school year, he teaches high school math in the city of Calgary. Outside of his teaching career, he is involved in the training, support, equipping and encouragement of an array of different leadership... Read More →
ExploreLearning Gizmos are award-winning, interactive simulations that bring research-proven instructional strategies to life and make learning fun! This session introduces the pedagogical approach of CER, claim-evidence-reasoning, to promote scientific literacy. Participate in a modelled lesson using online science simulations to experience firsthand the strengths of a CER approach. Explore and use the simulations currently available on the New Learn Alberta Curriculum Site. Teachers are encouraged to bring a device.
Lindsay Beaulieu has previously taught in Alberta and has witnessed the impact of Gizmos on student understanding. She has used Gizmos in the classroom since she began teaching. She enjoys working with educators to provide meaningful professional development for all Alberta educa... Read More →
Strengthen your students’ problem-solving skills and engage creatively with the curriculum by creating games in Microsoft MakeCode Arcade! This session will provide you with the foundational knowledge to help your students design their own video games, then bring those games to life through block-based coding. Learn how computational thinking skills such as pattern recognition, algorithm design, and debugging are necessary when coding and how to connect games to curricular concepts in any subject.
Whitney Horban (she/her) has worked in both formal and informal education and enjoys bridging the gap between the two. She has been atthe TELUS World of Science Edmonton for 8 years, traveling to schools around Alberta with the Science in Motion team and now heading up the Northern... Read More →
In recent years we have seen a rise in the use of artificial intelligence in our everyday lives: from machine learning algorithms that screen resumes for job postings, to bots that can converse with one another. In this workshop, participants will explore the pitfalls of artificial intelligence when it comes to algorithms responsible for making decisions impacting lives, and what our responsibilities are to ensure our models are ethical.
Mary has a Masters in Educational Technology from the University of British Columbia. She took her passion for technology-supported instruction and Digital Literacy studies to local and international schools. From the onset, she strongly advocates that technology implementation within... Read More →
Immerse yourself in the warmth of Destination Africa while its resident animals inspire you in this workshop that will demonstrate strategies and techniques that combine art with scientific inquiry and open the door to descriptive writing. Be prepared to have fun and discover your inner artist as you slow down and appreciate the finer details around you. No previous artistic experience necessary, just a willingness to have a go! Please bring your favourite writing instrument, and a journal or blank paper. Session Location: DOW Classroom, in the Enmax Conservatory CALGARY ZOO 210 St. George’s Dr. NE; T2E 7V6
Our conservation education staff have backgrounds in biology, natural history, zoology and ecology. With experience ranging from animal husbandry to field research, our team is comprised of qualified informal educators who are passionate about bringing the natural world to life and... Read More →
Friday February 21, 2025 10:20am - 12:40pm MST
Off-SiteCheck Session Description for Address
Design thinking has garnered a lot of buzz in recent years, but how might it be applied to your teaching practice? Join facilitators from the Alberta Council of Environmental Education in exploring how to use the Design Thinking process to answer the question, “How might students explore environmental careers?” Using the lens of Environmental Stewardship, this hands-on session will give teachers an understanding of the design thinking process and how to implement it in their classrooms.
Though targeted at CTF teachers wanting to explore Environmental Stewardship, this collaborative and hands-on workshop, is applicable no matter which grade or subject area you teach. Work through a crash course in the design thinking process and come away with an outline for integrating environmental education and sustainability approaches throughout your school year.
The Alberta Council for Environmental Education (ACEE) works collaboratively to advance environmental education in Alberta. Although we embrace and support environmental education for all audiences in Alberta, we're particularly interested in supporting young people: we believe that... Read More →
This session can either be a follow-up from Trauma-Infomed and Resiliency-Focused Schools, or it can be taken alone. A simplified explanation of the Polyvagal System will be explained, including what it is and how it affects our bodies and minds. We will look at several different ways that teachers can stimulate the polyvagal system to help regulate students. Some are examples of quick, five-minute before class activities, and other are longer, depending on the situationa and the student.
Kimberly has been a teacher for over 20 years. She is also a certified Trauma-Informed Practitioner, both Clinical and Educational. Kimberly has certifications in EFT Tapping, Mindfulness, and Meditation. At-risk children are her passion, but she understands that we all have trauma... Read More →
Mixed Media- Projects for all seasons Watercolours and oil pastels techniques are being explored and demonstrated in this session. The participants will use and apply these techniques to create a few art projects. Composition, design and color will be examined to guide the participants find their own inner artistic talents . The projects presented are being demonstrated step-by-step and can be adapted to any grade level to address a variety of learning styles. All the supplies are included and the fee for this session is $10.
Over the past few years I presented numerous sessions at various Teacher Conventions, Fine Arts Conferences, Professional Development Days, and private organizations/groups. As an art teacher, my main goal is to inspire others to love, appreciate, and explore the artistic paths using... Read More →
In this session, we will share an assessment planning process that is based on teaching for conceptual understanding with any curriculum. Instructional leaders will focus on the new Alberta Math curriculum and learn how to support teachers in creating an assessment plan that meets the needs of a differentiated classroom. Participants will also collaborate to make a shareable list of planning strategies that support a modified or accommodated diverse learner support plan, intervention plan, and EAL plan.
Field Service Facilitator, Alberta Assessment Consortium
The Alberta Assessment Consortium is a not-for-profit education partner in the province, focused on everyday assessment to support student learning. Our facilitators combine their experience as Alberta teachers and teacher leaders with the expertise of the organization.Presenter Shelly... Read More →
Are you in search of ready to go, age-appropriate financial literacy lesson plans? Enriched Academy is a free resource designed to connect with the needs and interests of grade 4 to 12 students. It uses an engaging and entertaining video-based format complete with lesson plans, teacher guide, and student activities.....everything you need to get started today. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with Sonya to learn more about how the three classroom resources support the curricular outcomes for grade 4 to 6 PE & Wellness, grade 7 to 9 Health and grade 10 to 12 CALM, Math & CTS.
Sonya Fox is an experienced educator with over 20 years of teaching experience and has worked with students from grades one through twelve. In her last four years, Sonya took her passion for business and finance into the classroom, teaching entrepreneurship and finance to high... Read More →
This 2 for 1 session will be an overview of the first two barriers to connection highlighted in the Connecting Against All Odds presentation. Barrier 3: “I just don’t have time for this right now!”: How being overwhelmed by schedules, obligations and a lack of “time” turn molehills into mountains! Having a solid and structured plan and a consistent set of expectations are a key element to setting up a space where everyone can feel safe. Where we often go “off the rails” is either by expecting too much or being so committed to a “plan” that we cannot be flexible. This session will focus on strategies for evaluating the environment and the impacts it has on behaviour and skills for balancing consistency with flexibility. Barrier 4: “I am just done, I have had ENOUGH!”- The importance of self-regulation and the role it plays in co-regulation! When your tank is empty, you are not going anywhere! Self-regulation is the key to successful co-regulation. Looking at recommended strategies for keeping ourselves calm so that we can help others to learn to regulate their own emotions.
As a student with ADHD, mental health difficulties and behavioral issues, Rita experienced the impact a dedicated professional could make. She obtained a BSc/BEd with a Special Education Specialization, and now teaches at a Junior High Behavioral Outreach program.Rita’s passion... Read More →
What are employers looking for when a student applies for a job? What can you do to help students be successful in their job search? This session will consist of a panel discussion and question period with CAREERS: the Next Generation and MCG Careers ; two organizations operating across Alberta to help youth and families write resumes and cover letters, find jobs in their communities and talk with employers with confidence. Join this session to broaden your ability to help students enter the workforce and gain a community contact to enhance your CALM class.
Michael Koehler is a much better CALM teacher now that he has been married, had children, finished an Apprenticeship and taught in Australia. After 30 years of teaching CALM, math, construction, automotives and off-campus programing, Michael knows how to look at a curriculum and pull... Read More →
From its inception, Islam has transformed the status of women and paved the way for female leadership to grow and flourish. Did you know that the first University in the world was founded by Fatima al-Fihri, a Muslim woman? Or that Sabiha Gökçen, the first female combat pilot in the world, was Muslim? Were you aware that the early spread of Islam was funded by Khadijah bint Khuwaylid, the first Muslim woman? Please join me for a walk through history as we explore the contributions of Muslim women in all fields of life, including Mathematics, Literature, Politics, Science, Education, and more. We will look at the contributions of Muslim women around the world from early Islamic civilization, through the generations, until today. This session will leave you with a foundational understanding of what Islam, unmarred by the media and mainstream society, really says about women. We will highlight some of the entrepreneurs, warriors, educators, and scholars who forged the path for future generations to walk with dignity, pride and ambition.
Youssra is an Arab, Muslim, Canadian. She holds a Bachelor of Arts with a double major in Psychology and Sociology, a Bachelor of Education, and a Master's in Theoretical, Cultural, and International Studies from the University of Alberta. Her professional experiences include front... Read More →
This course offers demos and resources on warm up games, semester of plays/showcases, incorporating the curricular objectives, rundown of producing a show, rubrics and assessments, as well as supplementary lessons for guest teachers.
I have been a junior high and senior high drama, art, and filmmaking teacher since 2014. After obtaining my undergraduate degree in Theatre Arts from Trinity Western University, I received a Bachelors of Education from Vancouver Island University. I have produced over a dozen plays... Read More →
Why are skills and knowledge so difficult to move between different contexts? During this session, we will dive into the issue of transfer, consider what is required for effective transfer, and discuss what this means for the modern 21st Century Skills movement in education. Furthermore, we will explore the only truly future-proof skill research has ever found.
Jared Cooney Horvath (PhD, MEd) is a neuroscientist, educator, and author of the best-selling book Stop Talking, Start Influencing: 12 Insights from Brain Science to Make Your Message Stick. He has conducted research and lectured at Harvard University, Harvard Medical School, the... Read More →
Les simulations en ligne Gizmos peuvent inciter vos élèves à penser comme des mathématiciens. Découvrez comment l'utilisation de ces simulations peut favoriser la compréhension conceptuelle des mathématiques chez les apprenants grâce à la modélisation et à l'enquête. Vous participerez à une leçon de mathématiques durant laquelle un Gizmo sera utilisé. Vous découvrirez ainsi comment les insérer dans vos leçons. Nous visiterons les ressources qui accompagnent les Gizmos afin que vous puissiez les utiliser immédiatement en classe ! Les enseignants de M à 6e année ont accès à plusieurs Gizmos grâce à Alberta Education. Si possible, les participants à cet atelier devraient apporter un appareil numérique.
Consultante en mathématiques/Math Consultant, RLM Consulting
Renée Michaud is an independent Mathematics Consultant. She provides professional development to a variety of schools and school districts in French and in English in Western Canada and beyond. She has presented various math sessions at Alberta Teachers’ Conventions over the past... Read More →
Dr. David Naylor, Department of Physics & Astronomy Over the last two decades Dr Naylor has led Canada’s involvement in the Herschel/SPIRE and SPICA/Safari space missions. Prior to this he worked at the European Space Agency on the ISO/ LWS mission. With space exploration missions costing between 1 and 10 B$, he is often asked “Why should we spend money on these projects when there are so many problems here on Earth?
His lecture will provide his unique perspective on this question. He will review the current state of international space exploration activities and briefly review Canada’s space exploration program.
He will discuss lesser appreciated benefits that arise from space exploration and present a few specific examples of innovations that we take for granted that came directly from the space program. He will conclude with a discussion of three innovations that have spun off from the space missions in which he has been involved; two of which are being commercialized in Lethbridge.
David Naylor, Professor and Board of Governors’ Research ChairDirector, Astronomical Instrumentation GroupSpace Astronomy Division, Institute for Space Imaging ScienceDepartment of Physics and Astronomy, University of Lethbridge As a Commonwealth Scholar David received his PhD... Read More →
Retirement can no doubt be both exciting and daunting. Between all the paperwork and planning, let us make one of the items on your checklist a little easier! During this presentation, you will learn the ins and outs of your health benefits during retirement. From eligibility requirements to different types of coverage, ASEBP has got you covered—literally.
The Alberta School Employee Benefit Plan (ASEBP) is more than health insurance—we’re health champions. We provide sustainable, holistic health benefits, programs and services and are there to support you and your employer throughout your personal and workplace wellness journeys... Read More →
This workshop offers practical ways that you can build emotional regulation into your daily classroom routine. Learn and practice strategies specifically adapted for elementary school students. We will explore the leading evidence-based strategies for emotional regulation and how to spot and manage dysregulation in your students. You will leave with a toolbox of strategies to incorporate regulation exercises in your classroom, which can help students of all backgrounds and abilities. Strategies range from quick 10-second techniques, daily habits, longer exercises, and tips for how to create sensory-friendly classrooms without spending a lot of money. Creating an inclusive classroom with effective teacher-student connections begins with understanding and implementing emotional regulation; fine tune your practice with us!
Meg Lindemulder is a Canadian Certified Counsellor and educator who holds a B.Ed in Secondary English Language Arts and a Master of Counselling in Applied Psychology. With her experiences as both a private and public school teacher, and her current career as a mental health therapist... Read More →
Megan Oviatt is a Registered Provisional Psychologist and educator who completed her undergraduate degree in Educational Psychology and holds a Master of Counselling Psychology. She previously worked as an elementary school teacher and is currently practicing as a mental health therapist... Read More →
Ever wondered what vocabulary building activities you can do with a paint chip or letter tiles? Come prepared to play and learn some of our favorite Box Cars games for teaching: word families and rhyme, spelling simple CVC words, vowels, two-syllable words, word play including ideas for synonyms, antonyms and homonyms. Games will also incorporate the use of literacy tiles and word decks. Games are easy to differentiate and use in either whole class or small group instruction. The session is appropriate for primary, ESL, upper elementary special ed programs. Ideas can be used as a family literacy night or for practice at home.
Jane has spoken for years at the Palliser Teacher's Convention. She has over 30 +years of teaching and consulting experience across North America. She is the author of Box Cars and One-Eyed Jacks - award winning math and literacy game resources. She is passionate about engaging all... Read More →
Through outcome-first planning, you will explore practical ways to organize physical education and wellness lessons into meaningful and intentional themes. The themes you create will allow for flexible and responsive student-centred programming, while directly targeting the outcomes from the organizing ideas featured in the Alberta K-6 Physical Education & Wellness Curriculum. We will also discover ways that you can streamline assessment while maintaining authenticity. This session is sure to inspire creativity within and help you refine your practice.
Ever Active Schools is a registered national charity designed to create and support healthy school communities. We engage and support schools through a Comprehensive School Health framework, which addresses health and education goals to improve the social outcomes of children and... Read More →
We are in a crisis. Our students are being faced with choices that they are ill equipped to make. A society of pornography and rape culture is infiltrating our well-being with incredibly severe consequences. We shy away from discussing the issues & pay a huge price. Not for the faint of heart, Peter offers an in-depth and in-your-face talk to teachers & educators about purity. While from the perspective of the Christian faith, principals shared transcend religious backgrounds. It’s time to talk about it. It’s time to fight back.
Peter is a licensed minister, author, motivational speaker, and math teacher. During the school year, he teaches high school math in the city of Calgary. Outside of his teaching career, he is involved in the training, support, equipping and encouragement of an array of different leadership... Read More →
Executing the perfect triple play in baseball requires an excellent set of core skills, but also an intuitive sense of the game, knowing what to do, when to do it, and why. Reading, like baseball, is complex. Leaders in education and literacy, join us in this session as we delve into what the research says about developing the five pillars of reading. Then, get your game on and participate in hands-on activities that, through artful teaching, put reading skills back into meaningful contexts in powerful ways. As leaders in education, you will come away from this presentation with a sense of how we need to teach reading, what we need to teach, and why. Step up to the plate, and let’s play ball!
Michelle is an enthusiastic educator with over 18 years of teaching experience. She is currently a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Calgary, examining the connection between oral language development and early literacy acquisition.
Director of Student Learning, JrK-6, Foothills School Division
Miriam works with the Foothills School Division, supporting the implementation of new curriculum. Miriam has her Ph.D. from the Werklund School of Education; her passion is supporting teachers in building powerful literacy classrooms where all learners experience success.
Encourage curiosity and wonder with exploration of science concepts using online simulations. Join us to learn how the explore-before-explain approach builds deep conceptual understanding. Use phenomena to spark interest and engagement in your students. Best practices for teaching with Gizmos are modelled. Time will be provided to search for and investigate Gizmos that support your New Science Curriculum. Gizmos are available to all teachers on the New Learn Alberta Curriculum Site. Teachers are encouraged to bring a device.
Lindsay Beaulieu has previously taught in Alberta and has witnessed the impact of Gizmos on student understanding. She has used Gizmos in the classroom since she began teaching. She enjoys working with educators to provide meaningful professional development for all Alberta educa... Read More →
Take a deep dive into how agriculture and the environment work together to benefit each other and the science behind it. Take a look at the importance of biodiversity, soil, water, air and sustainability and what farmers are doing to help the environment. Learn about how you can help your students understand the important role agriculture plays in protecting the environment with this curriculum related resource, which is free for teachers!
Nanita grew up on a farm in central Alberta, where she still resides and farms with her family. With a passion for Agriculture, Nanita completed her B.Sc in Agriculture at the University of Alberta. With over 20 years of experience in the Agriculture industry, Nanita had the opportunity... Read More →
This session examines the history of Congo as a case study of Imperialism… from Leopold’s Congo to ‘Independence’. It focuses on the roles of foreign actors, including Canada, and their motives. Were they truly motivated by the enlightened Idealism they professed or the dark Realism described by Joseph Conrad, “The conquest of the earth is not a pretty thing when you look into it too much”? The session quotes from "Heart of Darkness" to illustrate the continuity of Realism in Imperial policy from Leopold's Congo to ‘Independence’ and challenges many of our most cherished historical myths… including the admission in a DND document that Canadian Peacekeepers played a vital role in Prime Minister Lumumba’s capture leading to his assassination. Kwame Nkrumah, Politburo members and US NSC staff explain how UN Peacekeepers were misused for Neocolonial control in Congo. As we shall see in Part 2, this quote regarding Eisenhower’s order to kill Lumumba still applies today, "the norms of private life and of a polity regulated by law are only with difficulty invoked in global politics.” Whether the scramble for rubber, copper, coltan or cobalt... in International Politics, "The strong do what they will and the weak suffer what they must". We will explore the implications of this history for Social Studies Curricula.
Greg Hunter taught Science in Alberta for 30 years. His talks promote an understanding and teaching of History based on Evidence and Reason and a vigilance against Dogma and Bias. Adam Hochschild, Professor at UC Berkeley and author of 'King Leopold's Ghost' said, “Greg's talks... Read More →
Artificial intelligence has emerged as a transformative force in today’s digital world. Among these revolutionary advancements is ChatGPT. This interactive presentation will exhibit how the use of AI can elevate your educational prowess, leaving a meaningful and long lasting impact on your students' lives.
In this comprehensive session, participants will learn: How to Build Effective Prompts: We'll guide you through the art and science of building prompts that solicit informative, educational responses from ChatGPT.
How to Implement ChatGPT: Discover concrete, practical ways you can use ChatGPT, the best new tool in your teaching arsenal.
Common Concerns: We'll address any questions surrounding the use of AI tools like ChatGPT, including privacy, content moderation, and potential misuse.
By the end of this presentation you will walk away with a comprehensive understanding of ChatGPT, empowering you with the confidence and the knowledge you need to harness this revolutionary new tool, and enhance your students' learning experience.
Ethan Bell is a ChatGPT consultant who has worked with several businesses on how ChatGPT can improve their productivity and success. Ethan also works for Inclusion Alberta working with young adults and, as a person with a disability, understands and advocates for how technology can... Read More →
A taste of Art- Oil Pastels Projects Various techniques and strategies to effectively use the vibrant colours of the oil pastels are demonstrated in this session. Creating new colours, blending colours and achieving texture will be explored by step-by-step demonstration of each project. These projects can be modified for any grade level and abilities. All the supplies are being provided and the fee for this session is $10.
Over the past few years I presented numerous sessions at various Teacher Conventions, Fine Arts Conferences, Professional Development Days, and private organizations/groups. As an art teacher, my main goal is to inspire others to love, appreciate, and explore the artistic paths using... Read More →
Join us for an engaging professional learning session focused on assessing the new curriculum through play in the early years. As educators working with young learners, we understand the importance of play in their development and learning journey. This session will empower you with practical strategies and insights to effectively assess student progress and achievement of new curriculum outcomes while honouring the power of play.
Field Service Facilitator, Alberta Assessment Consortium
The Alberta Assessment Consortium is a not-for-profit education partner in the province, focused on everyday assessment to support student learning. Our facilitators combine their experience as Alberta teachers and teacher leaders with the expertise of the organization.Presenter Shelly... Read More →
During this session participants will be provided with an overview of the Child Intervention System, who Children's Services serve and how they strive to build safe communities for Alberta Children and Youth. Recent changes in reporting processes and guidelines will be described. Included in this session will be specific strategies to help to identify and report suspected child abuse. Information such as the specific questions that you will be asked when making a report will be presented. Finally, participants will discover if their call is truly confidential, and what happens after they have made the report.
Linda Shima is a social worker with Children’s Services and is part of the Luna Child and Youth Advocacy Multidisciplinary Team. Her portfolio includes Intake and Triage for The Joint Investigative Child Abuse Team (JICAT). Linda has been actively involved in Child Protection Services... Read More →
Education Liaison, Luna Child and Youth Advocacy Centre
Brenda Straw is a certified teacher on secondment to Luna Child and Youth Advocacy Centre (CYAC) from the Calgary Catholic School District (CSSD) where she previously held the position of Diverse Learning Coordinating Teacher. As part of school leadership teams, Brenda coordinated... Read More →
The best way to learn is from experience, but there are some things in the CALM curriculum that are much too painful or costly to learn that way. The next best way to learn is from someone who has been through it before. This session will consist of a panel discussion and question period with Alberta Adolescent Recovery Centre (AARC) and The Alberta Seventh Step Society; two local not-for-profit community organizations that have wisdom and experience to help students learn from the experience of others. Join this session to broaden your ability to talk with students about addictions and gain a community contact to enhance your CALM class.
Michael Koehler is a much better CALM teacher now that he has been married, had children, finished an Apprenticeship and taught in Australia. After 30 years of teaching CALM, math, construction, automotives and off-campus programing, Michael knows how to look at a curriculum and pull... Read More →
Cette session portera sur les différents bienfaits d'une rétroaction efficace pour améliorer la réussite des élèves. À travers la recherche, nous démontrerons que l'enseignant est au cœur de la réussite des élèves et que grâce à des rétroactions et des feedbacks fréquents et efficaces, la consolidation des connaissances et des compétences chez l'élèves est facilitée. Cette session sera en partie basée sur la recherche scientifique, mais aussi sur des exemples possibles de rétroactions tant au primaire qu'au secondaire.
Kevin Bergeron est un enseignant au Centre francophone d'éducation à distance depuis 2019 et à enseignant en salle de classe depuis 2013. Il fini présentement sa maitrise sur l'enseignement explicite à distance en se spécialise sur la pratique guidée et sur l'intervention... Read More →
This session offers warm up writing activities, schedule for planning, semester of ideas/projects that incorporate the curricular objectives, how to rework scenes and storylines, rubrics for marking, as well as supplementary lessons for guest teachers.
I have been a junior high and senior high drama, art, and filmmaking teacher since 2014. After obtaining my undergraduate degree in Theatre Arts from Trinity Western University, I received a Bachelors of Education from Vancouver Island University. I have produced over a dozen plays... Read More →
Join us for an overview of the Layers of Writing graphic! During this session, we will share the research pertaining to the layers, the principles that can guide how we structure our programs, and how the writing process can help situate writing instruction in a purposeful environment.
Michelle is an enthusiastic educator with over 18 years of teaching experience. She is currently a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Calgary, examining the connection between oral language development and early literacy acquisition.
Director of Student Learning, JrK-6, Foothills School Division
Miriam works with the Foothills School Division, supporting the implementation of new curriculum. Miriam has her Ph.D. from the Werklund School of Education; her passion is supporting teachers in building powerful literacy classrooms where all learners experience success.
How can we best reach our ELL population in the classroom? Take part in this interactive session to explore how we can capitalize on the strengths of students to enhance their English Language Development. This session will focus on easy to implement ESL best practices. Building on an understanding of language acquisition theory, as well as the fundamental value of oral language in developing and strengthening progress in the classroom. Topics addressed include; the value of academic vocabulary development and background knowledge, welcoming students and their families, comprehensible input and scaffolding strategies. Practical ways of teaching and implementing these strategies will be shared. Teachers will leave this session equipped with a variety of resources, practices and strategies that can be immediately implemented in the classroom to support all learners.
Youssra is an Arab, Muslim, Canadian. She holds a Bachelor of Arts with a double major in Psychology and Sociology, a Bachelor of Education, and a Master's in Theoretical, Cultural, and International Studies from the University of Alberta. Her professional experiences include front... Read More →
This presentation is Jay’s story, specifically their experience with school, mental health, having a learning disability, and being a part of the 2S/LGBTQIA+ community. Jay will share challenges they have experienced during their schooling and, how they’ve made an impact on their life, as a student leader. As a student leader, Jay’s area of passion is to prevent these challenges from occurring in other schools and communities. Jay will conclude this session with suggested ways we can all contribute to creating sustainable, inclusive learning environments.
Designer of Professional Learning, Calgary Regional Consortium
Jay Knopf is 18 years old and is attending Foothills Academy as a grade 12 student. Throughout high school and junior high, they always had a passion for talking about issues that have an impact on others. They also value educating themselves on topics outside of their own experience... Read More →
Having now completed over three years as online teachers, we have learned a lot about inclusion and meeting students where they are at. We have also explored a variety of different strategies to create inclusive online learning spaces for all students. Join us as we reflect on these experiences and what we have learned in online classrooms that can be applied to in-person classrooms.
Alicia, Alex and Nicole all shifted to online instruction during Covid after over a decade in traditional in-person classrooms and they have remained online since then. As teachers in Rocky View Schools' first-ever elementary and middle online school, they are uniquely poised to reflect... Read More →
Alex is a teacher at Discovery Trails Online School - Rocky View Schools. She is currently teaching a grade 1/2 split as well as 1-6 Art, and 7-9 CTF: FSL. Over the past 27 years, Alex has instructed students from Kindergarten through Grade 9 in both English and French Immersion... Read More →
Alicia, Alex and Nicole all shifted to online instruction during Covid after over a decade in traditional in-person classrooms and they have remained online since then. As teachers in Rocky View Schools' first-ever elementary and middle online school, they are uniquely poised to reflect... Read More →
If you are just getting started with ukulele in your classroom or studio, this session is for you! Learn tips, tricks and money-saving hacks to kick-start your program. Ukulele for Children author Christina O'Brien will walk you through some ways to get started and cover all of the basics such as tuning options, instrument storage ideas, classroom management, warm-up activities, free online resources, and why she NEVER starts with C, F and G chords. There will be plenty of time for questions and discussion too.
This "Ukulele 101" session continues seamlessly into "Ukulele.Simplified" right after it. Stay for both to get lots of hands on time with the ukulele and the material presented.
There will be some ukuleles on site for participant use during the presentation. Be sure to get there early to snag one!
Music Teacher and Book Author, Ukulele for Children
With plenty of teaching experience in the classroom and studio, Christina has been able to blend the individualized lesson approach with large group instruction, ensuring that every student can feel success with a part in each song that she teaches or arranges. Christina completed... Read More →
In addition to enhancing active living and movement skill development, physical education and wellness improves students' knowledge, understanding, skills and procedures in the areas of safety, character development, financial literacy, growth and development, healthy eating, and healthy relationships. Discover ways to intentionally target learning outcomes, examine cross-curricular learning and enhance student engagement. Together, we will explore ways to bring physical education outcomes into the classroom and wellness outcomes into the gymnasium.
Ever Active Schools is a registered national charity designed to create and support healthy school communities. We engage and support schools through a Comprehensive School Health framework, which addresses health and education goals to improve the social outcomes of children and... Read More →
Join us for an adventure at TELUS Spark Science Centre to get a taste of all we have to offer you and your students! We'll take you on a tour through K-3 programming, including all of those new curricular connections and then travel through some of the sights and sounds of the science centre, including our Creative Kids Museum, designed specifically for young learners. 220 Saint George's Drive Northeast, Calgary, AB T2E 5T2
Jen Duffy's goal in life is to encourage wonder, compassion, and respect for the diversity that surrounds us all. She has over 15 years of experience in formal and informal education settings including Edmonton Public Schools, WISEST (Women in Scholarship, Engineering, Science & Technology... Read More →
Want to design a conservation action project with your students but don't know how to get started? In this presentation, we will introduce you to conservation action project ideas, tips for getting started, as well as introduce you to our Conservation Champions Festival as a way to celebrate and showcase your students' work. Session Location: Karsten Discovery Centre CALGARY ZOO 210 St. George’s Dr. NE; T2E 7V6
Our conservation education staff have backgrounds in biology, natural history, zoology and ecology. With experience ranging from animal husbandry to field research, our team is comprised of qualified informal educators who are passionate about bringing the natural world to life and... Read More →
Friday February 21, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
Off-SiteCheck Session Description for Address
This session examines the history of Congo as a case study of Imperialism… from ‘Independence’ to the ongoing Congo Wars to todays Scramble for Rare Earth Minerals... “Where formerly the natives hardly knew how to get their daily food, now European enterprise, has brought [them] unthought-of wealth” - King Leopold “The horror, the horror” - Conrad in “Heart of Darkness” “Apple works to protect the environment and to safeguard the well-being of the millions of people touched by our supply chain” - Apple Inc. “Our daily lives are powered by a human and environmental catastrophe in the Congo. The scale of destruction caused by cobalt mining in the name of renewable energy is without contemporary parallel.” - Kara in “Cobalt Red”
Topics include - Lumumba’s assassination, Hammarskjold’s death, Katangan succession, Mobutu’s rise, The Rwandan Genocide, Kagame’s rise and Rwanda/Uganda’s invasion of Congo (5 million deaths). It focuses on the roles of foreign actors, including Canada, and their motives. Were they truly motivated by the enlightened Idealism they professed or by the dark Realism described by Joseph Conrad, “It was just robbery with violence, aggravated murder on a great scale”? This session quotes from "Heart of Darkness" to illustrate the continuity of Realism in Imperial policy from Leopold to the present and challenges many of our most cherished historical myths including our ‘Peacekeeping’ missions … and make it embarrassingly clear that General Dallaire’s presentation of Paul Kagame in “Shake Hands with the Devil” as a hero of Idealism masks the truth of Kagame’s massive war crimes. “What redeems it is the idea only” (Conrad). Boutros-Ghali, (“Was this not Fashoda?”) and others describe how UN Peacekeepers were misused by our Anglo-American Alliance to wrest control in Rwanda and Congo from France (Franc Afrique) and if that was a Geopolitical error… as now China is the rising Neocolonial Master of Congo. We will also explore the implications of all this history for Social Studies Curricula.
Greg Hunter taught Science in Alberta for 30 years. His talks promote an understanding and teaching of History based on Evidence and Reason and a vigilance against Dogma and Bias. Adam Hochschild, Professor at UC Berkeley and author of 'King Leopold's Ghost' said, “Greg's talks... Read More →
Magic The Gathering is a card game from Wizards of the Coast that was started in 1993 by Richard Garfield. It is a strategy game where you and your opponent(s) build decks that will help you reduce the opposition's life total to 0. More than a game, in a school setting, it provides students with fundamental skills such as Reading, Math, Logic, History, and art appreciation. It provides teachers with new ideas for Social Studies, English, and Art assignments, as students can learn by creating their cards. The most important aspect of the Magic The Gathering game is how it brings kids together from all different socioeconomic backgrounds. It does not discriminate on age, gender, race, or social class, for where can you find the twelfth-grade high school quarterback sitting across from the captain of the ninth-grade coding club, discussing strategies and laughing and learning together. In this session, you will learn how to intergrade this game into your class by learning how to play. All levels of players are welcome to learn and play together.
*** If you have Commander Decks, please feel free to bring them with you. There is a group that would love to meet new people and see different decks!!!! *** If you are just learning, We will use “Jump Start” product to help learning how to play.
Ryan Hatch is a Principal at Carbon School in Carbon, Alberta, for Golden Hill School Division. He has been a teacher for 17 years, where he has taught a multitude of classes and coached just as many sports. He started playing Magic The Gathering in 2010, where he has played with... Read More →
Robert Metcalfe is a Humanities Teacher at Drumheller Valley Secondary School. Robert can either be found snowboarding Alberta mountains in the winter or camping throughout the summer. He has hosted a popular games club at DVSS introducing students to a multitude of board and card... Read More →
Repeat from 2021 - This session explains the different types of trauma that people can experience. We then look at symptoms for teachers to watch for, what school staff needs to know about childhood trauma, and why schools should become trauma-informed. Trauma comes in many forms, and we will go through several examples, as well as how trauma affects the brain. There are 10 steps we will go through to becoming a trauma-informed school, and each step will be fully explained with examples.
Kimberly has been a teacher for over 20 years. She is also a certified Trauma-Informed Practitioner, both Clinical and Educational. Kimberly has certifications in EFT Tapping, Mindfulness, and Meditation. At-risk children are her passion, but she understands that we all have trauma... Read More →
Research has shown that students' success is directly related to the well-being of the adults supporting them. Evidence has historically shown that teachers experience a high level of burnout, and the likelihood increases when teachers are working with complex learners and/or in diverse classrooms.
An entire school climate can be positively impacted by leadership teams focusing on teacher wellness, as well as teachers learning the effect that our own well-being has in their classroom. Using the analogy of a pizza being placed in an oven without a pan, we will connect how one’s learning (or teaching) will be drastically impacted when their social emotional needs are not recognized or considered during lesson planning, as well as throughout the day.
Attendees will be asked to reflect on current practice, while exploring new perspectives and tools, allowing them to walk away from the session with a feeling of confidence of how they may approach their classroom design moving forward with a focus on wellness.
From a school wide perspective, attendees will be invited to collaborate and brainstorm on their current school practices for teacher wellness, as well as explore ways that could be presented to their school teams in the future.
The hope is for all attendees to walk away with skills and ideas to improve teacher wellness at a micro to macro level.
Kirsty Reade is a learning support teacher for Rocky View Schools . She has taught in schools from Kindergarten to Grade 9, as well has held divisional positions over the last 16 years. She completed her Masters of Education at the University of Calgary, focused on Interdisciplinary... Read More →
Monoprinting Beyond Realism Create beautiful projects and learn techniques and methods that give your artwork movement, life, and dimension! In this session, the participants will work with a limited palette of colours to focus on specific monoprinting methods using a variety of tools and materials. A few projects will be demonstrated step-by-step and can be modified for any grade level and abilities. All the supplies are being provided and the fee for this session is $10.
Over the past few years I presented numerous sessions at various Teacher Conventions, Fine Arts Conferences, Professional Development Days, and private organizations/groups. As an art teacher, my main goal is to inspire others to love, appreciate, and explore the artistic paths using... Read More →
This session offers introduction to film activities, semester of ideas/projects that vary in length from trailers to short films, Canadian Film resources, rubrics and assessments, as well as supplementary lessons for guest teachers.
I have been a junior high and senior high drama, art, and filmmaking teacher since 2014. After obtaining my undergraduate degree in Theatre Arts from Trinity Western University, I received a Bachelors of Education from Vancouver Island University. I have produced over a dozen plays... Read More →
Working with parents can be tricky. In this session, teachers and admin will learn 4 key communication skills that can disarm heated discussions, come to resolution, and be able to create a collaborative approach to the student's academic success.
Connie Jakab is the author of Bring Them Closer, where she helps educators and parents figure out how to bring hard-to-reach students closer. She has been working in mental health and resilience for 25 years, studying the impacts of how belonging creates resilience. She created a... Read More →
In this highly engaging and interactive circle discussion with HPEC (Health and Physical Education Council) we will delve into the pressing issues and challenges faced by physical education and wellness teachers in today's dynamic educational landscape. Join us for a thought-provoking conversation that aims to empower educators with innovative solutions, strategies, and best practices to elevate their teaching and ultimately improve the overall wellness of their students. Teachers will also come away with province-wide resources.
This session allows teachers to take a well-deserved hour for mindfulness and relaxation. Former teachers turned mental health counsellors guide you through some of the leading research on mindfulness and relaxation techniques for mental well-being. The majority of the session will be spent on practicing these strategies including mindfulness meditations, breathwork, somatic relaxation practices, and gentle movement. A yoga mat and/or blanket is recommended for your comfort. Taking time for oneself as a teacher is key to maintaining balance and avoiding burnout - use this hour during your teacher’s convention experience to do just that, and then take what you have learned to your daily teacher life! The presenters will also show you some simplified versions of these exercises that can be done in a short amount of time and can be worked into your schedule. All experience levels and abilities are welcomed, and modifications will be offered for every participant’s comfort and safety.
Meg Lindemulder is a Canadian Certified Counsellor and educator who holds a B.Ed in Secondary English Language Arts and a Master of Counselling in Applied Psychology. With her experiences as both a private and public school teacher, and her current career as a mental health therapist... Read More →
Jordan Renz is a Canadian Certified Counsellor who holds a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology and a Bachelor of Arts in Social and Cultural Anthropology. She has experience working with individuals from culturally diverse backgrounds and those within the LGBTQ2IA+ community... Read More →
Au cours de notre carrière d’enseignant, nous avons tous eu des années plus difficiles que d’autres pour différentes raisons. Il est important, lorsque cela nous arrive, de prendre un temps d’arrêt pour réfléchir aux pratiques que nous utilisons en salle de classe et aux stratégies que nous pouvons mettre en place pour aider nos élèves. Que nous soyons un enseignant débutant ou un enseignant d’expérience, parfois ce temps d’arrêt s’impose. Lors de cet atelier, nous explorerons des stratégies préventives et correctives. Nous insisterons sur l’importance de revenir aux stratégies efficaces pour tous les élèves avant de mettre en place des interventions ciblées et spécifiques.
Madame Rioux est détentrice d’un baccalauréat en sciences de l’éducation et d’une maîtrise en éducation - spécialisation en administration scolaire. Elle œuvre dans le milieu de l’éducation depuis 20 ans et occupe présentement le poste de conseillère pédagogique... Read More →
Madame Robert est détentrice d’un baccalauréat en sciences de l’éducation et elle réalise présentement une maîtrise en éducation - spécialisation en efficacité de l'enseignement et des écoles. Elle œuvre dans le milieu de l’éducation depuis près de 18 ans et occupe... Read More →
Get ready to learn some new singing games and some new ways to play old favourites. Games get your students singing, moving, and learning many musical concepts. Songs and games featured in this session will represent different cultural genres and backgrounds, with information provided on the background and origins of the songs.
Stacy Werner is a music specialist with over 15 years of experience teaching choir, instrumental ensembles, piano and classroom music. Stacy currently teaches kindergarten to Grade 6 music in Alberta, Canada. Stacy is a valued contributor to Musicplay Online and a frequent guest on... Read More →
No strumming required…(but you can if you want to!) Ukulele for Children author Christina O'Brien will present some ideas to make teaching ukulele easy and accessible for all learners and all teachers! The tried and true UFC method emphasizes music reading on the treble staff, group music making, and tons of creativity. Teachers who are new to teaching ukulele or already have lots of experience, will walk away from this hands-on session with plenty of fresh ideas to incorporate ukulele in their teaching, as well as some reproducible handouts.
If you're new, or fairly new to teaching the ukulele at school, be sure to attend "Ukulele 101" right before this session as "Ukulele. Simplified" builds on the previous basics taught in "Ukulele 101."
There will be some ukuleles on site for participants to use. Make sure you arrive early to snag one!
Music Teacher and Book Author, Ukulele for Children
With plenty of teaching experience in the classroom and studio, Christina has been able to blend the individualized lesson approach with large group instruction, ensuring that every student can feel success with a part in each song that she teaches or arranges. Christina completed... Read More →
During this session, participants will be provided with an overview of the Criminal and Youth Justice perspective on consent. Tools will be presented that may be used by school staff to explain consent to youth and case studies will be reviewed.
During this interactive session, participants will have the opportunity to review and book an RCMP presentation geared to students in grades 6-12. Participants will be encouraged to pose questions to gain strategies for addressing and responding to concerns regarding consent, internet safety, exploitation, and peer-on-peer sexual abuse among youth in their schools.
Education Liaison, Luna Child and Youth Advocacy Centre
Brenda Straw is a certified teacher on secondment to Luna Child and Youth Advocacy Centre (CYAC) from the Calgary Catholic School District (CSSD) where she previously held the position of Diverse Learning Coordinating Teacher. As part of school leadership teams, Brenda coordinated... Read More →
Cpl. Anita Swanson has been a member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) for the past 17 years. She has worked the past 4 years overseeing serious crimes perpetrated on children and youth. Her team services all the communities in southern Alberta outside of the City of Calgary... Read More →
Join us for an adventure at TELUS Spark Science Centre to get a taste of all we have to offer you and your students! We'll take you on a tour through 4-12 programming, from joining a semester-long design challenge to witnessing a live knee surgery. Then travel through some of the sights and sounds of the science centre to help you make connections when you come for a field trip. 220 Saint George's Drive Northeast, Calgary, AB T2E 5T2
Jen Duffy's goal in life is to encourage wonder, compassion, and respect for the diversity that surrounds us all. She has over 15 years of experience in formal and informal education settings including Edmonton Public Schools, WISEST (Women in Scholarship, Engineering, Science & Technology... Read More →
Looking for ways to get your students outside and engage them in real world science? Come explore Citizen Science, why it’s important and how to incorporate it into your classroom. We will look at various classroom-ready Citizen Science initiatives then head out on to zoo grounds to test them. You will leave equipped to turn your students into citizen scientists! Session Location: DOW Classroom, in the Enmax Conservatory CALGARY ZOO 210 St. George’s Dr. NE; T2E 7V6
Our conservation education staff have backgrounds in biology, natural history, zoology and ecology. With experience ranging from animal husbandry to field research, our team is comprised of qualified informal educators who are passionate about bringing the natural world to life and... Read More →
Friday February 21, 2025 2:20pm - 3:20pm MST
Off-SiteCheck Session Description for Address
Explore foundational coding concepts in your elementary classroom with the new Alberta curriculum! This presentation will discuss storytelling and writing as it relates to computational thinking, explore how coding and computer science themes can exist in nature and art, and delve into a variety of activities – both plugged in and unplugged. Attendees will leave with newfound confidence in teaching computer science topics and integrating computer science across curriculums.
Whitney Horban (she/her) has worked in both formal and informal education and enjoys bridging the gap between the two. She has been atthe TELUS World of Science Edmonton for 8 years, traveling to schools around Alberta with the Science in Motion team and now heading up the Northern... Read More →
