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Elementary: ECSD DWPD Mini Conference
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Thursday, February 20
 

12:30pm MST

Registration Check-in (all participants please register for this session)
Thursday February 20, 2025 12:30pm - 1:00pm MST
CTK Foyer
Thursday February 20, 2025 12:30pm - 1:00pm MST
CTK Foyer
  All Participants

1:15pm MST

Opening Keynote: Unity in Diversity
Thursday February 20, 2025 1:15pm - 1:40pm MST
Gymnasium
The following question drives this engagement:
How can we leverage cultural differences as a source of civic solidarity and social capital while living out our vocations as teachers and conscientious citizens? It examines this question from the perspective of lived experience.
Speakers
avatar for Berhanu Demeke

Berhanu Demeke

Intercultural Liaison
Supporting newcomer immigrants in their quest for integration and well-being.
Thursday February 20, 2025 1:15pm - 1:40pm MST
Gymnasium
  All Participants

1:50pm MST

Fluency Foundations & Using the Microsoft Reading Progress Tool
Thursday February 20, 2025 1:50pm - 2:50pm MST
Room 222
Build your foundational knowledge of the critical impact of fluency instruction in the classroom and its role in bridging to reading comprehension. Explore how the Microsoft Teams Reading Progress tool supports instruction by simplifying the tracking of reading progress over time. Discover how this innovative tool empowers students to hear themselves read, practice fluency, and receive immediate, effective feedback. Leave empowered and inspired with practical strategies to seamlessly integrate this resource into your classroom and enhance student success!
Speakers
avatar for Carilynn Salisbury

Carilynn Salisbury

English Language Arts Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division
Carilynn Salisbury is one of our Elementary English Language Arts Consultants who has been teaching for 15 years with ECSD.  She loves all things literacy, especially diving into a great literacy podcast on her commute to work. Loves coffee, sunshine and movement to name a few e... Read More →
avatar for Stephanie Pedersen

Stephanie Pedersen

English Language Arts Consultant (K-6), Edmonton Catholic School Division
Stephanie is an Elementary English Language Arts consultant with ECSD. She is passionate about literacy and establishing effective reading and writing instruction. In her spare time you can find her visiting with friends and family; likely sharing her love of podcasts, plants, and... Read More →
Thursday February 20, 2025 1:50pm - 2:50pm MST
Room 222
  2-6

1:50pm MST

Designing Inclusive Learning with Edwin: A Choose-Your-Own-Adventure PD
Thursday February 20, 2025 1:50pm - 2:50pm MST
Room 204
Join us for a personalized professional development session aligned with Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles. Explore Edwin through stations tailored to your needs: get started with the basics, refine your lesson workflow and delivery, or dive into advanced strategies for differentiation. This session empowers you to design engaging, accessible lessons that meet the diverse needs of your students, all while leveraging Edwin’s powerful tools. Come ready to explore, collaborate, and customize your experience!
Speakers
avatar for Stephanie Denman

Stephanie Denman

English Language Arts Consultant (K-6), Edmonton Catholic School Division
Stephanie is a newbie joining the ELA Elementary team. She has been an Educator for 15 years with ECSD and completed her Masters in Religious Education. Stephanie has a passion for building powerful literacy classrooms where all learners experience success. She loves reading, traveling... Read More →
avatar for Ben Prather

Ben Prather

Math Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division
Benjamin is a mathematics consultant for the Edmonton Catholic School Division. Following a rewarding stint as an Emerging Technology consultant, and a return to the classroom, he has returned to his true passion: mathematics.In the role of a mathematics consultant, Benjamin brings... Read More →
Thursday February 20, 2025 1:50pm - 2:50pm MST
Room 204
  4-6

1:50pm MST

Navigating Number Lines for Math Success (4-6)
Thursday February 20, 2025 1:50pm - 2:50pm MST
Room 231
In this interactive professional learning session, 4-6 educators will explore how to use the number line as a powerful tool for enhancing students' mathematical understanding. Participants will discover practical strategies for incorporating the number line into regular instruction to support key concepts such as operations and math talks. Through hands-on activities, teachers will learn how to guide students in visualizing numbers and relationships, building fluency, and developing number sense. Join us to deepen your understanding of how the number line can transform elementary math instruction and help students develop a strong foundation for future mathematical success.
Speakers
avatar for Amy Swinkels

Amy Swinkels

Math Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division
Amy is a Math convert! Being a child that hated Math and was highly unsuccessful in Math, it became her absolute passion to help make Math fun, meaningful and successful for all students.  When not championing Math, Amy is either reading absolute garbage on a beach or running marathons... Read More →
avatar for Anita Hanneman

Anita Hanneman

Elementary Mathematics Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division
Anita makes up one fifth of the elementary mathematics team. Her passion and giddiness for mathematics grows with each article read, teacher conversation, and interaction with students. On her spare time Anita enjoys spending time with her family, dancing, being in nature, pina coladas... Read More →
Thursday February 20, 2025 1:50pm - 2:50pm MST
Room 231
  4-6

1:50pm MST

Cultural Kaleidiscope: Family Diversity in Kindergarten
Thursday February 20, 2025 1:50pm - 2:50pm MST
Room 233
Explore strategies to create an inclusive and welcoming classroom where every child and family feels valued. This session will focus on celebrating the rich diversity of family compositions and cultures through thoughtful language, activities, and classroom practices. Teachers will engage in discussions, take a look at inclusive literature and materials, and come up with ideas to nurture a sense of belonging for all children. We will learn how to honor and represent families in ways that affirm each child’s unique identity and build a stronger, more connected Kindergarten classroom community.
Speakers
avatar for Kathleen Ruff

Kathleen Ruff

Kindergarten Programming Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division
Kathleen Ruff is a Kindergarten Programming Consultant with Edmonton Catholic Schools. She enjoys providing professional development to the teachers of the youngest learners in school divisions, focusing on combining play and curricular programming in one. She is a baker, coffee drinker... Read More →
avatar for Courtney Cregan

Courtney Cregan

Kindergarten Programming Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division
Courtney is a Kindergarten Programming Consultant with Edmonton Catholic Schools. She's passionate about sharing the joy of play based learning and developmentally appropriate practices. In her spare time, you'll catch her reading a good book with an iced chai.
Thursday February 20, 2025 1:50pm - 2:50pm MST
Room 233
  K

1:50pm MST

Navigating Number Lines for Math Success (K-3)
Thursday February 20, 2025 1:50pm - 2:50pm MST
Room 230
In this interactive professional learning session, K-3 educators will explore how to use the number line as a powerful tool for enhancing students' mathematical understanding. Participants will discover practical strategies for incorporating the number line into regular instruction to support key concepts such as counting, addition, subtraction, and place value. Through hands-on activities, teachers will learn how to guide students in visualizing numbers and relationships, building fluency, and developing number sense. Join us to deepen your understanding of how the number line can transform elementary math instruction and help students develop a strong foundation for future mathematical success.
Speakers
avatar for Meredith Aubin

Meredith Aubin

Math Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division
Meredith is an Elementary Mathematics Consultant who has been with Edmonton Catholic Schools since 2014. She is passionate about helping students to love learning mathematics in meaningful ways. You can also find her spending time outdoors, enjoying restaurants around the city, listening... Read More →
avatar for Caroline Lepps

Caroline Lepps

Math Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division
Caroline Lepps is 1/5 of the Elementary Mathematics Consultant team with Edmonton Catholic Schools. When she is not playing with mathematics, she enjoys an ever-changing list of hobbies that currently include experimenting with fun foodie recipes, minimalist art, perplexing puzzles... Read More →
Thursday February 20, 2025 1:50pm - 2:50pm MST
Room 230
  K-3

1:50pm MST

Compassion Fatigue, Burnout, and a Way Forward
Thursday February 20, 2025 1:50pm - 2:50pm MST
Gymnasium
Working with children and youth demands emotional labor from teachers, school leaders, and other education workers which influences their workplace well-being. This presentation will discuss the findings from two, three-year research studies into some of the stress and distress felt by educational workers, and will introduce the HEARTcare planning framework and will describe four health promotion initiatives, including streaking and professional "Walk and Learn" sessions to build occupational well-being for all educators at the individual, school, and system levels. **Bring your phone and headphones for a walk and learn portion of the session. 
Speakers
avatar for Astrid Kendrick

Astrid Kendrick

Director of Field Experience (Community-Based Pathway) Werklund School of Education, University of Calgary, University of Calgary
Before taking on her current role of Director, Field Experience (Community-Based Pathway), at the Werklund School of Education, Dr. Astrid Kendrick was a K-12 classroom teacher for nineteen years specializing in Physical Education and English/Language Arts. Dr. Kendrick has two main... Read More →
Thursday February 20, 2025 1:50pm - 2:50pm MST
Gymnasium
  K-6

1:50pm MST

Creating Faith Filled Inclusive Classrooms: SEL, EDIAR & UDL (K-6)
Thursday February 20, 2025 1:50pm - 2:50pm MST
Room 147
Get ready for a slam dunk of a session where you will jump into the world of SEL and EDIAR through the lens of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) 3.0!  Making connections with our Catholic Faith, you'll engage in hands-on activities and lively discussions.  You will leave with tools that give you practical strategies to create inclusive classrooms that celebrate every student's unique identity as a child of God. 
Speakers
avatar for Fitzroy Ford

Fitzroy Ford

EDIAR Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division
As the EDIAR Consultant my goal is to make the uncomfortable comfortable, to open the circle wider, and to help us feel good about doing this much needed work.
avatar for Kathleen Nguyen

Kathleen Nguyen

Elementary Religious Education Consultant, Edmonton Catholic Schools
Kathleen Nguyen finds joy in sharing our Catholic faith and accompanying people on their faith journey. Kathleen loves to spend time with her family and is a great aunt; literally. This is a term she loves to use quite liberally and makes her friends call her Kathleen, the Great... Read More →
Thursday February 20, 2025 1:50pm - 2:50pm MST
Room 147
  K-6

1:50pm MST

Culturally Responsive Teaching: Embracing Unity and Diversity
Thursday February 20, 2025 1:50pm - 2:50pm MST
Room 211
In this session, teachers will deepen their understanding of culture, while exploring principles of culturally responsive teaching that promote equity, connection, and engagement. Through discussions and practical exercises, participants will learn strategies for fostering inclusive environments that celebrate diversity and enhance relationships within classrooms.
Speakers
avatar for Devin Austin

Devin Austin

Elementary EAL Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division
Devin Austin, a forward-thinking K-12 Elementary EAL consultant with Edmonton Catholic Schools, sharing his skills in diverse capacities since 2011. He loves globe-trotting, keeping abreast of the newest tech innovations, and moments with his family. Devin is deeply committed to enhancing... Read More →
avatar for Anna Deligianis

Anna Deligianis

Anna Deligianis is an Elementary English as an Additional Language Consultant with Edmonton Catholic School Division. She previously worked as an elementary classroom teacher in Alberta and Mexico for many years. Anna graduated from her Masters in Educational Leadership with a focus... Read More →
avatar for Melissa Astle

Melissa Astle

EAL Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division
Melissa is an EAL consultant with Edmonton Catholic Schools. Her background includes teaching in both bilingual and second language programs in elementary and junior high setting. As a language lover and multilingual herself, she is committed to helping EAL learners find success in... Read More →
Thursday February 20, 2025 1:50pm - 2:50pm MST
Room 211
  K-6

1:50pm MST

Let's Explore AAC
Thursday February 20, 2025 1:50pm - 2:50pm MST
Learning Commons
AAC is a tool designed to help minimally speaking students develop their vocabulary, language, and communication skills. In this session, we will explore two communication apps, TouchChat and LAMP, and demonstrate how they can be used to enhance language, vocabulary, and communication. We'll engage in games, learn quick editing techniques, and share examples of how AAC can be utilized to access the curriculum.
Speakers
LL
TS

Toby Scott

AT Specialist, Edmonton Catholic School District
Toby is an educator and assistive technology specialist supporting students with significant disabilities from preschool through high school With Edmonton Catholic Schools. She is passionate about inclusion and ensuring access to communication, literacy, the curriculum and a genuine... Read More →
Thursday February 20, 2025 1:50pm - 2:50pm MST
Learning Commons
  K-6

1:50pm MST

Reporting on Assessments in Diverse Classrooms
Thursday February 20, 2025 1:50pm - 2:50pm MST
Room 161
Diversity is the norm in our classrooms; therefore, we can leverage different approaches to ensure accurate and meaningful assessment for all students, including embracing UDL principles, providing accommodations, and using adapted programming.  But how do we ensure that our PowerTeacher Pro gradebook both reflects the supports students are accessing and is set up in a way that enables flexible assessment practices?  This session will connect UDL, accommodations, and adaptations to the reporting that happens in PowerTeacher Pro.
Speakers
avatar for Alyson Gabucci

Alyson Gabucci

Curriculum and Assessment Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division
Alyson Gabucci is an Assessment & Reporting consultant at Edmonton Catholic Schools. She is passionate about eating, mainly salty carbohydrates, working out because of those salty carbohydrates, and you can often find her with her nose in a book either learning more about assessment... Read More →
avatar for Leanne Hemphill

Leanne Hemphill

Curriculum and Assessment, Edmonton Catholic School Division
Leanne is a tech enthusiast and new assessment consultant! Her passion lies in revolutionizing how assessments are conducted, making them engaging and insightful for all. When she's not diving deep into assessment strategies, Leanne can be found gliding through the water with the... Read More →
Thursday February 20, 2025 1:50pm - 2:50pm MST
Room 161
  K-6

1:50pm MST

Stories That Spark - Cultivating Joyful Readers and Meaningful Learning
Thursday February 20, 2025 1:50pm - 2:50pm MST
Room 149
Join us for “Stories That Spark: Cultivating Joyful Readers and Meaningful Learning,” a professional development session designed to equip grade 1-6 teachers with the skills to foster a love for reading through dynamic book clubs, novel studies, and mentor texts. This session will emphasize the joy of reading in the classroom, highlighting how various reading activities can inspire both a passion for literature and critical thinking skills. Participants will explore practical strategies for organizing and managing book clubs, utilizing the grade 4-6 Novel Studies Collection, and K-6 Mentor Text Collections to enrich discussions. The session will also integrate Universal Design for Learning (UDL) 3.0 principles to ensure inclusivity and accessibility for all students. By the end of this session, teachers will be ready to create vibrant, inclusive reading experiences that cultivate joyful readers and thoughtful thinkers.
Speakers
VC
avatar for Brandi Clark

Brandi Clark

English Language Arts Consultant (K-6), Edmonton Catholic School Division
I have been working in the division for 25 years. I have a Masters in Elementary Language Arts. My passions are reading and writing across a variety of genres and topics. I live in a house of artists and writers, specifically, my husband, two adult kids, a pug and two cats. I look... Read More →
Thursday February 20, 2025 1:50pm - 2:50pm MST
Room 149
  K-6

1:50pm MST

Tech It Up a Notch
Thursday February 20, 2025 1:50pm - 2:50pm MST
Room 165
Discover how to integrate technology meaningfully in your classroom through the SAMR framework, with a focus on STEM-rich learning experiences. In this hands-on session, we’ll explore how to use Book Creator to transform teaching practices by enhancing, modifying, and redefining classroom activities to align with the New Learn Alberta curriculum. Learn practical strategies through the use of AI to design innovative, student-centered activities that foster creativity, critical thinking, and engagement. Walk away with actionable insights and ideas to integrate technology effectively, making learning more dynamic and impactful for all students.
Speakers
avatar for Nicole Cunningham

Nicole Cunningham

Emtech, Edmonton Catholic School Division
Nicole Cunningham is a Consultant with the Emerging Technology team in Learning Services with Edmonton Catholic Schools. She has been an educator with ECSD for 24 years, teaching K-6 students and serving as a technology coach for Early Learning, Inclusive Education and Curriculum... Read More →
avatar for Haidee de Roca-Garcia

Haidee de Roca-Garcia

STEM Consultant, ECSD
Haidee de Roca-Garcia is the STEM Consultant for ECSD. She has taught K-6 for almost 30 years and is passionate about making learning fun and engaging for all learners. She believes curiousity is a superpower and robots are the best! When not learning something new every day, she... Read More →
Thursday February 20, 2025 1:50pm - 2:50pm MST
Room 165
  K-6

1:50pm MST

UDL: Essential for Learners with Complex Needs
Thursday February 20, 2025 1:50pm - 2:50pm MST
Room 207
This session will focus on Universal Design for Learning to better support complex learners in inclusive classrooms. We will cover practical strategies to ensure all students can participate. Learn to use UDL principles to create flexible and inclusive lessons and activities that meet diverse learning needs, ensuring every student can succeed.
Speakers
avatar for Lisa Yaworski

Lisa Yaworski

Inclusive Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division
Lisa is an Inclusive Consultant who is a strong advocate for supporting all learners in reaching their fullest potential. She believes that outside the box thinking makes all things possible.
avatar for Patricia Aguilar Dydak

Patricia Aguilar Dydak

Inclusive Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division
Patricia Aguilar-Dydak is an Inclusive Consultant with Edmonton Catholic Schools. She is passionate about inclusive teaching practices and an advocate for a strength based approach to education. When not supporting student programming, she is a coffee enthusiast that enjoys spending... Read More →
Thursday February 20, 2025 1:50pm - 2:50pm MST
Room 207
  K-6

1:50pm MST

UDLizing Science
Thursday February 20, 2025 1:50pm - 2:50pm MST
Room 205
The why and how of making ALL students Scientifically Literate and Successful.  Work within the framework of Universal Design for Learning to immediately develop a collaborative class of Joyful Scientists. 
Speakers
avatar for Katerina Campbell

Katerina Campbell

Elementary Science Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division
Katerina is an elementary Science consultant at Edmonton Catholic Schools. She loves all things Science, exploring natural phenomena and will never stop asking “why?” Katerina is a self proclaimed maker and cardboard collector. She is a proud promoter of inquiry based learning... Read More →
avatar for Natalie Zuberbuhler

Natalie Zuberbuhler

Elementary Science Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division
Natalie Zuberbuhler: Elementary Science Curriculum and Assessment Consultant with Edmonton Catholic Schools lives for Science and supporting her teacher colleagues. Natalie always has great recommendations on books, tips for catching fish, and how to incorporate computer science to... Read More →
Thursday February 20, 2025 1:50pm - 2:50pm MST
Room 205
  K-6

1:50pm MST

Understanding and Responding to Student Behaviours Through an NVCI Approach
Thursday February 20, 2025 1:50pm - 2:50pm MST
Staffroom
Discover effective strategies to support students by understanding their behaviors and responding with empathy and skill. This PD is designed for educators and school staff seeking to create a positive and supportive learning environment. You will learn how: 1. Identifying Behavioral Escalation Stages. 2 Responding Effectively. 3. The importance of debriefing. 4. Rebuilding Therapeutic Rapport. 
Speakers
AJ
KV
Thursday February 20, 2025 1:50pm - 2:50pm MST
Staffroom
  K-6

1:50pm MST

What’s New in UDL 3.0
Thursday February 20, 2025 1:50pm - 2:50pm MST
Room 220
Join us for an engaging and interactive professional learning session focused on the latest enhancements to the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) 3.0 guidelines. This session is designed for educators who are committed to creating inclusive and equitable learning environments for all students and teachers.
Speakers
avatar for Annemarie Simpson
avatar for Samantha Davidson

Samantha Davidson

Elementary Social Studies Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division
Samantha Davidson is the Elemenraty Social Studies consultant. She loves movies and will use movie quotes and songs whenever possible.
Thursday February 20, 2025 1:50pm - 2:50pm MST
Room 220
  K-6

1:50pm MST

Wise Practices in Indigenous Education Resource Selection LIMITED
Thursday February 20, 2025 1:50pm - 2:50pm MST
Room 606
This hands-on session is designed to empower K-6 teachers to select accurate, strengths-based, and diverse Indigenous education resources to address KUSPs across subject areas. Using criteria from Jo Chrona's 2022 book Wayi Wah!, participants will critically assess print and digital resources and will leave with the confidence to apply these criteria to their own professional practice. A curated list of recommended resources will also be shared. 
Speakers
avatar for Shannon Loutitt

Shannon Loutitt

Indigenous Learning Services Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division
Shannon Loutitt was born in mâskwasîpîsis (Grande Prairie) and raised in nistawoyou (Fort McMurray). She now lives in amiskwaciwâskahikan (Edmonton). Shannon is otepemsew (Métis); her dad Jack is from Fort Smith and her late mom Irene was a fluent Cree speaker from Paddle Prairie... Read More →
Thursday February 20, 2025 1:50pm - 2:50pm MST
Room 606
  K-6

1:50pm MST

Sensory Play and Storytelling: Enhancing Learning for All Students LIMITED
Thursday February 20, 2025 1:50pm - 2:50pm MST
Room 155
Join us to discover how to integrate sensory play with literature to create learning provocations that spark curiosity and wonder. Learn practical strategies to layer sensory activities, ensuring accessibility for all students. 
Speakers
CR
JY
Thursday February 20, 2025 1:50pm - 2:50pm MST
Room 155
  Pre K & K

3:00pm MST

Fluency Foundations & Using the Microsoft Reading Progress Tool LIMITED
Thursday February 20, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MST
Room 222
Build your foundational knowledge of the critical impact of fluency instruction in the classroom and its role in bridging to reading comprehension. Explore how the Microsoft Teams Reading Progress tool supports instruction by simplifying the tracking of reading progress over time. Discover how this innovative tool empowers students to hear themselves read, practice fluency, and receive immediate, effective feedback. Leave empowered and inspired with practical strategies to seamlessly integrate this resource into your classroom and enhance student success!
Speakers
avatar for Stephanie Pedersen

Stephanie Pedersen

English Language Arts Consultant (K-6), Edmonton Catholic School Division
Stephanie is an Elementary English Language Arts consultant with ECSD. She is passionate about literacy and establishing effective reading and writing instruction. In her spare time you can find her visiting with friends and family; likely sharing her love of podcasts, plants, and... Read More →
avatar for Carilynn Salisbury

Carilynn Salisbury

English Language Arts Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division
Carilynn Salisbury is one of our Elementary English Language Arts Consultants who has been teaching for 15 years with ECSD.  She loves all things literacy, especially diving into a great literacy podcast on her commute to work. Loves coffee, sunshine and movement to name a few e... Read More →
Thursday February 20, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MST
Room 222
  2-6

3:00pm MST

Designing Inclusive Learning with Edwin: A Choose-Your-Own-Adventure PD LIMITED
Thursday February 20, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MST
Room 204
Join us for a personalized professional development session aligned with Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles. Explore Edwin through stations tailored to your needs: get started with the basics, refine your lesson workflow and delivery, or dive into advanced strategies for differentiation. This session empowers you to design engaging, accessible lessons that meet the diverse needs of your students, all while leveraging Edwin’s powerful tools. Come ready to explore, collaborate, and customize your experience!
Speakers
avatar for Ben Prather

Ben Prather

Math Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division
Benjamin is a mathematics consultant for the Edmonton Catholic School Division. Following a rewarding stint as an Emerging Technology consultant, and a return to the classroom, he has returned to his true passion: mathematics.In the role of a mathematics consultant, Benjamin brings... Read More →
avatar for Stephanie Denman

Stephanie Denman

English Language Arts Consultant (K-6), Edmonton Catholic School Division
Stephanie is a newbie joining the ELA Elementary team. She has been an Educator for 15 years with ECSD and completed her Masters in Religious Education. Stephanie has a passion for building powerful literacy classrooms where all learners experience success. She loves reading, traveling... Read More →
Thursday February 20, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MST
Room 204
  4-6

3:00pm MST

Navigating Number Lines for Math Success (4-6) LIMITED
Thursday February 20, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MST
Room 231
In this interactive professional learning session, 4-6 educators will explore how to use the number line as a powerful tool for enhancing students' mathematical understanding. Participants will discover practical strategies for incorporating the number line into regular instruction to support key concepts such as operations and math talks. Through hands-on activities, teachers will learn how to guide students in visualizing numbers and relationships, building fluency, and developing number sense. Join us to deepen your understanding of how the number line can transform elementary math instruction and help students develop a strong foundation for future mathematical success.
Speakers
avatar for Anita Hanneman

Anita Hanneman

Elementary Mathematics Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division
Anita makes up one fifth of the elementary mathematics team. Her passion and giddiness for mathematics grows with each article read, teacher conversation, and interaction with students. On her spare time Anita enjoys spending time with her family, dancing, being in nature, pina coladas... Read More →
avatar for Amy Swinkels

Amy Swinkels

Math Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division
Amy is a Math convert! Being a child that hated Math and was highly unsuccessful in Math, it became her absolute passion to help make Math fun, meaningful and successful for all students.  When not championing Math, Amy is either reading absolute garbage on a beach or running marathons... Read More →
Thursday February 20, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MST
Room 231
  4-6

3:00pm MST

Cultural Kaleidiscope: Family Diversity in Kindergarten LIMITED
Thursday February 20, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MST
Room 233
Explore strategies to create an inclusive and welcoming classroom where every child and family feels valued. This session will focus on celebrating the rich diversity of family compositions and cultures through thoughtful language, activities, and classroom practices. Teachers will engage in discussions, take a look at inclusive literature and materials, and come up with ideas to nurture a sense of belonging for all children. We will learn how to honor and represent families in ways that affirm each child’s unique identity and build a stronger, more connected Kindergarten classroom community.
Speakers
avatar for Courtney Cregan

Courtney Cregan

Kindergarten Programming Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division
Courtney is a Kindergarten Programming Consultant with Edmonton Catholic Schools. She's passionate about sharing the joy of play based learning and developmentally appropriate practices. In her spare time, you'll catch her reading a good book with an iced chai.
avatar for Kathleen Ruff

Kathleen Ruff

Kindergarten Programming Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division
Kathleen Ruff is a Kindergarten Programming Consultant with Edmonton Catholic Schools. She enjoys providing professional development to the teachers of the youngest learners in school divisions, focusing on combining play and curricular programming in one. She is a baker, coffee drinker... Read More →
Thursday February 20, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MST
Room 233
  K

3:00pm MST

Navigating Number Lines for Math Success (K-3) LIMITED
Thursday February 20, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MST
Room 230
In this interactive professional learning session, K-3 educators will explore how to use the number line as a powerful tool for enhancing students' mathematical understanding. Participants will discover practical strategies for incorporating the number line into regular instruction to support key concepts such as counting, addition, subtraction, and place value. Through hands-on activities, teachers will learn how to guide students in visualizing numbers and relationships, building fluency, and developing number sense. Join us to deepen your understanding of how the number line can transform elementary math instruction and help students develop a strong foundation for future mathematical success.
Speakers
avatar for Meredith Aubin

Meredith Aubin

Math Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division
Meredith is an Elementary Mathematics Consultant who has been with Edmonton Catholic Schools since 2014. She is passionate about helping students to love learning mathematics in meaningful ways. You can also find her spending time outdoors, enjoying restaurants around the city, listening... Read More →
avatar for Caroline Lepps

Caroline Lepps

Math Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division
Caroline Lepps is 1/5 of the Elementary Mathematics Consultant team with Edmonton Catholic Schools. When she is not playing with mathematics, she enjoys an ever-changing list of hobbies that currently include experimenting with fun foodie recipes, minimalist art, perplexing puzzles... Read More →
Thursday February 20, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MST
Room 230
  K-3

3:00pm MST

Compassion Fatigue, Burnout, and a Way Forward LIMITED
Thursday February 20, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MST
Gymnasium
Working with children and youth demands emotional labor from teachers, school leaders, and other education workers which influences their workplace well-being. This presentation will discuss the findings from two, three-year research studies into some of the stress and distress felt by educational workers, and will introduce the HEARTcare planning framework and will describe four health promotion initiatives, including streaking and professional "Walk and Learn" sessions to build occupational well-being for all educators at the individual, school, and system levels. **Bring your phone and headphones for a walk and learn portion of the session. 
Speakers
avatar for Astrid Kendrick

Astrid Kendrick

Director of Field Experience (Community-Based Pathway) Werklund School of Education, University of Calgary, University of Calgary
Before taking on her current role of Director, Field Experience (Community-Based Pathway), at the Werklund School of Education, Dr. Astrid Kendrick was a K-12 classroom teacher for nineteen years specializing in Physical Education and English/Language Arts. Dr. Kendrick has two main... Read More →
Thursday February 20, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MST
Gymnasium
  K-6

3:00pm MST

Creating Faith Filled Inclusive Classrooms: SEL, EDIAR & UDL (K-6) LIMITED
Thursday February 20, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MST
Room 147
Get ready for a slam dunk of a session where you will jump into the world of SEL and EDIAR through the lens of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) 3.0!  Making connections with our Catholic Faith, you'll engage in hands-on activities and lively discussions.  You will leave with tools that give you practical strategies to create inclusive classrooms that celebrate every student's unique identity as a child of God. 
Speakers
avatar for Kathleen Nguyen

Kathleen Nguyen

Elementary Religious Education Consultant, Edmonton Catholic Schools
Kathleen Nguyen finds joy in sharing our Catholic faith and accompanying people on their faith journey. Kathleen loves to spend time with her family and is a great aunt; literally. This is a term she loves to use quite liberally and makes her friends call her Kathleen, the Great... Read More →
avatar for Fitzroy Ford

Fitzroy Ford

EDIAR Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division
As the EDIAR Consultant my goal is to make the uncomfortable comfortable, to open the circle wider, and to help us feel good about doing this much needed work.
Thursday February 20, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MST
Room 147
  K-6

3:00pm MST

Culturally Responsive Teaching: Embracing Unity and Diversity LIMITED
Thursday February 20, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MST
Room 211
In this session, teachers will deepen their understanding of culture, while exploring principles of culturally responsive teaching that promote equity, connection, and engagement. Through discussions and practical exercises, participants will learn strategies for fostering inclusive environments that celebrate diversity and enhance relationships within classrooms.
Speakers
avatar for Melissa Astle

Melissa Astle

EAL Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division
Melissa is an EAL consultant with Edmonton Catholic Schools. Her background includes teaching in both bilingual and second language programs in elementary and junior high setting. As a language lover and multilingual herself, she is committed to helping EAL learners find success in... Read More →
avatar for Devin Austin

Devin Austin

Elementary EAL Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division
Devin Austin, a forward-thinking K-12 Elementary EAL consultant with Edmonton Catholic Schools, sharing his skills in diverse capacities since 2011. He loves globe-trotting, keeping abreast of the newest tech innovations, and moments with his family. Devin is deeply committed to enhancing... Read More →
avatar for Anna Deligianis

Anna Deligianis

Anna Deligianis is an Elementary English as an Additional Language Consultant with Edmonton Catholic School Division. She previously worked as an elementary classroom teacher in Alberta and Mexico for many years. Anna graduated from her Masters in Educational Leadership with a focus... Read More →
Thursday February 20, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MST
Room 211
  K-6

3:00pm MST

Let's Explore AAC LIMITED
Thursday February 20, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MST
Learning Commons
AAC is a tool designed to help minimally speaking students develop their vocabulary, language, and communication skills. In this session, we will explore two communication apps, TouchChat and LAMP, and demonstrate how they can be used to enhance language, vocabulary, and communication. We'll engage in games, learn quick editing techniques, and share examples of how AAC can be utilized to access the curriculum.
Speakers
TS

Toby Scott

AT Specialist, Edmonton Catholic School District
Toby is an educator and assistive technology specialist supporting students with significant disabilities from preschool through high school With Edmonton Catholic Schools. She is passionate about inclusion and ensuring access to communication, literacy, the curriculum and a genuine... Read More →
LL
Thursday February 20, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MST
Learning Commons
  K-6

3:00pm MST

Reporting on Assessments in Diverse Classrooms LIMITED
Thursday February 20, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MST
Room 161
Diversity is the norm in our classrooms; therefore, we can leverage different approaches to ensure accurate and meaningful assessment for all students, including embracing UDL principles, providing accommodations, and using adapted programming.  But how do we ensure that our PowerTeacher Pro gradebook both reflects the supports students are accessing and is set up in a way that enables flexible assessment practices?  This session will connect UDL, accommodations, and adaptations to the reporting that happens in PowerTeacher Pro.
Speakers
avatar for Leanne Hemphill

Leanne Hemphill

Curriculum and Assessment, Edmonton Catholic School Division
Leanne is a tech enthusiast and new assessment consultant! Her passion lies in revolutionizing how assessments are conducted, making them engaging and insightful for all. When she's not diving deep into assessment strategies, Leanne can be found gliding through the water with the... Read More →
avatar for Alyson Gabucci

Alyson Gabucci

Curriculum and Assessment Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division
Alyson Gabucci is an Assessment & Reporting consultant at Edmonton Catholic Schools. She is passionate about eating, mainly salty carbohydrates, working out because of those salty carbohydrates, and you can often find her with her nose in a book either learning more about assessment... Read More →
Thursday February 20, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MST
Room 161
  K-6

3:00pm MST

Stories That Spark - Cultivating Joyful Readers and Meaningful Learning LIMITED
Thursday February 20, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MST
Room 149
Join us for “Stories That Spark: Cultivating Joyful Readers and Meaningful Learning,” a professional development session designed to equip grade 1-6 teachers with the skills to foster a love for reading through dynamic book clubs, novel studies, and mentor texts. This session will emphasize the joy of reading in the classroom, highlighting how various reading activities can inspire both a passion for literature and critical thinking skills. Participants will explore practical strategies for organizing and managing book clubs, utilizing the grade 4-6 Novel Studies Collection, and K-6 Mentor Text Collections to enrich discussions. The session will also integrate Universal Design for Learning (UDL) 3.0 principles to ensure inclusivity and accessibility for all students. By the end of this session, teachers will be ready to create vibrant, inclusive reading experiences that cultivate joyful readers and thoughtful thinkers.
Speakers
avatar for Brandi Clark

Brandi Clark

English Language Arts Consultant (K-6), Edmonton Catholic School Division
I have been working in the division for 25 years. I have a Masters in Elementary Language Arts. My passions are reading and writing across a variety of genres and topics. I live in a house of artists and writers, specifically, my husband, two adult kids, a pug and two cats. I look... Read More →
VC
Thursday February 20, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MST
Room 149
  K-6

3:00pm MST

Tech It Up a Notch LIMITED
Thursday February 20, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MST
Room 165
Discover how to integrate technology meaningfully in your classroom through the SAMR framework, with a focus on STEM-rich learning experiences. In this hands-on session, we’ll explore how to use Book Creator to transform teaching practices by enhancing, modifying, and redefining classroom activities to align with the New Learn Alberta curriculum. Learn practical strategies through the use of AI to design innovative, student-centered activities that foster creativity, critical thinking, and engagement. Walk away with actionable insights and ideas to integrate technology effectively, making learning more dynamic and impactful for all students.
Speakers
avatar for Nicole Cunningham

Nicole Cunningham

Emtech, Edmonton Catholic School Division
Nicole Cunningham is a Consultant with the Emerging Technology team in Learning Services with Edmonton Catholic Schools. She has been an educator with ECSD for 24 years, teaching K-6 students and serving as a technology coach for Early Learning, Inclusive Education and Curriculum... Read More →
avatar for Haidee de Roca-Garcia

Haidee de Roca-Garcia

STEM Consultant, ECSD
Haidee de Roca-Garcia is the STEM Consultant for ECSD. She has taught K-6 for almost 30 years and is passionate about making learning fun and engaging for all learners. She believes curiousity is a superpower and robots are the best! When not learning something new every day, she... Read More →
Thursday February 20, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MST
Room 165
  K-6

3:00pm MST

UDL: Essential for Learners with Complex Needs LIMITED
Thursday February 20, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MST
Room 207
This session will focus on Universal Design for Learning to better support complex learners in inclusive classrooms. We will cover practical strategies to ensure all students can participate. Learn to use UDL principles to create flexible and inclusive lessons and activities that meet diverse learning needs, ensuring every student can succeed.
Speakers
avatar for Patricia Aguilar Dydak

Patricia Aguilar Dydak

Inclusive Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division
Patricia Aguilar-Dydak is an Inclusive Consultant with Edmonton Catholic Schools. She is passionate about inclusive teaching practices and an advocate for a strength based approach to education. When not supporting student programming, she is a coffee enthusiast that enjoys spending... Read More →
avatar for Lisa Yaworski

Lisa Yaworski

Inclusive Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division
Lisa is an Inclusive Consultant who is a strong advocate for supporting all learners in reaching their fullest potential. She believes that outside the box thinking makes all things possible.
Thursday February 20, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MST
Room 207
  K-6

3:00pm MST

UDLizing Science LIMITED
Thursday February 20, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MST
Room 205
The why and how of making ALL students Scientifically Literate and Successful.  Work within the framework of Universal Design for Learning to immediately develop a collaborative class of Joyful Scientists. 
Speakers
avatar for Katerina Campbell

Katerina Campbell

Elementary Science Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division
Katerina is an elementary Science consultant at Edmonton Catholic Schools. She loves all things Science, exploring natural phenomena and will never stop asking “why?” Katerina is a self proclaimed maker and cardboard collector. She is a proud promoter of inquiry based learning... Read More →
avatar for Natalie Zuberbuhler

Natalie Zuberbuhler

Elementary Science Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division
Natalie Zuberbuhler: Elementary Science Curriculum and Assessment Consultant with Edmonton Catholic Schools lives for Science and supporting her teacher colleagues. Natalie always has great recommendations on books, tips for catching fish, and how to incorporate computer science to... Read More →
Thursday February 20, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MST
Room 205
  K-6

3:00pm MST

Understanding and Responding to Student Behaviours Through an NVCI Approach LIMITED
Thursday February 20, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MST
Staffroom
Discover effective strategies to support students by understanding their behaviors and responding with empathy and skill. This PD is designed for educators and school staff seeking to create a positive and supportive learning environment. You will learn how: 1. Identifying Behavioral Escalation Stages. 2 Responding Effectively. 3. The importance of debriefing. 4. Rebuilding Therapeutic Rapport. 
Speakers
AJ
KV
Thursday February 20, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MST
Staffroom
  K-6

3:00pm MST

What’s New in UDL 3.0 LIMITED
Thursday February 20, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MST
Room 220
Join us for an engaging and interactive professional learning session focused on the latest enhancements to the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) 3.0 guidelines. This session is designed for educators who are committed to creating inclusive and equitable learning environments for all students and teachers.
Speakers
avatar for Annemarie Simpson
avatar for Samantha Davidson

Samantha Davidson

Elementary Social Studies Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division
Samantha Davidson is the Elemenraty Social Studies consultant. She loves movies and will use movie quotes and songs whenever possible.
Thursday February 20, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MST
Room 220
  K-6

3:00pm MST

Wise Practices in Indigenous Education Resource Selection LIMITED
Thursday February 20, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MST
Room 606
This hands-on session is designed to empower K-6 teachers to select accurate, strengths-based, and diverse Indigenous education resources to address KUSPs across subject areas. Using criteria from Jo Chrona's 2022 book Wayi Wah!, participants will critically assess print and digital resources and will leave with the confidence to apply these criteria to their own professional practice. A curated list of recommended resources will also be shared. 
Speakers
avatar for Shannon Loutitt

Shannon Loutitt

Indigenous Learning Services Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division
Shannon Loutitt was born in mâskwasîpîsis (Grande Prairie) and raised in nistawoyou (Fort McMurray). She now lives in amiskwaciwâskahikan (Edmonton). Shannon is otepemsew (Métis); her dad Jack is from Fort Smith and her late mom Irene was a fluent Cree speaker from Paddle Prairie... Read More →
Thursday February 20, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MST
Room 606
  K-6

3:00pm MST

Sensory Play and Storytelling: Enhancing Learning for All Students LIMITED
Thursday February 20, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MST
Room 155
Join us to discover how to integrate sensory play with literature to create learning provocations that spark curiosity and wonder. Learn practical strategies to layer sensory activities, ensuring accessibility for all students. 
Speakers
CR
JY
Thursday February 20, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MST
Room 155
  Pre K & K
 
Elementary: ECSD DWPD Mini Conference
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