2022 Beginning Teachers Conference: Full Schedule

WELCOME TO THE 2022 BEGINNING TEACHERS’ CONFERENCE!

Teachers new to the profession are invited to attend the 2022 Beginning Teachers’ Conference, September 23–24, 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.

A block of guest rooms have been reserved at the Fantasyland Hotel for conference delegates. Rooms must be booked prior to September 2. Please reference the ATA Beginning Teachers Conference or provide the group code# 5917866 when booking your accommodations.

10:15am MDT

Drama Productions: From Zero to Hero—No Experience Required (1–12)

Limited Capacity seats available

Are you a first-year teacher who has been, voluntold to put up the school play? Perhaps you're a drama/music teacher looking to build a drama program from the ground up. Regardless, this session is for you. This session will cover the process of choosing a show, planning and preparing a show from start to finish, tech and design, parental involvement and building a culture. This session has been presented at various conventions and PD days, in full day, half day, and one-hour sessions.

Speakers

Matt White

SS and Drama Teacher, Fine Arts Council

Matt white is a high school Social Studies & Drama teacher at Ecole Plamondon School and currently serving as the Secretary for the ATA Fine Arts Council and the LPEO for ATA Local 15. Prior to joining NLPS 5 years ago, he spent 7 years with EIPS where he taught junior high social... Read More →

Friday September 23, 2022 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Medoc - Conference Room 14

(1-3) (4-6) (7-9) (10-12)

10:15am MDT

Feedback for Learning in the English Language Arts Classroom (4-12)

Limited Capacity seats available

Calling all English teachers hauling piles of marking between home and school! This session is for you. Together, we'll explore ways to focus our feedback on growth so that our students have a clear picture of success. We'll cover tricks to simplify and streamline your assessing process, and discuss using class time and conferences to complement your assessments. Like all ELAC Sessions, you'll leave feeling energized and ready to go, with a long list of book recommendations in hand.

Find the link to Bailey's presentation here!

Speakers

Bailey Almberg

English Language Arts Council

Bailey is a Literacy Coordinator at Prairie Land Schools in East Central Alberta. In her role, she has the pleasure of working side-by-side with educators, solving tricky problems and developing engaging and authentic learning opportunities for their students. She's a lover of good... Read More →

Friday September 23, 2022 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Bordeaux - Conference Room 9

(4-6) (7-9) (10-12)

10:15am MDT

Keepin' It Fresh (7–9)

Limited Capacity seats available

Two friends, colleagues, and teachers with 50 years combined teaching and learning experience, who dove head first into at-home and in-person learning. They have been Keeping It Fresh, especially during these stale times! Now...a totally refreshed & revamped presentation designed especially for beginning teachers, including: ideas and examples for planning, creating projects, presentations, etc, that can be used in many subject areas, but especially for Social, Math & ELA, with a strong focus on using technology and collaboration to allow students to demonstrate their understanding in unique formats.

Bonus LinkTree of templates will be provided to attendees!

Speakers

Kelly Drury Laffin

teacher & coordinator of assessment & instructional design., Aurora. #MYC2023 #CAfLN

teacher most of the day. plus coordinator of assessment & instructional design. life-long learner. mom. dreamer. wanderer. t1D advocate. assessment nerd.

Vicki Leong

Middle Years Council

Vicki is a longtime teacher and is passionate about what is in the best interest of students. She is passionate about fair and meaningful assessment and ensuring her students enjoy the content and leave her class with meaningful and practical learning. As a lifelong athlete, she... Read More →

Friday September 23, 2022 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Beaujolais - Conference Room 10

(7-9)

10:15am MDT

Littératie médiatique multimodale - Une séquence didactique appliquée (7-9)

Limited Capacity seats available

Lors de nos premières années d'enseignement, nous sommes toujours à la recherche de matériel pédagogique clé en main. L'objectif de cette présentation est de fournir une séquence didactique complète aux enseignants de français qui répond aux résultats d'apprentissage du programme d'étude. Pas besoin de passer des heures à chercher sur Teachers pay teachers, une fiche dédiée aux enseignants ainsi qu'un cahier de l'élève seront disponibles à la fin de la présentation.

Venez découvrir comment intégrer la littératie médiatique à votre classe de langue de manière ludique!

Speakers

Anne-Sophie Moniz

Enseignante de français, Conseil français

Enseignante de français au Junior High pour le Conseil scolaire Centre-Nord à Edmonton. Bachelière en enseignement du français langue maternelle. Maitrise en didactique des langues. Passionnée de sports, de voyages et de marchés de fermiers locaux!

Friday September 23, 2022 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Champagne - Conference Room 16

(7-9)

10:15am MDT

Survival Tips for the CTF and CTS Classroom (7–12)

Limited Capacity seats available

If you are a CTF or CTS teacher, then this session is for you! Teaching the complimentary classes can be very different from teaching core academic classes. It brings with it a different set of lesson plans, organizational skills, classroom management skills, assessment, resources and never-ending projects requiring their own sets of tools, equipment and materials, and let's not forget about the health and safety component! Join Susannah, an experienced CTS/CTF teacher to review some basic survival tips and skills to help you get through some of the more challenging days ahead in the CTF and CTS classroom. Come network with new colleagues, learn new strategies and share ideas!

Speakers

Susannah Killey

Career and Technology Education Council (CTEC)

Susannah Killey (she/her) is passionate Fashion Studies teacher at St. Oscar Romero High School in Edmonton. She has been with the Edmonton Catholic School District for 17 years, 15 years at her current school. Her program has nurtured the careers of fashion designers (Ization Studio... Read More →

Philip Scott

Career and Technology Education Council

CTEC Beginning Teachers Conference 2022 pdf

Friday September 23, 2022 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Ballroom A

(7-9) (10-12)

10:15am MDT

Come and See the Visuals (K–9)

Limited Capacity seats available

Have you heard the suggestion to use visuals but you aren't exactly sure what that means? I will share with you some research behind the power of using visuals, how to do so effectively and see a ton of practical examples. You will leave this session with a better understanding of what 'use visuals' means as well as a wealth of quick and easy examples and ideas. Using visuals is a 'good for all, critical for some' strategy. Come to see what its about!

Speakers

Carmen Moore

Director, CMoore in Education

Carmen Moore is a passionate educator, parent and storyteller who has been working within the field of education for over twenty-five years. She completed her Master of Education as well as a Master’s in autism (MSE) spurring on a research project: Project Independence. Carmen has... Read More →

Friday September 23, 2022 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Chablis - Conference Room 12

(K) (1-3) (4-6) (7-9)

10:15am MDT

Improving Teaching and Learning Through Professional Growth Plans (K-12)

Limited Capacity seats available

This session will provide teachers with an opportunity to reflect on their understanding of provincial legislation, policy and other requirements related to teacher professional growth; promote awareness of the effective components of a professional growth plan; and share materials and tools that can be accessed to assist in the development of those plans. The session will also address the implications for teacher evaluation and permanent certification.

Speakers

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 23, 2022 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Ballroom C

(K) (1-3) (4-6) (7-9) (10-12)

10:15am MDT

PE Wellness and Physical Activity Resources for Any Space (K-12)

Limited Capacity seats available

Join Ever Active Schools and experience a variety of our free and low-cost physical activity resources. We will showcase tools and activities that connect to the new Physical Education and Wellness Curriculum, and can be used in a variety of spaces to achieve various goals for students: developing social and emotional skills, incorporating literacy and numeracy with movement, building leadership and cooperation skills and participating in moderate to vigorous physical acitivity.

Speakers

Jodi Harding Kuriger

President, Alberta Teachers Associate (ATA) Health and Physical Education Council (HPEC)

Jodi - Health and Physical Educator for the joy and love of movement. Happily enjoying a country and grad student lifestyle with my husband, Mike, and our three active children. Dedicated to life long learning through the University of Alberta & HPEC. Looking forward to learning with... Read More →

Friday September 23, 2022 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Chianti - Conference Room 6

(K) (1-3) (4-6) (7-9) (10-12)

10:15am MDT

PRISM—Professionals Respecting Individual Sexual and Gender Minorities (K-12)

Limited Capacity seats available

This workshop is designed to help school staff understand legislation and educational policy and discuss how to support sexual and gender minority students and staff in Alberta schools. Participants will explore strategies for creating inclusive schools while also reflecting on their own attitudes, beliefs and dispositions.

Speakers

Nancy Bromley

Association Instructor, 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 →

PG PRISM (2022 08 15) pdf

Friday September 23, 2022 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Chivas - Conference Room 4

(K) (1-3) (4-6) (7-9) (10-12)

10:15am MDT

Teacher Growth, Supervision and Evaluation (K-12)

Limited Capacity seats available

The provincial Teacher Growth, Supervision and Evaluation Policy deals with accountability and continuous professional growth, and ensures that a teacher’s professional practice is under ongoing supervision. The Teacher Growth, Supervision and Evaluation Policy defines the process and the Teaching Quality Standard defines the competencies for professional practice. This workshop reviews with school leaders their critical role and the duties they must perform as outlined in the Education Act, the provincial Teacher Growth, Supervision and Evaluation Policy and the Leadership Quality Standard.

Speakers

Dr. Konni deGoeij

Associate Coordinator, Administrator Assistance, The 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 →

Tanya Thiessen

Executive Staff Officer, Government, Alberta Teachers' Association

Tanya joined the Association’s 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 including Sherwood Park... Read More →

Friday September 23, 2022 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Ballroom B

(K) (1-3) (4-6) (7-9) (10-12)

10:15am MDT

ᑕᐯᐧᐃᐧᐣ tapwewin: Dismantling Anti-Indigenous Racism (K-12)

Limited Capacity filling up

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

Billie-Jo Grant

ATA Indigenous Education Facilitator/Associate Director Métis Education and Lifelong Learning, The Alberta Teachers Association

Billie-Jo Grant is a proud Métis educator with over 20 years of classroom experience teaching K-9 students in both the Public and Catholic school divisions. She was the recipient of a 2017 Indspire National Award in the role model category for Indigenous education and also received... Read More →

PD WT 16q Policies of Assimilation WEB pdf

PD WT 16e 5 Forced Relocation of Indigenous Peoples in Canada pdf

Friday September 23, 2022 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Cognac - Conference Room 15

(K) (1-3) (4-6) (7-9) (10-12)

12:30pm MDT

Mathematics—All Are Welcome! All Belong! (1–12)

Limited Capacity filling up

Are you worried about teaching mathematics? Is fractions a word that gives you nightmares? Are you wanting to see mathematics as a world of beauty and joy?

Come and explore some high leverage activities to support and challenge all learners of your classroom; for all grades and levels!

You will leave with ideas that can easily be implemented the next day and transform your math class into a world of wonder and excitement!

Speakers

Dave Martin

Mathematics Council

Dave Martin has a Masters of Mathematics, a Degree in Education, and a love for prime numbers. He has been teaching for 12 years, during which time, he was nominated for Teacher of Excellence in Alberta, has spoken across North America, and has successfully removed grades in most... Read More →

Friday September 23, 2022 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Piesporter - Conference Room 5

(1-3) (4-6) (7-9) (10-12)

12:30pm MDT

Infuse Technologies in the Humanities Classroom (4-12)

Limited Capacity filling up

Stumped for how to make using tech in your classroom a meaningful part of your students' learning? Join Bailey as we explore a plethora of activities and inspirations to make tech more than just an engaging tool. Bring your computer, we'll have time to explore and learn together during this interactive session.
Find Bailey's presentation here!

Speakers

Bailey Almberg

English Language Arts Council

Friday September 23, 2022 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Cognac - Conference Room 15

(4-6) (7-9) (10-12)

12:30pm MDT

What Can SLIC Do For You? (4–12)

Limited Capacity seats available

So you landed your first teaching position! Congratulations! But you've just learned that you will be teaching a second language! Ack! Don't fret! Jessie and Stephanie will share all the ways that the Second Languages and Intercultural Council (SLIC) of the ATA can help you to be successful as you begin this exciting new adventure. We will share with you specific information related to SLIC including how to become a member of SLIC and attend our upcoming PD day as well as provide you with some strategies and ideas that you can take into your classroom on Monday morning!

Speakers

Jessie Krefting

Teacher

Jessie has been teaching FSL for 20 years. Her latest assignment has her teaching grades 4-9 FSL in Parkland School Division. Jessie has a passions for teaching second languages through the use of comprehensible input as it has allowed her students to be immersed in the target language... Read More →

Stephanie Jackson

Friday September 23, 2022 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Chivas - Conference Room 4

(4-6) (7-9) (10-12)

12:30pm MDT

Beautiful Chaos - Project Based Learning in Practice (7–9)

Limited Capacity seats available

The real world doesn't exist in silos, so why should we expect students to learn within them? Cross-Curricular Project Based Learning can seem like a daunting endeavor as you begin your practice but now is the best time to try! In this session you will learn about several projects which have been carried out successfully in the junior high setting and receive advice and resources to support your own teaching. Come and learn how to embrace the beautiful chaos of project based learning!

Speakers

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 University of Alberta to pursue her teaching career. She has been teaching with Edmonton Public Schools since 2002 and has developed a passion for incorporating... Read More →

Friday September 23, 2022 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Ballroom C

(7-9)

12:30pm MDT

Care and Connect—Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Tools and Practices to Support Students (K-12)

Limited Capacity full
Adding this to your schedule will put you on the waitlist.

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. Participants will learn and apply practical, powerful strategies to enhance social and emotional competence within themselves and their students.

Speakers

Terra Kaliszuk

Executive Staff Officer, Professional Development, 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 →

PG Care and Connect (2022 04 25) pdf

Friday September 23, 2022 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Maderia - Conference Room 7

(K) (1-3) (4-6) (7-9) (10-12)

12:30pm MDT

Indigenous Content in the New Teaching Quality Standard—Moving From Inspiring to Requiring (K-12)

Limited Capacity seats available

The new Teaching Quality Standard requires all teachers to demonstrate foundational knowledge about First Nations, Metis and Inuit for the benefit of all students. Where should you start!? In this session, you will be introduced to short, interactive activities designed to enhance your understanding of reconciliation, resources specifically produced to build your competence and confidence; and ideas about the many paths you can pursue on your future professional Indigenous Education learning journey.

Speakers

Sheila Williams

Association Instructor, ATA

Sheila WIlliams is an Indigenous Education PD facilitator for the Alberta Teachers Association.

TRC Calls to Action English2 pdf

PD WT 16a Terminology pdf

Friday September 23, 2022 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Bordeaux - Conference Room 9

(K) (1-3) (4-6) (7-9) (10-12)

12:30pm MDT

Mental Health 101 (K-12)

Limited Capacity filling up

Similar to first aid training, this workshop will give teachers the basic information they need to identify and help students who may be experiencing mental health issues. Lessons learned in this workshop are not confined to the classroom however, and the skills acquired will also help teachers understand the feelings their colleagues, and even themselves, may be experiencing at times. Participants will leave with practical strategies and interventions to promote positive mental health.

Speakers

Kathleen Silverman

Association Instructor, The Alberta Teachers' Association

Once Kathleen started school, she never left. She 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... Read More →

PG Mental Health 101 (2022 08 09) pdf

Friday September 23, 2022 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Chablis - Conference Room 12

(K) (1-3) (4-6) (7-9) (10-12)

12:30pm MDT

Physical Education and Wellness 101 (K–12)

Limited Capacity seats available

HPEC brings you an overview of Physical Education & Wellness! Join us for a smorgasbord of activities focusing on meaningful physical education experiences, inclusive practices, and activities that you can use in your classroom right away!

Speakers

Jodi Harding Kuriger

President, Alberta Teachers Associate (ATA) Health and Physical Education Council (HPEC)

BTC2022 Physical Education and Wellness 101 pdf

Friday September 23, 2022 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Chianti - Conference Room 6

(K) (1-3) (4-6) (7-9) (10-12)

12:30pm MDT

When Being Absent is Necessary (K-12)

Limited Capacity seats available

This session reviews leave provisions in the collective agreement and how to access these provisions. It also provides information about who to contact for questions and advice and encourages attendees to contribute suggestions for improvements to leaves to their Teacher Welfare Committees (TWCs).

Speakers

Chris Gibbon

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

Chris joined the Association’s executive staff in 2011. Chris holds a BEd degree from the University of Alberta. Prior to joining the Association, Chris spent the last 21 years of his 23 year teaching career in rural Alberta. Chris taught English and instrumental music in Whitecourt... Read More →

Friday September 23, 2022 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Ballroom B

(K) (1-3) (4-6) (7-9) (10-12)

2:00pm MDT

EdTech Tools to Foster Student Engagement (1–12)

Limited Capacity filling up

Are you looking for new and fun ways to engage your students with technology? Come and learn about some of the tried-and-true EdTech tools used by teachers in their classrooms! In this session we will explore various digital tools that not only foster student engagement, but also give students a platform for innovation and creativity! You will leave this session with strategies & resources to take back to your classroom that you can begin implementing immediately!

One lucky delegate who attends either this session or the DigCit in the Elementary Classroom session will be awarded a $250 Cue Robot prize.

Speakers

Sydney Munsterman

Elk Island Public Schools

Meet Sydney Munsterman (she/her), a dedicated Grade 6 teacher at Elk Island Public Schools and former Educational Technology Consultant. Currently pursuing her Masters of Education, Sydney is deeply committed to staying at the forefront of educational advancements. Her mission is... Read More →

Friday September 23, 2022 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Beaujolais - Conference Room 10

(1-3) (4-6) (7-9) (10-12)

2:00pm MDT

Strategies for Supporting English Language Learners to Improve Reading and Writing (1-12)

Limited Capacity filling up

In this session, teachers will receive resources to build a complete reading and writing unit with strategies to reach all the complexities of today's classrooms.

Speakers

Tracey Allan

Member at Large Edmonon, English as a Second Language Council

Tracey Allan is an ESL/English teacher who has taught both overseas and in Mexico. Tracey is a high school teacher with Edmonton Public at Centre High Campus and has taught in a variety of learning environments. She has a Master’s in Second Language Learning with the University... Read More →

Copy of Building Better Readers and Writers in an ELL Classroom pptx

Friday September 23, 2022 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Bordeaux - Conference Room 9

(1-3) (4-6) (7-9) (10-12)

2:00pm MDT

Discovering Your Passion (4–12)

Limited Capacity seats available

This session will explore how students young and old can discover their Ikigai. Ikigai is pronounced (ee-kee-gah-ee) and is a Japanese term that means, a reason for being.

Students will select a topic that they are passionate about and feel they have a talent in. Lots of teacher, peer, parent feedback opportunities will be provided while they research and become experts on their topic. At the end of the project, students will provide a short two to three minute sharing on their area of passion. This sharing pitch will be given to parents' and peers. Our event was called, The Lions' Cave (think Dragons' Den meets Shark Tank). Parents were referred to as Lions who determined if the student passion pitch was worthy of an investment. Passion pitches are assessed based on student (ie, entrepreneur) knowledge of the passion, following procedures, creativity of pitch, and professionalism.

Past teacher experiences of students identifying their Ikigai will be shared with attendees. The steps to helping students identify their Ikigai and discovering how they can potentially achieve it will be explored. We have created rules to follow (eg, failure is an option and the process of preparing your Ikigai is as important as the final product). A web site for additional information will be provided to the attendees.

Speakers

Peter Rehak

Elementary Director & CBE Teacher, ATA Science Council & CBE

ATA Science Executive - Elementary Director & CBE TeacherPeter has been teaching division two and three students in rural and urban locations across Alberta. He started in a small town school teaching grades 4 to 6 in the morning and Junior High in the afternoon. Being flexible and... Read More →

Friday September 23, 2022 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Medoc - Conference Room 14

(4-6) (7-9) (10-12)

2:00pm MDT

No textbook? No Problem! (7-9)

Limited Capacity seats available

From concrete to conceptual: This session will focus on using manipulatives, number lines, Notebook, and non permanent surfaces when introducing the concept of "difference" of integers. Expect to deepen your foundational knowledge while you develop a deeper understanding of the progression of learning related to difference.

Speakers

Carman Portelli

CBE Teacher, Mathematics Council

I have been a Math teacher in Calgary for over 20 years after teaching abroad when first graduating. Math and Musicals are my passion - but i promise to try not to break into song at this session!

Friday September 23, 2022 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Chivas - Conference Room 4

(7-9)

2:00pm MDT

Assessment and Evaluation—Supporting Student Learning (K-12)

Limited Capacity filling up

The purpose of this workshop is to explore the assessment indicators in the Alberta Teaching Quality Standard. Key questions that will be considered include the following:

How do we plan assessment with the end in mind?
How do we support the learner to successfully meet curricular outcomes?
How do we ensure the credibility of our judgments?

Speakers

Andrea Fletcher

Association Instructor, The Alberta Teachers Association

PG Assessment and Evaluation (2022 04 30) pdf

Friday September 23, 2022 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Maderia - Conference Room 7

(K) (1-3) (4-6) (7-9) (10-12)

2:00pm MDT

Explore, Create, Play (K-12)

Limited Capacity seats available

Imagine your classroom with challenges to solve, opportunities to create and students who are engaged. In this session, participants will have HANDS ON experience with a number of engaging kits to promote interactive learning. Throughout the session, you will have an opportunity to EXPLORE, CREATE and PLAY! Any member can sign out all demonstrated kits and books FREE from the ATA library. Participants should come armed with a mobile device to navigate the Association library and begin requesting materials before they leave the workshop. Every teacher is guaranteed a take-away!

Speakers

Chris Gonsalvez

Executive Staff Officer, Professional Development, Alberta Teachers' Association

Teacher. Administrator. PD Leader. Chris is an executive staff officer with the Alberta Teachers' Association and passionate about working with teachers and being involved in professional development. Spending most of his teaching career in Southern Alberta, he loved being a middle... Read More →

Blank Guided Lesson Outline docx

BTC Guided Lesson Plan docx

Editable Lego Challenge Cards docx

LEGO Math Challenge Cards pdf

ATA Library Graphic Organizer pdf

Friday September 23, 2022 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Ballroom C

(K) (1-3) (4-6) (7-9) (10-12)

2:00pm MDT

Ideas for Dealing with Difficult People and Situations (K-12)

Limited Capacity seats available

Hostile conversations with adults in school settings are becoming more commonplace and more intense, and are deemed to be extremely stressful for educators. What can schools do to safeguard the school and effectively communicate with those individuals who have a propensity toward volatility? This presentation gives an overview of the rights and responsibilities of students, parents, teachers and school leaders with an emphasis on the knowledge and skills for effective conflict management and conflict resolution. This session also provides a brief introduction to the Healthy Interactions Program.

Speakers

Chris Gibbon

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

Michelle Glavine

Executive Staff Officer, Teacher Employment Services (SARO), Alberta Teachers' Association

Michelle joined the Association’s Teacher Employment Services (formerly Teacher Welfare) executive staff in 2019. Michelle holds a Labour Relations Certificate and an Advanced Labour Relations Certificate from Queen’s University, a MEd in Educational Leadership from the University... Read More →

Friday September 23, 2022 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Piesporter - Conference Room 5

(K) (1-3) (4-6) (7-9) (10-12)

2:00pm MDT

Les approches pédagogiques en immersion française et francophone en milieu minoritaire (K-12)

Limited Capacity seats available

Quelles sont les grandes tendances d'approches pédagogiques actuelles appliquées en Immersion franaise et en francophone en milieu minoritaire à travers le Canada? Cet atelier présente un regard sur la diversité de la clientéle et les douze approches pédagogiques considérées comme efficaces pour soutenir tous les élèves dans les deux contextes éducatifs. L'examen des approches pédagogiques reconnues fournira des pratiques d'appui et des réflexions pour accompagner l'enseignant.e dans la salle de classe de toutes les matières à tous les niveaux scolaires.

Speakers

Gwendolyn Shone

Les pédagogies de l'immersion française : tendances canadiennes (French Immersion Pedagogies)

Gwendolyn Shone is an Alberta-born educator and an active member of the Francophonie. She values plurality: living in a French language minority context, having three daughters educasted in the Francophone school system, having an immigrant father, and having two Indigenous sisters... Read More →

Friday September 23, 2022 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Champagne - Conference Room 16

(K) (1-3) (4-6) (7-9) (10-12)

2:00pm MDT

Making the Most of a Teaching Life—How to Be Well and Stay Well (K-12)

Limited Capacity filling up

This workshop will begin by addressing general themes relevant to teacher wellness and will then focus on the most common mental health challenges affecting teachers: stress, anxiety and burnout. The session will include strategies to assist teachers in managing their emotional and psychological well-being in ways that allow them to be successful in educational settings.

Speakers

Ian Tisdale

Association Instructor, The Alberta Teachers' Association

Ian has worked with youth from at-risk environments while serving as the principal of the BRICK Learning Centre in Ponoka, AB. Through a trauma-informed lens, the BRICK creates an environment that holds students accountable while it truly puts students’ need first. He is also passionate... Read More →

PG Making the Most of a Teaching Life (2020 11 18) pdf

Friday September 23, 2022 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Chianti - Conference Room 6

(K) (1-3) (4-6) (7-9) (10-12)

2:00pm MDT

Mental Health in the Middle Years (K-12)

Limited Capacity filling up

Peer relationships at school become important during this time, as they can determine the trajectory of a student's future social and academic progress. What can we do to support our students?

Value yourself—Treat yourself with kindness and respect and avoid self-criticism.
Take care of you body.
Surround your self with good people.
Give yourself...
Learn how to deal with stress
Quite your mind
Set realistic goals

Find ways to incorporate this into your school day!

Speakers

Shawna Cunha

Middle Years Council

Friday September 23, 2022 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Cognac - Conference Room 15

(K) (1-3) (4-6) (7-9) (10-12)

2:00pm MDT

Recognizing and Addressing Anxiety (K-12)

Limited Capacity filling up

School staff are increasingly challenged to support individuals with all levels of anxiety and related behaviours. This workshop will provide information about the most common anxiety disorders, examine how these disorders impact people, and provide participants with strategies to help support those affected cope and manage.

Speakers

Sherri Greene

Music Specialist, BGSD

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 →

PG Recognizing and Addressing Anxiety (2019 11 01) pdf

Friday September 23, 2022 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Ballroom B

(K) (1-3) (4-6) (7-9) (10-12)

2:00pm MDT

Teachers' Safety Net (K-12)

Limited Capacity seats available

Over many years the Association has been able to construct a safety net for teachers and their families. This presentation provides an overview of what teachers have in regard to sick leave and other leaves through the collective agreement, extended disability, life insurance, other benefit plan provisions, as well as pension and death benefits. This is a light-hearted presentation that is intended to be presented to local teachers in order to provide very relevant and necessary information on existing entitlements.

Speakers

Andrea McLeod

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

Andrea joined the Association’s Teacher Employment Services executive staff in 2021. Andrea holds a BSc in Biological Sciences, a BEd in Secondary Education, and an MEd in Interdisciplinary Studies, all from the University of Calgary. She also holds a Labour Relations Certificate... Read More →

Friday September 23, 2022 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Ballroom A

(K) (1-3) (4-6) (7-9) (10-12)

2:00pm MDT

Why Are You Going to Waste Time on Google? (K-12)

Limited Capacity seats available

Google is a time-sucker! In your first years of teaching, you are going to need a lot of resources. Why lose your precious energy with the time-sucker? Instead learn how to use the awesome web guides and other resources available through your ATA Library! You'll save time and a tiny bit of your sanity!

Speakers

ATA Library

Librarian, The Alberta Teachers' Association

Sandra is a professional librarian who heads the ATA Library. Sandra’s passion is technological innovation and she applies this interest to all aspects of her work. She is an active voice on social media for the ATA Library and has developed web guides for teachers on dozens of... Read More →

Friday September 23, 2022 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Chablis - Conference Room 12

(K) (1-3) (4-6) (7-9) (10-12)

9:00am MDT

Tips for Math (7-8)

Limited Capacity filling up

Congratulations! You're teaching grade 7 and 8 math! Now how to keep the learning continuing all year long? Come learn some games, useful websites, manipulatives for concrete learning and cumulative review ideas. Resources available in both English and French. Session in English.

Speakers

Kristin McKeever

Parkland School Division

Saturday September 24, 2022 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Champagne - Conference Room 16

(7-9)

9:00am MDT

Leading Your Music Program with Finesse (7-12)

Limited Capacity seats available

Congratulations on having your own music program! There are many facets to running a successful music program while also ensuring your own personal well-being is healthy as well. This session will present many tips and tricks on running a successful program while also taking care of yourself and doing it with finesse! Many of the ideas presented will be centric to an instrumental music program but the principles can be applied to general music, elementary music, and choral programs.

Speakers

Samuel Yamamoto

Fine Arts Council

Saturday September 24, 2022 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Medoc - Conference Room 14

(7-9) (10-12)

9:00am MDT

Reading Strategies That Work for Secondary Students (7-12)

Limited Capacity seats available

You are a few weeks in, and you realize that you have a wide variety of reading levels in your classroom. How can you work to build student literacy without having to make 30 different lesson plans? This session will give you practical, classroom-ready strategies that you can use next week.

Speakers

Laura Schmaltz

English Language Arts Council

Saturday September 24, 2022 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Chablis - Conference Room 12

(7-9) (10-12)

9:00am MDT

Understanding the Flipped Classroom (7-12)

Limited Capacity filling up

In 2012 I decided to take on a new way of teaching by adopting the flipped classroom model. In the years since I have modified this technique to fit the needs of my students. And when schools were closed due to Covid, I was ahead of the game with lessons already online! I will share with you what I have learned along the way, and give you access to all of my online resources (so you can have a lesson ready for Monday morning).

Speakers

Jennifer Williams

Social/Flipped Classrooms, Social Studies Council President

ObjectivesThe Social Studies Council (SSC) seeks to promote the study of social studies in Alberta and constantly improve the teaching of social studies.ActivitiesTo carry out its objectives, the Social Studies Council encourages and assists the establishment of regional councils... Read More →

Saturday September 24, 2022 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Chivas - Conference Room 4

(7-9) (10-12)

9:00am MDT

From Surviving to Thriving in Your Inclusive Classroom (K-9)

Limited Capacity filling up

You have just met your new students and already see many unique needs. Your students require support for learning, emotional or behavioural challenges. But how can you juggle so many concerns in one classroom? Attend our session to learn tips and tricks to meet the wide variety of learning needs seen in every classroom. Everyone Matters, Everyone Belongs. Fostering Inclusion for All.

Speakers

Cathy Wiederick

Council for Inclusive Education

Tianna

Council for Inclusive Education

Tianna Melnyk has been an educator with the Calgary Board of Education for the last 16 years, working in elementary and secondary school as a teacher and Assistant Principal. She has contributed her leadership to other professional organizations as a member of boards including sitting... Read More →

Saturday September 24, 2022 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Maderia - Conference Room 7

(K) (1-3) (4-6) (7-9)

9:00am MDT

Indigenous Worldviews Within the Class and Beyond (K-9)

Limited Capacity filling up

The TQS states you need to incorporate Indigenous content into your classrooms and the curriculum, BUT where do you begin when you don't know where to go and don't want to be insensitive to the culture. This session will help you find ways to look at Indigenous content and provide you with tools to help make the lessons connect to Indigenous ways of being.

Speakers

Omarla Cooke

Saturday September 24, 2022 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Cognac - Conference Room 15

(K) (1-3) (4-6) (7-9)

9:00am MDT

E-Liability (K-12)

Limited Capacity seats available

Increasingly teachers are facing employment discipline resulting from their use of school computers, laptops, internet connections and cellphones. Also, teachers' posting on their own computers on such social networking sites as Facebook, Twitter or blogs are increasingly facing employer disciplinary action. Integration and use of electronic media and communication in classrooms can present some unique opportunities together with some employment risks. How do teachers use these technologies without jeopardizing their career? This session will also look at cyberharassment or cyberlibel directed at teachers by students or parents and the steps to take in these circumstances.

Speakers

Chris Gibbon

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

Kristine Wilkinson

Executive Staff Officer, Government, Alberta Teachers' Association

Kristine Wilkinson joined the Association’s executive staff in 2021. She holds an Advanced Labour Relations Certificate from Queen’s University, an Education degree from Concordia University and a Masters in Educational Psychology (School Counselling) from the University of... Read More →

Saturday September 24, 2022 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Ballroom B

(K) (1-3) (4-6) (7-9) (10-12)

9:00am MDT

School Leadership—Things you Want to Know, But are Afraid to Ask (K-12)

Limited Capacity seats available

Do you wonder what school leaders do all day? Are you interested in school leadership in the future? Are you curious about some of the trends in educational leadership today? Do you have questions about school leadership that you aren't sure how to ask? Join us to discuss the ins and outs of school leadership from the lens of a beginning teacher. We will talk about things like what to expect in evaluations, working through challenging situations, and taking on informal leadership roles within the school. We will also have an opportunity for participants to ask questions that they are wondering about.

Speakers

Bryn Spence

Council for School Leadership

Bryn has been a school-based administrator for the past 15 years and has worked in many schools throughout Parkland School Division. He has served in many leadership roles including a classroom teacher, special education coordinator, program facilitator, assistant principal and principal... Read More →

Saturday September 24, 2022 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Ballroom C

(K) (1-3) (4-6) (7-9) (10-12)

9:00am MDT

So, You Teach in a Catholic School…NOW WHAT (K-12)

Limited Capacity seats available

A Catholic school is more than a religion class; instead, it is the lived experience of the school. The session is for teachers who are new to teaching in a Catholic school that covers the Catholic school's mission, vision, and overview of important topics for the new Catholic teacher. Teachers will be introduced to the "Five Marks of an Excellent Catholic School," guidance on classroom prayer centers, the permeation of curriculum, and how to get involved with the life of a parish. In addition, the session includes an introduction to sensitive topics and how the catholic groups in the province work to advocate for Catholic education, where to find support for curriculum and advocacy, places to purchase authentic Catholic resources for their classroom and the offerings at Newman Theological College for foundational faith development.

Speakers

Stacey MacNeil

Religious and Moral Education Council

Stacey MacNeil originates from Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. She credits her Cape Breton upbringing for her strong roots in Catholicism and faith formation. Stacey has a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from St. Mary's University in Halifax, a Bachelor of Education specializing in... Read More →

Saturday September 24, 2022 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Ballroom A

(K) (1-3) (4-6) (7-9) (10-12)

9:00am MDT

To Behave or Not to Behave (K-12)

Limited Capacity seats available

This comprehensive workshop will provide educators with the skill sets and training required to work successfully with students displaying behavioural challenges.

This workshop is a strength-based, proactive approach intended to provide educators with an understanding of the ABCs of Classroom Discipline, essential to working with students with severe emotional and behavioural challenges.

Speakers

Darci Fulton

conference Director, Council for Inclusive Education

Myka Piekenbrock and Darci Fulton have been providing workshops across Canada to schools, school boards and educators since 2007. Focusing on the needs of the educator and students who struggle with behavioural challenges in the classroom and school, Myka and Darci will train teachers... Read More →

Myka Breymann-Piekenbrock

Secretary, Council for Inclusive Education

Saturday September 24, 2022 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Bordeaux - Conference Room 9

(K) (1-3) (4-6) (7-9) (10-12)

10:30am MDT

Humanities in Junior High (7-9)

Limited Capacity seats available

Teaching junior high isn't as treacherous and some might want you to believe. Keeping students engaged while still presenting a great lesson can be easy with a few tricks and treats!

In this session, you will leave with new ideas to create an inclusive classroom, incorporate movement breaks, and lesson plans that suit all learning styles.

Speakers

Kristy Williams

Social Studies Council

Teaching junior high isn't as treacherous and some might want you to believe. Keeping students engaged while still presenting a great lesson can be easy with a few tricks and treats! In this session, you will leave with new ideas to create an inclusive classroom, incorporate movement... Read More →

Saturday September 24, 2022 10:30am - 11:45am MDT
Ballroom C

(7-9)

10:30am MDT

Truth and Reconciliation Books in the ELA Classroom (7-12)

Limited Capacity seats available

Including Indigenous texts in English Language Arts classrooms, and using them in purposeful teaching, provides students opportunities to deepen their understanding of Indigenous experiences and perspectives while fostering truth and reconciliation. The presentation will use texts from the Recommended Books in the ELA Classroom resource which have been recommended by members of the Indigenous Education Council, ATA Indigenous Education PD Facilitators, and the English Language Arts Council for use in Kindergarten to Grade 12 classrooms.

Speakers

Angela Contrada

English Language Arts/Religious and Moral Education Council

Angela Contrada has been a passionate educator for eighteen years and is currently the ELA coordinating teacher at All Saints High School in Calgary. Her work extends outside the classroom in her executive member role with the English Language Arts Council where she facilitates PD... Read More →

Saturday September 24, 2022 10:30am - 11:45am MDT
Chablis - Conference Room 12

(7-9) (10-12)

10:30am MDT

Bringing Mindfulness into the Classroom (K–9)

Limited Capacity seats available

So you have your classroom and you want to support yourself and your student's mental Health. Finding and developing Mindful practices in the classroom will create safe and supportive environment for learning. You will leave this session with some strategies to develop a calm space.

Speakers

Pattie Quinn

Counsellor, Council of School Counsellors Council (CSC)

Laura Ragosin

Saturday September 24, 2022 10:30am - 11:45am MDT
Bordeaux - Conference Room 9

(K) (1-3) (4-6) (7-9)

10:30am MDT

COVID Kicked us Right "In The Middle" of... (4-9)

Limited Capacity seats available

Let's face it, whether you have been a student through these trying times or a teacher doing your best to keep it together; it's been a battle. In this session, Mike and Tina will share what it means to be connected with your students in the classroom. You'll walk away with classroom- ready, battle tested, tried and true methods (and a ton of fun ideas) you can use on Monday morning.

Speakers

Tina Chadwick

Secretary and Conference Registration, Middle Years Council

Saturday September 24, 2022 10:30am - 11:45am MDT
Ballroom A

(K) (1-3) (4-6) (7-9) (10-12)

10:30am MDT

Culturally Responsive Teaching (K-12)

Limited Capacity full
Adding this to your schedule will put you on the waitlist.

Are you interested in creating a welcoming, inclusive, safe, healthy environment for your students? A space where all students feel that they are valued, represented, and have a sense of belonging? If you are, and I am sure you are, please join me for an interactive and engaging session on Culturally Responsive Teaching. This session will explore what it means to be culturally responsive in a classroom setting. You will leave this session with a wealth of resources and practical, easy to implement strategies to support a culturally diverse and responsive classroom.

Speakers

Youssra Badr

Youssra is an Arab, Muslim, Canadian. She holds a Bachelor of Arts with a double major in Psychology and Sociology, a Bachelor of Education, and a Master's in Theoretical, Cultural, and International Studies from the University of Alberta. Her professional experiences include front... Read More →

Saturday September 24, 2022 10:30am - 11:45am MDT
Cognac - Conference Room 15

(K) (1-3) (4-6) (7-9) (10-12)

10:30am MDT

Student Led Adventures! Games, Teambuilding and the Art of Storytelling (K–12)

Limited Capacity filling up

What good story doesn't have a good adventure? In this session we will discuss and show examples of how games and activities can complement those stories/lessons you teach in class.

It might lead to students understanding the concepts at a deeper level or if anything just having more fun!

We will also go through a variety of games, activities and resources to get your students outdoors, active and leading the way! Why wait for a PE class that might only be a few days a week!? Let's help show teachers and students the purpose of daily fresh air and some simple games to help lead them.

Speakers

Court Rustemeyer

President, GEOEC

Court has been a full time Outdoor Education teacher at Vincent Massey Junior High School in Calgary, Alberta for the past 15 years. He is also on the Board of Directors for the Outdoor Council of Canada (OCC) were he serves as the Director of the Prairies. Court is also a Field Leader... Read More →

Saturday September 24, 2022 10:30am - 11:45am MDT
Chianti - Conference Room 6

(K) (1-3) (4-6) (7-9) (10-12)

10:30am MDT

Teachers and Educational Assistants (K-12)

Limited Capacity seats available

This presentation will review the legislative provisions governing the respective duties of teachers and educational assistants; examine the rights, responsibilities and duties of each group; look at ways of enhancing the relationship between teachers and educational assistants; discuss the proper reporting channels between teachers and educational assistants; and suggest policies that schools and school boards can adopt to ensure that teachers and educational assistants adhere to standards and are held accountable for what they do.

Speakers

Chris Gibbon

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

Tanya Thiessen

Executive Staff Officer, Government, Alberta Teachers' Association

Saturday September 24, 2022 10:30am - 11:45am MDT
Ballroom B

(K) (1-3) (4-6) (7-9) (10-12)

10:30am MDT

Winning Strategies for Classrooms (K-12)

Limited Capacity filling up

Alberta schools are founded on the concept that all students can learn, regardless of their abilities. When teachers plan for and use effective learning strategies designed to help struggling learners, they also support many other students. This workshop will provide teachers with tools and strategies that can be used at any grade level with all types of students. Engaging, interesting and active, this session will give participants ideas to incorporate into lessons immediately for positive results.

Speakers

Sally Rudakoff

Association Instructor, Alberta Teachers' Association

Sally is a teacher and assistant principal in St. Albert Public Schools. She enjoys learning alongside her students and is an avid believer that all teachers are life-long learners. Her passion is in the area of S.T.E.A.M. Learning and she enjoys supporting students to strengthen... Read More →

PG Recognizing and Addressing Anxiety (2019 11 01) pdf

Saturday September 24, 2022 10:30am - 11:45am MDT
Maderia - Conference Room 7

(K) (1-3) (4-6) (7-9) (10-12)