Loading…
MPTCA 2025 has ended
Greetings and a warm welcome to the 2025 Mighty Peace Teachers’ Convention!

Convention will be held at Charles Spencer High School (CS) and St. Joseph Catholic High School (SJ), with some off-site sessions as well.

MPTC Wifi password: Mighty2025

Here are a few key points to get you started:

  1. Keeping informed about MPTC 2025- The most up to date information is posted on our website and in our Facebook Group. Keep an eye on our posts and emails for upcoming social events, speakers, and contests. These opportunities will provide valuable insights, resources, and networking possibilities.
    Read the February Newsletter.

  2. Build your schedule - Be sure to read the descriptions!: Please note that adding a session to your schedule DOES NOT guarantee you a seat in the room. We allow attendees to select multiple sessions per time slot when creating their schedule to allow for maximum flexibility on the day of Convention. All sessions are first come, first served, unless otherwise stated in the session description. Some sessions are double sessions and some require pre-registration and may have a fee to cover costs of materials. Please read and follow the instructions in the descriptions. We are excited to include several off-site sessions this year, so be sure to check the location as well.

3. New schedule - There are four time slots when sessions are held on each day. Sessions are 70 minutes long and there is 20 minutes between sessions to allow time to get to the other venue(s) if necessary.
Session 1: 9am-10:10am
Session 2: 10:30am-11:40am
Lunch 11:40am-12:40pm
Session 3: 12:40pm-1:50pm
Session 4: 2:10pm-3:20pm

Teachers’ Conventions are organized by volunteer teachers from each of the participating locals.
If you are interested in joining the MPTCA Board, please contact your local president.
arrow_back View All Dates
Thursday, March 6
 

TBA

Multi-Faith Reflection Room: A Space for Spiritual Practice and Meditation
Thursday March 6, 2025 TBA
SJ 131
Post-Convention Survey
Attendees, speakers and vendors are welcome to utilize this space throughout the day. This space has been specifically designated to accommodate the religious and spiritual needs of individuals who may wish to partake in prayer, meditation, or any other form of worship. Whether it be a moment of silent reflection, a prayer session, or meditation practice, this area is intended to serve as a sanctuary for individuals to connect with their spirituality and cultivate a sense of inner peace and tranquility amidst the bustling environment of the event.
Thursday March 6, 2025 TBA
SJ 131

TBA

Multi-Faith Reflection Room: A Space for Spiritual Practice and Meditation
Thursday March 6, 2025 TBA
CS 183
Post-Convention Survey
Attendees, speakers and vendors are welcome to utilize this space throughout the day. This space has been specifically designated to accommodate the religious and spiritual needs of individuals who may wish to partake in prayer, meditation, or any other form of worship. Whether it be a moment of silent reflection, a prayer session, or meditation practice, this area is intended to serve as a sanctuary for individuals to connect with their spirituality and cultivate a sense of inner peace and tranquility amidst the bustling environment of the event.
Thursday March 6, 2025 TBA
CS 183

TBA

Pet Partners Therapy Animals
Thursday March 6, 2025 TBA
CS Stage
Post-Convention Survey
Take a break and recharge with Pet Partners Therapy Animals. Conference attendees can relax and enjoy the calming presence of certified therapy animals. Whether you need a moment of stress relief or just want to experience the joy of animal companionship, this space offers a soothing environment to unwind. This space is open to all attendees who may benefit from the therapeutic presence of animals. Please be respectful of the pets and their handlers, and enjoy this opportunity to connect with our four-legged friends in a peaceful setting.
Thursday March 6, 2025 TBA
CS Stage

TBA

President Schilling: 2025 Convention Greeting
Thursday March 6, 2025 TBA
YouTube
Post-Convention Survey
ATA President Jason Schilling address to teachers.
Thursday March 6, 2025 TBA
YouTube

TBA

Quiet Room
Thursday March 6, 2025 TBA
CS Mod 1
Post-Convention Survey
The Quiet Room is a quiet, calming space designed to support conference attendees who may experience overstimulation and need a break from the busy environment. This room offers a peaceful retreat to promote relaxation and self-regulation.This space is open to all attendees who need a moment to recharge. Please be mindful of others by keeping noise levels low and using the room for quiet reflection or decompression.
Thursday March 6, 2025 TBA
CS Mod 1

TBA

Sensory Room
Thursday March 6, 2025 TBA
SJ 132
Post-Convention Survey
The Sensory Room is a quiet, calming space designed to support conference attendees who may experience overstimulation and need a break from the busy environment. This room offers a peaceful retreat with dim lighting, comfortable seating, and sensory-friendly elements to promote relaxation and self-regulation. This space is open to all attendees who need a moment to recharge. Please be mindful of others by keeping noise levels low and using the room for quiet reflection or decompression.
Thursday March 6, 2025 TBA
SJ 132

9:00am MST

ATRF Your Pension Essentials
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST
SJ 150
Post-Convention Survey
This presentation is designed specifically for teachers that have recently joined the plan. It provides a general overview of the plan, including information about pension contributions, maintaining your spouse/beneficiary information, the eligibility requirements for a pension, purchasing leaves of absences and substitute service, and transferring service with another pension plan.

Session Objectives:
1. Information about the Teachers' Pension Plan
Speakers
avatar for Pension Counsellor

Pension Counsellor

Pension Counsellor, Alberta Teachers' Retirement Fund (ATRF)
A Pension Counsellor with the Alberta Teachers' Retirement Fund (ATRF) that has presented at numerous conventions and webinars and is available for one-on-one meetings with members throughout the year. 
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST
SJ 150 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
  Administration, Health & Wellness |   Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Health & Wellness |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Health & Wellness |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Health & Wellness |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Health & Wellness |   Pre-K/ K, Health & Wellness

9:00am MST

The Arctic Experience: Goota's Journey Through Inuit Traditions
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST
CS 232
Post-Convention Survey
Rooted in the land-based resources of the North, Inuit traditions and culture flourished despite the unforgiving Arctic climate. Demonstrating incredible resilience and ingenuity, the Inuit have a rich history that Goota enthusiastically shares through her vivid storytelling and genuine Inuit artifacts.

Session Objectives:
1. Learn about Indigenous worldviews and perspectives
2. analyze the ways in which the Inuit have demonstrated resilience and ingenuity in adapting to the harsh Arctic climate.
3. will explore the importance of storytelling and the use of genuine Inuit artifacts in preserving and conveying cultural heritage
Speakers
avatar for Goota Desmarais

Goota Desmarais

Inuit Education
Goota Desmarais, from Cape Dorset, Nunavut, experienced a unique upbringing, spending winters in a modern Inuit settlement and summers in a traditional camp. Now residing in Sherwood Park, Alberta, she stays connected to her heritage through regular visits. Through her business, Inuit... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST
CS 232 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Administration, Fostering Effective Relationships, Indigenous Education |   Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Fostering Effective Relationships, Indigenous Education |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Fostering Effective Relationships, Indigenous Education |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Fostering Effective Relationships, Indigenous Education |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Fostering Effective Relationships, Indigenous Education |   Pre-K/ K, Fostering Effective Relationships, Indigenous Education

9:00am MST

The Ripple Effect
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST
SJ GYM
Post-Convention Survey
When you throw a stone into a pond, sometimes it simply sinks—“plop”. However, if thrown just right, the rock skips. Instead of the singular “plop”, the skipping rock reaches more water, leaving ripples on the surface - and this energy changes the entire pond. As educators, we throw the stone. In this dynamic opening session, educators will learn simple ways we create ripples in the school setting that positively impact the students we serve.
Speakers
DS
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST
SJ GYM 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
  Administration, Keynote, Fostering Effective Relationships |   Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Keynote, Fostering Effective Relationships |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Keynote, Fostering Effective Relationships |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Keynote, Fostering Effective Relationships |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Keynote, Fostering Effective Relationships |   Pre-K/ K, Keynote, Fostering Effective Relationships

9:00am MST

Move Over Cigarettes: Vapes and Nicotine Pouches are Hooking Our Youth
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST
SJ 152
Post-Convention Survey
Alberta Health Services health professionals will discuss vaping and nicotine pouch use amongst youth.

Participants will learn:

Trends in and prevalence rates of e-cigarette use for school-aged youth in Alberta

Best practices for preventing nicotine use

An Overview on nicotine pouches

Marketing tactics targeting youth

Grade-appropriate prevention education for schools

A summary of available resources for students and teachers to prevent and reduce nicotine use by young people

Session Objectives:
1. Best practices for preventing nicotine use in youth will be explored.
2. Teachers will learn about grade appropriate prevention education for schools.
3. A summary of available resources for students and teachers to prevent and reduce nicotine use by young people
Speakers
avatar for Aaron Ladd

Aaron Ladd

Health Promotion Facilitator 2, AHS
Aaron Ladd has been a Respiratory Therapist for over 20 years, currently working with Alberta Health Services, with the Tobacco Vaping and Cannabis Program as a Health Promotion Facilitator. Throughout his professional career, he has dedicated much of his time and energy to the field... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST
SJ 152 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
  Administration, Counselling & Student Support, Health & Wellness, School Leadership |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Counselling & Student Support, Health & Wellness, School Leadership |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Counselling & Student Support, Health & Wellness, School Leadership |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Counselling & Student Support, Health & Wellness, School Leadership

9:00am MST

Elementary Basketball: Jr NBA Div 1
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST
St. Kateri Catholic School
Post-Convention Survey
Discover the ultimate session focused on teaching basketball to elementary div 2 students. Engage all skill levels with fun and interactive basketball drills and mini-games. Learn innovative techniques to inspire young athletes, create an enjoyable experience, and foster teamwork. Enhance your teaching toolkit and leave with strategies to create an unforgettable basketball journey for your students. Join in and take your basketball sessions to the next level. Don't miss out!

Session Objectives:
1. Active Living: Developing physical literacy through movement and active living supports well-being across a lifespan.
2. Movement Skill Development: Developing physical literacy through movement and active living supports well-being across a lifespan.
Speakers
avatar for Jordan Loughlin

Jordan Loughlin

Teacher/Basketball Coach/Trainer, JDL Athletics
Coach Jordan Loughlin grew up in Red Deer playing basketball and graduating from Notre Dame High School. He has been coaching and teaching for 20 years in the Peace Country area. Currently he teaches grade 5 at Good Shepherd School. Under JDL Athletics he does private training, small... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST
St. Kateri Catholic School
  Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Physical Education

9:00am MST

Mathologie et Matific - pour rencontrer les besoins variés de vos élèves
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST
CS MOD 4
Post-Convention Survey
Mathologie est une ressource en ligne qui comprend multiples le ons et activit s qui sont vari es, diff renci es, ditables et surtout pratiques. Plus besoin de chercher en ligne pendant des heures car Mathologie rencontre tous les r sultats d apprentissage du curriculum de l Alberta de Mat 6e ann e. Matific, pour sa part, est une plateforme qui donne la chance aux l ves de pratiquer et d apprendre les notions de maths cibl es et personnalis es par l enseignant. Ensemble, Mathologie et Matific vous offrent tout ce dont vous avez besoin pour rencontrer les besoins vari s de vos l ves. Venez voir de quoi il s agit, comment ces ressources fonctionnent et comment elles permettent tous vos l ves de vivre des succ s en math matiques.

Session Objectives:
1. Pedagogy
2. Math
3. Technology
Speakers
avatar for Renée Michaud - RLM Consulting

Renée Michaud - RLM Consulting

Consultante en mathématiques/Math Consultant, RLM Consulting
Renée Michaud est consultante en mathématiques.  Elle présente régulièrement des sessions variées à différents congrès de différentes provinces tel qu’à APPIPC, BCAMT, APEF et nationalement à ACPI et ce, en français et en anglais.  Elle travaille également pour des... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST
CS MOD 4 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Mathematics, Technology |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Mathematics, Technology

9:00am MST

Not Yet Days - Using differentiation to foster a growth mindset
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST
CS 163
Post-Convention Survey
This session will lay out my experience creating an environment where students are given free choice about what they want to work on, with the condition that their choice reflects something they cannot do yet. The examples in this session will be based on a PE environment but can, and have been, applied to a classroom setting. For teachers looking to engage students who are reluctant to participate, this session is for you.

Session Objectives:
1. Student Engagement
2. Practical application of differentiation
Speakers
MS
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST
CS 163 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Fostering Effective Relationships, Inclusive Education, Music & Band, Physical Education |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Fostering Effective Relationships, Inclusive Education, Music & Band, Physical Education |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Fostering Effective Relationships, Inclusive Education, Music & Band, Physical Education

9:00am MST

Teaching Students to Write Cool Characters, Superheroes, and Themselves
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST
CS 213
Post-Convention Survey
Learn how to ignite your mind and fuel your imagination and lead your students to do the same. Deepen your understanding of: Free writing, The hero s journey, Creating cool characters, Writing about meaningful events in your life, Writing from new perspectives, Crafting new worlds in fictional stories, and The inspirational teaching time will open you up to new ways of looking at the world and at your own experiences. You ll learn new methods to express yourself, get inspired, and have a blast. You ll also come away with tools to help release stress that are healthy and empowering. Positive expressions of the mental health journey will be explored. Put these writing styles and exercises to the test then bring them back to your classrooms.

Session Objectives:
1. Literacy
2. Critical Thinking
3. Self-expression
Speakers
avatar for Alexis Marie Chute

Alexis Marie Chute

Creative Director, Alexis Marie Productions Inc.
Alexis Marie Chute is an award-winning artist, photographer, filmmaker, gallery curator, and bestselling author. Her books include The 8th Island Trilogy (Above the Star, Below the Moon, Inside the Sun) and memoir Expecting Sunshine: A Journey of Grief, Healing and Pregnancy After... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST
CS 213 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 1/ Grades 1-3, English Language Learning, Language Arts |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, English Language Learning, Language Arts |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, English Language Learning, Language Arts |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, English Language Learning, Language Arts

9:00am MST

ARE YOU SURE? QUESTIONS THAT BUILD MATH THINKING CLASSROOMS GRADE 4 - 6
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST
CS LIBRARY
Post-Convention Survey
Simple questions can lead students to think deeply about how they got to an answer and often lead them to explain their process. Effective questioning strategies and sample questions will be modelled and shared throughout this hands-on session as participants engage in a wide variety of games. A secondary focus will be on mental math and estimation strategies and activities. The games will integrate the use of easily found cards and dice. Participants will gain the knowledge, skill and confidence to embed higher-level thinking questions through their math games classes. Handouts will contain games, journal writing/question extensions and concept skills checklists for assessment. Come Prepared to Play!

Session Objectives:
1. Participants will learn a wide variety of math games, with supported questions for each
2. Participants will learn how to integrate math game journals into their classrooms
3. Participants will receive and learn how to use concept skill checklists for assessment purposes
Speakers
avatar for John Felling

John Felling

presenter, Box Cars And One Eyed Jacks
The workshops and seminars John Felling presents are engaging, informative, fun, and hands-on. In his workshops, teachers learn a variety of games and activities (new ones every year), closely tied to provincial curriculum standards. The games and activities presented integrate easily... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST
CS LIBRARY 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Mathematics

9:00am MST

Connecting Agriculture to the New Curriculum
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST
CS 162
Post-Convention Survey
Discover meaningful ways to bring agriculture to life in the classroom while aligning with the latest curriculum standards. In this professional development session, you ll explore hands-on activities and resources that integrate agricultural concepts into your science lessons. Learn how agriculture education supports cross-curricular competencies, including critical thinking, environmental stewardship, and career exploration. Whether introducing topics like environment, sustainability, or the science of plant and animal life, you will leave equipped with tools to inspire curiosity, deepen engagement, and connect students to the world of agriculture and its future impact.

Session Objectives:
1. Students analyze climate and connect it to weather conditions and agricultural practices.
2. Students investigate the systems of Earth and reflect on how their interconnections sustain life.
3. Students investigate climate, changes in climate, and the impact of climate change on Earth.
Speakers
LW

Luree Williamson

CEO, Ag for Life Inc.
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST
CS 162 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Science

9:00am MST

6 Super Strategies for Superb Sex Ed: Best Practices for Teaching Sexual Health
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST
CS 130
Post-Convention Survey
Are you stuck teaching sexual health the same way it was taught to you as a student? Times have changed, and there are subtle ways to make your sexual health classes more inclusive and impactful. Get the facts on how to confidently answer questions from students and ensure that all students see themselves in your lesson. We will review six tips that will take your sexual health classes from subpar to superb!

Session Objectives:
1. Learners will feel more confident addressing values and answering student questions in sexual health classes
2. Learners will understand why classroom teachers are best suited to teach sexual health
3. Learners will be able foster inclusive learning environments that reduce shame and stigma
Speakers
avatar for Nicole Inglis

Nicole Inglis

Health Promotion Facilitator, Alberta Health Services: Teaching Sexual Health
Nicole Inglis (she/her) has taught everything from grade 1 PE to Bio 30 and has taught in both public and Catholic Schools. She has an M.Ed in Adult Education and works on the Sexual and Reproductive Health Promotion team at Alberta Health Services. Nicole lives in Calgary with her... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST
CS 130 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Counselling & Student Support, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Health & Wellness, Physical Education |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Counselling & Student Support, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Health & Wellness, Physical Education |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Counselling & Student Support, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Health & Wellness, Physical Education

9:00am MST

Coding Across the Curriculum: Integrating Microsoft Makecode Arcade
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST
SJ 144
Post-Convention Survey
Discover how coding with Microsoft Makecode Arcade can revolutionize your classroom by bringing abstract concepts to life across various subjects. This workshop will equip educators with the skills to use Makecode Arcade to create interactive and engaging projects that represent key ideas in math, science, social studies, language arts, and more. Through hands-on activities and collaborative learning, participants will learn to design and implement coding projects that enhance student understanding and engagement.

Session Objectives:
1. Educators will learn to use Microsoft Makecode Arcade to create projects that represent concepts in math, science, social studies, and language arts.
2. Educators will develop strategies to make learning more interactive and engaging by incorporating coding activities into their lessons.
3. Educators will gain the ability to design coding projects that encourage students to think critically and solve problems creatively.
Speakers
avatar for Dominic Tremblay

Dominic Tremblay

Education Consultant, Dominic P. Tremblay, Education Consultant
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST
SJ 144 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Curriculum & Pedagogy, English Language Learning, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Technology |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Curriculum & Pedagogy, English Language Learning, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Technology |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Curriculum & Pedagogy, English Language Learning, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Technology

9:00am MST

Empowering Junior High Foods Educators: Effective Resource Sharing Strategies
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST
SJ 141
Post-Convention Survey
Effective resource management is crucial for Junior High CTF Foods teachers who aim to provide engaging and practical culinary experiences for their students. This session is designed to offer CTF Foods educators a collaborative platform to share and discover innovative resources, tools, and best practices that enhance classroom experiences and teaching outcomes.

Session Objectives:
1. Explore a variety of high-quality, adaptable resources for Junior High CTF Foods classes.
2. Discover practical examples of resource utilization that address common challenges in junior high culinary education.
Speakers
avatar for Jeanne Lawrence

Jeanne Lawrence

Board Member, Mighty Peace Teachers Convention Board
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST
SJ 141 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Assessment, Career & Technology Studies/Foundations

9:00am MST

Learning With Lumio
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST
SJ 206
Post-Convention Survey
Do you need a way to guide students through a lesson online or in person while on devices? How about modeling math problems virtually? Jamboard used to be a great place to whiteboard online, but now that is going to the Google Graveyard. What other whiteboard platforms are out there? In this session, I will focus on the ins and outs of Lumio and some different ways you can use it online and in person! We will explore Lumio in the following ways: Interactive lessons, accountability formative assessments, group work, and whole-class assignments for students not in class. Join in and learn how Lumio can enhance your teaching and your student s learning!

Session Objectives:
1. Set up a Lumio Presentation
2. Learn how to create independent, group and whole class whiteboard activities.
Speakers
avatar for Melanie Golding
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST
SJ 206 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Technology |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Technology

9:00am MST

So you're a teacher with ADHD. Now what?
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST
SJ 236
Post-Convention Survey
This session is to demonstrate some executive functioning strategies for teachers with ADHD, especially those who have been diagnosed as adults.

All of these strategies come from my personal experience as a teacher with severe ADHD, who was diagnosed at 34 years old.

Session Objectives:
1. Teachers who attend will demonstrate at least one new strategy that they could use to improve their executive functioning skills as teachers
Speakers
LB
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST
SJ 236 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Professional Issues

9:00am MST

Basics of American Sign Language DOUBLE SESSION
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 11:40am MST
CS 206
Post-Convention Survey
We will examine the basics of American Sign Language: what sign language is and its cultural origins. A basic review of fingerspelling, alphabet and greetings will also be briefly reviewed. This session is only a brief introduction to ASL and is suitable for beginners, looking to learn some ASL and find a few ways to use it in a classroom.

Session Objectives:
1. Learn alphabet and a few basic signs in ASL
2. Build an understanding of Deaf Culture
Speakers
avatar for Alina Ovsiy

Alina Ovsiy

FSL/ASL Teacher, Peace Wapiti Academy, PWPSD No 76
I am a language enthusiast, currently in my 8th year of teaching Languages for PWPSD in Grande Prairie. In my education journey, my previous goal was to become an Interpreter in Ukraine at National Aviation University, in Kyiv. Having immigrated from Ukraine in 2011, I have been privileged... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 11:40am MST
CS 206 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Administration, Diversity Equity & Human Rights, French & International Languages, Inclusive Education |   Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Diversity Equity & Human Rights, French & International Languages, Inclusive Education |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Diversity Equity & Human Rights, French & International Languages, Inclusive Education |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Diversity Equity & Human Rights, French & International Languages, Inclusive Education |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Diversity Equity & Human Rights, French & International Languages, Inclusive Education |   Pre-K/ K, Diversity Equity & Human Rights, French & International Languages, Inclusive Education

9:00am MST

Get Inspired - A Gazillion Elementary Art Ideas to Implement Monday Morning! DOUBLE SESSION PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 11:40am MST
CS 143
Post-Convention Survey
Probably the most practical session you will ever attend... come and experiment with a variety of art materials, and walk away with a million ideas to implement on Monday morning! Come dressed for a mess, as you will be creating lots of art, and will walk away with several completed art exemplars that you can use in your classroom. These lessons are intended for elementary aged classes, but with some creativity and problem solving, many are adaptable for junior high settings. PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED - Contact the speaker at andrea.daly@spschools.org *$10.00 registration fee

Session Objectives:
1. Experimenting with and learning about unfamiliar media (art materials) to be used in the classroom.
2. Lesson planning and structure in the art room.
3. Cross-curricular connections in art.
Speakers
avatar for Andrea Daly
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 11:40am MST
CS 143 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Art |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Art
  • Pre-registration Contact the speaker at andrea.daly@spschools.org *$10.00 registration fee

9:00am MST

Pastel Perfection: Mastering Chalk and Oil Pastels Techniques DOUBLE SESSION PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 11:40am MST
SJ 272
Post-Convention Survey
Get ready to delve into the world of chalk and oil pastels with an exciting workshop that will elevate your art projects. Unleash your students' creativity as they create a stunning Alberta landscape using a 1-point perspective and bring a vibrant watermelon still to life. The difficulty level can be tailored to suit the grade level being taught. By the end, you'll have three completed projects and access to step-by-step instructional PowerPoint presentations and links to the YouTube instructional videos. This workshop has a $10 art supply fee for all grade levels. Get ready to ignite your students' passion for art! PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED Contact the speaker at orzelski@ualberta.ca *$10.00 registration fee.

Session Objectives:
1. Understand and apply the concept of 1-point perspective when creating an Alberta landscape, demonstrating an understanding of depth and spatial relationships in artworks.
2. Demonstrate proficiency in using chalk and oil pastels to create vibrant and realistic watermelon still life, showcasing blending and layering techniques.
3. Develop an appreciation for art and creativity through hands-on participation in the workshop, fostering a passion for artistic expression and exploration.
Speakers
avatar for Izabella Orzelski

Izabella Orzelski

Art Representative, Fine Arts Council
Izabella Orzelski is an accomplished artist, educator, and award-winning portraitist. With an MFA and Ph.D., she combines her passion for art and education to inspire others. Her commissioned works and collaborative projects have been exhibited across Canada. With 20 years of teaching... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 11:40am MST
SJ 272 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Art, Curriculum & Pedagogy |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Art, Curriculum & Pedagogy |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Art, Curriculum & Pedagogy |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Art, Curriculum & Pedagogy |   Pre-K/ K, Art, Curriculum & Pedagogy
  • Pre-registration Contact the speaker at orzelski@ualberta.ca *$10.00 registration fee

9:00am MST

From Concept to Script - Screenwriting Workshop DOUBLE SESSION
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 11:40am MST
SJ 145
Post-Convention Survey
Storytelling applied to film or TV is one of the most exciting mediums to explore. Movies and TV shows, as a global entertainment source, provide ample opportunity to teach content creation and storytelling. This interactive presentation and workshop takes attendees through how to structure a film script, including plotting, character development, and dialogue, along with examples.

Session Objectives:
1. Particularly if students are struggling with traditional writing, screenwriting provides a different writing outlet that utilizes the same storytelling techniques.
2. Or, in general, it provides a touchpoint that students are more familiar with: movies!
Speakers
avatar for Andrew Buckley

Andrew Buckley

Author/Speaker/Creator
Today, he’s a traditional and self-published novelist of rather silly, yet enjoyable speculative fiction for all ages, a comic book writer, screenwriter, podcaster, creator, and speaker. For over 20 years, he’s worked in the dreaded world of marketing as a content creator, copywriter... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 11:40am MST
SJ 145 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Art, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Drama & Dance, Language Arts |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Art, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Drama & Dance, Language Arts

9:00am MST

FULL - Swing Into Action: Virtual Golf Experience
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 11:40am MST
Whispering Ridge Community School
Post-Convention Survey
Join me for an engaging session on golf simulators at this year's convention! This hands-on workshop will explore technology in golf simulation and highlight its benefits for players of all skill levels. Attendees will learn to use simulators for practice, teaching, game analysis, and enjoyment.
Attendees can bring their own clubs and try out a few famous holes from around the world!

I will cover key features such as ball speed, club speed, smash factor, club path, and angle of attack, helping participants understand how these metrics can improve their game. Additionally, we will discuss how to interpret data for personalized training and performance tracking.

Participants will also be able to try out the simulators themselves, gaining practical experience and insights into enhancing their game even in winter months. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or a curious beginner, this session promises to be informative and interactive!

Please text (780) 897-3940 to book your spot. Limited to 5 per session.

Session Objectives:
1. 1. Teach users about different budget launch monitor choices and their accessories
2. 2. Metrics and how they can help improve a golf swing
3. 3. Health and social benefits of golfing throughout the winter
Speakers
HM
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 11:40am MST
Whispering Ridge Community School
  Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Physical Education |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Physical Education
  • Pre-registration Pre-registration is required. This session is FULL.

9:00am MST

How to play games and run an Introduction to Board Games and Design Option DOUBLE SESSION
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 11:40am MST
Card's Board Game Café
Post-Convention Survey
Come learn how to run a successful gaming club in your school. Learn how to run an Introduction to Board Games option - and an advanced board game design option - and build a library to support board game options or clubs. We will model through experiential learning various types of games that will appeal to a cross-section of students. Participants are encouraged to bring their games to show and play.

Check out Greg's website for details:
http://oppieclass.weebly.com/introduction-to-board-games.html

Session Objectives:
1. Foster community through social interaction and play
2. Develop ideas for library of games in the classroom
3. Learn to play popular board and card games.
Speakers
avatar for Greg Oppedisano

Greg Oppedisano

If I grow up I wanna be a half elven dread necromancer devoted to the eternal service of Hextor lord of battle.
JC
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 11:40am MST
Card's Board Game Café
  Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Fostering Effective Relationships, Health & Wellness |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Fostering Effective Relationships, Health & Wellness

9:00am MST

Needle felting in the Fashion classroom DOUBLE SESSION PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 11:40am MST
CS 156
Post-Convention Survey
Get to know the craft of needle felting! With just some coarse wool roping, serrated needles, and foam pads, you can have your students sculpting and designing right from the first day of class. This is a hands-on, practical session, so please come prepared to create! In the first half of this session, we will create a project that I use with my own Fashion 9 students to help them learn the basic techniques. Then, in the second half, we will take it a step further and learn to use the softer fibres of merino top coat wool roving to add rich layers of colour to our creations. PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED Contact speaker at terispracklin@hotmail.com *$10.00 registration fee

You will leave with practical tips for teaching this craft in your Fashion classes, my list of recommended Canadian (Albertan, when possible) suppliers for materials, and a completed project you can use as a model for your students.

Session Objectives:
1. Participants will gain experience with needle felting supplies and safe use of specialized needle felting tools
2. Participants will learn how to address some possible logistical challenges with relation to using this project in the classroom
3. Students will gain confidence in their ability to introduce this unusual craft to their students.
Speakers
avatar for Teri Todd
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 11:40am MST
CS 156 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Career & Technology Studies/Foundations |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Career & Technology Studies/Foundations
  • Pre-registration Contact speaker at terispracklin@hotmail.com *$10.00 registration fee

9:00am MST

Resolve conflict with confidence! DOUBLE SESSION PART 1
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 11:50am MST
SJ 139
Post-Convention Survey
Teacher and school leader participants will learn to

strengthen communications skills,
recognize different types of conflict,
navigate conflict, and
move beyond the conflict
Speakers
avatar for Amy Villneff

Amy Villneff

Executive Staff Officer, Teacher Employment Services, The Alberta Teachers' Association
Amy joined the Association’s Teacher Employment Services executive staff in 2024 after over 20 years experience in public education where she has taught in nearly all grade levels across a variety of subjects and spent nearly a decade in school administration. In addition to assisting... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 11:50am MST
SJ 139 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
  Administration, Fostering Effective Relationships, Professional Issues, Counselling and Student Support, School Leadership |   Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Fostering Effective Relationships, Professional Issues, Counselling and Student Support, School Leadership |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Fostering Effective Relationships, Professional Issues, Counselling and Student Support, School Leadership |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Fostering Effective Relationships, Professional Issues, Counselling and Student Support, School Leadership |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Fostering Effective Relationships, Professional Issues, Counselling and Student Support, School Leadership

10:30am MST

Embracing Spiritual Wellness in the Classroom (repeats on Friday)
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
SJ 173
Post-Convention Survey
As educators, we are constantly giving to others—our time, our energy, and our attention. But how often do we take the time to nurture our own well-being? In this interactive and rejuvenating session, you’ll discover the power of spiritual wellness—a practice that helps you reconnect with your inner peace, purpose, and balance.
Join us for an experience that blends mindfulness, stretching, meditation, and self-reflection to help you cultivate a sense of calm and clarity in your daily life and classroom. You’ll leave this session with practical tools that you can use immediately to reduce stress, enhance your emotional resilience, and create a more peaceful and positive classroom environment.
What to Expect:
  • Gentle Stretching: A short, accessible stretching session to release tension and ground your body.
  • Guided Meditation: A calming meditation practice to quiet your mind, connect with your inner purpose, and reduce stress.
  • Mindfulness Practices: Learn simple, effective techniques to integrate mindfulness and reflection into your day.
  • Personal Reflection: Time for journaling and introspection to help you create meaningful, actionable steps for incorporating spiritual wellness into your work.
Who Should Attend?
This session is for teachers who are looking to reduce stress, enhance their well-being, and cultivate a positive, centered presence in their classrooms. Whether you are new to wellness practices or have experience with mindfulness, stretching, and meditation, this session will provide valuable tools for all.
What to Bring:
Please bring your yoga mat and wear comfortable clothing. We will be incorporating some light stretching and meditation, so make sure to come prepared for a relaxing, rejuvenating experience.
Session Benefits:
  • Gain tools to help you stay calm and focused throughout your day.
  • Discover how to bring mindfulness practices into your classroom.
  • Learn how spiritual wellness can improve your emotional resilience and overall well-being.
  • Leave feeling refreshed, centered, and empowered to bring a sense of balance into your teaching practice.
Join us for an experience that will help you reconnect with your inner peace, rejuvenate your spirit, and transform the way you teach!
Speakers
avatar for Nichole Gerein

Nichole Gerein

District Principal of Religious Education, GPCSD
KF
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
SJ 173

10:30am MST

Numeracy in a Thinking Classroom (Number Sense, Addition, and Subtraction)
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
CS 160/161
Post-Convention Survey
We want our students to be confident math thinkers and problem solvers. We want them to work with numbers fluently and flexibly. This session will focus on strengthening numeracy skills in a Thinking Classroom. Following Peter Liljedah's framework, we will explore number talks, strategies for addition and subtraction, and tools to support students wherever they are in their math learning. We will also explore some Big Beautiful Problems and picture books to inspire the love and joy of numeracy!

Session Objectives:
1. Develop number sense and numeracy skills
2. Develop understanding of addition and subtraction
3. Inspire the love and joy of math
Speakers
avatar for Alicia Burdess

Alicia Burdess

Numeracy Lead Teacher, Grande Prairie and District Catholic Schools
Alicia Burdess has been a teacher, assistant principal, and math coach with Grande Prairie and District Catholic Schools since 2005. Alicia’s passion is teaching through problem solving in a Thinking Classroom; she enjoys working with students and teachers implementing Peter Liljedahl's... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
CS 160/161
  Administration, Mathematics |   Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Mathematics

10:30am MST

Teaching Reading and Writing with a Poem a Week
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
CS 224
Post-Convention Survey
How will a poem a week help you to teach the ELAL outcomes?

In this session, Angela will share with you a tried-and-true schedule for teaching the poetry outcomes AND many other ELAL outcomes just by planning daily enjoyable poetry lessons with your students. Participants will walk away with a weekly template of activities for teaching poetry.

Session Objectives:
1. Examining a daily 15 - 30 min poetry schedule
2. Review the ELAL outcomes for Poetry
3. Review enjoyable examples of poetry lessons
Speakers
avatar for Angela DesBarres
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
CS 224 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Administration, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Language Arts |   Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Language Arts |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Language Arts

10:30am MST

Out of the Box and Into the Barnyard
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
CS 163
Post-Convention Survey
Got Goats?
Join Teaching-Principal Jennifer Daniel on her journey into agricultural education. Jennifer has led a variety of agriculture and farm-to-table activities and projects with her students in a K-12 school setting. She will share some of the highlights from these projects and lessons learned (sometimes the hard way!). Participants will leave the session with a "blueprint for failure," because this is how we learn! Jennifer will also highlight the wide range of curriculum outcomes addressed in her projects and how student voice and choice have empowered students to personalize and take ownership of their learning.

Session Objectives:
1. Teachers will gain insights into how to incorporate agriculture and food systems education into the curriculum, helping students connect with where their food comes from.
2. Educators will learn how to implement PBL effectively by engaging students in hands-on, real-world activities that promote critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration.
3. Participants will be encouraged to embark on learning activities and create environments that spark joy and bring calm to our often chaotic world, fostering a sense of fulfillment for both students an
Speakers
avatar for Jennifer Daniel

Jennifer Daniel

Principal Worsley Central, PRSD
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
CS 163 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Administration, Career & Technology Studies/Foundations, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Health & Wellness, Inclusive Education, Language Arts, Learning Commons & Makerspaces, Science |   Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Career & Technology Studies/Foundations, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Health & Wellness, Inclusive Education, Language Arts, Learning Commons & Makerspaces, Science |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Career & Technology Studies/Foundations, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Health & Wellness, Inclusive Education, Language Arts, Learning Commons & Makerspaces, Science |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Career & Technology Studies/Foundations, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Health & Wellness, Inclusive Education, Language Arts, Learning Commons & Makerspaces, Science |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Career & Technology Studies/Foundations, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Health & Wellness, Inclusive Education, Language Arts, Learning Commons & Makerspaces, Science

10:30am MST

ARTA and the ARTA Benefit Plans - Looking Ahead to New ADVENTURES Presented by Alberta Retired Teachers' Association
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
SJ 181
Post-Convention Survey
If you are considering retirement within the next five years, you ve got some big decisions just around the corner. Make sure you re ready for them! This presentation will go over everything you need to know about the Alberta Retired Teachers Association (ARTA), including programs and perks available to members and, of course, the nationally acclaimed Health Benefit Plans, complete with information on all the health, travel, and dental benefits ARTA offers. A retired teacher will provide important points to consider before retiring and touch on some retirement lessons they ve learned from experience. Join us to discover how ARTA can support you to begin this new, exciting adventure.

Session Objectives:
1. Retirement Planning
2. Health Benefits
3. Emergency Travel
Speakers
avatar for Ray Hoger

Ray Hoger

Chief Operating Officer, ARTA
Ray Hoger is the ARTA vice president. Ray is a retired teacher with a deep passion for supporting fellow retirees in making informed decisions about their retirement. With years of experience in education, he understands the importance of staying informed and engaged. Ray is dedicated... Read More →
avatar for Lorna McIIroy

Lorna McIIroy

president, Alberta Retired Teachers Association
Lorna is the current ARTA President and has a keen interest in the issues that impact her present and future retired colleagues and with ARTA, Lorna seeks to provide a smooth transition into a fulfilling retirement with the best options for members. These include member-centred services... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
SJ 181 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
  Administration, Health & Wellness |   Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Health & Wellness |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Health & Wellness |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Health & Wellness |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Health & Wellness |   Pre-K/ K, Health & Wellness

10:30am MST

Engaging the Disengaged
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
SJ GYM
Post-Convention Survey
“Is this going to be on the test?” “Do I have to do that?” Motivation and engagement are critical factors in helping our students find success in school. This session will feature simple ways to keep students actively plugged into teaching efforts. Participants will learn how to facilitate lessons that help students not only pay better attention in class, but also better retain the content being taught.
Download the handout below.
Speakers
DS
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
SJ GYM 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
  Administration, Inclusive Education, Fostering Effective Relationships, Keynote |   Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Inclusive Education, Fostering Effective Relationships, Keynote |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Inclusive Education, Fostering Effective Relationships, Keynote |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Inclusive Education, Fostering Effective Relationships, Keynote |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Inclusive Education, Fostering Effective Relationships, Keynote |   Pre-K/ K, Inclusive Education, Fostering Effective Relationships, Keynote

10:30am MST

Kinngait Through Goota's Eyes: A Tale of Challenges and Victories
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
CS MOD 3
Post-Convention Survey
Growing Up in Nunavut Goota recounts her life in Kinngait, revealing the trials and triumphs of her early years. Please note that this powerful narrative may contain content unsettling for some audiences.

Session Objectives:
1. will develop empathy and awareness by engaging with Goota s personal stories of trials and triumphs, understanding the emotional and psychological impacts of growing up in a challenging environment.
2. will explore the socio-cultural context of Nunavut through Goota s personal narrative, gaining insight into the unique challenges and experiences of growing up in Kinngait.
3. will be able to identify and discuss specific historical and contemporary challenges faced by the Inuit
Speakers
avatar for Goota Desmarais

Goota Desmarais

Inuit Education
Goota Desmarais, from Cape Dorset, Nunavut, experienced a unique upbringing, spending winters in a modern Inuit settlement and summers in a traditional camp. Now residing in Sherwood Park, Alberta, she stays connected to her heritage through regular visits. Through her business, Inuit... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
CS MOD 3 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Administration, Fostering Effective Relationships, Indigenous Education |   Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Fostering Effective Relationships, Indigenous Education |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Fostering Effective Relationships, Indigenous Education |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Fostering Effective Relationships, Indigenous Education |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Fostering Effective Relationships, Indigenous Education |   Pre-K/ K, Fostering Effective Relationships, Indigenous Education

10:30am MST

President Schilling: Unplugged
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
SJ Library
Post-Convention Survey
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.
Speakers
JS
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
SJ Library
  Administration, Professional Issues |   Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Professional Issues |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Professional Issues |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Professional Issues |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Professional Issues |   Pre-K/ K, Professional Issues

10:30am MST

Spirit of the Metis
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
CS MOD 5
Post-Convention Survey
The Metis are a people of mixed European and Indigenous ancestry with a distinct and rich culture different from other Indigenous peoples. Participants will learn about the historical impact and significance the Metis have had on the development of Canada. An understanding and definition of the Metis identity will be defined and the importance and significance of traditional Metis cultural items will be shown.

Session Objectives:
1. Metis history and cultural knowledge
Speakers
avatar for Brian St. Germain

Brian St. Germain

Indigenous Education
Brian St. Germain was born and raised in Red Deer and recently retired from Red Deer Public Schools after 42 years of teaching. The last 12 years as a lead teacher with FNMI Learning Services. He also serves as an Indigenous Education PD Facilitator with the ATA. Brian is Cree First... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
CS MOD 5 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Administration, Diversity Equity & Human Rights, Indigenous Education, Social Studies |   Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Diversity Equity & Human Rights, Indigenous Education, Social Studies |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Diversity Equity & Human Rights, Indigenous Education, Social Studies |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Diversity Equity & Human Rights, Indigenous Education, Social Studies |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Diversity Equity & Human Rights, Indigenous Education, Social Studies |   Pre-K/ K, Diversity Equity & Human Rights, Indigenous Education, Social Studies

10:30am MST

ᑕᐯᐧᐃᐧᐣtapwewin: Dismantling Anti-Indigenous Racism
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
CS MOD 9
Post-Convention Survey
This introductory workshop will encourage educators to critically reflect on concepts such as systemic racism and assimilation. Historical and contemporary examples of anti-Indigenous racism will be explored, and participants will be challenged to consider their own role in dismantling anti-Indigenous racism. Educators will leave with a foundational understanding of anti-racism with a focus on Indigenous Peoples, and will also be equipped with suggested resources for further learning. Note that portions of this workshop may be difficult for some participants, particularly for Indigenous Peoples and/or those who have experienced racism.

Session Objectives:
1. Understand and dismantle systemic racism and assimilation
Speakers
avatar for Cassandra Mercer
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
CS MOD 9 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Administration, Counselling & Student Support, Inclusive Education, Indigenous Education, Professional Issues |   Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Counselling & Student Support, Inclusive Education, Indigenous Education, Professional Issues |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Counselling & Student Support, Inclusive Education, Indigenous Education, Professional Issues |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Counselling & Student Support, Inclusive Education, Indigenous Education, Professional Issues |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Counselling & Student Support, Inclusive Education, Indigenous Education, Professional Issues |   Pre-K/ K, Counselling & Student Support, Inclusive Education, Indigenous Education, Professional Issues

10:30am MST

Off-Campus Coordinator PLC
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
SJ 135
Post-Convention Survey
This session will allow off-campus coordinators to discuss current trends and issues. I will try to bring in other speakers from Careers, Green Certificate, etc.

Session Objectives:
1. Further knowledge of off-campus education
2. Discuss and learn from colleagues about current issues
3. Sharing of best practices
Speakers
avatar for Scott Randall

Scott Randall

Off-Campus Coordinator/Sr. high English, Glenmary School
Scott Randall is an award winning Off-Campus Coordinator and Sr High English teacher at Glenmary School. In his spare time, Scott is an independent recording artist. He also volunteers his time as a music minister at church and school sports coach. He enjoys playing music festivals... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
SJ 135 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
  Administration, Career & Technology Studies/Foundations, Educational Research, Health & Wellness, Inclusive Education, Reflection/Collaboration, School Leadership |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Career & Technology Studies/Foundations, Educational Research, Health & Wellness, Inclusive Education, Reflection/Collaboration, School Leadership |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Career & Technology Studies/Foundations, Educational Research, Health & Wellness, Inclusive Education, Reflection/Collaboration, School Leadership

10:30am MST

AI Prompting for Teacher Success
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
CS 157/158
Post-Convention Survey
Discover how to harness the power of AI chatbots like ChatGPT to enhance your teaching practice! In this hands-on professional development session, you ll learn how to craft effective prompts to get tailored, high-quality results including generating engaging lesson plans, creating differentiated instructional materials, or brainstorming new pedagogical strategies. Perfect for beginners and seasoned tech users alike, this session will equip you with practical skills to use AI as a creative collaborator and thinking partner. Leave with ready-to-use examples, prompt templates, and confidence to make AI work for you in the classroom.
Speakers
avatar for Danny Maas

Danny Maas

Acting Associate Coordinator, Professional Development
Danny Maas is an Executive Staff Officer with The Alberta Teachers' Association in the Professional Development program area. He was previously the Manager of Educational Technology with Edmonton Catholic School Division and has supported teacher professional development for the past... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
CS 157/158
  Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Technology |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Technology |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Technology |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Technology

10:30am MST

Failure: Friend or Foe?
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
CS 213
Post-Convention Survey
Flip failure into fun and confidence! Drawing from a wealth of personal experience, award-winning artist, author, and filmmaker Alexis Marie Chute navigates the complex terrain of failure, reframing it as a valuable learning tool rather than a setback. Through engaging narratives and practical insights, attendees will discover ways to cultivate a growth mindset in students, encouraging them to view challenges as opportunities for growth. Chute explores how embracing failure can foster resilience, creativity, and innovation in the classroom, ultimately empowering educators to guide their students towards a more resilient and optimistic approach to both academics and life. This presentation transcends the traditional narrative on failure, offering a fresh perspective that can significantly impact how teachers inspire and mentor their students.

Session Objectives:
1. Confidence and Resiliency
2. Life Skills
3. Career Skills
Speakers
avatar for Alexis Marie Chute

Alexis Marie Chute

Creative Director, Alexis Marie Productions Inc.
Alexis Marie Chute is an award-winning artist, photographer, filmmaker, gallery curator, and bestselling author. Her books include The 8th Island Trilogy (Above the Star, Below the Moon, Inside the Sun) and memoir Expecting Sunshine: A Journey of Grief, Healing and Pregnancy After... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
CS 213 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Counselling & Student Support, English Language Learning, Health & Wellness, Inclusive Education |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Counselling & Student Support, English Language Learning, Health & Wellness, Inclusive Education |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Counselling & Student Support, English Language Learning, Health & Wellness, Inclusive Education |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Counselling & Student Support, English Language Learning, Health & Wellness, Inclusive Education

10:30am MST

Integrating Conservation Agriculture into the Classroom
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
CS 162
Post-Convention Survey
Conservation agriculture represents a crucial approach to sustainable farming, particularly in response to local climate and weather dynamics. Explore the principles and practices of conservation agriculture, emphasizing its adaptive strategies in the face of environmental challenges such as droughts, floods, fires, windstorms, and more. Conservation agriculture enhances agricultural resilience by minimizing soil disturbance, maintaining soil cover, optimizing water use, and employing sustainable harvesting techniques like crop rotation and companion planting. It supports stable plant and animal populations over time. Attendees will gain practical insights and resources to effectively incorporate conservation agriculture into their teaching, preparing students to become future leaders in sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship by equipping educators with the tools to integrate these principles into their classrooms. This session will empower educators with practical knowledge and resources to integrate conservation agriculture concepts into their teaching, thereby cultivating a generation of informed students about agriculture.

Session Objectives:
1. Key Practices in Conservation Agriculture - Techniques to minimize soil disturbance
2. Key Practices in Conservation Agriculture -Importance of maintaining soil cover
3. Key Practices in Conservation Agriculture - Sustainable harvesting practices
Speakers
LW

Luree Williamson

CEO, Ag for Life Inc.
avatar for Agriculture for Life

Agriculture for Life

Education Manager, Agriculture For Life
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 →
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
CS 162 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Career & Technology Studies/Foundations, Environmental & Outdoor Education, Science |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Career & Technology Studies/Foundations, Environmental & Outdoor Education, Science |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Career & Technology Studies/Foundations, Environmental & Outdoor Education, Science |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Career & Technology Studies/Foundations, Environmental & Outdoor Education, Science

10:30am MST

La modélisation en barres, la représentation qui vous manque? 1ère à 4e année
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
CS MOD 4
Post-Convention Survey
"L’usage de la modélisation en barres comme modèle de résolution de problèmes écrits permet de mieux visualiser les données et ainsi le résoudre avec plus de confiance. Cette représentation est peu présente dans les manuels d’élèves et donc, peu utilisée par les apprenants. Je vous propose de venir voir de quoi il s’agit. d'apprendre à les utiliser et d’ajouter cette stratégie à votre boîte à outils afin d’aider les élèves qui se cherchent en maths.

Session Objectives:
1. Math
2. Pédagogie"
Speakers
avatar for Renée Michaud - RLM Consulting

Renée Michaud - RLM Consulting

Consultante en mathématiques/Math Consultant, RLM Consulting
Renée Michaud est consultante en mathématiques.  Elle présente régulièrement des sessions variées à différents congrès de différentes provinces tel qu’à APPIPC, BCAMT, APEF et nationalement à ACPI et ce, en français et en anglais.  Elle travaille également pour des... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
CS MOD 4 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Curriculum & Pedagogy, French & International Languages |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Curriculum & Pedagogy, French & International Languages |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Curriculum & Pedagogy, French & International Languages |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Curriculum & Pedagogy, French & International Languages

10:30am MST

Mastering AI Prompts: Enhancing Productivity and Response Quality
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
SJ 144
Post-Convention Survey
Join your fellow educators for a practical session on "Mastering AI Prompts," you will learn the art and science of crafting high-quality prompts to maximize the potential of AI tools in the classroom. By the end of this session, you will have a toolkit of prompt-writing techniques that will empower you to leverage AI for enhanced classroom productivity and enriched learning experiences.

Session Objectives:
1. Crafting Effective Prompts: Learn strategies to formulate prompts that yield accurate, relevant, and useful responses from AI.
2. Time-Saving Techniques: Discover how well-designed prompts can streamline lesson planning, grading, and administrative tasks.
3. Enhancing Learning Experiences: Explore ways to use AI prompts to create engaging, personalized, and high-quality educational content.
Speakers
avatar for Jeannine Younger

Jeannine Younger

Education Technologist, Peace Wapiti Public School Division
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
SJ 144 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Technology |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Technology |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Technology |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Technology

10:30am MST

Ukulele Unlocked: A Beginner Teacher's Guide (ATA Fine Arts Council)
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
CS 139
Post-Convention Survey
Do you have a class set of ukuleles sitting around collecting dust and aren't sure where to start? In this session we will guide you through introducing the ukulele to your students and provide you with concrete strategies for how to implement a ukulele unit and how to integrate the ukulele throughout the school year into your teaching. We will discuss melody playing, chord accompaniment, where to buy ukuleles, resources, tuning suggestions and more! Come ready to play and learn! (ATA Fine Arts Council)

Session Objectives:
1. Best practices for introducing the ukulele
2. Resources for teaching melody playing and chords
3. Ukulele specifics - where to buy, tuning, storage solutions, etc
Speakers
avatar for Lorna Walker

Lorna Walker

Treasurer, Fine Arts Council
Lorna Walker is celebrating a 30 year career with Edmonton Public Schools. Most of those thirty years were spent in a music classroom. Currently she is an active supply teacher working primarily in music classrooms. Lorna has been involved with the Orff community for most of her working... Read More →
avatar for Connie Ohlmann

Connie Ohlmann

Fine Arts Council (FAC)
Connie Ohlmann is an elementary music educator with Edmonton Public Schools with more than 20 years of experience teaching elementary music. Connie is passionate about exploring music education practices to improve student engagement and retention. Connie serves on the ATA Fine Arts... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
CS 139 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Music & Band |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Music & Band |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Music & Band |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Music & Band

10:30am MST

Avoiding the Trap of Algorithms (K-12)
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
SJ 143
Post-Convention Survey
Algorithms might be powerful general tools, but they can trap students in limited, less-
sophisticated reasoning. In this session, learn how students can take advantage of the power of
generalizing without getting trapped and how we can develop mathematical reasoning, get
better results, and reach more students.
Speakers
avatar for Pam Harris

Pam Harris

CEO, Math is Figureoutable
Pamela Weber Harris is changing the way we view and teach mathematics. She is the author of several books, including Numeracy Problems Strings K-5, Developing Mathematical Reasoning, and Building Powerful Numeracy. As a mom, a former high school math teacher, university lecturer... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
SJ 143 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Mathematics, Curriculum & Pedagogy |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Mathematics, Curriculum & Pedagogy |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Mathematics, Curriculum & Pedagogy |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Mathematics, Curriculum & Pedagogy |   Pre-K/ K, Mathematics, Curriculum & Pedagogy

10:30am MST

Food Far and Wide
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
SJ 136
Post-Convention Survey
Everyone is interested in food! Learn how to integrate food literacy into every subject of your pre-existing curriculum. Your little chefs can learn about topics such as: nutrition, reading labels, how to cook, geographical origins for recipes, and environmental factors involved in food production. This workshop will provide practical strategies and engaging activities to make food literacy a fun and integral part of your classroom. Discover how to inspire students to make healthier choices, understand the global impact of their food, and develop essential life skills through hands-on learning experiences. Join us to transform your teaching approach and ignite a passion for food literacy in your students!

Session Objectives:
1. Educators will incorporate nutrition, cooking, and environmental topics into various subjects.
2. Educators will use fun strategies to teach food origins, label reading, and nutrition.
3. Educators will teach essential life skills like cooking and healthy food choices through hands-on activities.
Speakers
avatar for Dominic Tremblay

Dominic Tremblay

Education Consultant, Dominic P. Tremblay, Education Consultant
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
SJ 136 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Art, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Health & Wellness, Language Arts, Mathematics, Science |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Art, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Health & Wellness, Language Arts, Mathematics, Science |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Art, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Health & Wellness, Language Arts, Mathematics, Science |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Art, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Health & Wellness, Language Arts, Mathematics, Science |   Pre-K/ K, Art, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Health & Wellness, Language Arts, Mathematics, Science

10:30am MST

La Langue du Michif
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
CS MOD 6
Post-Convention Survey
Michif is a mixed language, derived mainly from Cree and French. This workshop is an educational approach that allows teachers to integrate Metis languages, knowledge and perspectives into their teaching. This workshop is intended for teachers who wish to develop and apply basic knowledge about First Peoples for the benefit of all students (EQS 5), but who have difficulty navigating the range of resources available. By exploring the web resources of the Michif Awakening Kit, participants will discover the mechanisms of this language, but above all they will see how the use of Michif educational resources can make it possible to achieve a multitude of learning outcomes in the program (in French, arts, social studies, science, well-being), while working towards reconciliation. Specifically, teachers will explore the various resources available on the website. On the practical side, participants will work to adapt the available resources to their needs, in line with recommended good practices for making authentic and respectful use of the knowledge shared by Elders. Participants will leave the workshop with access to multiple lesson plans and corresponding resources.

Session Objectives:
1. TQS #5 Applying Foundational Knowledge about First Nations, M tis and Inuit
2. TQS # 2 and 4
Speakers
DE

Dr. Eva Lemaire

Professeure agrégée, University of Alberta
Originaire de France et Canadienne d'adoption, Eva Lemaire est professeure titulaire en éducation à l'université de l'Alberta (Faculté Saint-Jean), sur les terres du traité 6. Ses domaines d'expertises sont l'éducation à la citoyenneté globale et à la justice sociale, l'éducation... Read More →
avatar for Rania Eshak

Rania Eshak

Rania is an award winning High School Teacher, she received the excellence in teaching award 2016. Rania is a passionate educator who taught French for over 15 years with ECSD. She has a bachelor of Secondary Education, and a master's degree both from University of Alberta. 
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
CS MOD 6 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Art, French & International Languages, Health & Wellness, Indigenous Education, Science, Social Studies |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Art, French & International Languages, Health & Wellness, Indigenous Education, Science, Social Studies |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Art, French & International Languages, Health & Wellness, Indigenous Education, Science, Social Studies |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Art, French & International Languages, Health & Wellness, Indigenous Education, Science, Social Studies |   Pre-K/ K, Art, French & International Languages, Health & Wellness, Indigenous Education, Science, Social Studies

10:30am MST

Science on a Budget: Bringing the New K-6 Science Curriculum to Life Indoors and Outdoors!
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
SJ 237
Post-Convention Survey
Join Inside Education for this dynamic interactive workshop for K-6 teachers, where we will delve into the environmental science and natural resource components of the new Alberta Science Curriculum. We will share hands-on tools, tricks, and methods to use inexpensive classroom supplies for engaging educational experiences inside and outside your outdoor classroom space. We will teach you some Monday-morning activities and showcase our new no-cost outdoor-focused toolkit to help scaffold learning through the new Organizing Ideas. Three lucky teachers will walk away with their very own toolkit! Every teacher will leave feeling inspired and prepared with resources and activities to foster inquiry-based learning, critical thinking, and environmental stewardship skills within their classrooms.

Session Objectives:
1. Teachers will takeaway a variety of Monday-morning ready hands-on environmental science and natural resource activities
2. Teachers will takeaway practical strategies for integrating hands-on learning into the Alberta science curriculum.
3. Teachers will takeaway a network of fellow teachers for ongoing support and idea sharing.
Speakers
avatar for Inside Education

Inside Education

Inside Education
Inside Education is an Alberta-based, environment and natural resource education charitable society. We have been supporting teachers and inspiring students to think critically about natural resource topics since 1985! With our full suite of no-cost teaching resources, youth summits... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
SJ 237 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Environmental & Outdoor Education, Science |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Environmental & Outdoor Education, Science |   Pre-K/ K, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Environmental & Outdoor Education, Science

10:30am MST

Elementary Basketball: Jr NBA DIv 2
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
St. Kateri Catholic School
Post-Convention Survey
Discover the ultimate session focused on teaching basketball to elementary students. Engage all skill levels with fun and interactive basketball drills and mini-games. Learn innovative techniques to inspire young athletes, create an enjoyable experience, and foster teamwork. Enhance your teaching toolkit and leave with strategies to create an unforgettable basketball journey for your students. Join in and take your basketball sessions to the next level. Don't miss out!

Session Objectives:
1. Active Living: Developing physical literacy through movement and active living supports well-being across a lifespan.
2. Movement Skill Development: Developing physical literacy through movement and active living supports well-being across a lifespan.
Speakers
avatar for Jordan Loughlin

Jordan Loughlin

Teacher/Basketball Coach/Trainer, JDL Athletics
Coach Jordan Loughlin grew up in Red Deer playing basketball and graduating from Notre Dame High School. He has been coaching and teaching for 20 years in the Peace Country area. Currently he teaches grade 5 at Good Shepherd School. Under JDL Athletics he does private training, small... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
St. Kateri Catholic School
  Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Physical Education

10:30am MST

MASTERING MULTIPLICATION AND PLACE VALUE CONCEPTS - GAMES FOR UPPER ELEMENTARY
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
CS LIBRARY
Post-Convention Survey
Come prepared to play math games and learn strategies to help students master basic multiplication - fact fluency, and place value concepts including whole numbers to millions and decimals. The games integrate the use of cards and regular and place-value dice. Games are easy to differentiate to meet the needs of all students including the strugglers and those that need extra challenge. The handout will contain gameboards, and concept skill checklists for assessment purposes, and be ready to use on Monday a.m. Teachers continue to ask for support in instructing these key areas of the math curriculum, and these games, strategies and manipulatives will help support your math program.

Session Objectives:
1. Participants will learn games and strategies for place value concepts, millions to decimals including decomposing/composing numbers, rounding, expanding and comparing numbers
2. Participants will learn basic strategies for helping students master basic X facts up to 12 x 12
3. Participants will learn how to differentiate games to meet the needs of all students in their classrooms.
Speakers
avatar for John Felling

John Felling

presenter, Box Cars And One Eyed Jacks
The workshops and seminars John Felling presents are engaging, informative, fun, and hands-on. In his workshops, teachers learn a variety of games and activities (new ones every year), closely tied to provincial curriculum standards. The games and activities presented integrate easily... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
CS LIBRARY 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Mathematics

10:30am MST

Quizizz, the Basics and Beyond
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
SJ 137
Post-Convention Survey
Quizizz is a data-driven digital formative assessment platform that has been going and growing strong for years.
In their latest updates Quizizz added lots of new ways to gauge student understanding and learning.
The goal of this session is to explore the possibilities of the Quizizz platform and build a stronger understanding of how tools like Quizizz can help you better understand where your students are at with a minimum of extra planning on the back end.

Session Objectives:
1. Build familiarity with Digital formative assessments
2. Learn how to use more advanced Quizizz tools
3. Collaboration and sharing time between experienced and new users of these tools.
Speakers
avatar for Andrew Bullen

Andrew Bullen

Science/numeracy teacher, PRSD
My name is Andrew Bullen and I have been teaching Div IV Science in rural Northern Alberta for going on 10 years now. I taught in a blended classroom before it was cool/mandated and I have been working to incorporate technology as a tool rather than a toy in my classroom for years... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
SJ 137 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Technology |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Technology |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Technology

10:30am MST

Foods Sharing Session
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
CS 131
Post-Convention Survey
This is an opportunity for Food teachers of all levels to collaborate on ideas, approaches, and recipes for Food studies..

Session Objectives:
1. Collaborate with other teachers in the Foods classroom as a means of diversifying kitchens for students of all skillsets and abilities
Speakers
avatar for Cindy Hall
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
CS 131 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Career & Technology Studies/Foundations |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Career & Technology Studies/Foundations

10:30am MST

Unlocking the Vault: Secrets of Exemplary Football Programs in Alberta
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
SJ 142
Post-Convention Survey
While researching for a book, McIntyre discovered 5 concepts that resonated through the exceptional football programs of the Raymond Comets, St. Francis Browns of Calgary, Calgary Dinosaurs (80s) , Edmonton Huskies (60s) and Edmonton Eskimos (50s). These programs had a profound impact on the individuals and the communities they served. After interviewing close to one hundred people, Ron acquired an appreciation for the nuances of these highly successful teams. Through storytelling and examples, Ron will unlock the vault and reveal the practices of men such as Gary Deman, Peter Connellan, Dennis Kadatz and Normie Kwong. It is McIntyre s belief that the best practices of these exemplar programs are timeless and have implications for the classroom as coaching and teaching are intricately intertwined.

Session Objectives:
1. Programs that thrive in environments encouraging purposeful, humorous, and optimistic attitudes towards achieving goals, are more likely to succeed
2. One important lesson from these teams is how evaluating processes contributed to their success in achieving desired outcomes.
3. These programs understood that their ultimate success depended on creating an environment where the growth and development of all participants was the primary focus.
Speakers
avatar for Ron McIntyre

Ron McIntyre

Ron McIntyre is a veteran high school educator of 33 years and has played and coached football at the minor, high school, and university levels in Alberta for nearly 40 years. He earned a History Degree from York University and an Education Degree from the University of Alberta. He... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
SJ 142 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Fostering Effective Relationships, Physical Education, Reflection/Collaboration, School Leadership |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Fostering Effective Relationships, Physical Education, Reflection/Collaboration, School Leadership

10:30am MST

You are not your test: changing your language around accademic exams
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
SJ 236
Post-Convention Survey
How can we change the terms we use when discussing testing in academic courses so students can assign exams the correct level of importance?

Session Objectives:
1. Attending teachers will increase the number of terms and statments that can be used so students can find the correct balance in test signficance.
2. Attending teachers will identify the events and items that we as teachers, and students can control in relation to a test, and what they/we cannot control.
Speakers
LB
Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
SJ 236 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Mathematics, Science

12:40pm MST

Innovation in Automotive Programs
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 12:55pm MST
CS 135
Post-Convention Survey
Discussing modern approaches and techniques that can revolutionize automotive education.
Speakers
avatar for Sheldon D'Souza

Sheldon D'Souza

Conference Director & Calgary PD Rep
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 12:55pm MST
CS 135
  Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Career & Technology Studies/Foundations

12:40pm MST

Leading with Laughter: Using Humour to Enhance Leadership and Learning
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
SJ Library
Post-Convention Survey
This engaging session will explore how leaders can use humor to build strong relationships, boost morale, and create a positive work environment. Participants will learn why laughter is essential in leadership and how it connects to key aspects of the Leadership Quality Standard (LQS). The session will provide practical examples of using humor in meetings, team-building, and stressful situations. Leaders will discover how humor can break down barriers, improve communication, and make complex ideas easier to understand. We will discuss the science behind laughter's benefits, showing how it reduces stress and enhances creativity. Through fun activities, participants will brainstorm ways to use humor in real leadership scenarios, share their experiences, and reflect on how humor can positively impact their schools or workplaces. The session ends with actionable tips on incorporating laughter into daily leadership practices.

Session Objectives:
1. Supporting educational leaders in building positive school culture.
2. Connecting the power of laughter to the LQS
Speakers
avatar for Hilary Schmidt
avatar for Peter Bailey
avatar for Abby Stilwell
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
SJ Library
  Administration, Educational Research, Fostering Effective Relationships, Professional Issues

12:40pm MST

Getting the Most out of Your ELAL Block (and curriculum)
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
CS 160/161
Post-Convention Survey
How do I cover all of the ELAL curriculum in my week, month, and year?

Designing a structure, routine, and schedule for your ELAL block will provide you with the framework for covering the ELAL curriculum. Join Angela DesBarres in examining how this can be done and how much easier planning becomes. We will look at some exemplar schedules from around the province, and you will have time to tweak your current schedule or completely build a new one.

Session Objectives:
1. Planning with ELAL curriculum
2. Establishing Routines that help with covering curriculum and supports classroom behaviour.
Speakers
avatar for Angela DesBarres
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
CS 160/161
  Administration, Curriculum & Pedagogy, English Language Learning, Fostering Effective Relationships, Language Arts |   Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Curriculum & Pedagogy, English Language Learning, Fostering Effective Relationships, Language Arts |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Curriculum & Pedagogy, English Language Learning, Fostering Effective Relationships, Language Arts

12:40pm MST

Math, For the Joy of it!
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
CS 224
Post-Convention Survey
How about we just do some math for fun? Let's get together and dive into some of my most favourite Big Beautiful Problems that are for EVERYONE. Come experience the excitement, flow, and joy as a learner! Be ready to take these problems straight back to your classrooms to share with your students, regardless of what grade you teach.

Session Objectives:
1. Share the love and joy of math
2. Build collaboration, communication, problem-solving skills, perseverance, confidence, and a positive math identity
Speakers
avatar for Alicia Burdess

Alicia Burdess

Numeracy Lead Teacher, Grande Prairie and District Catholic Schools
Alicia Burdess has been a teacher, assistant principal, and math coach with Grande Prairie and District Catholic Schools since 2005. Alicia’s passion is teaching through problem solving in a Thinking Classroom; she enjoys working with students and teachers implementing Peter Liljedahl's... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
CS 224 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Administration, Mathematics |   Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Mathematics |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Mathematics |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Mathematics |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Mathematics

12:40pm MST

99 Ways to Build Catholic School Culture
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
SJ 137
Post-Convention Survey
This presentation is told in the context of many 'real life stories', laced with humour, as I was an active Catholic school teacher and administrator for most of my teaching career. Over the course of that time, I had many insights and ideas for ways to ensure that the school truly became 'holy ground'. It is presented with many concrete ideas that will make a real difference in the implementation and building up of the Catholic culture in your school community within the framework of the liturgical year. These ideas are easy to implement, to permeate throughout the school, yet based in sound theological roots.
Speakers
avatar for Carmen Moore

Carmen Moore

Director, CMoore in Education
Carmen Moore is a passionate educator, parent and storyteller who has been working within the field of education for over twenty-five years. She completed two Masters of Education, spurring on a research project: Project Independence. Carmen has attained the credentials and experience... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
SJ 137 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
  Administration, Religious & Moral Education |   Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Religious & Moral Education |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Religious & Moral Education |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Religious & Moral Education |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Religious & Moral Education |   Pre-K/ K, Religious & Moral Education

12:40pm MST

Exploring Inuit Games: Tradition, Skills, and Community
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
St. Kateri Catholic School
Post-Convention Survey
Join us for an engaging session dedicated to the rich tradition of Inuit games. Participants will delve into the cultural significance, historical roots, and the skills involved in these traditional activities. Through interactive demonstrations and hands-on participation, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the games that have been passed down through generations, fostering community and resilience in Inuit culture. Whether you're learning about the endurance-testing Knuckle Hop, the strategic Blanket Toss, or the cooperative Seal Crawl, this session promises a fun and educational experience for all ages. Be prepared for an immersive journey into the world of Inuit games, where tradition meets play!

Session Objectives:
1. will explore the cultural significance and historical roots of traditional Inuit games, understanding their role in promoting community bonding and resilience within Inuit culture.
2. will develop physical and social skills through participation in interactive demonstrations of traditional Inuit games.
3. will gain cultural awareness and appreciation by engaging in activities that highlight the significance of Inuit games as cultural heritage.
Speakers
avatar for Goota Desmarais

Goota Desmarais

Inuit Education
Goota Desmarais, from Cape Dorset, Nunavut, experienced a unique upbringing, spending winters in a modern Inuit settlement and summers in a traditional camp. Now residing in Sherwood Park, Alberta, she stays connected to her heritage through regular visits. Through her business, Inuit... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
St. Kateri Catholic School
  Administration, Fostering Effective Relationships, Indigenous Education, Physical Education |   Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Fostering Effective Relationships, Indigenous Education, Physical Education |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Fostering Effective Relationships, Indigenous Education, Physical Education |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Fostering Effective Relationships, Indigenous Education, Physical Education |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Fostering Effective Relationships, Indigenous Education, Physical Education |   Pre-K/ K, Fostering Effective Relationships, Indigenous Education, Physical Education

12:40pm MST

Financial Wellness it's more than just investments!
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
CS 157/158
Post-Convention Survey
Why is it important to prioritize our financial well-being? Being financially prepared is essential because it's not just about money; it's a fundamental aspect of overall wellness. Neglecting financial health can lead to stress and affect mental well-being, making it harder to navigate life's challenges. For educators, who often prioritize the needs of others over their own, focusing on personal wellness, including financial wellness, is imperative. Studies show that 40% of financially unstable Canadians experience stress related to their finances. This stress permeates their work life, with 88% reporting frequent worries and 49% admitting it affects their job performance. However, what if there were simple tools that could alleviate this stress? This session aims to provide such tools, offering practical steps that can be implemented easily. In this session, you will learn how to identify any financial gaps that you may have, how to prepare for the unknown (financial emergencies and unexpected costs), and how to plan for your expected financial needs (home downpayment, kids' post-secondary tuition, additional retirement funds). We will explore investment options, look at market dynamics, and, using our core strategies, we will set you up to make informed financial decisions. Being financially prepared isn't just about avoiding financial pitfalls; it's about building resilience and understanding and securing peace of mind in the face of life's uncertainties.

Session Objectives:
1. How to identify financial gaps that you may have
2. Investment and insurance options to help close the gaps
3. Core strategies for success and financial wellness
Speakers
avatar for Capital Planning

Capital Planning

Marketing and Communications Manager, Capital Planning
Elizabeth leads the communications and marketing programs for the ATA Voluntary Benefits Program. This includes designing and developing all the communication materials for the program, helping teachers and their families to understand the options available to them – like the ATA... Read More →
avatar for Rick Harcourt

Rick Harcourt

Professional Financial Advisor, Capital Estate Planning
Rick Harcourt is a Professional Financial Advisor, he manages the ATA Group Voluntary Benefit program and if you've joined us for a past Financial Wellness session or the ATA Pre-Retirement sessions, you'll have seen him in action as our main speaker for these events. Rick has been... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
CS 157/158
  Administration, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Health & Wellness, Mathematics |   Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Health & Wellness, Mathematics |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Health & Wellness, Mathematics |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Health & Wellness, Mathematics |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Health & Wellness, Mathematics |   Pre-K/ K, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Health & Wellness, Mathematics

12:40pm MST

How to Foster Effective Relationships?
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
CS MOD 6
Post-Convention Survey
The number one LQS, TQS, and SLQS is Fostering and building Effective Relationships. Yes, but how? Is it hard to foster effective relationships sometimes? Why? In this session, Leaders of learning will unpack practical and immediate applicable skills and strategies that will positively impact our relationships, and instantly create rapport with our colleagues. It is important to remember that people have different behaviour styles, but within these differences, we all have strengths. Therefore, we need to capitalize on these strengths, and adjust our message to increase our daily effectiveness. In this session, based on the platinum rule (treat people the way they want to be treated), leaders of learning with explore how to create a quicker, deeper, and longer lasting rapport with others.

Session Objectives:
1. #1 TQS, LQS, and SLQS
Speakers
avatar for Rania Eshak

Rania Eshak

Rania is an award winning High School Teacher, she received the excellence in teaching award 2016. Rania is a passionate educator who taught French for over 15 years with ECSD. She has a bachelor of Secondary Education, and a master's degree both from University of Alberta. 
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
CS MOD 6 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Administration, Counselling & Student Support, Diversity Equity & Human Rights, Fostering Effective Relationships, Inclusive Education, School Leadership |   Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Counselling & Student Support, Diversity Equity & Human Rights, Fostering Effective Relationships, Inclusive Education, School Leadership |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Counselling & Student Support, Diversity Equity & Human Rights, Fostering Effective Relationships, Inclusive Education, School Leadership |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Counselling & Student Support, Diversity Equity & Human Rights, Fostering Effective Relationships, Inclusive Education, School Leadership |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Counselling & Student Support, Diversity Equity & Human Rights, Fostering Effective Relationships, Inclusive Education, School Leadership |   Pre-K/ K, Counselling & Student Support, Diversity Equity & Human Rights, Fostering Effective Relationships, Inclusive Education, School Leadership

12:40pm MST

pîmastîhwâkiskiyihta How to weave Rupertsland Institute’s Métis Education Resources in your Classroom
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
CS MOD 3
Post-Convention Survey
This session is designed for participants to explore several authentic recommended M tis educational materials that help to create teachable moments and provide foundational learning opportunities throughout the school year. Building your foundational knowledge about M tis will empower you to select authentic, accurate resources that honour distinct M tis perspectives to weave into your current teaching practice. Together, we will explore resources designed by M tis educators that weave M tis voices into your learning.

Session Objectives:
1. Meeting TQS/LQS standards
2. Indigenous Education
3. Weaving in authentic M tis resources created with M tis Knowledge Holders across Alberta into the curriuculum."
Speakers
avatar for Kimberley Fraser-Airhart

Kimberley Fraser-Airhart

Métis Education Manager, Rupertsland Institute
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 →
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
CS MOD 3 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Administration, Indigenous Education, Diversity Equity & Human Rights, Fostering Effective Relationships |   Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Indigenous Education, Diversity Equity & Human Rights, Fostering Effective Relationships |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Indigenous Education, Diversity Equity & Human Rights, Fostering Effective Relationships |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Indigenous Education, Diversity Equity & Human Rights, Fostering Effective Relationships |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Indigenous Education, Diversity Equity & Human Rights, Fostering Effective Relationships |   Pre-K/ K, Indigenous Education, Diversity Equity & Human Rights, Fostering Effective Relationships

12:40pm MST

Positive Behaviour Principles
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
SJ GYM
Post-Convention Survey
Although behaviours in the school system have changed a great deal in the past few decades, our strategies for supporting those behaviors have not. By examining all the information we have learned about the brain, we are in a better position to design effective interventions. In this fast-paced session, participants will learn nine principles for positively shaping the behavior of our students.
Download the handout below.
Speakers
DS
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
SJ GYM 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
  Administration, Inclusive Education, Educational Research, Fostering Effective Relationships, Keynote |   Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Inclusive Education, Educational Research, Fostering Effective Relationships, Keynote |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Inclusive Education, Educational Research, Fostering Effective Relationships, Keynote |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Inclusive Education, Educational Research, Fostering Effective Relationships, Keynote |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Inclusive Education, Educational Research, Fostering Effective Relationships, Keynote |   Pre-K/ K, Inclusive Education, Educational Research, Fostering Effective Relationships, Keynote

12:40pm MST

Teaching with Problem Strings (K-12)
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
SJ 143
Post-Convention Survey
In this session, you'll learn the similarities and differences between the instructional routines
called Problem Strings and Number Talks, and Thin Slicing problems. You'll learn which to use
when and how often so you can maximize student engagement and learning.
Speakers
avatar for Pam Harris

Pam Harris

CEO, Math is Figureoutable
Pamela Weber Harris is changing the way we view and teach mathematics. She is the author of several books, including Numeracy Problems Strings K-5, Developing Mathematical Reasoning, and Building Powerful Numeracy. As a mom, a former high school math teacher, university lecturer... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
SJ 143 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
  Administration, Mathematics |   Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Mathematics |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Mathematics |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Mathematics |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Mathematics |   Pre-K/ K, Mathematics

12:40pm MST

Where do I belong?
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
CS 206
Post-Convention Survey
This session will examine some ideas and important things to consider when working with students, both immigrants and refugees of first and second generations. Note that some triggering topics may come up. Some review of literature and personal stories of the presenter and authors/psychologists will be included. Please come prepared to collaborate and ask questions.

Session Objectives:
1. Build an understanding and empathy towards all learners.
2. Learning and creating strategies with cross-cultural components that can be utilized in the classroom.
3. Supporting learners embrace their diverse cultural heritage.
Speakers
avatar for Alina Ovsiy

Alina Ovsiy

FSL/ASL Teacher, Peace Wapiti Academy, PWPSD No 76
I am a language enthusiast, currently in my 8th year of teaching Languages for PWPSD in Grande Prairie. In my education journey, my previous goal was to become an Interpreter in Ukraine at National Aviation University, in Kyiv. Having immigrated from Ukraine in 2011, I have been privileged... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
CS 206 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Administration, Fostering Effective Relationships, French & International Languages, Inclusive Education |   Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Fostering Effective Relationships, French & International Languages, Inclusive Education |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Fostering Effective Relationships, French & International Languages, Inclusive Education |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Fostering Effective Relationships, French & International Languages, Inclusive Education |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Fostering Effective Relationships, French & International Languages, Inclusive Education |   Pre-K/ K, Fostering Effective Relationships, French & International Languages, Inclusive Education

12:40pm MST

Indigenous Veterans and My Cree Father's POW Experience
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
CS MOD 5
Post-Convention Survey
Information on the war efforts of Indigenous soldiers and their treatment upon their return to Canada. The session will also highlight the personal story of Cpl. Alphonse St.Germain and his time spent as a POW in Italy and Germany. A story of resilience and determination to survive and create a stable life for his family despite many unique obstacles.

Session Objectives:
1. Participants will learn more about the forgotten war efforts of Canada's Indigenous soldiers
Speakers
avatar for Brian St. Germain

Brian St. Germain

Indigenous Education
Brian St. Germain was born and raised in Red Deer and recently retired from Red Deer Public Schools after 42 years of teaching. The last 12 years as a lead teacher with FNMI Learning Services. He also serves as an Indigenous Education PD Facilitator with the ATA. Brian is Cree First... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
CS MOD 5 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Administration, Diversity Equity & Human Rights, Indigenous Education, Social Studies |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Diversity Equity & Human Rights, Indigenous Education, Social Studies |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Diversity Equity & Human Rights, Indigenous Education, Social Studies |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Diversity Equity & Human Rights, Indigenous Education, Social Studies

12:40pm MST

Mathology and Matific - Resources that meet the varied needs of your students
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
CS MOD 4
Post-Convention Survey
Mathology is a comprehensive set of lessons and activities that are varied, differentiated, editable, and above all, very practical. No more spending (wasting) time searching for resources. Mathology covers all learning outcomes in the Alberta Math curriculum from K to grade 6. Matific, on the other hand, is a platform that provides students with the opportunity to practice and learn concepts that are targeted and personalized by you, the teacher. Together, Mathology and Matific offer everything you need to meet the varied needs of your students. Come see what these resources are, how they work, and how they can help all students experience success in mathematics.

Session Objectives:
1. Pedagogy
2. Math
3. Technology
Speakers
avatar for Renée Michaud - RLM Consulting

Renée Michaud - RLM Consulting

Consultante en mathématiques/Math Consultant, RLM Consulting
Renée Michaud est consultante en mathématiques.  Elle présente régulièrement des sessions variées à différents congrès de différentes provinces tel qu’à APPIPC, BCAMT, APEF et nationalement à ACPI et ce, en français et en anglais.  Elle travaille également pour des... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
CS MOD 4 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Mathematics, Technology |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Mathematics, Technology

12:40pm MST

Future Stewards: Building Critical Thinkers for a Sustainable World
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
SJ 237
Post-Convention Survey
Join Inside Education for an engaging and interactive session where we will equip teachers with essential strategies to foster stronger critical thinking skills, informed stewardship, and a deep understanding of natural resource education among their students. We will demonstrate how experiential learning opportunities benefit all learner levels and leave you feeling empowered to teach across diverse literacy and numeracy skills. This session focuses on sharing practical, hands-on approaches and activities that Inside Education integrates into each program, empowering students to critically navigate and evaluate diverse perspectives while inspiring ethical decision-making through real-world environmental issues.

Session Objectives:
1. Teachers will understand the importance of critical thinking, informed stewardship, and natural resource education.
2. Teachers will be equipped with practical strategies to develop critical thinking within their students; along with integrating real-world environmental issues into their classroom activities.
3. Teachers will feel confident in their ability to inspire students to think critically, act as informed stewards, and understand the importance of natural resource management.
Speakers
avatar for Inside Education

Inside Education

Inside Education
Inside Education is an Alberta-based, environment and natural resource education charitable society. We have been supporting teachers and inspiring students to think critically about natural resource topics since 1985! With our full suite of no-cost teaching resources, youth summits... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
SJ 237 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Environmental & Outdoor Education, Science, Social Studies |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Environmental & Outdoor Education, Science, Social Studies |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Environmental & Outdoor Education, Science, Social Studies |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Environmental & Outdoor Education, Science, Social Studies

12:40pm MST

Cultivating Deep Focus in a World of Distraction
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
CS 213
Post-Convention Survey
The benefits of multitasking are a myth. Meaningful and productive work happen in a state of deep focus. Transformational relationships and life fulfillment are also a result of this intentional attention. What is deep focus? How can you harness its power in your life? Learn strategies to break through distraction, cultivate deep focus, and experience its powerful shift in the ways you work, love, and make a difference in your community. The goal of advertising, social media, news, and beyond is to capture our attention and keep us hooked. Utilize these six mental and emotional skills to harness the power of deep focus in your life: Healthy compartmentalization. Time blocking. Mindfulness. Batching like-activities. Saying no, means saying yes to something else. Visualization.

Session Objectives:
1. Mental Health
2. Productivity
3. Professional Development
Speakers
avatar for Alexis Marie Chute

Alexis Marie Chute

Creative Director, Alexis Marie Productions Inc.
Alexis Marie Chute is an award-winning artist, photographer, filmmaker, gallery curator, and bestselling author. Her books include The 8th Island Trilogy (Above the Star, Below the Moon, Inside the Sun) and memoir Expecting Sunshine: A Journey of Grief, Healing and Pregnancy After... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
CS 213 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Counselling & Student Support, Fostering Effective Relationships, Health & Wellness, Inclusive Education, Inclusive Education |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Counselling & Student Support, Fostering Effective Relationships, Health & Wellness, Inclusive Education, Inclusive Education |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Counselling & Student Support, Fostering Effective Relationships, Health & Wellness, Inclusive Education, Inclusive Education |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Counselling & Student Support, Fostering Effective Relationships, Health & Wellness, Inclusive Education, Inclusive Education |   Pre-K/ K, Counselling & Student Support, Fostering Effective Relationships, Health & Wellness, Inclusive Education, Inclusive Education

12:40pm MST

StoryBricks: Using LEGO for Literacy
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
SJ 144
Post-Convention Survey
Now, even your most reluctant writers will have fun learning the basic skills for writing a story! Using LEGO bricks, figures, plates and special software, students work collaboratively to create visual scenes that they write down, photograph, publish and share with others. Using LEGO takes away any stress associated with staring at a blank page while trying to come up with something. Ready to see students excited by the process of writing and proud of the results they come up with? This is the workshop for you!

Session Objectives:
1. Educators will use LEGO bricks and figures to help students collaboratively create and write stories, reducing the stress of starting from a blank page.
2. Educators will encourage students to use LEGO sets to build visual scenes that inspire imaginative storytelling and creative expression.
3. Educators will implement methods to assess students writing and storytelling skills through their LEGO -based projects, ensuring a fun and engaging evaluation process.
Speakers
avatar for Dominic Tremblay

Dominic Tremblay

Education Consultant, Dominic P. Tremblay, Education Consultant
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
SJ 144 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Art, Assessment, Curriculum & Pedagogy, English Language Learning, Language Arts |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Art, Assessment, Curriculum & Pedagogy, English Language Learning, Language Arts |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Art, Assessment, Curriculum & Pedagogy, English Language Learning, Language Arts |   Pre-K/ K, Art, Assessment, Curriculum & Pedagogy, English Language Learning, Language Arts

12:40pm MST

Rhythmic Fun: Engaging Elementary Music Students with Hand Clapping Games (ATA Fine Arts Council)
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
CS 139
Post-Convention Survey
Elementary music teachers, dive into the rhythm of hand clapping games in this interactive session. Explore how to weave these fun activities into your lessons, drawing from playground traditions and youth culture. Get ready to clap, stomp, and bring the playground spirit to your music room! (ATA Fine Arts Council)

Session Objectives:
1. Participants will learn a number of hand-clapping games to use with students in your classroom
2. Teacher modeling of how to teach the games including understanding the history of the games
3. Exploring the idea of the importance of students bringing their own suggestions to the table
Speakers
avatar for Connie Ohlmann

Connie Ohlmann

Fine Arts Council (FAC)
Connie Ohlmann is an elementary music educator with Edmonton Public Schools with more than 20 years of experience teaching elementary music. Connie is passionate about exploring music education practices to improve student engagement and retention. Connie serves on the ATA Fine Arts... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
CS 139 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Music & Band |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Music & Band |   Pre-K/ K, Music & Band

12:40pm MST

BLAST: A Targeted Literacy Intervention
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
CS 128
Post-Convention Survey
With so many of our students needing intervention to bridge the gaps created by learning interruptions, how do we meet each student s specific needs? This session will highlight how implementing a large-scale intervention can be an effective way to improve literacy levels for all students. Phonemic awareness and phonics skills are assessed and students are placed in small, flexible groups to receive instruction on a specific reading or pre-reading skill (such as rhyming, letter sounds, blends, long vowels, etc.). Whether you start with just a couple of classes, a couple of grades, or the whole school, this approach can be beneficial for all students- performing below, at, or above grade level. Join me to learn about this locally developed program, with numerous samples and resources shared.

Session Objectives:
1. Understand the advantages of a collaborative approach to intervention
2. Appreciate that a different approach to instruction is needed when teaching intervention groups
3. Recognize the developmental progression of foundational skills needed in literacy instruction
Speakers
avatar for Nancy MacLellan

Nancy MacLellan

Nancy has been an educator for more than 30 years, with experience teaching classes from Kindergarten to High School. Before her retirement in 2022, she taught in a JK to Grade 3 school in Alberta for 15 years, supporting staff and students as the Inclusive Education Facilitator and... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
CS 128 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 1/ Grades 1-3, English Language Learning, Inclusive Education, Language Arts |   Pre-K/ K, English Language Learning, Inclusive Education, Language Arts

12:40pm MST

PLAY ON WORDS - PRIMARY LITERACY GAMES FOR SMALL GROUP AND WHOLE CLASS INSTRUCTION
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
CS LIBRARY
Post-Convention Survey
Brains learn best through PLAY! Come prepared to play Box Cars K - 3 Literacy games that incorporate the use of hands-on materials: literacy dice, letter tiles, word decks, and even dollar store finds! Games will cover: learning the alphabet and its' sounds, rhyme and word patterns, vocabulary builders, spelling simple CVC words, and work with vowels and blends. These games and strategies will fit into centers, small groups and whole class instruction, are easy to differentiate and can be adapted for intervention, ELL and assessment purposes.

Session Objectives:
1. Participants will learn how to integrate easy to find manipulatives into their literacy programs.
2. Participants will learn how to easily differentiate activities across K - 3 abilities, and adapt to ELL and special ed programs
3. Participants will get ideas on how to transfer the games and activities to home practice
Speakers
avatar for Jane Felling

Jane Felling

Presenter, Box Cars And One-Eyed Jacks Inc
Jane is author of the award winning Box Cars and One-Eyed Jacks series of teacher resources - both for math and literacy. Jane has presented workshops across North America for over 30 years and has been a featured speaker at 100's of provincial, state, national and international conference... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
CS LIBRARY 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Curriculum & Pedagogy, English Language Learning, Language Arts |   Pre-K/ K, Curriculum & Pedagogy, English Language Learning, Language Arts

12:40pm MST

The 'Not So Happily Ever After Storytelling Workshop
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
SJ 145
Post-Convention Survey
This workshop takes attendees on a magical journey through the origins of classic fairy tales, showing how storytelling principles, as told through the lens of centuries-old tales, can inform modern writing techniques. Before the two Grimm brothers compiled a collection of 'happily ever after' fairy tales, there existed the 'not so happy ever after' fairy tales. This interactive session is designed to empower teachers to inspire students through purely silly fun with a dark twist and a singular writing lesson: all stories must teach a lesson.

Session Objectives:
1. This workshop provides a different perspective on storytelling and how to teach students one of several primary writing principles, while having a ridiculous amount of fun.
Speakers
avatar for Andrew Buckley

Andrew Buckley

Author/Speaker/Creator
Today, he’s a traditional and self-published novelist of rather silly, yet enjoyable speculative fiction for all ages, a comic book writer, screenwriter, podcaster, creator, and speaker. For over 20 years, he’s worked in the dreaded world of marketing as a content creator, copywriter... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
SJ 145 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Curriculum & Pedagogy, English Language Learning, Language Arts |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Curriculum & Pedagogy, English Language Learning, Language Arts |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Curriculum & Pedagogy, English Language Learning, Language Arts

12:40pm MST

Since Feeling Is First
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
SJ 135
Post-Convention Survey
I want to examine how we, as teachers, can engage students. Specifically, how can we engage students with poetry? Having asked this question, I came up with a few thoughts:
We need to expose students to a variety of poems (many have a very limited background when it comes to poetry).
The poems should be relevant to them.
The poem selections should be engaging. If you don't like the poem, why teach it?
Songs are a powerful way to tie in poetry.
We need to model poetry. (I write along with the students and show them examples of my songwriting process.)
We need to normalize poetry. In other words, we need to "humanize" poems. Poems are not abstract things to be classified; rather, they are an expression of being human. They are about human experiences. They are about FEELING.
This session will share some of the practices that have been successful in my secondary classroom. Bring your favourite poems to team with you!

Session Objectives:
1. Further knowledge in senior high ELA
2. Discuss and learn from colleagues about current issues
3. Sharing of best practices
Speakers
avatar for Scott Randall

Scott Randall

Off-Campus Coordinator/Sr. high English, Glenmary School
Scott Randall is an award winning Off-Campus Coordinator and Sr High English teacher at Glenmary School. In his spare time, Scott is an independent recording artist. He also volunteers his time as a music minister at church and school sports coach. He enjoys playing music festivals... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
SJ 135 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Language Arts |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Language Arts

12:40pm MST

FULL! Easy Empanadas DOUBLE SESSION PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 3:20pm MST
CS 131
Post-Convention Survey
Participate in this session, which emulates a lab for FOD1030, to become a high school foods student. " Students will prepare two kinds of empanadas (one sweet, one savory), a delicious southern European pastry that can be served as an appetizer or a dessert. Participants will have the opportunity to cook some of their empanadas for immediate enjoyment and also take some home for the freezer! PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED
*$20.00 registration fee

Session Objectives:
1. Students learn safe and sanitary food handling procedures, equipment cared, and comprehension of recipes
2. Students demonstrate knowledge and skills in the planning and preparing a recipe in a group setting
3. Students will have fun and learn a new dish!
Speakers
avatar for Cindy Hall
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 3:20pm MST
CS 131 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Administration, Career & Technology Studies/Foundations |   Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Career & Technology Studies/Foundations |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Career & Technology Studies/Foundations |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Career & Technology Studies/Foundations |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Career & Technology Studies/Foundations |   Pre-K/ K, Career & Technology Studies/Foundations
  • Pre-registration Required *$20.00 registration fee

12:40pm MST

FULL! Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED - DOUBLE SESSION
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 3:20pm MST
Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum
Post-Convention Survey
Join us at the Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum for a guided tour of the gallery, paleontology lab, and collections area with our paleontology team! Teachers will hear firsthand about the Pipestone Creek Bonebed, one of the world’s densest dinosaur deposits right in Grande Prairie’s backyard. Our team will take you through our lab and explain how fossils are collected, prepared, and curated, and what happens to the specimens that don’t go on display. This is your chance to see real dinosaur skin and touch a tyrannosaur tooth! Participants will have a chance to meet ‘Big Sam’, a dinosaur skull weighing over 1000 lbs that were collected from the Pipestone Creek Bonebed last September. The tour will end with time to explore the gallery and visit our school programming table. If you are looking for classroom resources, visit our gift shop for educational games and resources.
Vendors
avatar for Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum

Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum

Programs Manager, Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum
Ask out Palaeontology and Science Educators how we can support you with your students learning goals. We have a wide range of curriculum-based programming available for local and schools out fo the region. 
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 3:20pm MST
Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum
  Administration, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Inclusive Education, Indigenous Education |   Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Inclusive Education, Indigenous Education |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Inclusive Education, Indigenous Education |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Inclusive Education, Indigenous Education |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Inclusive Education, Indigenous Education |   Pre-K/ K, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Inclusive Education, Indigenous Education
  • Pre-registration This session is full.

12:40pm MST

Introduction to Cross Country Skiing DOUBLE SESSION
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 3:20pm MST
Peace Wapiti Academy
Post-Convention Survey
Does your school have cross country skis that are never used? Do you want to get kids outside and teach them a lifelong sport? Are you looking for ways to incorporate more winter activities into your Daily Physical Activity plans? Then come and join us and learn the basics of teaching cross country skiing. In this session we will be covering a number of the basics, from how to make sure your skis and boots are ready to head outside, to a basic introduction to the different ski styles and techniques. We will also learn some different games and activities you can do with your classes to teach them how to ski, or if they already can, how to ski better and faster, or over more difficult terrain. Note: please ensure that you wear attire appropriate for the weather, including clothing that will keep you warm when we end up on the ground in the snow.

Session Objectives:
1. Learn the basics of setting up XC skis, including how to clean and wax skis
2. Learn some introductory XC ski games using basic PE equipment
3. Learn some of the basics of how to XC ski with a large group
Speakers
DG
CV
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 3:20pm MST
Peace Wapiti Academy
  Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Career & Technology Studies/Foundations, Environmental & Outdoor Education, Health & Wellness, Physical Education |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Career & Technology Studies/Foundations, Environmental & Outdoor Education, Health & Wellness, Physical Education |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Career & Technology Studies/Foundations, Environmental & Outdoor Education, Health & Wellness, Physical Education |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Career & Technology Studies/Foundations, Environmental & Outdoor Education, Health & Wellness, Physical Education

12:40pm MST

Inspire and Create in Mixed Media DOUBLE SESSION PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 3:20pm MST
SJ 272
Post-Convention Survey
Join this exciting workshop designed specifically for elementary and junior high teachers, where you'll discover two captivating projects your students will love! Dive into a creative adventure involving cutting, gluing, painting and collaging. You'll guide your students in creating a vibrant mixed-media representation of one of Alberta's beautiful cities, capturing its unique charm and history. Tailored to various grade levels, this workshop demonstrates how to seamlessly integrate this project across different subjects, enriching your curriculum. Each participant will receive links to the YouTube instructional video and the PowerPoint presentation to use in their art classroom. All art materials are provided for a $10 fee. Come and ignite your classroom with creativity and cross-curricular magic! PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED Contact the speaker at orzelski@ualberta.ca

Session Objectives:
1. Teachers will learn how to guide students in creating a vibrant mixed-media representation of a city, fostering creativity and artistic expression among students.
2. Participants will understand how to seamlessly integrate the city project across different subjects, enriching the curriculum and promoting cross-curricular learning.
3. Educators will gain the skills to use YouTube instructional videos and PowerPoint presentations to enhance art instruction in their classrooms, effectively utilizing technology as a teaching tool.
Speakers
avatar for Izabella Orzelski

Izabella Orzelski

Art Representative, Fine Arts Council
Izabella Orzelski is an accomplished artist, educator, and award-winning portraitist. With an MFA and Ph.D., she combines her passion for art and education to inspire others. Her commissioned works and collaborative projects have been exhibited across Canada. With 20 years of teaching... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 3:20pm MST
SJ 272 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Art, Curriculum & Pedagogy |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Art, Curriculum & Pedagogy |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Art, Curriculum & Pedagogy |   Pre-K/ K, Art, Curriculum & Pedagogy
  • Pre-registration Contact the speaker at orzelski@ualberta.ca *$10.00 registration fee

12:40pm MST

UFLI 101 DOUBLE SESSION
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 3:20pm MST
SJ 139
Post-Convention Survey
Curious about the buzz surrounding UFLI? Join us to explore the UFLI phonics program and determine if it fits your classroom. This introductory session is tailored for teachers who have not yet undergone any training.

Session Objectives:
1. Foundational literacy is supported by ability to identify and manipulate sounds in oral language
2. Foundational literacy is supported by understanding relationships between sounds and oral language and the letters that represent them.
Speakers
avatar for Amanda Rich

Amanda Rich

Literacy Lead, GPCSD
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 3:20pm MST
SJ 139 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Curriculum & Pedagogy, English Language Learning, Language Arts |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Curriculum & Pedagogy, English Language Learning, Language Arts |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Curriculum & Pedagogy, English Language Learning, Language Arts

12:40pm MST

Making a Mess - a Million Ideas for Junior High Art! DOUBLE SESSION PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 3:20pm MST
CS 143
Post-Convention Survey
Probably the most practical session you will ever attend... come and experiment with a variety of art materials, and walk away with a million ideas to implement on Monday morning! Come dressed for a mess, as you will be creating art all day, and will walk away with several completed art exemplars that you can use in your classroom. PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED - Contact the speaker at andrea.daly@spschools.org *$10.00 registration fee

Session Objectives:
1. Experimenting with and learning about unfamiliar media (art materials) to be used in the classroom.
2. Lesson planning and structure in the art room.
3. Cross-curricular connections in art.
Speakers
avatar for Andrea Daly
Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 3:20pm MST
CS 143 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Art
  • Pre-registration Contact the speaker at andrea.daly@spschools.org *$10.00 registration fee

2:10pm MST

The New Social Studies Curriculum: How to start Planning
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
CS 160/161
Post-Convention Survey
There is a new Social Studies Curriculum on the horizon! Where do I start with it?
Join Angela DesBarres in planning to ensure that the Learning Outcome is covered by the end of the Year. We will look at keys to planning and templates that will help you know where you are going in covering the Social Studies Curriculum.

Session Objectives:
1. Reviewing the Social Studies Curriculum
2. Planning with the Social Studies Curriculum
Speakers
avatar for Angela DesBarres
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
CS 160/161
  Administration, Curriculum & Pedagogy, English Language Learning, Language Arts |   Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Curriculum & Pedagogy, English Language Learning, Language Arts |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Curriculum & Pedagogy, English Language Learning, Language Arts

2:10pm MST

Numeracy in a Thinking Classroom (Number Sense, Multiplication and Division)
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
CS 224
Post-Convention Survey
We want our students to be confident math thinkers and problem solvers. We want them to work with numbers fluently and flexibly. This session will focus on strengthening numeracy skills in a Thinking Classroom. Following Peter Liljedah's framework, we will explore number talks, strategies for multiplication and division, and tools to support students wherever they are in their math learning. We will also explore some Big Beautiful Problems and picture books to inspire the love and joy of numeracy!

Session Objectives:
1. Develop number sense and numeracy skills
2. Develop understanding of multiplication and division
3. Inspire the love and joy of math
Speakers
avatar for Alicia Burdess

Alicia Burdess

Numeracy Lead Teacher, Grande Prairie and District Catholic Schools
Alicia Burdess has been a teacher, assistant principal, and math coach with Grande Prairie and District Catholic Schools since 2005. Alicia’s passion is teaching through problem solving in a Thinking Classroom; she enjoys working with students and teachers implementing Peter Liljedahl's... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
CS 224 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Administration, Mathematics |   Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Mathematics |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Mathematics |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Mathematics

2:10pm MST

Ramblings of an Administrator
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
SJ 144
Post-Convention Survey
As a teacher, I always wondered what the admin was doing in those offices. Now, after 8 years, I think I'm starting to understand. If you are interested in administration or are in administration and want to hear some random thoughts, I encourage you to come for a visit. I will share my 13 tips for survival and have an open conversation about modern school leadership.

Session Objectives:
1. Leadership Quality Standard
2. Burn Out
3. Humor
Speakers
SB
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
SJ 144 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
  Administration, School Leadership |   Division 1/ Grades 1-3, School Leadership |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, School Leadership |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, School Leadership |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, School Leadership

2:10pm MST

Role of Community-based Organizations in Indigenous Education
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
CS MOD 5
Post-Convention Survey
Join Alberta Native Friendship Centres to explore how community-based non-profits can support Indigenous students' educational journey by addressing barriers and promoting cultural connection. Discover how programs like Weaving Wicihitowin For Learning support authentic relationships between schools and organizations, like Alberta Friendship Centres, to advance overall student outcomes across the four quadrants of the Medicine Wheel: mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual.

Session Objectives:
1. Delegates will have an understanding of the realities Indigenous K-12 students face in Alberta and how to better support them along their educational journey.
2. Participants will engage in inspiring stories focused on real-world applications of the Weaving Wicihitowin For Learning program.
3. Delegates will discover how community-based non-profits, like Friendship Centres can support in a child's education journey.
Speakers
MP

Madison Properzi

Provincial Education Lead, Alberta Native Friendship Centres Association
As the Provincial Education Lead at ANFCA, Madison Properzi has supported initiatives focused on urban Indigenous education, leading the Weaving Wicihitowin For Learning program. Madison has supported initiatives for youth-centred prevention of human trafficking and sexual exploitation... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
CS MOD 5 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Administration, Fostering Effective Relationships, Indigenous Education, School Leadership |   Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Fostering Effective Relationships, Indigenous Education, School Leadership |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Fostering Effective Relationships, Indigenous Education, School Leadership |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Fostering Effective Relationships, Indigenous Education, School Leadership |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Fostering Effective Relationships, Indigenous Education, School Leadership

2:10pm MST

Code of Professional Conduct: Navigating the Alberta Teaching Profession's Processes.
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
CS MOD 10
Post-Convention Survey
This session will outline the new discipline process in place relating to complaints of unprofessional conduct and incompetence. Teachers will learn about the stages of the new discipline process, new requirements in the Code of Professional Conduct and some strategies to avoid being the subject of a complaint.
Speakers
TJ
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
CS MOD 10 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Administration, Professional Issues |   Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Professional Issues |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Professional Issues |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Professional Issues |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Professional Issues |   Pre-K/ K, Professional Issues

2:10pm MST

Enhance Well-being, Enhance Learning: The CSH Approach
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
SJ 231
Post-Convention Survey
Healthy students learn better and achieve better outcomes. The comprehensive school health (CSH) framework is Alberta's school health and wellness roadmap. CSH begins with you, right in your classroom! Join us for an engaging discussion on hot topics directly impacting you and your students. Together, let's demystify CSH and explore strategies that enhance the well-being and learning of students and staff in your classroom, leading to meaningful and lasting change.

Session Objectives:
1. Describe the scientific connection between well-being, learning, and achievement.
2. Demonstrate how the comprehensive school health framework supports the health and well-being of students and staff.
3. Apply best practices and evidence informed strategies that support the implementation of comprehensive school health in your classroom.
Speakers
avatar for Tammy Novak

Tammy Novak

Health Promotion Facilitator, Alberta Health Services
Tammy is a Health Promotion Facilitator with the Alberta Health Services, Healthy Schools Team. For over 6 years, she has worked together with four school divisions in the Northwest to support their health and wellness initiatives. Along with her over 15 years of experience in Community... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
SJ 231 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
  Administration, Diversity Equity & Human Rights, Fostering Effective Relationships, Health & Wellness |   Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Diversity Equity & Human Rights, Fostering Effective Relationships, Health & Wellness |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Diversity Equity & Human Rights, Fostering Effective Relationships, Health & Wellness |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Diversity Equity & Human Rights, Fostering Effective Relationships, Health & Wellness |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Diversity Equity & Human Rights, Fostering Effective Relationships, Health & Wellness |   Pre-K/ K, Diversity Equity & Human Rights, Fostering Effective Relationships, Health & Wellness

2:10pm MST

FASD - Transforming Behaviours into Success!
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
SJ 142
Post-Convention Survey
Are challenging behaviours distracting from the overall success of your classroom? We will identify a few "tricks of the trade" when working with students with the common disorder of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). Learn to easily interpret 'challenging' behaviours in a different light while discovering new strategies that will benefit all students.
Come to this fun and interactive session with specific questions. There will be opportunities for discussion and engagement. By the end of this session, you will have a refreshed mindset that will prepare you to tackle the most challenging situations.

Session Objectives:
1. The learner will be able to apply their knowledge in the classroom about specific strategies regarding dysregulation, sensory processing, executive functioning, etc.
2. The learner will be able to identify and understand symptoms that students with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder may display.
3. The learner will be able to apply new strategies to further increase the overall success and enjoyment within their classroom.
Speakers
avatar for Jen Duperron-Trydal

Jen Duperron-Trydal

WRaP 2.0 FASD Instructional Coach, NW Peace FASD Network
Jen Duperron-Trydal is the WRaP 2.0 FASD Instructional Coach for the Northwest Peace FASD Network. Jen has over 20 years experience working with individuals with FASD and has been employed with the FASD Network since 2014 (involved particularly with FASD diagnostics). During this... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
SJ 142 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
  Administration, Counselling & Student Support, Fostering Effective Relationships, Inclusive Education |   Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Counselling & Student Support, Fostering Effective Relationships, Inclusive Education |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Counselling & Student Support, Fostering Effective Relationships, Inclusive Education |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Counselling & Student Support, Fostering Effective Relationships, Inclusive Education |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Counselling & Student Support, Fostering Effective Relationships, Inclusive Education |   Pre-K/ K, Counselling & Student Support, Fostering Effective Relationships, Inclusive Education

2:10pm MST

Foundations for Math Strategies
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
SJ 143
Post-Convention Survey
You're on a mission to teach math better and reach more students. With concept-grounded fluency strategies, students will achieve better results by shifting their focus from memorizing and mimicking to reasoning and math-ing. This session will provide tasks, strategies, and models to enhance your math instruction. Math is Figure-out-able!
Speakers
avatar for Pam Harris

Pam Harris

CEO, Math is Figureoutable
Pamela Weber Harris is changing the way we view and teach mathematics. She is the author of several books, including Numeracy Problems Strings K-5, Developing Mathematical Reasoning, and Building Powerful Numeracy. As a mom, a former high school math teacher, university lecturer... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
SJ 143 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
  Administration, Mathematics |   Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Mathematics |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Mathematics |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Mathematics |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Mathematics |   Pre-K/ K, Mathematics

2:10pm MST

Let's Talk About Subs!
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
SJ 137
Post-Convention Survey
Planning for another adult to be at the front of the room is a part of the job that gets relatively little discussion time in the education conversation compared to how often it happens.
I've reached out to some people who sub and they have agreed to share what they like and don't like in sub plans, pet peeves and things they like to see in sub plans. I've also compiled some example sub plan templates from across a few different grade levels, so we can look at how people like to organize things and what works for different professionals in my area.

The goal of this session is to collaborate and talk about what we're doing now and what we can better do as professionals to support our student's learning when we're not "the adult in the room".

Session Objectives:
1. Group discussion of best practices around planning for substitute teachers
2. Group discussion around the current state of substitute teaching in our area
Speakers
avatar for Andrew Bullen

Andrew Bullen

Science/numeracy teacher, PRSD
My name is Andrew Bullen and I have been teaching Div IV Science in rural Northern Alberta for going on 10 years now. I taught in a blended classroom before it was cool/mandated and I have been working to incorporate technology as a tool rather than a toy in my classroom for years... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
SJ 137 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
  Administration, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Professional Issues, Reflection/Collaboration |   Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Professional Issues, Reflection/Collaboration |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Professional Issues, Reflection/Collaboration |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Professional Issues, Reflection/Collaboration |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Professional Issues, Reflection/Collaboration |   Pre-K/ K, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Professional Issues, Reflection/Collaboration

2:10pm MST

More Than Words
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
CS MOD 9
Post-Convention Survey
"Sharing a land acknowledgement has become a common practice and there is potential for a land acknowledgement to be perceived as an empty gesture if it s not paired with concrete actions. Throughout this session, participants will have an opportunity to reflect on the deeper meanings of a land acknowledgement and consider ways they can mobilize land acknowledgements in their own professional practice. Participants will reflect on their own connections to people and places, and consider how land acknowledgements and their associated actions can build relationships and contribute to Truth & Reconciliation."

Session Objectives:
1. Indigenous Foundational Knowledge
2. Connection to Land and Place
3. Improve professional practice
Speakers
DS
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
CS MOD 9 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Administration, Indigenous Education |   Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Indigenous Education |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Indigenous Education |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Indigenous Education |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Indigenous Education |   Pre-K/ K, Indigenous Education

2:10pm MST

Plurilingual Approach to Learning
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
CS 206
Post-Convention Survey
Have you ever considered letting students use their native or learned languages in your classroom? How would it work and how can we inspire other to learn more languages, while supporting individuality and diversity in our classrooms? This session will attempt to help you encourage students to not only participate and draw connections to their existing languages but also encourage others to want to learn a language in the future. Some ideas of strategies to implement in the classroom will be provided.

Session Objectives:
1. Build an understanding and empathy towards all learners.
2. Learning and creating a toolbox of plurilingual strategies to reflect the tendencies of migrations in the world
3. Promoting metalinguistic awareness and teaching students to build connections with prior knowledge.
Speakers
avatar for Alina Ovsiy

Alina Ovsiy

FSL/ASL Teacher, Peace Wapiti Academy, PWPSD No 76
I am a language enthusiast, currently in my 8th year of teaching Languages for PWPSD in Grande Prairie. In my education journey, my previous goal was to become an Interpreter in Ukraine at National Aviation University, in Kyiv. Having immigrated from Ukraine in 2011, I have been privileged... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
CS 206 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Administration, Fostering Effective Relationships, French & International Languages, Inclusive Education |   Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Fostering Effective Relationships, French & International Languages, Inclusive Education |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Fostering Effective Relationships, French & International Languages, Inclusive Education |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Fostering Effective Relationships, French & International Languages, Inclusive Education |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Fostering Effective Relationships, French & International Languages, Inclusive Education |   Pre-K/ K, Fostering Effective Relationships, French & International Languages, Inclusive Education

2:10pm MST

The Power of Story: Living a StoryCentric Life
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
SJ 145
Post-Convention Survey
Ever since we scratched symbols on a cave wall, we ve been learning how to communicate through the art of story. It s a universal truth that we learn through storytelling, by recognizing the experiences of others, and learning important lessons that stretch beyond the cautionary tales of stealing porridge from bears. This session is an engaging and interactive deep dive into the art of story, including the 3-act structure of life, and how to become the master of your own story through intentional interactions and an unwavering sense of perseverance.

Session Objectives:
1. Storytelling is the best way to communicate and inspire positive change.
2. It can be used to improve professional and personal relationships, to share success stories and lessons learned, and to foster a culture of openness and creativity.
3. This keynote teaches anyone and everyone how to live life in a StoryCentric way.
Speakers
avatar for Andrew Buckley

Andrew Buckley

Author/Speaker/Creator
Today, he’s a traditional and self-published novelist of rather silly, yet enjoyable speculative fiction for all ages, a comic book writer, screenwriter, podcaster, creator, and speaker. For over 20 years, he’s worked in the dreaded world of marketing as a content creator, copywriter... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
SJ 145 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
  Administration, Counselling & Student Support, Inclusive Education |   Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Counselling & Student Support, Inclusive Education |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Counselling & Student Support, Inclusive Education |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Counselling & Student Support, Inclusive Education |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Counselling & Student Support, Inclusive Education |   Pre-K/ K, Counselling & Student Support, Inclusive Education

2:10pm MST

TODAY, I CHOOSE JOY
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
SJ Library
Post-Convention Survey
How do you find joy in the world today? Can we truly do that? This can be difficult to do but with a conscious choice and employing some research based strategies, one can truly find themselves living with true joy. This presentation is a mix of personal stories and has a faith based foundation.
Speakers
avatar for Carmen Moore

Carmen Moore

Director, CMoore in Education
Carmen Moore is a passionate educator, parent and storyteller who has been working within the field of education for over twenty-five years. She completed two Masters of Education, spurring on a research project: Project Independence. Carmen has attained the credentials and experience... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
SJ Library
  Administration, Religious & Moral Education |   Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Religious & Moral Education |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Religious & Moral Education |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Religious & Moral Education |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Religious & Moral Education |   Pre-K/ K, Religious & Moral Education

2:10pm MST

Hand, Hand, Fingers, Thumb
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
CS 139
Post-Convention Survey
In this session we will enjoy and explore several stories that lend themselves to playing various hand drums. Using Djembes, bongos and other percussion instruments we will explore the concepts of steady beat, rhythm and composition. (Maximum 20 participants)

Session Objectives:
1. Music moves to a steady beat
2. Rhythm patterns are made of beat and divisions of beat
3. Responding to the beat with actions
Speakers
avatar for Laurel Pritchard

Laurel Pritchard

Teacher, Beaverlodge Elementary School
For almost 30 years, in classrooms all over the world, it has been a privilege to support students in their creative discoveries.  I believe in Arts Education and in the beauty and courage of the human heart.  You could talk to me about art, music, drama, teaching, learning, caring... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
CS 139 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Music & Band |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Music & Band

2:10pm MST

PE games for Monday!
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
St. Kateri Catholic School
Post-Convention Survey
Explore various large group games that can be used on Monday morning. These include cooperative, invasion, running, dodging, catching, striking, and fielding games, all of which can be adapted for your grade level. At the end of the session, we will have a debrief and roundtable to share ideas with colleagues.

Session Objectives:
1. Wellness education supports social-emotional well-being, fosters positive mental health.
2. As students mature, they acquire, understand, and apply health and wellness information to support well-being in a variety of contexts.
3. Movement Skill Development: Developing physical literacy through movement and active living supports well-being across a lifespan.
Speakers
avatar for Naomi Smith

Naomi Smith

Physical Education Specialist, Grande Prairie Isabel Campbell Public School
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
St. Kateri Catholic School
  Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Health & Wellness, Physical Education |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Health & Wellness, Physical Education

2:10pm MST

L'Evaluation formative
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
CS MOD 6
Post-Convention Survey
La profession de l'enseignement exige que les enseignants soient dot s de nombreux outils dont un est l' valuation formative. C'est une tape importante pour l'apprentissage avant de passer l' valuation sommative de l'apprentissage. Vous quitterez cet atelier avec de nombreuses id es de l' valuation formative que vous pouvez utiliser tout de suite avec vos l ves.

Session Objectives:
1. Formative Assessment
Speakers
avatar for Rania Eshak

Rania Eshak

Rania is an award winning High School Teacher, she received the excellence in teaching award 2016. Rania is a passionate educator who taught French for over 15 years with ECSD. She has a bachelor of Secondary Education, and a master's degree both from University of Alberta. 
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
CS MOD 6 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 1/ Grades 1-3, French & International Languages |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, French & International Languages |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, French & International Languages |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, French & International Languages

2:10pm MST

Leveraging Backwards Design and AI for Quality Curricular Resources
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
SJ 151
Post-Convention Survey
In this "Leveraging Backwards Design and AI for Quality Curricular Resources" session, educators will explore combining backward design principles with artificial intelligence (AI) to create effective and engaging teaching materials. By focusing on the end goal, AI can generate customized resources, provide real-time feedback, and personalize learning experiences.

Session Objectives:
1. Learn Backwards Design: Understand how to align learning outcomes, assessments, and instructional activities.
2. Hands-On Practice: Use AI to develop resources aligned with new curricular outcomes.
3. Collaborate: Share ideas and create a repository of AI-generated resources for various subjects and grade levels.
Speakers
avatar for Jeannine Younger

Jeannine Younger

Education Technologist, Peace Wapiti Public School Division
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
SJ 151 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Assessment, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Inclusive Education, Professional Issues, Technology |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Assessment, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Inclusive Education, Professional Issues, Technology |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Assessment, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Inclusive Education, Professional Issues, Technology |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Assessment, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Inclusive Education, Professional Issues, Technology

2:10pm MST

Teflon ou Velcro - Comment maximiser l'apprentissage - 1ère à 12e année
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
CS MOD 4
Post-Convention Survey
"On comprend de mieux en mieux comment le cerveau apprend. De nombreux ouvrages cet effet offrent des suggestions savoir comment enseigner afin de maximiser l apprentissage. Cet atelier a pour but de vous pr senter quelques-unes des strat gies pratico-pratiques sugg r es dans les plus r centes recherches.

Session Objectives:
1. Pedagogy
2. Inclusion"
Speakers
avatar for Renée Michaud - RLM Consulting

Renée Michaud - RLM Consulting

Consultante en mathématiques/Math Consultant, RLM Consulting
Renée Michaud est consultante en mathématiques.  Elle présente régulièrement des sessions variées à différents congrès de différentes provinces tel qu’à APPIPC, BCAMT, APEF et nationalement à ACPI et ce, en français et en anglais.  Elle travaille également pour des... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
CS MOD 4 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Curriculum & Pedagogy, French & International Languages |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Curriculum & Pedagogy, French & International Languages |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Curriculum & Pedagogy, French & International Languages |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Curriculum & Pedagogy, French & International Languages

2:10pm MST

Leading EAs with Confidence: Fostering Collaboration and Reducing Conflict
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
CS 129
Post-Convention Survey
In this insightful session, join Amy Bartlett as she explores effective strategies for teachers who lead Educational Assistants (EAs) in the classroom. Amy will address common challenges, such as power struggles, unclear expectations, and interpersonal conflicts, and how these can impact staff dynamics and student success.

Participants will engage in meaningful discussions around key questions:

How can we effectively lead EAs in navigating power struggles?
What strategies can we implement to address conflicts between staff?
How can we foster an environment that promotes clear communication and collaboration?

This session aims to empower teachers with the skills and confidence needed to lead their EAs effectively, reduce conflicts, and create a cohesive team that enhances the learning experience for all students. Join us to discover how to build strong partnerships and cultivate a positive classroom atmosphere!

Session Objectives:
1. How to make my expectations clear and hold my staff accountable.
2. How to confidently manage the EA staff assigned to you.
3. How to manage conflicts or power struggles amoung staff.
Speakers
avatar for Amy Bartlett

Amy Bartlett

Special Education Teacher, Grande Prairie Public School Division
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
CS 129 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Fostering Effective Relationships, Inclusive Education, Professional Issues, Reflection/Collaboration, Inclusive Education |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Fostering Effective Relationships, Inclusive Education, Professional Issues, Reflection/Collaboration, Inclusive Education |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Fostering Effective Relationships, Inclusive Education, Professional Issues, Reflection/Collaboration, Inclusive Education |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Fostering Effective Relationships, Inclusive Education, Professional Issues, Reflection/Collaboration, Inclusive Education |   Pre-K/ K, Fostering Effective Relationships, Inclusive Education, Professional Issues, Reflection/Collaboration, Inclusive Education

2:10pm MST

Masters in Their Fields
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
SJ 136
Post-Convention Survey
Expand your students curiosity about social studies as they become historians, geographers, and economists in their own right. Students learn to ask their own questions when they see an artifact or photograph the same as professionals would! Working from these questions, they then begin to put their investigative skills into action through the use of a unique Social Studies Toolbox created by Dominic. The Toolbox can be scanned into a smartphone and includes 10 elements designed to help students find answers to their questions. Each element has its own video to explain how it can be used. Students learn to use social networks, databases and statistics, interviews, interactive panoramas, surveys, recent and historical newspapers, maps, photographs, paintings, drawings and trends on the Internet for their research. This workshop shows you an effective and innovative way to support students as they explore inquiry-based learning.

Session Objectives:
1. Educators will learn to foster student-led questioning and research using the Social Studies Toolbox.
2. Educators will guide students in using diverse tools like social networks, databases, and interviews for their inquiries.
3. Educators will engage students by encouraging them to think like historians, geographers, and economists with interactive resources.
Speakers
avatar for Dominic Tremblay

Dominic Tremblay

Education Consultant, Dominic P. Tremblay, Education Consultant
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
SJ 136 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Reflection/Collaboration, Science, Social Studies, Technology |   Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Reflection/Collaboration, Science, Social Studies, Technology |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Reflection/Collaboration, Science, Social Studies, Technology |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Reflection/Collaboration, Science, Social Studies, Technology |   Pre-K/ K, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Reflection/Collaboration, Science, Social Studies, Technology

2:10pm MST

Literature, Language and Life Skills
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
SJ GYM
Post-Convention Survey
Although our inclination is to teach the way we were once taught, as times change, so must our strategies. In this fast-paced interactive session, participants will have fun examining how social, emotional, ethical and cognitive skills can be taught through the use of literature and interactive reading strategies.
Download the handout below.
Speakers
DS
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
SJ GYM 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 1/ Grades 1-3, English Language Learning, Language Arts, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Keynote |   Pre-K/ K, English Language Learning, Language Arts, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Keynote

2:10pm MST

LINKING THE LEARNING - UPPER ELEMENTARY DOMINO MATH GAMES
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
CS LIBRARY
Post-Convention Survey
Dominoes are one of the most versatile and easiest math manipulatives to use in your whole class or small group instruction, they are a student favourite and not just for primary students. Come prepared to play and learn games that help teach and support the following concepts: place value including decimals, fractions, operations including multi-digits, graphing, problem-solving and probability. The handout will contain gameboards for immediate use, ideas for differentiating the activities and assessment opportunities.

Session Objectives:
1. Participants will learn 10 - 15 domino math games that can be used immediately in their classrooms
2. Participants will learn management strategies for both whole class instruction and center/small groups
3. Participants will learn how to differentiate the games to meet the needs of both strugglers and students that need to be challenged.
Speakers
avatar for John Felling

John Felling

presenter, Box Cars And One Eyed Jacks
The workshops and seminars John Felling presents are engaging, informative, fun, and hands-on. In his workshops, teachers learn a variety of games and activities (new ones every year), closely tied to provincial curriculum standards. The games and activities presented integrate easily... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
CS LIBRARY 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Mathematics

2:10pm MST

Finding Home on The Range: Exploring Alberta s Wildlife and Conservation Agriculture
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
SJ 237
Post-Convention Survey
Join Inside Education for an introduction to agriculture in Alberta's Grasslands region, exploring ecosystem health, impacts on wildlife, and agriculture practices addressing climate change. This session covers biodiversity, climate change, and conservation agriculture, aligning with grade 5-6 Earth Systems, grade 6 Living Systems, grade 7 Interactions and Ecosystems, and grade 9 Biological Diversity. In addition, we will highlight our full suite of additional support through classroom programming, field trips, youth summits, learning resources, and teacher PD.

We will showcase three interactive low-equipment Monday-morning ready classroom activities, adaptable by grade:
-An active reflection game that explores students' connections to agriculture and the food system.
-An immersive group game on habitat in the grasslands
-A high-energy game show about native grassland species, regional innovation, and more!

Session Objectives:
1. Teachers will have foundational understanding of the Alberta context for agriculture - how things came to be this way.
2. Teachers will have an introduction to the impacts of agriculture on the health of the Grasslands region and the wildlife within it.
3. Teachers will have three adaptable activities to use in their classroom to teach these topics in a fun, interactive way.
Speakers
avatar for Inside Education

Inside Education

Inside Education
Inside Education is an Alberta-based, environment and natural resource education charitable society. We have been supporting teachers and inspiring students to think critically about natural resource topics since 1985! With our full suite of no-cost teaching resources, youth summits... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
SJ 237 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Environmental & Outdoor Education, Science, Social Studies |   Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Environmental & Outdoor Education, Science, Social Studies |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Environmental & Outdoor Education, Science, Social Studies

2:10pm MST

Introduction to Adobe Photoshop
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
CS 234
Post-Convention Survey
Adobe Photoshop is an industry standard for editing digital graphics. This hands-on session introduces the beginner to the realm of digital photo editing. If you are interested in editing digital photographs, this is the session for you.

Session Objectives:
1. introduction to digital art
2. Beginner CTS credits
3. Use of technology
Speakers
RH
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
CS 234 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Art, Career & Technology Studies/Foundations, Technology |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Art, Career & Technology Studies/Foundations, Technology

2:10pm MST

Taking the Boat Out for the Day: Exploring the Short Story
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
SJ 135
Post-Convention Survey
Neil Gaiman describes writing a short story as taking the boat out for the day : You can have an idea, you can take it out and see what happens and learn something. This session will explore some of my favourite short stories to teach to senior high students and some of the successes and challenges that I have faced. Bring your favourite short story that you teach to share!

Session Objectives:
1. Further knowledge of ELA strategies
2. Discuss and learn from colleagues about current issues
3. Sharing of best practices
Speakers
avatar for Scott Randall

Scott Randall

Off-Campus Coordinator/Sr. high English, Glenmary School
Scott Randall is an award winning Off-Campus Coordinator and Sr High English teacher at Glenmary School. In his spare time, Scott is an independent recording artist. He also volunteers his time as a music minister at church and school sports coach. He enjoys playing music festivals... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
SJ 135 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Language Arts |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Language Arts

2:10pm MST

Worldbuilding Fun for Fiction Writing
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
CS 213
Post-Convention Survey
Author and master-worldbuilder, Alexis Marie Chute inspires teachers to bring new dimensions to their creative writing curricula. Delving into the art of worldbuilding, this session provides innovative and interactive techniques to help students construct compelling fictional worlds for their stories. Attendees will learn how to guide students in creating intricate cultures, geographies, histories, and societies within their narratives, fostering imagination and critical thinking. By igniting the spark of creativity through worldbuilding, this presentation offers teachers a unique tool to inspire their students, enhance storytelling skills, and nurture a love for fiction writing in the classroom.

Session Objectives:
1. Literacy
2. Critical Thinking
3. Cross-curricular Learning
Speakers
avatar for Alexis Marie Chute

Alexis Marie Chute

Creative Director, Alexis Marie Productions Inc.
Alexis Marie Chute is an award-winning artist, photographer, filmmaker, gallery curator, and bestselling author. Her books include The 8th Island Trilogy (Above the Star, Below the Moon, Inside the Sun) and memoir Expecting Sunshine: A Journey of Grief, Healing and Pregnancy After... Read More →
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
CS 213 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Language Arts |   Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Language Arts

2:10pm MST

Navigating the K&E online world: turn your chaos into productivity.
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
SJ 141
Post-Convention Survey
This session is designed to share ideas and strategies used while teaching K&E online and successes and failures. What are the challenges and limitations faced with online learning? How can we overcome these limitations?

Session Objectives:
1. Understanding the K&E curriculum
2. Online learning strategies
3. Collaboration
Speakers
avatar for Erin Burns
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
SJ 141 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
  Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Inclusive Education, Reflection/Collaboration, Inclusive Education

2:10pm MST

Project-Based Learning
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
CS 135
Post-Convention Survey
Sharing methods and benefits of incorporating project-based learning to enhance student engagement and real-world problem-solving skills.
Speakers
avatar for Sheldon D'Souza

Sheldon D'Souza

Conference Director & Calgary PD Rep
Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
CS 135
  Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Career & Technology Studies/Foundations
 
Share Modal

Share this link via

Or copy link

Filter sessions
Apply filters to sessions.
Filtered by Date - 
Clear filter
Thursday, March 6
Friday, March 7
Art Gallery of Grande Prairie
Card's Board Game Café
CS 128
CS 129
CS 130
CS 131
CS 135
CS 139
CS 143
CS 156
CS 157/158
CS 160/161
CS 162
CS 163
CS 183
CS 206
CS 207
CS 211
CS 212
CS 213
CS 222
CS 223
CS 224
CS 230
CS 232
CS 233
CS 234
CS LIBRARY
CS Mod 1
CS MOD 10
CS MOD 3
CS MOD 4
CS MOD 5
CS MOD 6
CS MOD 7
CS MOD 8
CS MOD 9
CS Stage
Next Chapter
Northwestern Polytechnic L106
Peace Wapiti Academy
Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum
SJ 131
SJ 132
SJ 135
SJ 136
SJ 137
SJ 139
SJ 140
SJ 141
SJ 142
SJ 143
SJ 144
SJ 145
SJ 150
SJ 151
SJ 152
SJ 173
SJ 181
SJ 206
SJ 231
SJ 232
SJ 233
SJ 236
SJ 237
SJ 272
SJ GYM
SJ Library
St. Kateri Catholic School
Starbucks
Whispering Ridge Community School
YouTube
  • Administration
  • Division 1/ Grades 1-3
  • Division 2/ Grades 4-6
  • Division 3/ Grades 7-9
  • Division 4/ Grades 10-12
  • Pre-K/ K
  • Popular