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:
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.
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.
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Global crisis, rights and equity issues are entering, and sometimes disrupting, classrooms within increasing frequency, leaving both students and educators feeling overwhelmed and hopeless. In this session, participants will explore approaches that create environments where they can explore complex topics and equip students with tools to address injustice. Participants will also examine how classroom culture, courage to engage in complex conversations and project-based learning, can be used together to help students find hope and equip them with skills to take action.
Session Objectives: 1. Participants will learn about free programs to support their teaching, 2. Participants will learn more about PBL.
Manager, Education Outreach, Canadian Museum for Human Rights
Sarah Adomako-Ansah is a graduate of the University of Alberta, B. Ed (’13). She is a former teacher with the Edmonton Catholic School Division, teaching grades three through six from 2013 until 2021. She was the Division’s first Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Anti-Racism Consultant... Read More →
Friday March 7, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST
CS MOD 820 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
Dive into an Alberta-based STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) initiative in partnership with Lethbridge Polytechnic that enriches K-12 education with practical trades experience. The session features an interactive opportunity for you to be in your students shoes to explore and engage with our free digital and hands-on resources. We'll start with a brief overview of the project and its connections to the mathematics and science curricula and industry. You will then spend the majority of the session interacting with the activities and resources that can be immediately implemented into your practice. We will seek your feedback on classroom application and potential resources. You ll leave better equipped to answer the question of Why do I need to learn this? by connecting mathematics and science concepts to students everyday lives.
Session Objectives: 1. Participants will understand how the STEM initiative connects with K-12 mathematics and science curricula and industry relevance. 2. Participants will explore and learn to implement digital and hands-on STEM resources in their teaching practice. 3. Participants will provide feedback on the resources and activities for improved classroom application.
Warren Anderson is a passionate advocate for the intersection of trades and STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) subjects in K-12 education. He plays pivotal roles in developing and implementing an innovative STEM initiative in collaboration with Lethbridge Polytechnic... Read More →
Friday March 7, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST
SJ 23110520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
These may all seem like very different issues, but there are simple strategies that teachers can use to help students who struggle with any of these. Many teachers are feeling lost in how to teach students who are struggling. They don t need more information, but practical tools that allow them to engage students like this on a daily basis. This session will give the background they need to know about how these students work, as well as 5 practical tools that will result in the teacher feeling more confident and successful in reaching their students who are struggling.
Session Objectives: 1. Student engagement 2. Teacher understanding of these mental health concerns 3. Improved academics
Connie Jakab is a Speaker, Author, and the CEO of the Jakab Co. She has been working in mental health and resilience for over 25 years in schools, researching how to bring students falling through the cracks closer. She is also the author of the Bring Them Closer series for parents... Read More →
Friday March 7, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST
SJ GYM10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
This presentation is designed for teachers planning to retire during the current year or within the next few years. It provides detailed information about deciding to retire, the Steps to Retirement process and forms, the pension options, and post-retirement considerations.
Session Objectives: 1. Information about the Teachers' Pension Plan
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.
Friday March 7, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST
SJ 15010520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
Find ways to charge your battery as an educator by incorporating mindfulness and social-emotional learning into the classroom environment! We will explore the proven scientific evidence, anecdotes, and testimonials about how and why bringing mindfulness and SEL into your daily routines/classroom environments is beneficial to you and your student's mental, emotional, and physical health. Simple and easy-to-use tips, techniques, and methods will be explored, and a handout will be provided, where you will then be able to practice them in the session and conveniently incorporate Mindfulness and Social Emotional Learning strategies into your daily life and classroom! We will end the session with a longer, relaxing group mindfulness session/reflection to send you blissfully on your way! All experiences are welcome!
Session Objectives: 1. Improve a sense of overall awareness by reflecting on personal wellness areas 2. Explore SEL and Mindfulness Techniques as they apply to wellness personally, professionally and in the classroom 3. Set goals and practice and integrate SEL/Mindfulness Techniques into daily and classroom routines
Visual Art, Social Emotional Learning & Mindfulness
Christa Chapman has been practicing mindfulness, meditation and yoga for over 20 years, and has completed a 500hr Modo/Moksha yoga teacher training, is a certified yin yoga (80hr), meditation instructor (200hr) and enrolled in a Social Emotional Learning/Mindfulness for Educators... Read More →
Friday March 7, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST
SJ 14410520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
Over many years the Association has been able to construct a safety net for teachers and their families. This presentation provides an overview of what teachers have in regard to sick leave and other leaves through the collective agreement, extended disability, life insurance, other benefit plan provisions, as well as pension and death benefits. This is a light-hearted presentation that is intended to be presented to local teachers in order to provide very relevant and necessary information on existing entitlements.
As educators, we often see the potential in our students before they see it in themselves. What if we could better equip teachers to guide students toward career paths that align with their unique strengths and interests? "You'd be Good at That!" is an interactive half-day session designed to bridge the gap between classroom insights and future career opportunities. Led by the Academic Deans of Northwestern Polytechnic, this session will provide an inside look at our diverse program offerings, focusing on how they connect to the skills and talents we see in students daily.
Through a tour of our main campus and the Health Education Center, we will engage in hands-on demonstrations of various programs while exploring specific career options in fields such as business, trades, health, and applied sciences. Our goal is to empower teachers with the knowledge and tools they need to inspire their students to pursue fulfilling and dynamic career paths, offering practical examples of how polytechnic education can be the perfect fit for a wide range of learners.
Session Objectives: 1. Participants will gain insight into the range of programs offered at the polytechnic and potential career outcomes in fields such as business, trades, health, and applied sciences. 2. Educators will leave with practical tools and strategies to support students in exploring post-secondary pathways 3. Participants will tour the main campus and Health Education Center
How can we adapt our teaching and learning strategies to meet the needs of 21st-century learners? Join me to explore innovative curriculum, planning, and assessment approaches that empower students to succeed in a rapidly changing world. This session will focus on the K-6 curriculum. However, the information provided will apply to all grades. Please bring a laptop, a writing utensil, and any curriculum documents that you would like to work with. *This is a working session*
Session Objectives: 1. Teachers will learn basics of concept-based curriculum 2. Teachers will learn and explore learning transfer 3. Teachers will explore how the new curriculum is designed to promote cross-curricular teaching and learning
Up all night worrying about how you are going to create amazing instructional activities for the new Alberta curriculum? Feeling overwhelmed by outcomes and objectives? Put those bothersome worries to bed for good by exploring the power of Computational Thinking (CT) and Scratch! Come see why the Scratch visual block coding language is a PERFECT FIT for cross-curricular instruction infused with Computational Thinking and Computer Science (CS). This session will walk you through simple activities that operationalize CS objectives with cross-curricular outcomes from the NEW Alberta Programs of Study. Use a CT (B.O.S.S.) framework to add a new layer of community building, engagement and fun to your cross-curricular instructional design with Computational Thinking and coding in Scratch!
Session Objectives: 1. Implementing new Computer Science curricular objectives across the curriculum 2. Operationalizing Computational Thinking & Computer Science outcomes across the curriculum 3. Introduction to programming in Scratch
Trevor has over 20 years of experience as an elementary school teacher (EPSB), university course developer/instructor (The King's University & University of Alberta), app/web developer and consultant for a variety of organizations and institutions across North America.
Friday March 7, 2025 9:00am - 11:40am MST
CS 21220 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
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 →
Friday March 7, 2025 9:00am - 11:50am MST
SJ 14010520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
Working with parents can be tricky. In this session, teachers and administrators will learn four key communication skills that can disarm heated discussions, resolve conflicts, and create a collaborative approach to student academic success.
This session identifies traps that can needlessly escalate anger or large emotions and teaches a six-step Empowerment Model communication approach that allows for collaboration, responsibility, and clear, disarming communication.
Session Objectives: 1. Student engagement 2. Communication 3. School culture
Connie Jakab is a Speaker, Author, and the CEO of the Jakab Co. She has been working in mental health and resilience for over 25 years in schools, researching how to bring students falling through the cracks closer. She is also the author of the Bring Them Closer series for parents... Read More →
Friday March 7, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
SJ GYM10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
The importance of representation in today s diverse classrooms cannot be overstated. This presentation will delve into the critical role representation plays in shaping student identities and perceptions. We will explore how diverse role models influence student engagement, motivation, and academic success, particularly for underrepresented groups. Furthermore, we will uncover the concept of implicit biases subconscious attitudes or stereotypes that affect our understanding, actions, and decisions. As teachers and leaders, recognizing our hidden biases is essential for fostering an inclusive educational environment. Unpacking implicit bias is particularly important for school leaders because it directly impacts policies, practices, and the overall school culture. Leaders set the tone for their institutions and have the power to influence how diversity is valued and integrated into the curriculum and staff development.
Session Objectives: 1. Participants will engage in reflective exercises aimed at revealing their implicit biases and understanding their implications on teaching and leadership styles. 2. Through collaborative discussions, we will share strategies to create a more equitable and representative educational framework that champions diversity and fosters a culture of belonging.
Shalynn Zakordonski is an accomplished educator with 22 years of experience, including a decade spent teaching and leading in Asia. Most recently, she has been shaping minds at an international school in Singapore, where her passion for fostering inclusive learning environments has... Read More →
Friday March 7, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
CS 22220 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
Retirement can no doubt be both exciting and daunting. Between all the paperwork and planning, let us make one of the items on your checklist a little easier! During this presentation, you will learn the ins and outs of your health benefits during retirement. From eligibility requirements to different types of coverage, ASEBP has got you covered literally.
The Alberta School Employee Benefit Plan (ASEBP) is more than health insurance—we’re health champions. We provide sustainable, holistic health benefits, programs and services and are there to support you and your employer throughout your personal and workplace wellness journeys... Read More →
Autism 101 gives the opportunity to gain a basic overview of autism and neurodiversity. It is an introduction to what autism is and gives information on how autistic individuals may interact with others and the world around them. More specifically, the presentation covers the following topics: Overview of Autism Characteristics of Autism How Sensory Processing Works Sensory toolbox Language to Use Introduction to Visual Supports
Session Objectives: 1. Participants will be able to use the information about learning characteristics to inform how they would work and interaction with Autistic youth. 2. Participants will be able to identify areas in their own understanding of Autism 3. Participants will be able to take the information and use it to inform teaching practices.
Many people associate 20/20 with perfect vision. However, vision is much more complex than how we can see. We use many visual skills daily, over 17 different visual skills. Deficits in visual skills are often overlooked, but they can significantly disrupt reading and learning. In this session, we will dive deep into all the visual skills. Attendees will gain a better understanding of the visual system and be able to recognize when a vision problem may be holding a child back.
Session Objectives: 1. Understand the main categories of visual skills and their functions 2. Understand the symptoms that will surface from each type of visual skills deficit 3. Ability to recognize the signs of a vision problem in a student
Ready to elevate your teaching game with Google Slides? This session will equip you with the skills to create engaging and interactive daily lesson plans.
Key Takeaways:
Basic Skills Mastery: Learn the fundamentals of Google Slides, including template usage, multimedia integration, and animation techniques. Advanced Techniques (Time Permitting): Explore more advanced features, such as building daily lesson templates, interactive activities, and collaborative learning tools.
Session Highlights: Template Treasures: Discover pre-designed templates to jumpstart your lesson plan creation. Multimedia Magic: Integrate GIFs, videos, and hyperlinks to enhance student engagement. Animation Artistry: Master slide animations to create visually captivating presentations. Interactive Learning: Explore interactive activities like polls, quizzes, and open-ended questions. Collaborative Creations: Learn how to leverage Google Slides' collaborative features for group projects. Hands-On Workshop: Practice your new skills with a guided activity and create your daily lesson plan template. By the end of this session, you'll be equipped to design engaging and interactive daily lesson plans, enhance student learning, and create a more dynamic classroom environment. By the end of this session, you'll be equipped to design engaging and interactive daily lesson plans, enhance student learning, and create a more dynamic classroom environment.
Session Objectives: 1. Learn the basics of google Slides 2. How to use Slides with students 3. How to use Google slides to create your lesson, unit and day plans
Understanding extended disability and long-term disability benefits can be challenging. The session provides an overview of this benefit and its eligibility, a review of best practices on applying for the benefit and outlines supports the Association offers to members during the application and, potentially, the appeal process.
This session explores diverse leadership models and the traits that define effective school leaders, with a focus on how gendered expectations shape leadership roles and responsibilities. Participants will delve into the ways in which bias and gendered assumptions influence school leadership dynamics, particularly in the context of Alberta's education system. Through critical reflection and discussion, attendees will gain insights into how these factors impact not only leaders but the broader teaching profession. The session aims to provide actionable strategies for fostering a more equitable environment for all and promote leadership that is inclusive, supportive, and fair.
Join me at Starbucks (6815 Kateri Dr, Grande Prairie) for a fun trail run. We will be venturing down a cross-country trail called "Wax Wing." Everyone will need to be dressed for the weather. Walkers are welcome to join. Physical fitness and staying active are important parts of teachers' health and wellness. Teachers will also experience new hiking trails to take their students on.
Session Objectives: 1. Health and Wellness 2. Outdoor Learning
Discover the transformative practice of walking the labyrinth, a sacred tool for Christian prayer, meditation, and reflection. In this interactive session, participants will explore the historical roots and spiritual significance of the labyrinth in Christian tradition. Learn how this ancient practice fosters a deeper connection with God, supports mindfulness, and provides a space for discernment and healing.
Through hands-on engagement, you will experience the meditative power of the labyrinth and gain practical insights on incorporating this spiritual discipline into personal practice, school settings, or parish ministry. Whether you're new to the labyrinth or seeking to deepen your understanding, this session invites you to walk the path and encounter God in a new way.
The Witness Blanket is a large-scale work of art. It contains hundreds of items reclaimed from residential schools, churches, government buildings, and both traditional and cultural structures from across Canada. Witnessblanket.ca invites visitors to explore objects from the blanket and hear directly from survivors about their experience. This session will introduce participants to witnessblanket.ca and discuss how incorporate a trauma informed approach in bring voices of residential school survivors in the classroom. Additionally, educators will learn how to walk alongside their students in taking the next steps on their pathway of reconciliation. www.witnessblanket.ca
Session Objectives: 1. Participants will learn about free programs to support their teaching, 2. Participants will learn more about the Witness Blanket and incorporating Indigenous pedagogy.
Manager, Education Outreach, Canadian Museum for Human Rights
Sarah Adomako-Ansah is a graduate of the University of Alberta, B. Ed (’13). She is a former teacher with the Edmonton Catholic School Division, teaching grades three through six from 2013 until 2021. She was the Division’s first Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Anti-Racism Consultant... Read More →
Friday March 7, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
CS MOD 820 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
Join us for an engaging, hands-on session designed to equip teachers with the tools and confidence to deliver the new K-6 Computer Science curriculum. In Ctrl+Alt+Teach, you'll explore key curricular outcomes, explore strategies to integrate computational thinking into your classroom and discover a mix of digital and unplugged activities that make computer science concepts accessible for all learners.
Through interactive activities and ready-to-use lesson ideas, you'll leave with practical resources and enhanced confidence whether you're new to coding or a seasoned tech user supporting your journey through these new outcomes.
*Devices are suggested but not required.
Session Objectives: 1. Understand key overarching curricular outcomes. 2. Learn about digital and unplugged supporting activities and lesson ideas. 3. Enhance teacher confidence around computer science.
How do we approach our teaching in a way that reaches today's students? Neurodiversity is being discussed more, understood more, and diagnosed more. Combined with the demands of the curriculum, meeting the needs of students with a wide variety of neurotypes is a complex challenge. This session will briefly overview neurodiversity and disability before sharing my approach to creating a neuro-inclusive classroom and learning experience. This combines theory from my Master's program with my experience of nearly 20 years teaching math, science, and CTS. Most importantly, it shares the reasoning for my approach to teaching students in the classroom, putting disability at the forefront of my decisions.
Session Objectives: 1. Describe neurodiversity and models of disability 2. Apply teaching and assessment methods in order to create an inclusive classroom in a high school class
I teach Math and Legal Studies at GP Composite High School. I'm in the process of completing my masters at U of L, focusing on curriculum and assessment. I love learning, and I love math :)
For decades, Kim Barker-Kay has focused on building educational equity for students. Addressing racism and other forms of oppression is critical to this work. Kim will share some recent "aha" moments and experiences that led her to Layla F. Saad's anti-racism work and her 28-day challenge through the book Me and White Supremacy: Combat Racism, Change the World, and Become a Good Ancestor.
Session Objectives: 1. The objective is to provide strategies for those who benefit from white privilege and are ready to learn more about racism and how to help with its deconstruction.
Whether you are a new covered member or not, this session can help you learn about our wide range of benefits, programs, and services. In this session, you will discover how to get the most from your coverage, learn about our different tools and platforms, the benefits of spending accounts, and more!
The Alberta School Employee Benefit Plan (ASEBP) is more than health insurance—we’re health champions. We provide sustainable, holistic health benefits, programs and services and are there to support you and your employer throughout your personal and workplace wellness journeys... Read More →
Come take in an energizing and uplifting yoga practice so that you can blissfully carry on with your day! This session will be an energizing flow-style yoga practice followed by relaxing restorative yoga postures and mindfulness/meditation to finish the class so that you can leave feeling grounded and centered. All are welcome! **Please bring your own yoga mat**
Session Objectives: 1. Improve a sense of overall awareness of the mind/body/breath 2. Improve an overall sense of wellbeing 3. Ability to integrate poses, techniques into the classroom
Visual Art, Social Emotional Learning & Mindfulness
Christa Chapman has been practicing mindfulness, meditation and yoga for over 20 years, and has completed a 500hr Modo/Moksha yoga teacher training, is a certified yin yoga (80hr), meditation instructor (200hr) and enrolled in a Social Emotional Learning/Mindfulness for Educators... Read More →
This workshop will examine the core causes of intergenerational trauma; challenge common myths and misconceptions; and explore activities to foster effective relationships with First Nations, M tis and Inuit students, families and communities. Participants will explore assimilation strategies that have contributed to many current realities of Indigenous students, families and communities. They will gain an increased understanding of the physical, mental, social and spiritual impacts and explore strength-based initiatives to contribute to the advancement of the reconciliation process.
Session Objectives: 1. Examine core causes of intergenerational trauma
Guided Art Gallery Tour with Exploration time. A Second Horizon explores the interplay between imagination and environment, featuring works by Nam Duc Nguyen and Lionel Allingham. Through vibrant paintings and thought-provoking imagery, the artists reflect on themes of transformation, memory, and connection to the natural world. This exhibition invites viewers to consider alternative perspectives on landscapes, offering glimpses of new horizons shaped by personal and collective experiences. With a dynamic blend of storytelling and abstraction, A Second Horizon encourages us to reimagine our relationship with the world around us. Register online - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfjD9SklEmPZXKRUAAnoo4zEq-CvejqAHGJp7-qUiiTd3YGUQ/viewform?usp=header
Feeling overwhelmed by the vast array of Google Apps? This professional development session is your one-stop shop! We'll explore various powerful tools to streamline your workflow, enhance communication, and boost productivity. Unwrap the Goodies: Keep: Master the art of capturing fleeting ideas and creating organized to-do lists using Google Keep. Calendar: Discover advanced scheduling features and integrations to keep yourself and your team on the same page. Sites: Learn how to create beautiful and informative websites for your classroom, projects, or team collaboration. Maps: Explore advanced mapping features to visualize data, plan trips, and enhance your presentations. Forms & Tasks: Take a deeper dive into Forms to craft engaging surveys and assessments, and leverage Tasks for streamlined project management. Beyond the Basics This session goes beyond introductory features. We'll explore: Workflow Integration: Discover how to connect and leverage these apps for maximum efficiency. Collaboration Power: Unlock the collaborative features within each app to work seamlessly with colleagues and students. Time-Saving Tips: Learn practical shortcuts and hacks to optimize your time using these Google Apps. Dig In & Explore: The session will dedicate ample time to hands-on exploration. Explore the apps that interest you most, ask questions, and get comfortable navigating their functionalities. By the end of this session, you'll be: Equipped with a broader understanding of Google Apps beyond Docs & Drive. Confident using Keep, Calendar, Sites, Maps, Forms, and Tasks for various tasks. Inspired with ideas to integrate these tools into your professional workflow. Ready to explore further and unlock the full potential of each application? Come hungry for knowledge and ready to explore the Google Apps buffet! This session will empower you to discover new tools and optimize your workflow for greater efficiency and collaboration.
Session Objectives: 1. Learn the basic features of the other Google tools
I can't do that YET! How can teachers help introduce and incorporate a growth mindset into their classroom culture? Turnkey and concrete examples will be explored, giving you tools and strategies to use right away and throughout the school year to build perseverance and hope in your students. Co-presented by a Mighty Peace teacher and an Olympic athlete.
Session Objectives: 1. Gain concrete tools and strategies to bring back to your classroom for immediate use 2. Understand how to inspire growth mindset in your students through real life examples 3. Discover how Olympic athletes stay focused on their goals despite obstacles, and how this translates to your students
We all have a role to play in creating an anti-racist society. The Pass the Mic: Let s Talk About Racism, resource, encourages students to consider their relationship with racism and, in turn, learn about how to be anti-racist. They will learn all about bias, microaggressions, intersectionality, identity, allyship, and making all spaces safe for their marginalized peers. Finally, they will challenge themselves to take a stand for anti-racism in their communities. This session will introduce educators to the resource and discuss how to have these important conversations with their students. www.humanrights.ca/story/pass-mic-lets-talk-about-racism
Session Objectives: 1. Participants will learn about free programs to support their teaching, 2. Participants will learn more about having difficult conversations with students surrounding racism, microaggressions, allyship, and more.
Manager, Education Outreach, Canadian Museum for Human Rights
Sarah Adomako-Ansah is a graduate of the University of Alberta, B. Ed (’13). She is a former teacher with the Edmonton Catholic School Division, teaching grades three through six from 2013 until 2021. She was the Division’s first Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Anti-Racism Consultant... Read More →
Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
CS MOD 820 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
Discover the transformative power of play in education at every stage of life. This keynote explores how playful learning fosters creativity, critical thinking, and emotional resilience from early childhood through adulthood. Emphasizing the importance of children being in the flow while they play, we will delve into how this state of deep engagement enhances learning and development. Learn how integrating play into your teaching strategies can enhance student engagement, support lifelong learning, and prepare individuals for the challenges of the modern world. Join us to unlock the potential of play and make learning an enjoyable journey for all ages.
Session Objectives: 1. Educators will explore how play fosters creativity, critical thinking, and emotional resilience from early childhood through adulthood. 2. Educators will learn strategies to help children achieve flow states during play, enhancing their engagement and learning outcomes. 3. Educators will develop methods to incorporate playful learning into their teaching practices, making education enjoyable and effective for all age groups.
Join this workshop to explore strategies that leverage AI to enhance communication and connection. We will explore the intersection of AI and our social and emotional world, professional considerations for leveraging AI tools for human-centered work, and versatile strategies that work with a variety of AI tools. Participants are encouraged to bring a device, such as a laptop or tablet, for the hands-on activities included in this workshop.
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 →
Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
CS 157/158
Students who are stuck in a loop of substance use can be helped. How can educators and administrators help them, and how does this impact mental health? In this session, participants will learn a 6 step change model to lead students in a trauma informed method to see students move away from substance use and improve their mental health.
Connie Jakab is a Speaker, Author, and the CEO of the Jakab Co. She has been working in mental health and resilience for over 25 years in schools, researching how to bring students falling through the cracks closer. She is also the author of the Bring Them Closer series for parents... Read More →
Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
SJ 27210520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB
During this presentation, we dive deeper into what Autism is and share practical strategies that can help you interact with and support autistic individuals. The presentation also covers the strengths and challenges experienced by many autistic people and how to respond to create accommodating environments. Lastly, we unpack what might trigger a meltdown and how to help de-escalate a situation.
Autism 201 is a follow up session to Autism 101. Attendance in the Autism 101 class is advised but not necessary for Autism 201 as there is a review component. By joining this session, you will be able to: • Expand your knowledge of Autism • Dive Deeper into Common Autism characteristics and how you can support • Identify the impact of sensory differences and respond to the sensory needs of autistic individuals • Explore environmental accommodations • Learn about co-existing disabilities • All behaviour is a form of communication • Discuss meltdowns including triggers, relationships recovery and repair as well as de-escalation techniques
Join me for a double session designed for K-3 teachers to focus on planning, instruction, and assessment related to numeracy. Through collaborative dialogue with peers, participants will have dedicated time to plan, collaborate, and design instruction and assessments. The session will also include sharing pedagogical approaches and resources to enhance support. Please come prepared with the necessary tools for collaboration and be ready to expand your knowledge and practice in numeracy.
Session Objectives: 1. To deepen subject matter knowledge and expand professional capacities to meet the challenging demands of the educational landscape and student needs. 2. To join professional learning communities to exchange pedagogical strategies and instructional insights. 3. To provide time and opportunity for active learning.
Interested in a short-term exchange with a colleague in Spain, Germany, Mexico, Australia, Iceland or with one of Alberta s International Accredited Schools across the globe?
Come to this session and learn how to build your own teaching or leadership adventure with an exciting in-person short term (1-2 week) exchange or a virtual one (4 week). Carolyn Freed will be your guide in this fantastic new world! The experience and realities of teaching and school leadership are constantly in transition- an exchange can bring a wealth of insights to the work you do here in Alberta.
Exchanges are a unique professional peer-to-peer development opportunity for teachers and school administrators to collaborate within their profession. Open the door and get out of your comfort zone, engage in meaningful and critical conversations, and experience first-hand how your peers engage with best practices.
Rediscover Google in this refresher session designed to help users integrate new features and enhance existing skills. The session will focus on Google Drive organization and permissions, Google Classroom setup and settings, and Gmail inbox management. Get updated, reinvigorate your skills, and rebuild your confidence.
Session Objectives: 1. Google Drive: Organization, shared drives, and permissions. 2. Google Classroom: Set up, new features, and helpful settings. 3. GMail: Inbox management and helpful workflow.
Are you interested in learning how to communicate the story of your teaching career and showcase your educational, professional, leadership and volunteer experience to pique employers interest? In this session, the presenter will share advice on how to edit your resume and write a strong cover letter to improve your chances of getting an interview.
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 →
Friday March 7, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
CS MOD 1020 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB
