SWATCA 2025 - South Western Alberta Teachers' Convention: Full Schedule

Welcome to SWATCA 2024 on SCHED!

Here you will find the list of all the great sessions, speaker information, exhibitors and more! Check back here often for information on draws, prize winners, session updates and more!!

IMPORTANT REMINDER:
Please ensure that you are completing session evaluations - this helps our SWATCA planning team immensely in preparing for future events! You can evaluate all sessions in the session itself at the bottom of the SCHED. Thank you!

Prize Winners
Goosechase:
Kelsey Schwark and Bryce Wirzba
Katie Walker

Host Draw:
Kara Tarnava

Feedback Draw:
Carla Ferrari
Mark Bergheim

7:15am MST

Holy Spirit Local #5 Breakfast (Members Only)

Thursday February 20, 2025 7:15am - 8:30am MST

PE250

For members of this local only.

Thursday February 20, 2025 7:15am - 8:30am MST
PE250

Health & Wellness (TQS 3)

8:30am MST

President Schilling Convention 2024 Greeting

Thursday February 20, 2025 8:30am - 8:30am MST

University of Lethbridge

PLAY RECORDING

Alberta Teachers' Association president Jason Schilling sends a message of greeting to convention 2024 attendees.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uEQXaTlogCU

Thursday February 20, 2025 8:30am - 8:30am MST
University of Lethbridge 4401 University Dr W, Lethbridge, AB T1K 3M4, Canada

Keynotes & Featured Speaker

8:30am MST

Keynote

Thursday February 20, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am MST

Tareq Hadhad is telling his story. He was a Syrian refugee and now living his new life with his entrepreneurial family in Canada’s east coast. He is the founder and CEO of Peace by Chocolate, the recipient of the EY Entrepreneur of The Year 2021 for Atlantic, named one of the Top 25 Immigrants in The Maritimes, selected by Google as the National Hero Case, was awarded RBC’s top Immigrant Award and Entrepreneur of the Year in 2020 and Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee Medal. All of this has happened since Tareq’s arrival on Canada’s East Coast in December 2015 as a Syrian-Canadian newcomer.

Speakers

Tareq Hadhad

Founder & CEO, Peace by Chocolate

Thursday February 20, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am MST

Keynotes & Featured Speaker

10:30am MST

Abstract Art Explosion: Ignite Creativity in Your Classroom!

Thursday February 20, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST

AH176

A colourful artistic journey in the world of abstract art. Discover the secrets of creating mesmerizing abstract paintings by experimenting with expressive brushstrokes and bold paint application techniques.

SESSION HOST: Leslie Vogel

Speakers

Bogdan Konikowski

Art Instructor, Artiza

Bogdan Konikowski is an artist - educator from Edmonton, Alberta. He received his formal fine arts education in Poland. Since then, Bogdan has painted many exquisite paintings. Among his commissioned works are the life-size portraits of the late Honourable Lois E. Hole.

Thursday February 20, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST
AH176

Art (TQS 3), K-Gr 3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

10:30am MST

Cross Stitching the Classroom: Introduction and Application

Thursday February 20, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST

TH341

This is a session that provides both instructional and beginning techniques, as well as an opportunity for experienced individuals to create their own projects.

SESSION HOST: Danielle Gareau

Speakers

Tyler Wardrop

Teacher, Grasslands Public Schools

ACE Place Learning Centre is the outreach/alternative school for Horizon School Division. We support students in grades 6-12 through At Home Learning, in-person alternative junior high and outreach high school. Meg helps students and families in grades 6-9 navigate At Home Learning... Read More →

Chrystal Jensen

ACE Place Learning Centre is the outreach/alternative school for Horizon School Division. We support students in grades 6-12 through many programs including At Home Learning, in-person alternative junior high and outreach high school. Meg is "in the trenches" with students and families... Read More →

Angela Odland

Thursday February 20, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST
M1035

Curriculum & Pedagogy (TQS 3), Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12 | Counselling & Student Support (TQS/LQS 4), Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12 | Diversity Equity & Human Rights (TQS/LQS 4), Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

10:30am MST

Escape Boredom: Engaging students through the use of escape rooms

Thursday February 20, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST

L1170A

This session will cover how gamification can increase engagement and inclusion as well as how to source items to set up your escape room, sample puzzles and potential curriculum connections.

SESSION HOST: Eva Gorny

Speakers

WISEST Outreach

Thursday February 20, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST
L1170A

Curriculum & Pedagogy (TQS 3), Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12 | Diversity Equity and Human Rights (TQS/LQS 4), Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

10:30am MST

Reading, Writing, Speaking: The Metacognition Connection

Thursday February 20, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST

M1040

Metacognitive practices help students become aware of their strengths and weaknesses as readers and writers as well as speakers, problem solvers, and group members. The question for teachers and students is not simply, “what are you learning?”, but “how are you learning?”. This session will clarify the connection between language and metacognition and provide ways for teachers to incorporate explicit strategies to support students in becoming more metacognitively active learners.

SESSION HOST: Tera Robison

Speakers

Karena Hartson

Dr. Hartson began her career as a classroom teacher where she taught English Language Arts, Social Studies. She also ran a lunch-time chess club for students (but never won a single game) and an after-school badminton club (she won a few of those). She has a Masters degree in Curriculum... Read More →

Thursday February 20, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST
M1040

Curriculum & Pedagogy (TQS 3), Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12 | Education Research (TQS/LQS 2), Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12 | Language Arts (TQS 3), Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

10:30am MST

EcoSchools in Alberta: A Curriculum Linked Framework for Environmental and Climate Action

Thursday February 20, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST

M1060

Discover practical strategies, resources, and best practices for implementing EcoSchools in your educational setting and fostering a culture of environmental stewardship and sustainability.

This session needs a host! To host, complete the form linked here and include your name and the session title in the form.

Speakers

Amy Thompson

Alberta Council for Environmental Education

The Alberta Council for Environmental Education (ACEE) works collaboratively to advance environmental education in Alberta. Although we embrace and support environmental education for all audiences in Alberta, we're particularly interested in supporting young people: we believe that... Read More →

Thursday February 20, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST
M1060

Curriculum & Pedagogy (TQS 3), K-Gr 3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12 | Environmental & Outdoor Education (TQS 3), K-Gr 3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

10:30am MST

Tips for New Teachers

Thursday February 20, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST

SA6010

Are you feeling overwhelmed? How does a teacher keep up with lesson preparation, engaging and managing students, grading, progress reports, parent conferencing, meeting diverse learning needs, not to mention evaluations and dealing with school administration? How can one remain enthusiastic, happy, and well-balanced when overwhelmed by these responsibilities? This session introduces helpful principles for thriving in the classroom and a medley of practical strategies for dealing with challenges. Come laugh, decompress, and learn some self-care. These tried-and-true, evidence-based tips will provide hope and make your job easier.

SESSION HOST: Hana Bissett

Speakers

Danny Bateman

Dan is currently an instructor at Concordia University of Edmonton in the Faculty of Education. As an experienced and esteemed public speaker, he delivers teaching strategies and inspiration using entertaining experiences and actionable content. He has delivered hundreds of successful... Read More →

Thursday February 20, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST
SA6010

Curriculum & Pedagogy (TQS 3), K-Gr3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12 | Health & Wellness (TQS 3), K-Gr3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

10:30am MST

Boosting Problem Solving Skills in High School Math using Critical Thinking Tasks

Thursday February 20, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST

L1170B

This interactive session will explore strategies and resources for developing, executing and assessing thinking tasks in high school mathematics.

SESSION HOST: Gibion Makiwa

Speakers

Deanna Sample

Teacher

Deanna Sample and Jamel Sayyad are both teachers at Winston Churchill High School in Lethbridge. They are both passionate about giving students opportunities for hands-on learning, valuing the learning process, and engaging students in mathematical critical thinking.

Jamel Sayyad

Thursday February 20, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST
L1170B

Curriculum & Pedagogy (TQS 3), Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12 | Mathematics (TQS 3), Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

10:30am MST

Thinking Classroom Episode One: More Mathematical Thinking Less "Studenting"

Thursday February 20, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST

TH204

A brief introduction to the Thinking Classroom teaching model including how I started and how it's going in my classroom.

SESSION HOST: Blake Wheler

Speakers

Matt Vanden Dungen

Matt is a grade 4 teacher at Dr. Robert Plaxton Elementary School in Lethbridge. He’s been teaching grade 4 or grade 4/5 classes since the mid 2010s, and has a bad habit of allowing new programs to completely transform his teaching practice.

Thursday February 20, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST
TH204

Curriculum & Pedagogy (TQS 3), K-Gr 3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9 | Mathematics (TQS 3), K-Gr 3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9

10:30am MST

Poetry and Movement

Thursday February 20, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST

PE110

Want to combine language arts & movement? Explore the relationship between words, images & movement & the dynamics of our voices & bodies, creating movement from poetry, enhancing both.

This session needs a host! To host, complete the form linked here and include your name and the session title in the form.

Speakers

Dana M. Luebke

Artistic Co-director, Sun.Ergos, A Company of Theatre and Dance

Dana has danced professionally since he was 10 years old and performed and taught in 25 countries. Dana has developed work exploring the relationship between words, images and movement to create choral/movement pieces from poetry. A special focus has been to help children develop... Read More →

Thursday February 20, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST
PE110

Drama & Dance (TQS 3), K-Gr3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12 | Language Arts (TQS 3), K-Gr3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

10:30am MST

Hutterite Colony Teacher's Roundtable

Exploring Assessment and Year Planning with the K-6 Physical Education & Wellness Curriculum

Thursday February 20, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST

PE264

Explore ways to approach the Physical Education & Wellness curriculum through year planning and assessment.

This session needs a host! To host, complete the form linked here and include your name and the session title in the form.

Speakers

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 →

Thursday February 20, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST
PE264

Health & Wellness (TQS 3), K-Gr 3, Gr 4-6 | Physical Education (TQS 3), K-Gr 3, Gr 4-6

10:30am MST

A Day in the Life of a Blood Bus Driver

Thursday February 20, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST

PE275

Come and join us for a viewing of the documentary; A Day in the Life of a Blood Bus Driver and Their Students. This session will share the stories of challenges and sacrifices that our reserve drivers and students face to come to school.

SESSION HOST: Amy Kerr

Speakers

Shelley Kirkvold

Thursday February 20, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST
PE275

Indigenous Education (TQS/LQS 5), K-Gr3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

10:30am MST

Rise, Know Your Worth, Find Your Way

Thursday February 20, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST

PE250

This presentation is about overcoming mental health challenges. It intertwines storytelling and original songs of how Marco has overcome his struggles to have a successful career as a teacher, and singer-songwriter.

SESSION HOST: Christine Henke

Speakers

Marco Corbo

Singer/Songwriter

Marco Corbo is well known in Edmonton’s music scene and has been recognized by the Edmonton Sun as one of Edmonton’s Top Emerging Artists. Following commercial radio success with his band, Marco recorded an intimate acoustic album in 2014. Enlisting the help of keyboardist Rami... Read More →

Thursday February 20, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST
PE250

Keynotes & Featured Speaker, K-Gr 3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12 | Health & Wellness (TQS 3), K-Gr 3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

10:30am MST

BLAST: A Targeted Literacy Intervention

Thursday February 20, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST

AH116

Using a school-wide intervention block can help a school meet the needs of all students. Come and see how you can plan, organize and run an effective multi-grade intervention.

SESSION HOST: Tamara Melnychuk

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 February 20, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST
AH116

Language Arts (TQS 3), K-Gr 3

10:30am MST

Increasing Student Engagement through Collaboration in High School English

Thursday February 20, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST

TH241

Learn about and discuss an alternate format for high school English focusing on student agency and interest to increase engagement, skill development, and reduce plagiarism and improper use of AI.

SESSION HOST: Wendy McAdam

Speakers

Justin Clark

High School English Teacher

Justin Clark is a jr. high/high school English teacher at Picture Butte High School. He graduated from the University of Lethbridge in 2012 and has been teaching ever since. Justin is also passionate about health and wellness and trying to strike a balance between all important aspects... Read More →

Thursday February 20, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST
TH241

Language Arts (TQS 3), Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12 | Curriculum & Pedagogy (TQS 3), Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12 | Assessment (TQS 3), Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

10:30am MST

Diving Deeper: Opportunities and Challenges in School Leadership

Thursday February 20, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST

SA7202

Teacher, River Valley School

Lindsey Bingley is the Literacy and Numeracy Strategist and Kathleen Phelan is the Vice Principal - Elementary at Foothills Academy, a school for students with learning disabilities. With over 20 years of combined experience teaching diverse learners, they strive to help all students... Read More →

Kathleen Phelan

Thursday February 20, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST
TH173

Mathematics (TQS 3), K-Gr3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

10:30am MST

Making Fun of Building Fluency: Addition and Subtraction

Thursday February 20, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST

TH201

A session of learning games to help student build fluency and number sense in their math basic addition and subtraction facts.

SESSION HOST: Nicole Hammell

Speakers

Alan Riewe

I am a teacher with the heart of a game show host. My degree is in high school Social Studies but somehow my passion became elementary math. I am a teacher willing to share anything I have or create I just want kids to learn I don’t care if they are mine or someone else’s.

Thursday February 20, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST
TH201

Mathematics (TQS 3), K-Gr 3, Gr 4-6

10:30am MST

Math Games Division 1

Thursday February 20, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST

SA6008

In this session you will be given a variety of activities that will get children moving and or creating all while learning basic math facts! You will find your students bragging about you to others when you put this class on. This workshop is ideal for Div I.

SESSION HOST: Lenore Tarcon

Speakers

Whitney Horban (she/her) has worked in both formal and informal education and enjoys bridging the gap between the two. She has been atthe TELUS World of Science Edmonton for 8 years, traveling to schools around Alberta with the Science in Motion team and now heading up the Northern... Read More →

Thursday February 20, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST
M1090

Science (TQS 3), Gr 4-6

10:30am MST

Synthetic Biology as a Gateway to STEM Education

Thursday February 20, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST

SA7322A

SynBridge, U of L’s synthetic biology maker space, will host a workshop for Alberta teachers interested in learning about synthetic biology. This workshop will bring together enthusiastic high school teachers to learn basic lab techniques in a safe teaching environment. Participants will gain experience in cell culturing, cloning, and DNA analysis, as well as learn the background theory behind the techniques. Teachers will be able to take this knowledge back to their schools to start or continue synthetic biology clubs or iGEM teams.

This session will be in the science outreach space in the science building. Attendees can come to the science building and proceed to the main atrium space on the 7th floor. The lab is right off of there (SA7322A).

Speakers

Laura Keffer-Wilkes

Thursday February 20, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST
SA7322A

Science (TQS 3)

10:30am MST

Exploring Cross-Curriculuar Projects for Creative Educators

Thursday February 20, 2025 10:30am - 1:30pm MST

L1050

Experience cross-curricular art projects for fun and meaningful learning. Customizable for all grade levels. $15 per participant includes 3 projects, presentations, and videos.

SESSION HOST: Tarrell Harris

$15 per participant includes 3 projects, presentations, and videos.

Speakers

Izabella Orzelski

Art Representative, Fine Arts Council

Izabella Orzelski is an accomplished artist, educator, and award-winning portraitist. With an MFA and Ph.D., she combines her passion for art and education to inspire others. Her commissioned works and collaborative projects have been exhibited across Canada. With 20 years of teaching... Read More →

Thursday February 20, 2025 10:30am - 1:30pm MST
L1050

Art (TQS 3), K-Gr3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12 | Language Arts (TQS 3), K-Gr3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12 | Social Studies (TQS 3), K-Gr3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

10:30am MST

Executive function is important for student success...AND FOR TEACHERS TOO!

Thursday February 20, 2025 10:30am - 1:30pm MST

SA6012

This workshop will get into the nitty-gritty of executive function (how it's measured, implications for teaching) and stress, with opportunities to get hands-on with neuropsychological measures. Focus on early-career teachers.

SESSION HOST: Angela Court

Speakers

Jeffrey MacCormack

Dr. Jeffrey MacCormack is an associate professor of Educational Psychology and Inclusion at the Faculty of Education (uLethbridge), with experience teaching elementary. Jamie MacCormack is a high school teacher (Social, Options) at W.R.Myers in Taber.

Thursday February 20, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm MST
L1170A

Curriculum & Pedagogy (TQS 3), K-Gr 3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12 | Diversity Equity and Human Rights (TQS/LQS 4), K-Gr 3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

12:30pm MST

Success in the Middle Years

Thursday February 20, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm MST

The Power of Connection: Strengthening Parent School Communication for Mutual Understanding through Skills

Thursday February 20, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm MST

M1030

Unleash transformative parent-teacher communication. Learn practical strategies for strong connections, mutual understanding, and collaboration. Boost listening, engagement, trust, and empower student success. Join us now! #Education #Communication #PD

SESSION HOST: Juliana Richard

Speakers

Kelly Maxwell

co-founder & facilitator, The SILA Skills Group

Nathan Clark

Owner/Operator, The Natural Classroom

A Pension Counsellor with the Alberta Teachers' Retirement Fund.

Thursday February 20, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm MST
L1060

Professional Issues (TQS/LQS 6), K-Gr 3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

12:30pm MST

Intro to Data Analysis in CODAP (Gr. 7-12)

Thursday February 20, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm MST

M1090

Whether you teach math, science, ELA, or social studies, you can use data in your classroom – and with a little help from Northern Coding Academy, you will!

SESSION HOST: Gibion Makiwa

Speakers

Thursday February 20, 2025 12:30pm - 3:30pm MST
L1168

Career & Retirement Planning (TQS/LQS 2), K-Gr 3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

12:30pm MST

Design Thinking for Environmental Science

Thursday February 20, 2025 12:30pm - 3:30pm MST

M1060

Work through a crash course in the design thinking process and come away with an outline for integrating environmental education and sustainability approaches throughout your school year.

This session needs a host! To host, complete the form linked here and include your name and the session title in the form.

Speakers

Amy Thompson

Alberta Council for Environmental Education

Thursday February 20, 2025 12:30pm - 3:30pm MST
M1060

Career & Technology Studies/Foundations (TQS 3), Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12 | Curriculum & Pedagogy (TQS 3), Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12 | Environmental & Outdoor Education (TQS 3), Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

12:30pm MST

United Way Poverty Simulation

Thursday February 20, 2025 12:30pm - 3:30pm MST

UHall Atrium

This is an immersive experience. You will "live" through an expedited month as a family member experiencing poverty. This simulation is an internationally used simulation and the United Way has been instrumental in the creation and facilitation of this session. A minimum number of 45 individuals are needed to run the simulation.

Speakers

United Way/DEHR

Thursday February 20, 2025 12:30pm - 3:30pm MST
UHall Atrium

Diversity Equity & Human Rights (TQS/LQS 4), K-Gr3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

1:00pm MST

STEM Interactive Experience 1-4pm

Thursday February 20, 2025 1:00pm - 4:00pm MST

Lethbridge College Trades Building

Join the STEM collaboration at Lethbridge College as you explore the Trades shops and brainstorm authentic learning experiences for students in K-12 STEM subjects with an emphasis on the new curriculum.

Parking in Lot V at the Lethbridge College Campus. See the SWATCA office in AH100 for directions/map if needed.

SESSION HOST: Mark Wynder

Speakers

Warren Anderson

Melanie Williams and Tammi Foreman are Grade 3 French Immersion teachers at Ecole Agnes Davidson, here in Lethbridge. Their teaching philosophy centres around fostering a love for reading, building relationships, giving choice for learning and demonstration of learning. They have... Read More →

Melanie Williams

Thursday February 20, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm MST
TH241

French & International Languages (TQS 3), K-Gr 3, Gr 4-6 | Language Arts (TQS 3), K-Gr 3, Gr 4-6

2:30pm MST

From Work to Home and Beyond: Empowering Mental Health Resilience with Transferable Skills

Thursday February 20, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm MST

M1030

Boost well-being and harness transferable skills in this transformative professional development session. Learn to build mental resilience for success at work and home, with practical tools for balance and stress management.

SESSION HOST: Karl Peterson

Speakers

Kelly Maxwell

co-founder & facilitator, The SILA Skills Group

Thursday February 20, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm MST
M1030

Health & Wellness (TQS 3), K-Gr3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

2:30pm MST

Nuture Relationships and Transform Your Classroom Community

Thursday February 20, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm MST

TH204

Are your students dysregulated or anxious? What about you? If you’re overwhelmed by how to support your classroom community, this session is for you! Learn the evidence behind why relationships are foundational to wellness, student learning, and cultivating a positive classroom environment. Through facilitated discussion and sharing, we will explore strategies that help nurture relationships, support regulation, and build resiliency for you and your students. Let's get inspired to make a change!

This session needs a host! To host, complete the form linked here and include your name and the session title in the form.

Speakers

Nisa Alook-Lambrecht

Lyndsey, Courtnay, and Nisa are Health Promotion Facilitators with the Healthy Schools team who partner with school authorities to promote healthy eating, physical activity, and positive mental health in schools. They help to plan effective and coordinated strategies that improve... Read More →

Courtnay Epp

Courtnay Epp is a Health Promotion Facilitator on the Healthy Schools Team with Alberta Health Services (AHS). She has been with AHS for over 10 years and is passionate about improving student health through evidence-informed actions in school-based settings. Courtnay has a keen... Read More →

Lyndsey Spring

Thursday February 20, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm MST
TH204

Health & Wellness (TQS 3), K-Gr 3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12 | CALM (TQS 3), K-Gr 3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12 | Leadership (LQS 1-9), K-Gr 3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

2:30pm MST

I Don't Know What To Do and I Don't Know Where To Start!

Thursday February 20, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm MST

TH201

This session will focus on my journey to incorporate Indigenous ways of knowing into the science curriculum. I hope to help other teachers take their first step in their journey of reconcili-action.

This session needs a host! To host, complete the form linked here and include your name and the session title in the form.

Speakers

Clarke Dyer

Winner of the 2022 Earth Steward Teaching Award, Clarke started his teaching career in 2008 after graduating from the University of Alberta with a major in Biology and majorly awesome wife. While teaching at Victoria School, Clarke has worked to develop the school landscape into... Read More →

Thursday February 20, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm MST
TH201

Indigenous Education (TQS/LQS 5), K-Gr3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12 | Science (TQS 3), K-Gr3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

2:30pm MST

Reimagining Secondary Social Studies Education

Thursday February 20, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm MST

AH176

The session will explore the opportunities and challenge facing contemporary secondary social studies education.

SESSION HOST: Kevin McBeath

Speakers

Craig Findlay

Teacher, Lethbridge School Division

Gavin O'Looney

CEO, MathMap

I am a teacher from Ireland that has been teaching in Grasslands school division for 6 years. I teach at a small rural school called Rolling Hills where I am predominantly a Junior High teacher of science, Math, social, Gym etc. I also teach elementary school gym, art, RTI, LLI etc.Last... Read More →

Thursday February 20, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm MST
PE264

Mathematics (TQS 3), K-Gr3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

2:30pm MST

Come African Drum With Me

Thursday February 20, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm MST

AH116

Learn a variety of drumming patterns on the African drums and how to keep a steady beat.

SESSION HOST: Tera Robison

Speakers

Jessica Lysak

Thursday February 20, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm MST
AH116

Music & Band (TQS 3), K-Gr 3, Gr 4-6

2:30pm MST

President Schilling: Unplugged

Thursday February 20, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm MST

PE275

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.

SESSION HOST: Jessica Ens

Speakers

Jason Schilling

President, ATA

PresidentJason Schilling was re-elected president in 2023, following four years of service as president, twoyears of service as vice-president and more than eight years of service as district representative forSouth West. Schilling was an English and drama teacher at Kate Andrews... Read More →

Thursday February 20, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm MST
PE275

Professional Issues (TQS/LQS 6), K-Gr3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

2:30pm MST

Problem Solving Through Computational Thinking (Gr. 3-4)

Thursday February 20, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm MST

M1090

Computational thinking is at the foundation of problem solving. Explore computational thinking as it relates to creativity, design, and the new Alberta curriculum.

This session needs a host! To host, complete the form linked here and include your name and the session title in the form.

Speakers

Whitney Horban

Thursday February 20, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm MST
M1090

Science (TQS 3), K-Gr 3, Gr 4-6

2:30pm MST

Sequencing and Debugging in the Elementary Classroom (K-Gr.2)

Thursday February 20, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm MST

M1035

Explore foundational coding concepts in your elementary classroom with the new Alberta curriculum through both plugged-in and unplugged activities.

SESSION HOST: Brandie Fast

Speakers

Whitney Horban

Thursday February 20, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm MST
M1035

Science (TQS 3), K-Gr 3

4:00pm MST

Treat Yourself - SWATCA Social

Thursday February 20, 2025 4:00pm - 6:00pm MST

The Zoo

Come to the Zoo and treat yourself!
Food, Drinks, and Prizes!

Thursday February 20, 2025 4:00pm - 6:00pm MST
The Zoo

7:00am MST

Faculty of Education Alumni Breakfast

Friday February 21, 2025 7:00am - 8:30am MST

Alumni breakfast organized exclusively for ULethbridge alumni attending SWATCA. This breakfast is scheduled for February 23, offering a relaxed "come and go as you please" atmosphere from 7 – 9 am in Markin Hall. Please register for this event by clicking on the link!

Friday February 21, 2025 7:00am - 8:30am MST

Reflection/Collaboration (TQS/LQS 2)

8:30am MST

Keynote

Friday February 21, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am MST

Iitsisaanoowa (Vision Beyond), Elder Christina Fox has worked for the Holy Spirit Catholic School Division for over 20 years. During that time, she has shared her Blackfoot knowledge and traditions with students and staff at many of the division’s schools. Fox shares her knowledge of the Blackfoot way of life and teachings, thereby tending to the spirit, soul and heart of those in her care. She offers Blackfoot language classes, drumming, beading, teepee teachings, information on the importance of land acknowledgements, serves as an Elder in Residence for kindergarten students and is a spiritual guide for staff. Fox recently published a book titled My Suitcase: Nii Sookayis. The book begins with her first memory of residential school and is a story about triumph, celebration and sharing one’s gifts.

Speakers

Dr. Christina Fox

Elder & Educator

Friday February 21, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am MST

Keynotes & Featured Speaker

10:30am MST

Sexual Health Education: How to Answer Student Questions

Friday February 21, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST

AH116

Learn how to use a Question Box effectively during sexual education/ human sexuality class. Understand the 4 main types of questions students ask, and how to answer them.

This session needs a host! To host, complete the form linked here and include your name and the session title in the form.

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 MEd 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 →

Friday February 21, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST
AH116

CALM (TQS 3), Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12 | Health & Wellness (TQS 3), Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12 | Physical Education (TQS 3), Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

10:30am MST

Bucking the Status Quo: Recognizing and Standing Up Against Misogyny in Schools

Friday February 21, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST

TH173

This session aims to share resources, research, and information, to help in the process of defining and recognizing misogyny. Our goal is always to support, inform, and hopefully inspire.

SESSION HOST: Danika Peters

Speakers

Elaina Mohrmann

Jen Scott has been teaching in Lethbridge School Division for 20 years. She is passionate about empowering her students to find self-confidence and encouraging colleagues to realize their leadership potential. Elaina Mohrmann has been teaching for 10 years and has been lucky to have... Read More →

Jen Scott

Friday February 21, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST
TH173

Counselling & Student Support (TQS/LQS 4), Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12 | Diversity Equity & Human Rights (TQS/LQS 4), Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12 | Health & Wellness (TQS 3), Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

10:30am MST

Social Studies Curriculum Engagement

Friday February 21, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST

AH118

Learn more about the development of new Kindergarten to Grade 12 Social Studies curriculum and provide feedback on key learnings within the K-12 social studies curriculum. You will also receive updates on the phased approach to classroom piloting and implementation.

SESSION HOST: Barb Nemeth

Speakers

ATA Staff Session

Friday February 21, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST
AH118

Curriculum & Pedagogy (TQS 3), K-Gr3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

10:30am MST

Enhancing Differentiation in the Classroom through Theme-Based Lessons

Friday February 21, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST

TH241

Sharks, dinosaurs, fairy tales and polar bears! We are taking the themes that engage our littlest learners to help them engage with the curriculum in a fun and hands on way.

SESSION HOST: Laura Pearce

Speakers

Natasha Goddard

Natasha Goddard is a learning support teacher who is passionate about early childhood education and loves engaging students to learn in fun and creative ways. In her toolbox you will find polar bears, princesses, pirates and everything in between. She has over a decade of classroom... Read More →

Friday February 21, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST
TH241

Curriculum & Pedagogy (TQS 3), K-Gr 3 | Language Arts (TQS 3), K-Gr 3 | Mathematics (TQS 3), K-Gr 3 | Social Studies (TQS 3), K-Gr 3

10:30am MST

Professional Semester III - Professional Inquiry Projects

Friday February 21, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST

L1170G

Eric Garner - Enhancing Musical Mastery: The Influence of Explicit Executive Functioning Instruction
Danielle Bernardin - Creating Brave Spaces in a Fine Arts Classroom
Taylor Dunning-Horvath Hip-Hop and Knowledge Drop: Hip-Hop Pedagogy as a Method for Engagement

Friday February 21, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST
L1170G

Educational Research (TQS/LQS 2)

10:30am MST

Why Grasslands CAN and WILL Save the World!

Friday February 21, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST

AH176

Alberta’s grasslands have the power to save the world. Curious to know when, why & how? Join us to learn how relationships lie at the heart of why grasslands matter - now and forever!

This session needs a host! To host, complete the form linked here and include your name and the session title in the form.

Speakers

Jaclyn Angotti

Education Director, CPAWS Southern Alberta

Jaclyn has 15 years of experience leading science and environmental education programs throughout Alberta. She has a B.Sc. in Biology from the University of Alberta and a Master of Education from the University of Calgary. Her passion for connecting others with nature is integral... Read More →

Friday February 21, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST
AH176

Environmental & Outdoor Education (TQS 3), Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9 | Science (TQS 3), Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9 | Social Studies (TQS 3), Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9

10:30am MST

Beyond Manic: Unleashing Teacher Resilience in the Classroom

Friday February 21, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST

PE264

Have you ever felt overwhelmed from the demands of teaching? Do you see your students struggling with mental health? Join Jason Wegner - an author, teacher and mental health speaker - as he explores these common struggles within the classroom. Through his resilient story of overcoming his severe bipolar 1 disorder illness, Jason will give concrete examples and tools that will help you unleash your own teacher resilience.

SESSION HOST: Nikki Ohlmann

Speakers

Jason Wegner

High School English, Lethbridge School Division

Jason Wegner is a high school English Teacher at Lethbridge Collegiate Institute (LCI), an author of the book “Manic Man” and is a mental health speaker. Living with Bipolar 1 Disorder and successfully surviving nearly two months in the psychiatry ward, Jason, through his story... Read More →

Friday February 21, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST
PE264

Health & Wellness (TQS 3), K-Gr3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

10:30am MST

How to have an A+ Relationship while Juggling Work, Adventure, and all the Things

Friday February 21, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST

L1170A

Everyone wants a great relationship. We did too- but quickly realized: hope is not a strategy. Join us, and map out a plan for blissful connection in the real world.

SESSION HOST: Juliana Richard

Speakers

Jen Bowden

Hans and Jen have been married for fourteen years- and teaching almost as long. They have four children, and live in a house owned by themselves and not the bank. Hans has an insatiable desire for travel and adventure and Jen is happiest reveling in the coziness of home.

Hans Bowden

Friday February 21, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST
L1170A

Health & Wellness (TQS 3), K-Gr3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

10:30am MST

International teaching in the UAE - The Good, the Bad and the travel opportunities

Friday February 21, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST

PE261

An overview of the process to be a teacher in the UAE including approval process, travel, and the work of teaching there.

This session needs a host! To host, complete the form linked here and include your name and the session title in the form.

Speakers

John and Maria Malcolm

Maria is a Lethbridge based educator who has worked in both classrooms and hospital rooms. She worked as a child life specialist at Chinook Regional hospital for 22 years as well as teaching here, New Zealand and UAE John has taught for 36 years including gr 1-12 in Canada, middle and... Read More →

Friday February 21, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST
PE261

Health & Wellness (TQS 3), K-Gr3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

10:30am MST

A Brief Intro of Sandplay for Schools

Friday February 21, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST

TH341

An introduction to using Sandplay as a counselling intervention in school settings.

SESSION HOST: Kara Tarnava

Speakers

Stephanie McLennan

Steph McLennan has a BA/BEd in Fine Arts Education from the University of Lethbridge and a Masters of Applied Psych. She is now in her 6th year as a Teacher-Counsellor. Steph has completed Sandplay CAST training Modules 1-4 with a cohort in Calgary and continues to get Sandplay supervision... Read More →

Friday February 21, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST
TH341

Health & Wellness (TQS 3), K-Gr3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12 | CALM (TQS 3), K-Gr3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

10:30am MST

Teach Nutrition: Integrating Nutrition Education Into Your Busy Classroom

Friday February 21, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST

AH175

Wondering how to incorporate nutrition education into your already packed curriculum? Look no further! In this session, we will introduce you to our free, curriculum linked, evidenced based resources.

SESSION HOST: Lenore Tarcon

Speakers

Mary Block

Registered Dietitian, Teach Nutrition

Mary is a Registered Dietitian at Teach Nutrition by Dairy Farmers of Canada. She is a firm believer that nutrition education can and should be fun. She loves that her work helps set the stage for a positive relationship with food from a young age through curiosity and exploratio... Read More →

Jaclyn Chute

Friday February 21, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST
AH175

Health & Wellness (TQS 3), K-Gr 3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12 | CALM (TQS 3), K-Gr 3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

10:30am MST

Digitally Thriving: Discovering Intentional Ways to Disconnect and Reconnect for Promoting Well-Being!

Friday February 21, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST

L1170

Creating and maintaining a balanced and meaningful relationship with technology and the digital landscape.

This session needs a host! To host, complete the form linked here and include your name and the session title in the form.

Speakers

Sydnie Erlendson

The Digital Wellness Team consists of a Digital Wellness Teacher and a Digital Wellness Family Support Worker. These individuals provide generative dialogue opportunities, collaborative teaching, and small group interventions.

Cason Machacek

Friday February 21, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST
L1170

Health & Wellness (TQS 3), Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12 | CALM (TQS 3), Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12 | Curriculum & Pedagogy (TQS 3), Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

10:30am MST

Blackfoot Language

Friday February 21, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST

L1060

SESSION HOST: Hana Bissett

Speakers

Annette Bruised Head

Friday February 21, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST
L1060

Indigenous Education (TQS/LQS 5), K-Gr3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

10:30am MST

Buffalo Treaty: Keystone to Wellness

Friday February 21, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST

M1040

This session will be about the Buffalo and how future generations can continue to ensure that Buffalo Ways are carried forward. International Buffalo Relations Institute (IBRI) collaborated with the Galt Museum and Archives | Akaisamitohkanao’pa on an upcoming exhibit titled Buffalo Treaty: Keystone to Wellness.

This session needs a host! To host, complete the form linked here and include your name and the session title in the form.

Speakers

Camina Weasel Moccasin

Camina's Biography - Camina is a member of the Blood Tribe and part of the Akaipookaiksi clan. She received her bachelor of arts degree in archaeology and geography back in 2013 from the University of Lethbridge. Since then she has worked at Blackfoot heritage sites and most recently... Read More →

Katira Crow Shoe

Katira Crow Shoe is a member of the Kainai Nation of the Blackfoot Confederacy and is part of the Many Children Clan. Katira grew up on the Blood Reserve and worked at Saipoyi Community School providing trauma-informed counselling services for Blackfoot students and had the privilege... Read More →

Friday February 21, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST
M1040

Indigenous Education (TQS/LQS 5), K-Gr3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

10:30am MST

Featured Speaker

Friday February 21, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST

PE275

Some of the best lessons are taught in the moments between literacy and numeracy. These golden moments based on kindness, connection and community are the moments Laurie lives for.
With compassion and thoughtfulness, Laurie has an incredible way of acknowledging the accomplishments of educators and affirms them as they journey on their paths, cheering them on as they use connection and relationship to revolutionize their practice.

Storyteller, light bringer and dreamer, Laurie uses her 20+ years in education to forge new paths. With the stories she held writing ‘Teachers These Days’ with Dr. Jody Carrington and her 2 appearances on The Ellen Show Laurie strives to bring teachers together in community and to define and exemplify what it truly means to be a ‘teacher these days’.

SESSION HOSTS: Brent Saccucci, Sally Leung, and Carly Goruk

Speakers

Laurie McIntosh

Author & Educator

Friday February 21, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST
PE275

Keynotes & Featured Speaker, K-Gr 3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

10:30am MST

Laugh Out Loud Literary Devices

Friday February 21, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST

L1170B

This workshop will hit the funny bone of disengaged students with laugh out loud examples of personification, simile, metaphor, hyperbole, and more!

SESSION HOST: Jenni Rolfson

Speakers

Miranda Krogstad

Krogstad is a spoken word poet and educator whose words have empowered students in dozens of cities across Western Canada and beyond. Outside of the classroom, she is a 2-time Canada Council for the Arts grant recipient, a Calgary Arts Development grant recipient, a 2016 national... Read More →

Friday February 21, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST
L1170B

Language Arts (TQS 3), Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

10:30am MST

What’s New in Books? The 6-12 Edition

Friday February 21, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST

PE250

Join the UofL Bookstore ladies as they book talk new and upcoming titles that will get you and your students excited about reading!

SESSION HOST: Lindsey Baird

Speakers

Becky Colbeck

Becky and Kari have been actively involved in promoting literacy in schools and their community for 30+ years. They are passionate about literacy and are a trusted resource for teachers, parents and children; assisting them in book selections that inspire a love of reading and d... Read More →

Kari Tanaka

Friday February 21, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST
PE250

Language Arts (TQS 3), Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

10:30am MST

Exploring the Smudges: Expanding student response through multimodal composition in the ELA classroom.

Leading with Impact: Unleash the Power of Cultural Intelligence in Education

Friday February 21, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST

TH201

Lead with impact and elevate your Cultural Intelligence (CQ). Navigate the complexities of cultural diversity in education to confidently lead with empathy, effectiveness, and global-mindedness.

This session needs a host! To host, complete the form linked here and include your name and the session title in the form.

Speakers

Gail-Ann Wilson Mitchell

Executive Staff Officer, Professional Development, The Alberta Teachers' Association

Before the professional development team at the Alberta Teachers' Association, Gail-Ann (she/her) taught high school social studies and worked as a cultural diversity educator for 22 years. She is committed to building leadership diversity leadership and promoting change in education... Read More →

Friday February 21, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST
TH201

Leadership (LQS 1-9), K-Gr3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12 | Diversity Equity & Human Rights (TQS/LQS 4), K-Gr3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12 | Social Studies (TQS 3), K-Gr3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

10:30am MST

Tools to build your Financial Wellness

Friday February 21, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST

TH143

Teachers have a lot going for them financially – including their pension. Most of the time, they also have gaps: things they haven’t thought about, risks they may face, and access to tools they’re currently not using.
This session walks you through what these are, how to address them, and one tiny action you can take today to change your life forever.

For CALM and financial teachers, see the way that these concepts are presented based on hundreds of hours of annual PD.

This session needs a host! To host, complete the form linked here and include your name and the session title in the form.

Speakers

Elizabeth Walton

Marketing and Communications Manager, Capital Planning

Capital Planning is the preferred financial planner for the Alberta Teachers' Association and the providers of the ATA Voluntary Benefits Program which includes the ATA Group Savings Plans. We have been proudly helping teachers and their families for over 40 years! At conventions... Read More →

Friday February 21, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST
TH143 DON'T DELETE

Leadership (LQS 1-9), K-Gr3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12 | Health & Wellness (TQS 3), K-Gr3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

10:30am MST

Linking Thinking Tasks to Grade 3 - 6 Alberta Math Curriculum

Friday February 21, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST

L1168

We invite you to come ‘math’ and collaborate with practicing teachers who use effective instructional practices daily to engage in curricular activities. You will explore thinking tasks, use new and old manipulatives, tools, and models to make thinking visible.

This session needs a host! To host, complete the form linked here and include your name and the session title in the form.

Speakers

Joanna has a BA History and a BEd Secondary Social Studies. She has been teaching primarily social studies and humanities for the last 18 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 →

Joanna Zakus

Friday February 21, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm MST
M1090

Social Studies (TQS 3), Gr 7-9

10:30am MST

Infusing Your Curricular Outcomes with the New Science Curriculum, Computational Thinking & Scratch

Friday February 21, 2025 10:30am - 1:30pm MST

AH147

Creating cross curricular instructional activities infused with Science and Computational Thinking in Scratch.

SESSION HOST: Tanis Machacek

Speakers

Trevor Iampen

Instructor, Consultant, Developer, University of Alberta, EPS, ATLE, ERLC

Trevor has 20 years of experience as an elementary school teacher, university course developer/ instructor, app/web developer and consultant for a variety of organizations and institutions across North America. P.S. Computational thinking is where it’s at…

Friday February 21, 2025 10:30am - 1:30pm MST
AH147

10:30am MST

Facilitating Safe and Brave Dialogue in The Classroom

Friday February 21, 2025 10:30am - 1:30pm MST

TH277

This session will introduce you to tools, resources and techniques to hold and facilitate difficult, brave and safe spaces in the school and classroom. We will explore the use of language around anti-racism and anti-oppression, how we can use history as a way to unpack present-day realities, techniques to diffuse heated conversations, and to guide conversations such as circle practise to create transformative spaces.

This session needs a host! To host, complete the form linked here and include your name and the session title in the form.

Speakers

Hanan Attitalla

We will be modelling circle practise by delivering the session in that fashion. The session will go through how to ground classrooms for dialogue with parameters and lesson plans on dignity. We discuss equitable language and techniques you can use to create safe space without stifling... Read More →

Friday February 21, 2025 10:30am - 1:30pm MST
TH277

Diversity Equity & Human Rights (TQS/LQS 4), Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12 | Language Arts (TQS 3), Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12 | Social Studies (TQS 3), Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

12:30pm MST

Small Teaching Strategies To Enhance Memory, Attention and Engagement in Your Classes

Friday February 21, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm MST

TH201

Small Teaching (Lang, 2021) is a way of implementing easy-to-use Science of Learning teaching strategies that serve to enhance memory, direct student attention and motivate reluctant learners.

SESSION HOST: Kathy Thomas

Speakers

Chris Mattatall

Associate Professor of Educational Psychology and Inclusion, University of Lethbridge

Dr. Chris Mattatall is the Board of Governor's Teaching Chair (2023-2025) for the University of Lethbridge, Associate Professor of Educational Psychology and Inclusion in the Faculty of Education, and a researcher in reading acquisition and intervention.

Friday February 21, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm MST
TH201

12:30pm MST

Surveying the Disability Landscape: Charting the Path to Inclusion and Beyond

Friday February 21, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm MST

TH341

Inclusion. What exactly is it? Where is it? When does it happen? Who experiences it? Why do we need to advocate for it? How does one achieve it as a goal?

This session needs a host! To host, complete the form linked here and include your name and the session title in the form.

Speakers

Michael Carter

Michael Carter is a teacher, disability activist, and musician. As a disabled person, he has been engaged with disability studies for more than a decade. His work is rooted in supporting disabled students in their development of positive disability identities. Michael is an LST at... Read More →

Phil Williams

Friday February 21, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm MST
TH341

12:30pm MST

Executive Function Building through Art

Unlock the Potential of new.learnalberta.ca

Friday February 21, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm MST

AH118

Did you know you can do much more than just view curriculum on new.LearnAlberta.ca? This session will explore how you can make new.LearnAlberta.ca work for you. You’ll see how to view a scope and sequence, find sample lesson plans, explore professional learning supports, and learn how to use Boards, a teacher planning tool. Participants are invited to bring a digital device to this session.

SESSION HOST: Lenore Tarcon

Speakers

ATA Staff Session

Friday February 21, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm MST
AH118

Curriculum & Pedagogy (TQS 3), K-Gr3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

12:30pm MST

Karl Peterson

Division Colony Principal, Westwind School Division

Teacher, Lethbridge School Division

Katira Crow Shoe

Friday February 21, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm MST
M1040

Indigenous Education (TQS/LQS 5), Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12 | Social Studies (TQS 3), Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

12:30pm MST

I Am Alive

Friday February 21, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm MST

PE275

Christine Holubec-Jackson is a 3 time hemorrhagic stroke and brain surgery survivor. Her message includes insights into life with a brain injury and finding hope, resiliency, and finding our own personal superpower even in the face of overwhelming challenges.

SESSION HOST: Genevieve Ahart

Speakers

Christine Holubec-Jackson

Author/Storyteller

Christine is a multiple hemorrhagic stroke and brain surgery survivor. Like many people, she never thought it could happen to her. She has written two personal memoirs, two children’s books, one about stroke and one about concussion, and hosted a podcast series, all with a focus... Read More →

Friday February 21, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm MST
PE275

Keynotes & Featured Speaker, K-Gr3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

12:30pm MST

Speak Up: Performance Activities to Build Your Students’ Confidence

Friday February 21, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm MST

L1170B

To encourage speaking up in any class, this workshop will give you some warm-up activities and techniques that will help your students tiptoe towards the front of the class, increasing comfort and community.

SESSION HOST: Laura Pearce

Speakers

Miranda Krogstad

Friday February 21, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm MST
L1170B

Language Arts (TQS 3), Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

12:30pm MST

What’s New in Books? The K-5 Edition

Friday February 21, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm MST

PE250

Join the UofL Bookstore ladies as they book talk new and upcoming titles that will get you and your students excited about reading!

SESSION HOST: Meagan Logie

Speakers

Becky Colbeck

Kari Tanaka

Friday February 21, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm MST
PE250

Language Arts (TQS 3), K-Gr 3, Gr 4-6

12:30pm MST

A Principal's Guide to Functional Fundraising Association

Friday February 21, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm MST

M1060

Join ASCA to learn how to identify and mitigate risks while supporting the parent’s, and the principal’s, roles, responsibilities, and authority with a registered, incorporated fundraising association.

This session needs a host! To host, complete the form linked here and include your name and the session title in the form.

Speakers

Alberta School Councils' Association

Friday February 21, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm MST
M1060

Leadership (LQS 1-9), K-Gr 3, Gr 4-6, Gr 7-9, Gr 10-12

12:30pm MST

Brain Breaks with Whacky Wizards: Magically Making Music with Boomwhackers percussion tubes.

Friday February 21, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm MST

TH173

Learn how online resources can help you offer meaningful, engaging, and fun Brain/Body Breaks from Leo Brooks - award-winning educator, Boomwhacker guru, and founder of www.whackywizards.com.

SESSION HOST: Katie Walker

Speakers

Honor Band

Chee Meng Low

Guest Conductor

Friday February 21, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm MST
University Theatre