MPTCA 2025

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

ATRF Your Pension Essentials

Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST

SJ 150

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

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

9:00am MST

The Arctic Experience: Goota's Journey Through Inuit Traditions

Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST

CS 232

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

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

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.

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

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

Monty Simo

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

9:00am MST

Empowering Junior High Foods Educators: Effective Resource Sharing Strategies

Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST

SJ 141

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

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

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

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

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

Leah Bray

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

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

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

Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Physical Education | Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Physical Education

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

Harley Mckechnie

Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 11:40am MST
Whispering Ridge Community School

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

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

Greg Oppedisano

If I grow up I wanna be a half elven dread necromancer devoted to the eternal service of Hextor lord of battle.

James Chiba

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

Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Career & Technology Studies/Foundations | Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Career & Technology Studies/Foundations

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

Teri Todd

Thursday March 6, 2025 9:00am - 11:40am MST
CS 156 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB

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

Teacher and school leader participants will learn to

strengthen communications skills,
recognize different types of conflict,
navigate conflict, and
move beyond the conflict

Speakers

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

10:30am MST

Embracing Spiritual Wellness in the Classroom (repeats on Friday)

Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST

SJ 173

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

Nichole Gerein

District Principal of Religious Education, GPCSD

Kylie Fraser

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 →

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

10:30am MST

Engaging the Disengaged

Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST

SJ GYM

“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

Dan St. Romain

Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
SJ GYM 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB

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

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

Goota Desmarais

Inuit Education

Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
CS MOD 3 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB

10:30am MST

President Schilling: Unplugged

Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST

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

Jason Schilling

Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
SJ Library

10:30am MST

Spirit of the Metis

Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST

CS MOD 5

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

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

10:30am MST

ᑕᐯᐧᐃᐧᐣtapwewin: Dismantling Anti-Indigenous Racism

Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST

CS MOD 9

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

Cassandra Mercer

Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
CS MOD 9 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB

10:30am MST

Off-Campus Coordinator PLC

Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST

SJ 135

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

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

10:30am MST

AI Prompting for Teacher Success

Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST

CS 157/158

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

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

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

Alexis Marie Chute

Creative Director, Alexis Marie Productions Inc.

Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
CS 213 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB

10:30am MST

Integrating Conservation Agriculture into the Classroom

Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST

CS 162

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

Luree Williamson

CEO, Ag for Life Inc.

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

"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

Renée Michaud - RLM Consulting

Consultante en mathématiques/Math Consultant, RLM Consulting

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

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

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

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

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 →

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

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

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

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

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

10:30am MST

La Langue du Michif

Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST

CS MOD 6

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

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 →

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

10:30am MST

Science on a Budget: Bringing the New K-6 Science Curriculum to Life Indoors and Outdoors!

Quizizz, the Basics and Beyond

Thursday March 6, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST

SJ 137

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Leah Bray

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

Discussing modern approaches and techniques that can revolutionize automotive education.

Speakers

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

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

Hilary Schmidt

Peter Bailey

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

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

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

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

Alicia Burdess

Numeracy Lead Teacher, Grande Prairie and District Catholic Schools

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

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

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

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

Goota Desmarais

Inuit Education

Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
St. Kateri Catholic School

12:40pm MST

Financial Wellness it's more than just investments!

Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST

CS 157/158

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

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 →

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

12:40pm MST

How to Foster Effective Relationships?

Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST

CS MOD 6

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

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

Rania Eshak

Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
CS MOD 6 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB

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

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

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

12:40pm MST

Positive Behaviour Principles

Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST

SJ GYM

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

Indigenous Education

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

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

Renée Michaud - RLM Consulting

Consultante en mathématiques/Math Consultant, RLM Consulting

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

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

Fine Arts Council (FAC)

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

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

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

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

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

Jane Felling

Presenter, Box Cars And One-Eyed Jacks Inc

Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 3:20pm MST
CS 131 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB

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

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

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

12:40pm MST

Introduction to Cross Country Skiing DOUBLE SESSION

Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 3:20pm MST

Peace Wapiti Academy

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

Doris Gordon

Callum Vavrek

Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 3:20pm MST
Peace Wapiti Academy

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

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

Izabella Orzelski

Art Representative, Fine Arts Council

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

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

Amanda Rich

Literacy Lead, GPCSD

Thursday March 6, 2025 12:40pm - 3:20pm MST
SJ 139 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB

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

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

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

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

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

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

Alicia Burdess

Numeracy Lead Teacher, Grande Prairie and District Catholic Schools

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

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

Scott Bowen

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

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

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

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

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

Tim Jeffares

Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
CS MOD 10 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB

2:10pm MST

Enhance Well-being, Enhance Learning: The CSH Approach

Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST

SJ 231

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

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

2:10pm MST

FASD - Transforming Behaviours into Success!

Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST

SJ 142

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

Jen Duperron-Trydal

WRaP 2.0 FASD Instructional Coach, NW Peace FASD Network

Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
CS MOD 9 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB

2:10pm MST

Plurilingual Approach to Learning

Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST

CS 206

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

Alina Ovsiy

FSL/ASL Teacher, Peace Wapiti Academy, PWPSD No 76

Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
CS 206 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB

2:10pm MST

The Power of Story: Living a StoryCentric Life

Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST

SJ 145

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

Andrew Buckley

Author/Speaker/Creator

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

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

Carmen Moore

Director, CMoore in Education

Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
SJ Library

2:10pm MST

Hand, Hand, Fingers, Thumb

Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST

CS 139

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

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

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

Naomi Smith

Physical Education Specialist, Grande Prairie Isabel Campbell Public School

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

2:10pm MST

Masters in Their Fields

Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST

SJ 136

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

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

2:10pm MST

Literature, Language and Life Skills

Thursday March 6, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST

SJ GYM

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

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

Scott Randall

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 GYM 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB

9:00am MST

ATRF Steps to Receiving Your Pension

Friday March 7, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST

SJ 150

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

Speakers

Pension Counsellor

Pension Counsellor, Alberta Teachers' Retirement Fund (ATRF)

Friday March 7, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST
SJ 150 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB

9:00am MST

Charge Your Battery by Incorporating Mindfulness and SEL into the Classroom

Friday March 7, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST

SJ 144

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

Speakers

Christa Chapman

Visual Art, Social Emotional Learning & Mindfulness

Consultante en mathématiques/Math Consultant, RLM Consulting

Friday March 7, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST
CS MOD 4 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB

Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Curriculum & Pedagogy, French & International Languages, Mathematics | Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Curriculum & Pedagogy, French & International Languages, Mathematics | Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Curriculum & Pedagogy, French & International Languages, Mathematics | Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Curriculum & Pedagogy, French & International Languages, Mathematics

9:00am MST

HPEC-Elevate your PE Class

Friday March 7, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST

Join the Health and Physical Education Council of the ATA (HPEC) for an engaging session for Physical Education teachers eager to explore innovative approaches to Phys Ed classes and health education. This session will provide practical knowledge and hands-on strategies to implement immediately in your classroom. During this session, we will delve into essential topics such as physical literacy, emphasizing the significance of being active for life and highlighting the crucial role of movement in overall well-being. Additionally, we will discuss the importance of fostering a sense of belonging and teamwork within physical education settings. Get ready to leave this session feeling inspired, empowered, and ready to elevate your PE classes to new heights!

Session Objectives:
1. Walk away with ready to go lesson plans
2. New methods and models in the gym

Speakers

Nichole Simigan

Physical Education Specialist, GPPSD

Numeracy Coordinator, Peace Wapiti Public School Division

Adele Lowen

Literacy Coordinator, Peace Wapiti Public School Division

Throughout her career, Adele Lowen has worked as a classroom teacher, mentorship coordinator, professional development facilitator, and a literacy coordinator. Whether working with students or colleagues, Adele supports lifelong learning. Continually striving to do our best opens... Read More →

Nicki Nightingale

Numeracy Coordinator, Peace Wapiti Public School Division

Nicki Nightingale has been teaching since 2012 in a variety of grades and subjects, from elementary all the way up to high school. She avoided teaching math due to her negative experiences as a student until 10 years ago when she took a junior high math position. This was the beginning... Read More →

Friday March 7, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST
CS 230 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB

Division 2/ Grades 4-6, English Language Learning, Mathematics

9:00am MST

Inclusive Sexual Health Education: Making sex ed work for all your students

Friday March 7, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST

CS 130

Traditional sex ed has focused on heterosexual and cisgender people and relationships, but that leaves out a large group of students. Whether you have some out 2SLGBTQI+ students, or none, your sex ed classes can be inclusive, welcoming, safe, caring and respectful places for students of every gender identity and sexual orientation.

Session Objectives:
1. Learners will define common terms related to sexual orientation and gender identity
2. Learners will describe ways to use inclusive language when discussing sexual health
3. Learners will consider how their teaching practice can foster a welcoming, safe, caring and respectful environment for all students

Speakers

Nicole Inglis

Health Promotion Facilitator, Alberta Health Services: Teaching Sexual Health

Friday March 7, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST
CS 130 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB

9:00am MST

Novel Studies - How to do it well!

Friday March 7, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST

Do your students hate reading? Do they struggle to complete tasks/assignments due to lack of engagement? Please join us for engaging ways to teach novels that will have your students asking, Are we going to read today? We will be going through a variety of different novels for different grade levels/abilities, as well as different approaches to novels and reading, strategies to build literacy and comprehension skills, tasks to develop academic writing, the gathering of evidence, critical analysis of the text and creative hands on projects.

Session Objectives:
1. Literacy strategies
2. Academic Writing
3. Engaging Projects

Speakers

Joanna Zakus

Joanna has a BA History and a BEd Secondary Social Studies. She has been teaching primarily social studies and humanities for the last 20 years at the junior high level. Joanna currently is a teacher at a junior high school with the Calgary Board of Education. She focuses on interactive... Read More →

Nicholle Morrison

Teacher, Calgary Board of Ed.

Nicholle has a BA in Sociology and a BEd Education. She has taught for 14 years. She began by primarily teaching elementary grades 5 and 6 and then 9 years teaching social studies and humanities at the junior high level. Nicholle currently is a high school Social Studies teacher with... Read More →

Friday March 7, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST
SJ Library

9:00am MST

Science Fairs- The OG S.T.E.M projects!

Friday March 7, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST

SJ 142

Come and hear about the benefits of science fairs and how you can engage your students in this meaningful learning experience. We will discuss how to run a fair and have your students advance through an academic competition up to the national level at the Canada-Wide Science Fair.

Session Objectives:
1. Science

Speakers

Jonathan Pittman

Principal, TA Norris Middle School, PRSD

Friday March 7, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST
SJ 142 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB

Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Science | Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Science | Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Science

9:00am MST

The Poet's Toolbox - thinking like a poet

Friday March 7, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST

SJ 139

English teachers and students are unified on at least one thing - they all hate poetry! However, what if they didn't? This session will offer several practical lessons to help make poetry (both writing and analysis), if not enjoyable, at least less painful. Once students (and teachers) see how they are already living in a world surrounded by poetry, A critical framework (formalism, reader-response criticism, deconstruction) will also be included if there is interest. The material will include:
- a recursive approach to analyzing poems
- imagery
- personification
- metaphor
- the vatic voice
- apostrophe
- presentation

Session Objectives:
1. I hope to pass on my enthusiasm for poetry.
2. Monday lessons: writing an elegy; collaborative imagery; creating a poetry portfolio; playing the personification game;

Speakers

James Chiba

Friday March 7, 2025 9:00am - 10:10am MST
SJ 139 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB

Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Language Arts | Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Language Arts

9:00am MST

"You'd Be Good at That!": Connecting Students' Strengths with Polytechnic Pathways for Success DOUBLE SESSION

Friday March 7, 2025 9:00am - 11:40am MST

Northwestern Polytechnic L106

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

Speakers

Bobbi Craig-Sparkes

Jodi Peebles

Julia Dutove

Megan Stone

Tony Shmyruk

Friday March 7, 2025 9:00am - 11:40am MST
Northwestern Polytechnic L106

Administration, Counselling & Student Support, Curriculum & Pedagogy | Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Counselling & Student Support, Curriculum & Pedagogy | Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Counselling & Student Support, Curriculum & Pedagogy | Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Counselling & Student Support, Curriculum & Pedagogy | Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Counselling & Student Support, Curriculum & Pedagogy

9:00am MST

Concept-Based Teaching, Planning, and Assessment in the New Alberta Science Curriculum DOUBLE SESSION

Friday March 7, 2025 9:00am - 11:40am MST

CS MOD 9

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

Speakers

Cassandra Mercer

Friday March 7, 2025 9:00am - 11:40am MST
CS MOD 9 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB

Administration, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Science | Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Science | Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Science | Pre-K/ K, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Science

9:00am MST

Teach Across the Curriculum Like a B.O.S.S. with Computational Thinking & Scratch DOUBLE SESSION

Friday March 7, 2025 9:00am - 11:40am MST

CS 212

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

Speakers

Trevor Iampen

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 212 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB

Administration, Technology | Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Technology | Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Technology | Pre-K/ K, Technology

9:00am MST

Exploring Van Gogh Painting Technique DOUBLE SESSION PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED

Friday March 7, 2025 9:00am - 11:40am MST

SJ 272

Are you a teacher who's always wanted to learn how to paint like Van Gogh? Well, you're in luck! Join and learn how to paint landscapes in the style of Van Gogh using acrylics, brushes, and palette knives. You will be provided with step-by-step instructions to guide you through the process, ensuring you complete a stunning painting by the end of the session. You will walk away with a beautiful piece of art and gain the skills to implement this technique in your own art classroom. Your students are sure to love it! All materials are provided for a fee of $15. You'll also receive a link to a YouTube instructional video and a PowerPoint presentation to use in your art classroom. Take advantage of this opportunity to bring new creative skills to your teaching! PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED Contact the speaker at orzelski@ualberta.ca *$15.00 registration fee.

Session Objectives:
1. Learn to use acrylic paints, brushes, and palette knives for creating a Van Gogh-style landscape painting.
2. Follow step-by-step instructions to complete a landscape painting in the style of Van Gogh.
3. Gain the skills, confidence, and instructional resources to teach this painting technique in your art classroom.

Speakers

Izabella Orzelski

Art Representative, Fine Arts Council

Friday March 7, 2025 9:00am - 11:40am MST
SJ 272 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB

Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Art | Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Art | Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Art | Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Art

Pre-registration This session is full.

9:00am MST

FULL - Swing Into Action: Virtual Golf Experience

Friday March 7, 2025 9:00am - 11:40am MST

Whispering Ridge Community School

Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Physical Education | Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Physical Education | Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Physical Education | Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Physical Education

Join me for an engaging session on golf simulators at this year s convention! This hands-on workshop will explore technology in golf simulation, highlighting its benefits for players of all skill levels. Attendees will learn how 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 and helping participants understand how these metrics can improve their game. Additionally, we'll discuss how to interpret data for personalized training and performance tracking. Participants will also have the opportunity to try out the simulators themselves, gaining practical experience and insights into how to enhance their game even in winter months. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or a curious beginner, this session promises to be informative and interactive! Limited to 5 per session. This session is FULL.

Speakers

Harley Mckechnie

Friday March 7, 2025 9:00am - 11:40am MST
Whispering Ridge Community School

Pre-registration Pre-registration is required. This session is FULL.

9:00am MST

Bursting with Excitement: Making EXPLOSION Books in Art! DOUBLE SESSION PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED

Friday March 7, 2025 9:00am - 11:40am MST

CS 143

Come and build an art explosion book from scratch, using watercolours, paint pens, liners, ribbons and more! Students are always so proud of these artistic creations, and love the open-endedness of the designs. This is a wonderful project that integrates abstract art with crafting, resulting in a unique masterpiece. This session is designed for the middle school years, but with a little bit of creativity and problem solving, it can easily be adapted for other grade levels. Come and make a mess, and have a lot of fun! 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

Andrea Daly

Friday March 7, 2025 9:00am - 11:40am MST
CS 143 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB

Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Art | Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Art | Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Art

Pre-registration Contact the speaker at andrea.daly@spschools.org *$10.00 registration fee

9:00am MST

Resolve conflict with confidence! DOUBLE SESSION PART 2

Friday March 7, 2025 9:00am - 11:50am MST

SJ 140

Teacher and school leader participants will learn to

strengthen communications skills,
recognize different types of conflict,
navigate conflict, and
move beyond the conflict

Speakers

Amy Villneff

Executive Staff Officer, Teacher Employment Services, The Alberta Teachers' Association

Friday March 7, 2025 9:00am - 11:50am MST
SJ 140 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB

10:30am MST

Communication Skills to Disarm Angry Parents

Friday March 7, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST

SJ GYM

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

Speakers

Connie Jakab

CEO, Jakab Co.

Friday March 7, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
SJ GYM 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB

10:30am MST

The Power of Representation: Unpacking Implicit Biases and its Implications in Education

Friday March 7, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST

CS 222

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.

Speakers

Shalynn Zakordonski

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 222 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB

10:30am MST

ASEBP MyRetiree Presentation

Friday March 7, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST

SJ 150

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.

Session Objectives:
1. Benefit Overview

Speakers

Joanna Szymczyk

Benefit Specialist, ASEBP

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 →

Robin Doan

Benefit and Spending Account Specialist, Alberta School Employee Benefit Plan

Friday March 7, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
SJ 150 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB

10:30am MST

Autism 101

Friday March 7, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST

CS 232

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.

Speakers

Douglas Parsons

Friday March 7, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
CS 232 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB

10:30am MST

Beyond 20/20-Visual Acuity is not enough

Friday March 7, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST

SJ 143

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

Speakers

Chantelle Duinker

Friday March 7, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
SJ 143 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB

Administration, Inclusive Education, Health & Wellness | Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Inclusive Education, Health & Wellness | Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Inclusive Education, Health & Wellness | Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Inclusive Education, Health & Wellness | Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Inclusive Education, Health & Wellness | Pre-K/ K, Inclusive Education, Health & Wellness

10:30am MST

Captivate Your Classroom: Transform Daily Lessons with Google Slides

Friday March 7, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST

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

Speakers

Johnathan Warr

Teacher, PWSD 76

Friday March 7, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
SJ Library

10:30am MST

Extended/Long Term Disability: It's All About the Medical

Friday March 7, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST

CS MOD 7

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.

Speakers

Myra Rybotycki

Michelle Glavine

Friday March 7, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
CS MOD 7 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB

10:30am MST

Leading for Equity: Unpacking Leadership Models, Gendered Expectations, and Bias in Alberta Schools

Friday March 7, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST

CS MOD 10

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.

Speakers

Dr. Lisa Everitt

Friday March 7, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
CS MOD 10 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB

10:30am MST

Run For Fun

Friday March 7, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST

Starbucks

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

Speakers

Amanda Rich

Literacy Lead, GPCSD

Friday March 7, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
Starbucks

10:30am MST

Walking the Sacred Path: Exploring the Labyrinth as a Form of Christian Prayer

Friday March 7, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST

SJ 181

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.

Speakers

April Fogle

Coordinator of Youth Ministry, St. Joseph Church

Emily Elsenheimer

Friday March 7, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
SJ 181 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB

10:30am MST

Witness Blanket - Voices of Residential School Survivors

Friday March 7, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST

CS MOD 8

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.

Speakers

Sarah Adomako-Ansah

Manager, Education Outreach, Canadian Museum for Human Rights

Friday March 7, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
CS MOD 8 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB

10:30am MST

Ctrl+Alt+Teach: Mastering the New Computer Science Curriculum

Friday March 7, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST

SJ 151

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.

Speakers

Jeannine Younger

Education Technologist, Peace Wapiti Public School Division

Friday March 7, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
SJ 151 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB

Administration, Technology | Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Technology | Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Technology | Pre-K/ K, Technology

10:30am MST

Teaching Neurodiverse Students in an Inclusive High School Classroom

Friday March 7, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST

SJ 232

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

Speakers

Chris Wudarck

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 :)

Friday March 7, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
SJ 232

10:30am MST

BUDDY TEACHERS + BUDDY CLASSROOMS = MATH SUCCESS Elementary

Friday March 7, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST

CS LIBRARY

This math games workshop will teach you the best activities and games for developing a cross-graded math game buddies program. Come as a team - primary and upper elementary and learn games that empower all learners. The benefit for older students includes relearning basic concepts (for some grades 4 - 6 this helps rebuild their gaps in understanding) and instructing younger students who benefit from 1 to 1 teaching. Our primary students, have their own "math coach" and build relationships across grade levels. After an overview of how we teach cross-graded game classes, participants will learn various games for operational fluency and place value. A primary-level game will be taught, then a related upper-elementary variation will be shared. The handout will contain our favourite game to help you develop this powerful 1 X week strategy. Great for teachers in colony schools as well!

Session Objectives:
1. Participants will learn how to implement and manage a cross graded math games buddy program
2. Participants will learn 10 - 15 games using cards and dice - easy to find manipulatives for using in cross graded settings
3. Participants will learn how to adapt games for use from Grade 1 - 6

Speakers

Jane Felling

Presenter, Box Cars And One-Eyed Jacks Inc

Friday March 7, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
CS LIBRARY 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB

Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Mathematics | Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Mathematics

10:30am MST

Fun, Fast, Fresh, Free! New Resources for Teaching K-6 Physical Education and Wellness

Friday March 7, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST

Come explore Ever Active Schools NEW suite of digital resources, now available for free through new.LearnAlberta.ca. These Physical Education and Wellness resources are locally developed for K-6 Learners in both English and French and aligned to the new K-6 Physical Education and Wellness Programs of Study. Participants will preview the suite of resources, sample activities and have the opportunity to give feedback.

Session Objectives:
1. Try out a new suite of digital resources to support the K-6 Physical Education and Wellness Program of Study
2. Try sample activities to digital resources to support the K-6 Physical Education and Wellness Program of Study
3. Provide feedback on the digital resources to support the K-6 Physical Education and Wellness Program of Study

Speakers

Cassandra Anastacio

Health & Wellness Consultant, Ever Active Schools

Ever Active Schools is a registered national charity designed to create and support healthy school communities. We engage and support schools through a Comprehensive School Health framework, which addresses health and education goals to improve the social outcomes of children and... Read More →

Friday March 7, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
St. Kateri Catholic School

Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Health & Wellness, Physical Education | Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Health & Wellness, Physical Education

10:30am MST

Introducing Morphology - Empowering Readers and Writers Through Word Structure, Vocabulary, and Spelling

Friday March 7, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST

CS 211

The Alberta ELAL Curriculum has an explicit focus on morphology. Are you wondering what it is and how to teach it? This session will provide a foundational understanding of morphology and the many benefits of teaching it to students. Time will also be spent exploring the new Pearson resource, Bug Club Morphology, to demonstrate how it can support your teaching in this area.

Session Objectives:
1. Foundational understanding of morphology for teachers
2. Benefits of teaching morphology to students

Speakers

Siobhan Murphy

Planning & Implementation Manager for Literacy, Pearson Canada

Siobhan Murphy is the Planning & Implementation Manager for Literacy at Pearson Canada. She has been in the field of education for over 20 years, including teaching at the elementary and junior high levels, as a district lead literacy teacher and a literacy consultant at the Edmonton... Read More →

Friday March 7, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
CS 211 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB

Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Language Arts | Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Language Arts

10:30am MST

Follow The Money - Financial Literacy

Friday March 7, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST

SJ 136

Transform your whole classroom into a mini-economy in connection with a specific project that is ready to integrate into your curriculum. Students gain understanding of currency, borrowing, online shopping, taxes, buying supplies, the impact of counterfeit currency, selling services and more as they explore options in this project.

Session Objectives:
1. Educators will learn to incorporate a mini-economy project into their curriculum, helping students understand currency, borrowing, and online shopping and more
2. Educators will guide students in exploring real-world financial concepts such as taxes, buying supplies, and the impact of counterfeit currency.
3. Educators will support students in developing entrepreneurial skills by engaging them in activities like selling services and managing a classroom economy.

Speakers

Dominic Tremblay

Education Consultant, Dominic P. Tremblay, Education Consultant

Visual Art, Social Emotional Learning & Mindfulness

Friday March 7, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
SJ 145 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB

Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Art, Assessment

10:30am MST

Gr 9 - Engaging Projects

Friday March 7, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST

SJ 144

Do you struggle engaging your students with the topics of government and economics? Want your students to think critically and build skills? This session will walk you through a variety of different tasks that can be interactive, develop critical thinking skills, work to apply knowledge and interpret a variety of sources. Tasks range from government simulations, YCJA scenarios and trials, cross curricular ELA texts/resources, economic simulations, videos to support learning, propaganda, etc.

Session Objectives:
1. Interactive Activities (Government and YCJA)
2. Cross curricular resources
3. Economic Simulations

Speakers

Joanna Zakus

Richelle Marynowski

Professor, University of Lethbridge

Dr. Richelle Marynowski is a Professor in the Faculty of Education at the University of Lethbridge. Her background includes 14 years of teaching secondary mathematics and 13 years teaching at the University of Lethbridge. Her research foci include teacher professional growth and development... Read More →

Friday March 7, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
SJ 142 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB

Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Inclusive Education, Mathematics | Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Inclusive Education, Mathematics

10:30am MST

Can a Video Clip Under Four Minutes be Stretched Over a Week?

Friday March 7, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST

SJ 139

We will examine how to use a specific video clip (length: 3:26) from Season 1 of Mad Men as the basis for an entire week (or more) of lessons. Students can practice using inferences, supporting evidence, camera angles, shots, tone, mood, color, non-diegetic music, subtext, research, personal connections, parental participation, speaking skills, and slideshows. This session will also provide teachers with possible entry points into discussions about historical context, advertising, consumerism, memory, identity, family, work, race, technology, and gender.

This is probably the lesson more of my students remember than any other - though perhaps not for the right reasons. To be fair, the rest of my stuff is pretty forgettable. . .

Session Objectives:
1. Monday lessons: visual analysis of the video clip, starting with the slides from the video.

Speakers

James Chiba

Friday March 7, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
SJ 139 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB

Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Language Arts

10:30am MST

Learning About the CTEC and Alberta ATA Specialist Council:

Friday March 7, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST

CS 135

Exploring professional development opportunities and resources available through CTEC and the Alberta ATA Specialist Council.

Speakers

Sheldon D'Souza

Conference Director & Calgary PD Rep

Friday March 7, 2025 10:30am - 11:40am MST
CS 135

Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Career & Technology Studies/Foundations

12:40pm MST

28 Day Challenge through the Book Me and White Supremacy: Combat Racism, Change the World and Become a Good Ancestor

Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST

CS 207

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.

Speakers

Kim Barker-Kay

Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
CS 207 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB

12:40pm MST

ASEBP Benefit Overview Presentation

Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST

SJ 150

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!

Session Objectives:
1. Benefit Overview

Speakers

Joanna Szymczyk

Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
Art Gallery of Grande Prairie

Pre-registration forms.gle/o9MQxhzvKgKZ3UXv7.

12:40pm MST

Google Apps Buffet: Explore the Power Beyond Docs & Drive

Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST

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

Speakers

Johnathan Warr

Teacher, PWSD 76

Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
SJ Library

12:40pm MST

Growth Mindset in the Classroom - Learn from an Olympian

Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST

CS 223

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

Speakers

Andrea Dion

Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
CS 223 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB

12:40pm MST

Pass the Mic: Let's Talk About Racism

Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST

CS MOD 8

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.

Speakers

Sarah Adomako-Ansah

Manager, Education Outreach, Canadian Museum for Human Rights

CEO, Jakab Co.

Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
SJ 272 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB

Administration, Counselling & Student Support, Health & Wellness, Inclusive Education | Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Counselling & Student Support, Health & Wellness, Inclusive Education | Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Counselling & Student Support, Health & Wellness, Inclusive Education

12:40pm MST

A year in the life of a music teacher. Let's talk plans. (ATA Fine Arts Council)

Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST

CS 139

Welcome to a workshop on year plans, unit plans and making them work together to make your year go smoothly. We will talk tips and tricks and look at a few examples. Along the way we will hit topics like assessment and technology. Let s make those long-range plans and unit plans workable documents that you refer to all year long. Bring a device if possible.

Session Objectives:
1. improving planning skills
2. Teacher efficacy

Speakers

Amanda Clark

music representative, Fine Arts Council

Amanda Clark is a dynamic elementary music teacher in Leduc, inspiring young minds in both French and English classrooms for over a decade. A versatile educator, she also shares her love of music through private lessons, including the renowned Music for Young Children program. Amanda's... Read More →

Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
CS 139 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB

12:40pm MST

ATA Science Council presents Oreo Cookies and Scientific Method

Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST

CS 224

Please bring your own device in order to participate fully; this is a very hands on session! With the advent of a new science curriculum, there is a new organization and format to the science curriculum. One of the new Organizing Ideas is the Scientific Method. I will show you how to offer an engaging 2 week unit. Can you let go of sage on the stage and help guide your students through an engaging investigation? Let me show you how with this highly engaging investigation. We will then explore ways that scientific inquiry can be incorporated into other organizing ideas for various grade levels.

Session Objectives:
1. 4-9 Science
2. Curriculum
3. Pedagogy

Speakers

Michelle Savoie

Secretary (6-9 science teacher), Pembina Hills

Michelle Savoie is a passionate science teacher of grade 6-9 students at Eleanor Hall School in Clyde for the last 17 years. She lives in Edmonton with her husband and son. When not spending time with her family, she enjoys advocating for our colleagues as the local president for... Read More →

Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
CS 224 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB

Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Counselling & Student Support, Science | Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Counselling & Student Support, Science | Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Counselling & Student Support, Science | Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Counselling & Student Support, Science

12:40pm MST

Celebrating Intercultural Connection and Inclusion in Physical Education

Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST

SJ 143

Join Ever Active Schools as we explore ways to foster inclusivity, enrich learning, and promote a global perspective within your physical education program. This session samples activities from International Games, a resource featuring lesson plans from 9 countries. Learn the process used to develop the student-led resource, and spark ideas for how to celebrate the unique cultures of your school community.

Session Objectives:
1. explore ways to foster inclusivity, enrich learning, and promote a global perspective within your physical education program
2. samples activities from International Games, a resource featuring lesson plans from 9 countries
3. Learn the process used to develop the student-led resource, and spark ideas for how to celebrate the unique cultures of your school community

Speakers

Cassandra Anastacio

Health & Wellness Consultant, Ever Active Schools

Consultante en mathématiques/Math Consultant, RLM Consulting

Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
CS MOD 4 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB

Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Science, Technology | Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Science, Technology | Pre-K/ K, Science, Technology

12:40pm MST

Safety & Leadership through AMA School Safety Patrol

Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST

CS 128

Discover how to implement a School Safety Patrol program in your school to increase student safety and promote leadership, citizenship, and teamwork among grade 5/6 students. The session will cover the program's key benefits, including improved school safety and the positive development of students. Information regarding time commitments for staff and students, registration, equipment, and school eligibility will be outlined. We will also discuss practical steps for setting up, training, and maintaining an effective, committed patrol team. Join us to answer all your questions and learn how to have your school become part of this impactful program that has been part of Alberta schools for 86 years and counting!

Session Objectives:
1. for school staff to be able to make an informed decision about becoming a school patrol school
2. for school staff to understand the benefits of school patrol
3. to answer questions regarding the school patrol program

Speakers

Marina Prystupa

Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
CS 128 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB

Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Career & Technology Studies/Foundations, Health & Wellness, School Leadership

12:40pm MST

Service Projects in CTF Class

Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST

SJ 142

Are you interested in creating meaningful and innovative projects for your students? Would you like your students to give back to their community? Learn from two professionals who connected together to create outstanding service projects for their students. There will be ideas, examples, and sharing of learning that we did not know would happen! There will also be a chance to collaborate and generate new ideas for your classes. Allow your students the opportunity to create novel and innovative projects while still giving back to their school, community, or world!

Session Objectives:
1. Discovering innovative projects for the CTF classroom.
2. Make CTF learning meaningful and creative.
3. Allow for Collaboration and Idea Generation

Speakers

Theresa Simmonds

Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
SJ 142 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB

Division 2/ Grades 4-6 Division 3/ Grades 7-9

12:40pm MST

Ten Minutes to Mastery: Class-Wide Fact Fluency Practice for Struggling Students

Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST

Mastering basic math facts is essential for students to build a strong foundation for more advanced mathematical concepts. However, many students face challenges in achieving fluency with these foundational skills, which can hinder their overall academic progress. Participants will engage in an informative session that addresses this critical issue with effective strategies and practical tools for a daily class-wide fact fluency practice. Attendees will explore an evidence-informed approach that has shown remarkable results within local divisions. Whether you are a classroom teacher or administrator seeking a straightforward yet effective solution, this session will provide valuable insights and actionable steps to ensure your students gain the confidence and skills necessary for future success in mathematics. Join us in learning this simple yet powerful daily practice to support students who have not yet mastered basic math facts, ensuring every learner can succeed.

Session Objectives:
1. Understand research behind effective teaching of basic math facts
2. Learn an effective 10-minute class-wide fact fluency practice
3. Provide recent and remarkable data from local divisions

Speakers

Rhonda Giesbrecht

Numeracy Coordinator, Peace Wapiti Public School Division

Nicki Nightingale

Numeracy Coordinator, Peace Wapiti Public School Division

Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
CS 160/161

Division 2/ Grades 4-6 Division 3/ Grades 7-9 Division 4/ Grades 10-12

12:40pm MST

Insights into Students' Comprehension and Communication, Grades 7-10?

Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST

CS 211

You are probably wondering about the range of literacy skills in your grade 7-10 English classroom and how to best engage, assess, and teach. You may sense that some students are reading well below grade level and others on grade level and others somewhere in between. But how might you learn more about your students as readers and writers, so that you can tailor your teaching to meet students' individual needs? This session will introduce you to Pearson's new Literacy Success Assessment, to support reading comprehension and communication for students in grades 7-10.

Session Objectives:
1. Support reading comprehension and communication for students in grades 7-10

Speakers

Siobhan Murphy

Planning & Implementation Manager for Literacy, Pearson Canada

Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
CS 211 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB

Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Assessment, Language Arts | Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Assessment, Language Arts

12:40pm MST

Writing for Social Studies

Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST

SJ 144

Are you struggling to develop your student s academic social studies writing skills? This is the session for you! We will be focusing on paragraph structure building towards essay writing and interpreting sources and developing critical written responses leading to the source analysis. The scope and sequence from grade 7 to high school written tasks will be examined. We will be providing powerpoint lessons, tasks, templates and exemplars for a variety of different grades and abilities.

Session Objectives:
1. Academic social studies paragraph writing
2. Essay Writing
3. Critical written response to sources

Speakers

Joanna Zakus

Nicholle Morrison

Teacher, Calgary Board of Ed.

Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
SJ 144 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB

Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Language Arts, Social Studies | Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Language Arts, Social Studies

12:40pm MST

Ethics Bowl - A Great Way to Engage High School Students in Developing Positions

Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST

SJ 145

Looking for a way to engage students in preparing to take a position and support it in order to reach a resolution? Consider starting an Ethics Bowl team at your school.

Session Objectives:
1. To learn what the Canadian Ethics Bowl competition is.
2. To learn how to start a school Ethics Bowl Team.
3. To learn how Ethics Bowl is relevant to both the Social Studies and English curriculum for Sr. High.

Speakers

Melissa Burton

Jack Zupko

Professor of Philosophy, University of Alberta

Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 1:50pm MST
SJ 145 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB

Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Language Arts, Social Studies

12:40pm MST

Autism 201 DOUBLE SESSION

Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 3:20pm MST

CS 232

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

Speakers

Douglas Parsons

Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 3:20pm MST
CS 232 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB

12:40pm MST

A Gift of Time: Collaborative Curriculum Planning Session in Numeracy K-3 DOUBLE SESSION

Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 3:20pm MST

CS 233

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.

Speakers

Tracie Anthony

Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 3:20pm MST
CS 233 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB

Administration, Assessment, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Educational Research, Mathematics, Reflection/Collaboration | Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Assessment, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Educational Research, Mathematics, Reflection/Collaboration | Pre-K/ K, Assessment, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Educational Research, Mathematics, Reflection/Collaboration

12:40pm MST

Nouveau curriculum en francais immersion et littérature (FILAL) Aidez-moi! DOUBLE SESSION

Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 3:20pm MST

CS 206

Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Curriculum & Pedagogy, French & International Languages | Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Curriculum & Pedagogy, French & International Languages

"Joignez-vous à cet atelier interactif pour explorer et mieux comprendre les éléments clés du nouveau programme d’études français immersion et littérature (FILAL). De plus, nous allons explorer quelques ressources du Centre FLRC qui pourront vous aider en salle de salle. Cet atelier, animé par Andrea Couture, spécialiste de soutien aux programmes d’études avec le FLRC , vous permettra de mieux comprendre le programme d'étude, de voir des outils qui existent et d'explorer des stratégies pour intégrer efficacement ce programme dans vos pratiques pédagogiques. Dans cet atelier double, vous auriez aussi le temps de travailler, de collaborer ainsi que de poser toutes vos questions. Alors, apporter vos questions et votre travail !

Session Objectives:
1. Mieux comprendre le programme d'étude FILAL
2. D'explorer des ressources qui existent pour soutenir ce programme d'étude
3. Du temps pour travailler et collaborer avec collègues"

Speakers

Andrea Couture

Spécialiste de soutien aux programmes d'études / Curriculum Support Specialist, FLRC

Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 3:20pm MST
CS 206 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB

Host Organization 1ère à 4e année

12:40pm MST

Let's Roll! Getting Students Biking DOUBLE SESSION

Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 3:20pm MST

CS 135

Are you interested in getting your students on a bike ride as a class? Maybe you want to be more help for those little bike commuters in your school? This session is designed to teach you some basics of getting students out on bikes as a class and how to do so safely. We will spend the first half of the session talking about some of the most common and basic bike repairs that can be done with a small selection of easily obtained tools and show how to keep those freshly tuned bikes running smoothly with basic maintenance. For the second half of the session, we will get outside on bikes to try out a few different basic bike drills involving balance, braking, and shifting.

Session Objectives:
1. Teachers will learn how to get students outside safely on a bike
2. Teachers will learn some basic bike repair skills to fix common issues
3. Teachers will try different biking activities that can be done with all ages

Speakers

Matthew Vavrek

Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 3:20pm MST
CS 135

12:40pm MST

From Zentangles to Neurographica... Art That Calms! DOUBLE SESSION PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED

Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 3:20pm MST

CS 143

Fully hands-on, relaxing and creative... come and participate in an artsy session where you create exemplars to bring back to your classroom. You will be introduced to several projects using zentangle techniques, and opportunities to experiment with neurographic art... both types of art are wonderful for calming the senses and creating a peaceful classroom. Play with watercolours, prismacolours, collages, watercolour pencils and more. This session is planned for the middle years, but with a little bit of creativity and problem-solving, you could adapt these lessons for other age groups. 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

Andrea Daly

Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 3:20pm MST
CS 143 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB

Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Art | Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Art

Pre-registration Contact the speaker at andrea.daly@spschools.org

12:40pm MST

Crochet for Beginners DOUBLE SESSION PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED

Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 3:20pm MST

SJ 139

Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Career & Technology Studies/Foundations, Health & Wellness | Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Career & Technology Studies/Foundations, Health & Wellness | Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Career & Technology Studies/Foundations, Health & Wellness

In this session, participants will learn about the art of Crochet and how it applies to the CTS curriculum. They will learn a couple of basic stitches while working on a project they can take home. The presenter will have all the materials to complete the project. It will be on a first-come-first-served basis, so pre-registering is unnecessary. There is a $15 fee for the session to cover the cost of materials. PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED - Contact the speaker at whiteh@prsd.ab.ca *$15.00 registration fee

Session Objectives:
1. Participants will learn how to encorporate textile arts into their CTS program.
2. Participants will learn new skills to teach their students.

Speakers

Hayley White

Divisional Inclusive Education Coordinator, PRSD

Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 3:20pm MST
SJ 139 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB

Pre-registration Contact the speaker at whiteh@prsd.ab.ca *$15.00 registration fee

12:40pm MST

Crafting with Pages: Exploring Genres Across Ages DOUBLE SESSION Pre-registration required

Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 3:20pm MST

Next Chapter

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 | Pre-K/ K, English Language Learning, Language Arts

Join us for a creative and insightful session where we combine the art of crafting with the love of books! Participants will learn how to create beautiful flowers from recycled book pages. While crafting, we will dive into a discussion about the different age classifications for books, focusing on Young Adult (YA) literature and exploring what makes a book "Young Adult" versus "Middle Grade" or "Adult." Discover how to navigate these distinctions and engage readers of all ages in your educational setting. The workshop will take place at "The Next Chapter - Books, Puzzles, and Gifts," and participants will also have time to shop the store during the session.
There is a fee of $7.50 for this session. Please register and pay online https://thenextchaptergp.com/products/crafting-with-pages-exploring-genres-across-ages.

Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 3:20pm MST
Next Chapter

Pre-registration thenextchaptergp.com/products/crafting-with-pages-exploring-genres-across-ages

12:40pm MST

Cards Board Game Cafe DOUBLE SESSION

Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 3:20pm MST

Card's Board Game Café

Bored? Games!
An interactive guided tour of board games for ages 12-17. Card's Board Game Café will be hosting an afternoon of playing and learning several new boardgames!

Friday March 7, 2025 12:40pm - 3:20pm MST
Card's Board Game Café

Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Fostering Effective Relationships | Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Fostering Effective Relationships

2:10pm MST

Embracing Spiritual Wellness in the Classroom (Repeat)

Friday March 7, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST

SJ 173

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.

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

Nichole Gerein

District Principal of Religious Education, GPCSD

Kylie Fraser

Friday March 7, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
SJ 173

2:10pm MST

Exchanges: Embark on a journey that will inform, inspire and transform your teaching or leadership journey

Friday March 7, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST

CS MOD 7

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.

Speakers

Carolyn Freed

Friday March 7, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
CS MOD 7 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB

2:10pm MST

Google Refresher

Friday March 7, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST

SJ 151

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.

Speakers

Jeannine Younger

Education Technologist, Peace Wapiti Public School Division

Friday March 7, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
SJ 151 10520 68 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB

2:10pm MST

Promote Yourself: Resumes and Cover Letters that Get Noticed

Friday March 7, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST

CS MOD 10

Health Promotion Facilitator, Alberta Health Services: Teaching Sexual Health

Christine McKernan

Health Promotion Facilitators, Teaching Sexual Health, Alberta Health Services

Christine McKernan (she/her) has Master of Science in Health Promotion and has worked in the field of public health for over nine years. She has experience building healthy school communities across Alberta in urban and rural settings. In her free time, Christine enjoys hiking, biking... Read More →

Friday March 7, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
CS 130 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB

Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Counselling & Student Support, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Health & Wellness | Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Counselling & Student Support, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Health & Wellness | Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Counselling & Student Support, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Health & Wellness | Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Counselling & Student Support, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Health & Wellness

2:10pm MST

Introducing the Indigenous Culture Based Learning in Alberta Curriculum Website

Friday March 7, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST

CS 207

Join Jason and Kim to learn how this website can be used within your classroom and your planning and to deepen your own knowledge and understanding of Nehiyaw (Cree) ways of knowing and being. Explore the rich content that includes general knowledge videos, videos that follow seasonal activities and events, videos and PDFs of stories and legends, curriculum documents with direct links between outcomes and videos, planning samples, instructional supports, and much more. Learn about the Foundations of Cree Ways of Knowing and Being that are your starting point in planning.

Session Objectives:
1. To help teachers feel more comfortable infusing Indigenous ways of knowing and being into their planning and classroom.
2. To provide teachers with Elder/Knowledge Keeper knowledge along with tools to directly infuse that knowledge into their practice.

Speakers

Kim Barker-Kay

Jason Bigcharles

First Nation/Metis Education Consultant

Tansi, Wapastim N’Sihkasoon. Hello, my name is White Horse, my colonized name is Jason Bigcharles. I am a father of 7 and grandfather of 16. I am proudly Metis from the Metis settlement of East Prairie. I have lived on the East Prairie Metis Settlement my whole life thus far... Read More →

Friday March 7, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
CS 207 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB

Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Indigenous Education | Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Indigenous Education | Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Indigenous Education | Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Indigenous Education | Pre-K/ K, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Indigenous Education

2:10pm MST

Technology in the music classroom

Friday March 7, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST

CS 139

Come check out several websites, apps and platforms for creating, writing scores, organizing and having fun while learning. Including but not limited to: Flat, Planbook, Bublub, Noteflight, chrome music lab, blob opera, Songlio, Incredibox, dice humdrum. Bring your own device and try these out during the session too!

Session Objectives:
1. Technology uses
2. Teacher efficacy
3. Teaching resources"

Speakers

Amanda Clark

music representative, Fine Arts Council

Friday March 7, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
CS 139 20 Knowledge Way, Grande Prairie, AB

Division 1/ Grades 1-3, Music & Band, Technology | Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Music & Band, Technology | Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Music & Band, Technology | Division 4/ Grades 10-12, Music & Band, Technology | Pre-K/ K, Music & Band, Technology

2:10pm MST

Number Talks in the Middle School Math Classroom

Friday March 7, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST

In collaboration with three school divisions in Alberta and funded by the Research Partnerships Program of Alberta Education, Number Talks were implemented over four months in Grades 4 - 8. Our goal was to determine if the implementation of Number Talks would serve to increase the competence and confidence of students in their numeracy skills. We had approximately 30 teachers and 300 students participate in the research project. This session will present the research findings and and the implications for teacher practice.

Session Objectives:
1. Participants will learn how to implement Number Talks in their teaching.
2. Participants will identify the benefits of implementing Number Talks for their students.

Speakers

Rhonda Giesbrecht

Numeracy Coordinator, Peace Wapiti Public School Division

Richelle Marynowski

Professor, University of Lethbridge

Nicki Nightingale

Numeracy Coordinator, Peace Wapiti Public School Division

Friday March 7, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST
CS 160/161

Division 2/ Grades 4-6, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Mathematics | Division 3/ Grades 7-9, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Mathematics

2:10pm MST

ELA and SS - Engaging Tasks Connected to Conflict

Friday March 7, 2025 2:10pm - 3:20pm MST

SJ 144