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WELCOME TO THE 2024 EDMONTON BEGINNING TEACHERS’ CONFERENCE!

Teachers new to the profession are invited to attend the 2024 Beginning Teachers’ Conference, September 20-21, Fantasyland Hotel, Edmonton. There is no registration fee. Space is limited; apply early.

School principals, school jurisdictions and local associations work together to provide substitute teacher coverage as per the collective agreement to facilitate the attendance of beginning teachers at the conference. Substitute teacher coverage must be organized and approved in advance. Please ensure you meet with your school principal to discuss release time and obtain the appropriate absence code to attend this conference. 

Teachers in charter, federal and private schools must be associate members of the Association to be eligible to attend the Beginning Teachers Conference.
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Friday, September 20
 

7:30am MDT

REGISTRATION
Friday September 20, 2024 7:30am - 8:45am MDT
Friday September 20, 2024 7:30am - 8:45am MDT
Ballroom D

7:45am MDT

BREAKFAST
Friday September 20, 2024 7:45am - 8:45am MDT
Friday September 20, 2024 7:45am - 8:45am MDT
Ballroom D

9:00am MDT

CONFERENCE KICK OFF AND WELCOME
Friday September 20, 2024 9:00am - 9:15am MDT
Speakers
avatar for Nancy Luyckfassel

Nancy Luyckfassel

Coordinator, Professional Development, ATA
Nancy is a teacher, wanderer and wonderer, with 31 years of experience that includes: 7 schools, 4 towns, courses in grades K–12, roles as Assistant Principal and Principal and 8 years at the ATA. Nancy comes from a small farming community and that upbringing instilled in her values... Read More →
Friday September 20, 2024 9:00am - 9:15am MDT
Ballroom D

9:05am MDT

WELCOME FROM THE PRESIDENT
Friday September 20, 2024 9:05am - 9:20am MDT
Speakers
avatar for Jason Schilling

Jason Schilling

President, ATA
Jason Schilling was re-elected president in 2023, following four years of service as president, two years of service as vice-president and more than eight years of service as district representative for South West. As vice-president, Schilling chaired the Central Table Bargaining... Read More →
Friday September 20, 2024 9:05am - 9:20am MDT
Ballroom D

9:20am MDT

YOUR ASSOCIATION AND YOU: THINGS EVERY BEGINNING TEACHER SHOULD KNOW
Friday September 20, 2024 9:20am - 10:00am MDT
Please submit your questions at www.menti.com and use code 8870 1164. If your question isn't answered during this session, you can find the answer during the social question and answer time at 4 pm today or you can call 1-800-232-7208 and ask to speak to an ATA staff officer.

Panelists:
  • Professional Development – Nancy Luyckfassel
  • Teacher Employment Services – Genevieve Blais
  • Government – Dr. Elissa Corsi
Moderators
avatar for Dan Grassick

Dan Grassick

Executive Staff Officer, Professional Development, The Alberta Teachers' Association
Dan Grassick (they/them) is Executive Staff Officer in the Alberta Teachers’ Association Professional Development program area where their main responsibilities include supporting the Association's specialist councils and teachers’ conventions, and working with Alberta teacher... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Elissa Corsi

Dr. Elissa Corsi

Associate Executive Secretary, Government, Alberta Teachers' Association
Dr. Elissa Corsi is one of two Associate Executive Secretaries for the Alberta Teachers' Association and is the Coordinator of the Association's Government Services program area. She worked as a teacher and administrator in Alberta schools, both in English and French Immersion, before... Read More →
avatar for Nancy Luyckfassel

Nancy Luyckfassel

Coordinator, Professional Development, ATA
Nancy is a teacher, wanderer and wonderer, with 31 years of experience that includes: 7 schools, 4 towns, courses in grades K–12, roles as Assistant Principal and Principal and 8 years at the ATA. Nancy comes from a small farming community and that upbringing instilled in her values... Read More →
avatar for Geneviève Blais

Geneviève Blais

Associate Coordinator, Teacher Employment Services, The Alberta Teachers' Association
Geneviève joined the Association’s executive staff in the Teacher Welfare program area in 2015 and is now the associate coordinator in Teacher Employment Services based out of the Southern Alberta Regional Office (SARO). Teacher Employment Services assists teachers with professional... Read More →
Friday September 20, 2024 9:20am - 10:00am MDT
Ballroom D

10:00am MDT

BREAK
Friday September 20, 2024 10:00am - 10:15am MDT
Friday September 20, 2024 10:00am - 10:15am MDT
Lobby & Common Areas Outside Meeting Rooms

10:15am MDT

Teacher Evaluations and Contracts (K-12)
Friday September 20, 2024 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
This session will explore the different types of teaching contracts under which teachers may be employed, and what teachers’ rights and obligations are in relation to their contracts.
Speakers
avatar for Konni deGoeij

Konni deGoeij

Associate Coordinator, Teacher Employment Services, Alberta Teachers' Association
Dr Konni deGoeij Alberta Teachers' Association Associate Coordinator, Administrator Assistance Edmonton, AB Dr Konsctancija (Konni) deGoeij has worked as schoolteacher, school-based administrator, teacher educator, researcher, and policy advisor in Alberta. Being an administrator... Read More →
Friday September 20, 2024 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Ballroom C

10:15am MDT

Google Classrooms Rubrics for Performance Based Classes (7–12)
Friday September 20, 2024 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Learn how to build rubrics digitally on Google Classroom using a program of studies document. We will focus on building rubrics for performance classes and projects. These rubrics can be used on the spot while watching performances and save time and printing by digital grading. More importantly give transparency on the students' achievement via Google Classroom. This session is geared for junior high and high school teachers in CTS and Fine Arts disciplines, but all teachers are welcome.
Speakers
avatar for Victoria Reid

Victoria Reid

Mrs. Victoria Reid, BA/BEd, is currently the ATA Fine Arts Council: Dance Representative. She spent the past 7 years teaching at Archbishop Jordan High School (ABJ) in the department of Fine Arts instructing dance, drama, and musical theatre. Victoria has a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor... Read More →
Friday September 20, 2024 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Piesporter (Room 5)

10:15am MDT

How To Get and HOLD Your Students’ Attention in Art (K–12)
Friday September 20, 2024 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Create excitement in your art classroom during the first two weeks of school with this hands-on workshop. The first art project is crucial to setting the right tone while getting to know your students. This workshop will give you the tools to gain confidence in your teaching abilities and make you their favourite teacher! You will review and complete a project yourself that your students can be excited about. Excellent for teachers of grades 3-12. The assignment’s difficulty level can be scaled according to the grade level taught. You will leave the workshop with a completed artwork, a link to the step-by-step PowerPoint presentation, and a YouTube video.
Speakers
avatar for Izabella Orzelski-Konikowski

Izabella Orzelski-Konikowski

Art Representative, Fine Arts Council
Izabella holds an MFA from the New York Academy of Art and a Ph.D. in education from the University of Alberta. Her awards and grants include Winspear Fund Grant and Dahesh Museum Award in New York. Among her commissions are portraits of Lois Hole, former Lieutenant Governor of Alberta... Read More →
Friday September 20, 2024 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Medoc (Room 14)

10:15am MDT

Rhythmic Fun—Engaging Elementary Music Students with Hand Clapping Games (K–6)
Friday September 20, 2024 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Elementary music teachers, dive into the rhythm of hand clapping games in this interactive session. Explore how to weave these fun activities into your lessons, drawing from playground traditions and youth culture. Get ready to clap, stomp, and bring the playground spirit to your music room!
Speakers
avatar for Connie Ohlmann

Connie Ohlmann

Fine Arts Council (FAC)
Connie Ohlmann is an elementary music educator with Edmonton Public Schools with more than 20 years of experience teaching elementary music. Connie is passionate about exploring music education practices to improve student engagement and retention. Connie serves on the ATA Fine Arts... Read More →
Friday September 20, 2024 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Beaujolias (Room 10)

10:15am MDT

Artificial Intelligence Tools to Amplify Your Professionalism and Save Time (K–12)
Friday September 20, 2024 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Ready to revolutionize your teaching? Join our workshop on AI tools that go beyond traditional lesson planning. Explore how generative AI can create personalized content, assessments, and more. We’ll guide you through a process that balances efficiency with creativity, ensuring you remain the architect of exceptional learning experiences. Plus, let’s delve into professional considerations—because AI is not just about algorithms; it’s about impact.
Speakers
avatar for Daniel W Maas

Daniel W 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 →
Friday September 20, 2024 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Ballroom D

10:15am MDT

Explorez comment l'intelligence artificielle générative peut vous assisster (K–12)
Friday September 20, 2024 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Est-ce que vous cherchez de nouvelles façons d'impliquer vos élèves et d'inspirer leur apprentissage ? L'IA générative peut vous aider à réinventer votre enseignement et à lui donner un coup de fraîcheur. Dans cet atelier, vous apprendrez à utiliser des modèles d'IA générative pour créer du contenu original, innovant et surprenant pour vos activités en classe. Même si vous souhaitiez rédiger un plan de cours, un quiz, une histoire ou un jeu, l'IA générative peut vous aider à créer des contenus originaux, innovants et surprenants pour vos élèves. Vous apprendrez à rédiger des messages-guides qui incitent l'IA à générer des contenus créatifs, novateurs et amusants. Préparez-vous à travailler, à partager et à explorer! Veuillez apporter un ordinateur ou un dispositif digital à cette session d'apprentissage.
Speakers
avatar for Stacey Hannay

Stacey Hannay

Executive Staff Officer / Cadre Supérieure, ATA - ESO - PD
Stacey Hannay holds a Ph.D. with expertise in the area of theorizing curriculum and teacher professional development. Specifically, her area of research lies with: Teachers conceptualizations of physical literacy. She is one of the newest Executive Staff Officers with the Alberta... Read More →
Friday September 20, 2024 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Champagne (Room 16)

10:15am MDT

Classroom Management—Beyond the Basics (K–12)
Friday September 20, 2024 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
With basic classroom management strategies already in their toolkit, participants in this workshop will look at building upon those skills. This workshop will support teachers in responding to classroom behaviours that disrupt teaching with the goal of keeping learning on track and positive relationships intact.
Speakers
avatar for Henry Madsen

Henry Madsen

Association Instructor, Alberta Teachers' Association
Henry Madsen has been a teacher for almost 30 years.   He has been a principal for the last 20 years, with experience at all divisions and grades.  Most recently, he opened a new K - 9 school with the Edmonton Public School Board.  This school of over 900 students has a simple... Read More →
Friday September 20, 2024 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Madeira (Room 7)

10:15am MDT

Culturally Responsive Teaching (K–12)
Friday September 20, 2024 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
This workshop explores approaches for examining beliefs, attitudes, policies, structures and practices to enable schools to effectively work cross-culturally. Participants will begin to learn how to develop a greater capacity to engage in cultural self-assessment and become more conscious of the dynamics of intercultural interactions.
Speakers
Friday September 20, 2024 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Chivas (Room 4)

10:15am MDT

Resilience and Regulation: Supporting Students with Challenging Behaviour (K–12)
Friday September 20, 2024 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Join us for an interactive and empowering workshop that explores strategies for supporting students through challenging behaviours. This session focuses on approaches that cultivate student resilience, as well as strategies to support our own resilience as we respond to challenging moments of student behaviour. Through activities, discussion, and reflection, we will explore a variety of techniques that support students with challenging behaviour and care for our own wellbeing, at once.
Speakers
avatar for Sherri Green

Sherri Green

Association Instructor, Alberta Teachers' Association
Sherri joined the ATA Association Instructor Corps in 2013. After collecting a few university degrees (B.Mus, BEd, MEd), and teaching an array of grades and subjects, she joined Black Gold School Division where she currently has a dream job as a Music Specialist. Sherri is a PD addict... Read More →
Friday September 20, 2024 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Ballroom A/B

10:15am MDT

Teaching English as an Additional Language—Crash Course (K–12)
Friday September 20, 2024 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
What's the difference between Canadian-born and Foreign-Born ELLs? Do I have to use different strategies to help them? How long does it take for language learners to "master" a language? If they are shy, do I "make" them talk or should I give other support? When can I or should I use a translator? What the heck are EAL Benchmarks? These are very great questions that teachers (not just beginners - may ask)! Join Annie on an "EAL Crash Course" to learn about the different layers of EAL teaching and walk away with more targetted questions for exploration but also fresh ideas on how you may best support your kiddos to kickstart your teaching/learning journeys!
Speakers
avatar for Annie Fung

Annie Fung

ESL Consultant, EPSB
Annie Fung is currently an ESL Consultant with Edmonton Public Schools. She enjoys welcoming newcomer families and working with different students and teachers in her two school catchments. Teaching and learning are never left at the door when she comes home because her husband/co-presenter... Read More →
Friday September 20, 2024 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Chablis (Room 12)

10:15am MDT

Engaging in Numeracy and Connections through First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Traditional Games  (K–12)
Friday September 20, 2024 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Did you know that First Nations, Métis, and Inuit traditional games are great ways to make connections to numeracy? Traditional games can provide entry points to deeper understanding of Indigenous ways of knowing and further connections to the land. Get ready to learn about resources for First Nations, Métis, and Inuit traditional games and how to create authentic learning experiences.
Speakers
avatar for Cheryl Devin

Cheryl Devin

Indigenous Association Instructor, The Alberta Teachers' Association
Cheryl is one of six Alberta Teachers’ Association Walking Together Consultants. She has over 26 years of teaching experience at the junior high level in a variety of subject areas, including language arts, social studies and science. Cheryl is Métis, with family migrating from... Read More →
Friday September 20, 2024 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Cognac (Room 15)

10:15am MDT

Wait...What!?! I have to teach MATH? (Grades K–3)
Friday September 20, 2024 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Does the idea of teaching Math to Grade 1-3 students scare you? It shouldn't! This session will dig into some of the big beginning concepts in Mathematics: Foundational Understandings, Equality and Additive Thinking.

Google Slides
Speakers
avatar for Sandi Berg

Sandi Berg

CESD / Mathematics Council
I am a math FANatic who loves helping people find their math brain! I strongly believe that everyone has the ability to learn math to high levels and love to explore mathematical ideas and share resources with others.
Friday September 20, 2024 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Bordeaux (Room 9)

10:15am MDT

Energize Your Classroom (K-12)
Friday September 20, 2024 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Physical activity offers many benefits above and beyond physical health. This workshop will offer practical tips on how to incorporate physical activity into any subject area. Join us in learning how to re-energize your students, break up sedentary time, and increase physical activity across the school community.
Speakers
JL

Jason Lafferty

Ever Active Schools
Friday September 20, 2024 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Chianti (Room 6)

11:30am MDT

LUNCH
Friday September 20, 2024 11:30am - 12:30pm MDT
Friday September 20, 2024 11:30am - 12:30pm MDT
Ballroom D

12:30pm MDT

Let's Get Talking! Conversation Skills for Learning (K–12)
Friday September 20, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Conversation is a powerful part of the learning process. However, it can be frustrating for all when students are reluctant to participate in discussions or when small group conversations go off-the-rails. Join this interactive workshop to explore strategies that help support student discussion skills (and learning) in any subject! We will explore strategies that build a safe environment for productive discussion, specific conversation skills for students at any age or stage (including those who are learning English as an Additional Language), and activities that involve students in learning-focused conversations.  
Speakers
AM

Ashley Mullan

Association Instructor, The Alberta Teachers' Association
Friday September 20, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Cognac (Room 15)

12:30pm MDT

Ensemble Building in the Drama Classroom (and Beyond!) (4-12)
Friday September 20, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
In this hands-on session you will learn (and play) numerous ensemble building games and activities that will help you to create a classroom environment of trust, focused energy, and cooperation.
Speakers
MD

Molly Danko

Fine Arts Council
Molly Danko, BA/BEd, sits on the Fine Arts Council of the ATA as the Drama representative. She has been teaching Drama at the secondary level for the past six years with Edmonton Catholic School District. Molly is passionate about arts education and providing a place for students... Read More →
Friday September 20, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Madeira (Room 7)

12:30pm MDT

Les technigues d'impactes en classe (K-9)
Friday September 20, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Créer des liens solides avec les élèves est la clé pour prévenir certains comportements et aider efficacement des élèves présentants certains défis. Les techniques d'impacts en classe aident les enseignants et les différents intervenants à créer ces liens. Venez explorer comment, avec des objets, des images et des métaphores, on peut faire une différence dans le quotidien de nos élèves.
Speakers
Friday September 20, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Champagne (Room 16)

12:30pm MDT

Teacher Safety Net—Your Entitlements, Your Protection (K–12)
Friday September 20, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Over many years the Association has constructed a safety net for teachers and their families. This presentation provides an overview of what teachers have in regard to sick leave and other leaves through the collective agreement, extended disability, life insurance, other benefit plan provisions, as well as pension and death benefits. This is a light-hearted presentation that is intended to be presented to local teachers in order to provide very relevant and necessary information on existing entitlements.
Speakers
avatar for Christien Perrault

Christien Perrault

Executive Staff Officer, Teacher Employment Services, The Alberta Teachers' Association
Christien joined the Association’s Teacher Employment Services executive staff in 2022. After completing his BEd degree at the Campus St Jean, he taught in a variety of different communities and schools divisions throughout Alberta before settling down in St Albert. Christien is... Read More →
Friday September 20, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Ballroom C

12:30pm MDT

20 Strategies You Can Use on Monday! (K–6)
Friday September 20, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Are you looking for no-prep and low-prep ways to engage your students? Join us for a dynamic session where we will explore 20 versatile no-prep and low-prep activities you can implement in any subject and grade level. Be ready to engage with interactive activities and explore practical applications for these strategies in your teaching context.
Speakers
avatar for Terra Kaliszuk

Terra Kaliszuk

Executive Staff Officer, Professional Development, The Alberta Teachers' Association
Terra Kaliszuk is an Executive Staff Officer in the Professional Development program area of the Alberta Teachers' Association. She brings a passion for understanding and supporting the human journey of learning to all of her work. Terra has led professional learning work for the... Read More →
Friday September 20, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Ballroom A/B

12:30pm MDT

Cost of Caring—How to Nurture Your Mental Emotional Health as a Beginning Teacher (K–12)
Friday September 20, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
This session will delve into the unique challenges faced by beginning teachers when they provide emotional labour to children and their school communities. Join this session to learn about and reflect on how the emotional investment required to support students can sometimes lead to mental and emotional distress, such as burnout or compassion fatigue. You will also be guided to reimagine wellness, not just as an individual pursuit but as a shared responsibility within the school community. Be prepared to chart a path toward sustainable well-being that benefits you, your colleagues, and your students.
Speakers
avatar for Lisa Everitt

Lisa Everitt

Executive Staff Officer, Government
Dr Lisa Everitt has worked as an executive staff officer with the Alberta Teachers Association since 2006. Lisa has held several roles at the Association and has developed expertise in labour relations, employee benefits plans, educational research, and women in leadership. Prior... Read More →
Friday September 20, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Ballroom D

12:30pm MDT

Care and Connect—Social and Emotional Learning (K–12)
Friday September 20, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Now, more than ever, there is a need to look at practices and systems that nurture the social and emotional health of all members of the school community. This workshop was developed to enhance the social-emotional skills of adults within a school environment so that they can more effectively model and teach SEL to their students. This interactive workshop can be facilitated over a series of sessions in which participants will learn and apply practical, powerful strategies to enhance social and emotional competence within themselves and their students.
Speakers
avatar for Lisa Landry-Jones

Lisa Landry-Jones

Alberta Teachers' Association
Lisa Landry-Jones: Has worked as a teacher and administrator for 25 years with Edmonton Public Schools. She has a Masters degree in Language and Literacy with a Reading Specialist designation and is a passionate reader.
Friday September 20, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Medoc (Room 14)

12:30pm MDT

More Than Words: The Significance of Land Acknowledgements on the Journey of Truth and Reconciliation (K–12)
Friday September 20, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Sharing a land acknowledgement has become a common practice and there is potential for a land acknowledgement to be perceived as an empty gesture if it’s not paired with concrete actions. Throughout this session, participants will have an opportunity to reflect on the deeper meanings of a land acknowledgement and consider ways they can mobilize land acknowledgements in their own professional practice. Participants will reflect on their own connections to people and place, and consider how land acknowledgements and their associated actions can build relationships and contribute to Truth & Reconciliation.
Friday September 20, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Chivas (Room 4)

12:30pm MDT

How to Teach ELA When It’s Not Your Specialty (7-9)
Friday September 20, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Get a crash course on English Language Arts and learn how to leverage the curriculum to lean into your specialty strengths. Whether you are trying to find ways to make cross-curricular connections with Social Studies, Science, Math, or Fine Arts in order to support literacy in every class, or if you are a newcomer to ELA just trying to find your bearings, this session will offer practical strategies on how to teach Jr High ELA with adaptation considerations for lower and higher grades.
Speakers
avatar for Alyssa Backs

Alyssa Backs

Teacher, English Language Arts Council
Backs is the Central Region Representative for the ATA’s English Language Arts Council. She holds a B. Ed in Secondary Education with a major in Social Studies and a minor in ELA through the University of Alberta. She recently completed her master’s degree in Library and Information... Read More →
Friday September 20, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Chablis (Room 12)

12:30pm MDT

Wait...What!?! I have to teach MATH? (4-6)
Friday September 20, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Does the idea of teaching Math to Grade 4-6 students scare you? It shouldn't! This session will dig into some of the big beginning concepts in Mathematics: Foundational Understandings, Equality and Additive Thinking.

Google Slides
Speakers
avatar for Sandi Berg

Sandi Berg

CESD / Mathematics Council
I am a math FANatic who loves helping people find their math brain! I strongly believe that everyone has the ability to learn math to high levels and love to explore mathematical ideas and share resources with others.
Friday September 20, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Bordeaux (Room 9)

12:30pm MDT

Games and Activities to Optimize Self-Regulation (K–12)
Friday September 20, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
A strong relationship exists between the development of executive functioning skills and self-regulation. When children and youth have the opportunity to develop the skills needed for self-regulation, they are better suited to make healthy choices that affect them and their classmates. This workshop explores how classrooms and community programs are the optimal settings to promote these skills through fun, creative and original activities.
Speakers
JL

Jason Lafferty

Ever Active Schools
Friday September 20, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Chianti (Room 6)

12:30pm MDT

Outcomes, Triangulation and Gradebooks—OH MY! (K–12)
Friday September 20, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
We know that tests and traditional grading are not necessarily the most effective for assessing and reporting student learning, but how to make the transition from what we’ve always done to what we want to do? This session will share ideas and resources for tracking student progress, setting up an outcome based gradebook and reporting achievements in a way that meaningfully describes what students know and can do.
Speakers
avatar for Julie Arsenault

Julie Arsenault

Science Lead Teacher, Science Council
After receiving her Bachelors and Masters degrees in Microbiology and Biotechnology, Julie entered the Faculty of Education at the U of A to pursue teaching. She has been with EPS since 2002 and has developed a passion for incorporating authentic, project-based learning experiences... Read More →
Friday September 20, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Piesporter (Room 5)

12:30pm MDT

Balancing Act—Navigating Classroom Realities While Crafting Quality Curriculum Experiences (K–6)
Friday September 20, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Congratulations on landing the job! Now that you're in the thick of it, you're likely feeling overwhelmed by the flood of expectations and responsibilities: managing student behaviors, organizing assemblies, adapting to last-minute schedule changes, attending staff meetings, coordinating volunteers, arranging field trips, communicating with parents, addressing Individualized Program Plans (IPPs), participating in committees, and the list goes on. How do you juggle all these tasks while still ensuring that your curriculum remains high-quality and aligned with educational standards? Universities provide foundational instruction on scaffolded planning, curriculum-aligned instruction, and quality assessment. While this learning is irreplaceable, beginning teachers continue to struggle when faced with the vast demands on time within the real classroom. Together we will explore the curriculum, develop a year plan, then bring this plan into the realities of the day-to-day happenings.
Speakers
avatar for Tiffany Harris

Tiffany Harris

Teacher, Rocky View Schools
Friday September 20, 2024 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Beaujolias (Room 10)

1:45pm MDT

BREAK
Friday September 20, 2024 1:45pm - 2:00pm MDT
Friday September 20, 2024 1:45pm - 2:00pm MDT
Lobby & Common Areas Outside Meeting Rooms

2:00pm MDT

Code of Conduct for Teachers—What You Need to Know! (K–12)
Friday September 20, 2024 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
The new Code of Professional Conduct outlines minimum expectations for teaching certificate holders, including teachers, teacher leaders and superintendents. The code applies to the conduct of teachers in both on-duty and off-duty contexts. Drawing on scenarios from various typical employment matters, this presentation describes the standards of professional conduct expected of teachers and teacher leaders and explains the complaint process.
Speakers
avatar for Tanya Thiessen

Tanya Thiessen

Executive Staff Officer, The Alberta Teachers’ Association
Tanya joined the Association’s Teacher Employment Services executive staff in April 2021. She spent most of her 15-year career with Elk Island Catholic Schools as a high school teacher, school counsellor and administrator. Tanya was fortunate to be able to serve in many communities... Read More →
avatar for Gordon King

Gordon King

Executive Staff Officer, The Alberta Teachers' Association
Gordon King joined the Association’s Teacher Employment Services executive staff in 2024. He has been a teacher, teacher leader and division leader for almost 30 years with the majority of that time with Edmonton Public Schools.
Friday September 20, 2024 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Ballroom C

2:00pm MDT

20 Strategies You Can Use on Monday! (7–12)
Friday September 20, 2024 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Are you looking for no-prep and low-prep ways to engage your students? Join us for a dynamic session where we will explore 20 versatile no-prep and low-prep activities you can implement in any subject and grade level. Be ready to engage with interactive activities and explore practical applications for these strategies in your teaching context.
Speakers
avatar for Dan Grassick

Dan Grassick

Executive Staff Officer, Professional Development, The Alberta Teachers' Association
Dan Grassick (they/them) is Executive Staff Officer in the Alberta Teachers’ Association Professional Development program area where their main responsibilities include supporting the Association's specialist councils and teachers’ conventions, and working with Alberta teacher... Read More →
Friday September 20, 2024 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Ballroom A/B

2:00pm MDT

Five Strategies to Flourish as an Early Career Teacher (K–12)
Friday September 20, 2024 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Starting your teaching journey can be both exciting and overwhelming. Join us in this engaging session designed specifically for Alberta teachers in their early years of professional practice. Discover five practical strategies that will help you navigate the challenges of workload, student behaviors, and mental well-being, while building a supportive professional network. Learn how mentorship, classroom management techniques, and relevant professional development can enhance your confidence and sustainability in the classroom. Whether you’re feeling uncertain or eager to grow, these actionable insights are designed to help you flourish as a beginning teacher.
Speakers
avatar for Philip McRae

Philip McRae

Associate Coordinator, Research, The Alberta Teachers' Association
Dr. Philip McRae is Executive Staff Officer and Associate Coordinator, Government-Research with the Alberta Teachers’ Association and Adjunct Professor within the Faculty of Education at the University of Alberta where he earned his Ph.D. Phil is the past winner of the Alberta Excellence... Read More →
avatar for Thelma Gunn

Thelma Gunn

University of Lethbridge
Dr. Thelma Gunn joined the Faculty of Education in 2000 after completing her Ph.D. at the University of Saskatchewan that same year. Born and raised in Saskatoon, Thelma completed her K to 12 Education in Saskatoon as well as her undergraduate degrees at the U of S before teaching... Read More →
Friday September 20, 2024 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Ballroom D

2:00pm MDT

Enseigner en milieu minoritaire (K–12)
Friday September 20, 2024 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Comment valoriser la langue et la culture francophone dans nos milieux ? Venez découvrir comment et pourquoi il est important de développer la culture identitaire francophone chez nos élèves. L'identité francophone, le bilinguisme additif, la légitimité linguistique seront aussi abordés. Cet atelier vous aidera à avoir des pratiques gagnantes pour la construction identitaire.
Speakers
avatar for Maryse Simon

Maryse Simon

Conseil français
Maryse Simon est enseignante de 1re année dans une école francophone au CSNO depuis plus de 15 ans. Depuis trois, elle est facilitatrice en perfectionnement professionnel à l'ATA. Maryse est aussi responsable de perfectionnement professionnel à l'AEEFA (Association des enseignantes... Read More →
Friday September 20, 2024 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Champagne (Room 16)

2:00pm MDT

Take a LEAP—Unlearning Racial Bias (K–12)
Friday September 20, 2024 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Join this session to explore the complex dynamics between unconscious beliefs, bias, and the impact these factors have on educational environments. Focused on building a deeper understanding of how these factors can perpetuate stereotypes and hinder student growth, this session includes discussions and practical exercises that will challenge assumptions that perpetuate labels and stereotypes. By embracing a ‘LEAP’ approach—actively listening, engaging, asking questions, and providing support we will work together to enhance our own understanding of diversity, inclusion, and anti-racism.
Speakers
avatar for Nancy Bromley

Nancy Bromley

Association Instructor, The Alberta Teachers' Association
Nancy Bromley - A passionate public speaker, administrator, nature lover, and mother, Nancy uses her 30+ years as an educator to motivate you to think about teaching as a way of exploring the world and creating true agents for change. She’s passionate about encouraging educators... Read More →
Friday September 20, 2024 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Chivas (Room 4)

2:00pm MDT

Trauma-Informed Practice—Safe, Supportive and Self-Regulated Classrooms (K–12)
Friday September 20, 2024 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Participants in this interactive workshop will receive information and tools to help provide safe, supportive and self-regulated environments for students who have experienced trauma. Teachers will be provided with background information on trauma and its effects on the child and adolescent brain, how to create trauma-informed environments and how to help build resiliency and self-regulation skills in students.
Speakers
KS

Kathleen Silverman

Association Instructor, Alberta Teachers' Association
Kathleen has taught learners aged three to ninety-four in various settings, including at K-12 schools in Edmonton and Salvador (Brazil), the Art Gallery of Alberta, and senior citizens’ centres, among others. Her expertise includes emergent literacy, language acquisition, curriculum... Read More →
Friday September 20, 2024 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Medoc (Room 14)

2:00pm MDT

Foundations for Success—Strategies for Building Classroom Community in a Primary Classroom (K–3)
Friday September 20, 2024 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Come ready to learn, and create! In this presentation, we will explore the vital foundations that contribute to a respectful classroom community, focusing on the implementation of effective routines, smooth transitions, clear expectations, and consistent practices. You will learn how these elements work together to create an environment where students feel safe, respected, and engaged. Fostering positive relationships between students is vital. This presentation will provide example mentor texts, writing activities, Google slide examples, projects and transition songs that contribute to a respectful and engaging classroom community in a primary classroom. Participants will also create an art activity with plasticine that can be used in a cross curricular project with your students.
Speakers
avatar for Michelle Bezubiak

Michelle Bezubiak

Early Childhood Education Council
With 26 years of experience in education, I am a dedicated educator with experience teaching Kindergarten through to Grade 3.Through my years in the field, I have witnessed the transformative impact that nurturing connections can have on students' growth and development. I strive... Read More →
Friday September 20, 2024 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Madeira (Room 7)

2:00pm MDT

Unlocking Student Understanding—The Impact of Numeracy of Routines on Learning Gaps (4–12)
Friday September 20, 2024 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Wondering how to bridge learning gaps? Dive into the potential of numeracy routines to address student needs and prerequisite knowledge. Discover effective routines adaptable to any topic, and collaborate with colleagues to tailor them to your classroom, aligning with your curriculum goals.
Speakers
avatar for Patricia Shoemaker

Patricia Shoemaker

Secondary Math Teacher, Math Council
Friday September 20, 2024 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Bordeaux (Room 9)

2:00pm MDT

ᑕᐯᐧᐃᐧᐣ tapwewin Dismantling Indigenous Racism (K–12)
Friday September 20, 2024 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
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.
Speakers
avatar for Cheryl Devin

Cheryl Devin

Indigenous Association Instructor, The Alberta Teachers' Association
Cheryl is one of six Alberta Teachers’ Association Walking Together Consultants. She has over 26 years of teaching experience at the junior high level in a variety of subject areas, including language arts, social studies and science. Cheryl is Métis, with family migrating from... Read More →
Friday September 20, 2024 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Cognac (Room 15)

2:00pm MDT

Survival Strategies for English Language Arts Teachers (7–12)
Friday September 20, 2024 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Your first few years in English language arts can be intimidating: the marking, the planning, the reading... the marking! This engaging, casual session with two experienced ELA teachers and department heads will give you real-world strategies for not just surviving your first few years, but for finding the joy in them, too.
Friday September 20, 2024 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Chablis (Room 12)

2:00pm MDT

Unlocking Literacy—Practical Strategies for Implementing the Science of Reading in an Inclusive Classroom (K–3)
Friday September 20, 2024 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Guided by research-backed methodologies, we'll navigate through the intricacies of language acquisition, decoding, comprehension, and fluency. Through a blend of theory and practical application, educators will gain valuable insights into how to foster robust reading skills in students of all ages and abilities.
Speakers
avatar for Misty Berube

Misty Berube

Inclusive Lead Teacher, St Lorenzo Ruiz
Friday September 20, 2024 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Beaujolias (Room 10)

2:00pm MDT

Teaching the New PE & Wellness Curriculum Without Breaking a Sweat (JK - You'll be Sweating!) (K-6)
Friday September 20, 2024 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
This session is designed to support teachers to increase their confidence and competence to implement the Alberta Physical Education and Wellness curriculum. The content will be grounded in best practice in pedagogy, and will cover the similarities and differences from previous curricula, provide tips on planning, implementation and assessment, and include a reference resource for each organizing idea.
Speakers
JL

Jason Lafferty

Ever Active Schools
Friday September 20, 2024 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Chianti (Room 6)

2:00pm MDT

Science 101 (4–12)
Friday September 20, 2024 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
You’re teaching science—congratulations! Now how do you get started? Whether you are the only science teacher at your school or part of a team, it can all seem a little overwhelming. Learn some tried and tested methods for approaching science teaching and learning to ensure you are not only giving your students meaningful learning opportunities but also ensuring that you aren’t reinventing the wheel. Topics covered include: breaking down the curriculum into manageable units and lessons, planning for hands-on activities and projects (examples will be provided) throughout the year, field trip ideas (both in-school and site-based), and developing an inventory of supplies. Amanda Green and Julie Arsenault bring with them a collective four decades of experience to help you be successful in your science teaching experience!
Speakers
avatar for Julie Arsenault

Julie Arsenault

Science Lead Teacher, Science Council
After receiving her Bachelors and Masters degrees in Microbiology and Biotechnology, Julie entered the Faculty of Education at the U of A to pursue teaching. She has been with EPS since 2002 and has developed a passion for incorporating authentic, project-based learning experiences... Read More →
Friday September 20, 2024 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Piesporter (Room 5)

3:15pm MDT

BREAK
Friday September 20, 2024 3:15pm - 3:30pm MDT
Friday September 20, 2024 3:15pm - 3:30pm MDT
Lobby & Common Areas Outside Meeting Rooms

3:30pm MDT

BARGAINING 101
Friday September 20, 2024 3:30pm - 4:00pm MDT
Attendance for GIA and additional prizes
Friday September 20, 2024 3:30pm - 4:00pm MDT
Ballroom D

4:00pm MDT

SOCIAL—QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
Friday September 20, 2024 4:00pm - 4:45pm MDT
Grab and Go Sessions, Social and Draw Prizes. Each table will have a QR to scan that links to key information on the website about the topic. As well, there will be sample copies of print resources which are available.
Friday September 20, 2024 4:00pm - 4:45pm MDT
Ballroom D

6:00pm MDT

ETCATA AI Social (Educational Technology Council)
Friday September 20, 2024 6:00pm - 9:00pm MDT
Join ETCATA at The Rec Room in WEM on Friday, September 20th from 6-9pm for an evening of relaxed conversation, food, and fun! The conversation will focus on AI Literacy, but the council would also like feedback from teachers about what they need from ETCATA going into the profession. Some appetizers as well as game bands will be provided to the first 40 people to arrive!

Looking forward to the event!

RSVP Now: https://bit.ly/ETCATABTC
Friday September 20, 2024 6:00pm - 9:00pm MDT
Rec Room in WEM
 

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