NORTHEAST TEACHERS’ CONVENTION of the Alberta Teachers’ Association

Thursday February 16th, 2012

Education beyond the Classroom:Teachers as Nation Builders!

Opening Keynote Speakers Dr. Yong Zhao, Françoise Ruban

Father Tony Ricard

Feature Speakers Barry Litun, Peter Liljedahl

Special Musical PerformanceHOJA

Closing Keynote Speaker Murray Banks

Mayfield Inn - 16615 109 Avenue, Edmonton, AB

http://netca.teachers.a b.ca

Three Opening Keynote Presenters

9:00 a.m. to 10:10 a.m. - Group AAspen View, Fort Vermilion, Greater St. Paul

10:45 a.m. to 11:55 a.m. – Group B Lakeland Catholic, Northland, Northern Lights

Dr. Yong Zhao Catching up or Leading the Way:

Education in the Age of Globalization

At a time when globalization and technology are dramatically altering the world we live in, is test-driven education reform headed down the right path? Will standards and accountability bring significant improvement to our education systems? Are schools emphasizing the knowledge and skills that students need in a global society--or are they actually undermining their strengths by overemphasizing high-stakes testing and standardization? Are education systems in China and other countries really as superior as some people claim?

In this presentation, Dr. Yong Zhao addresses these and other questions based on his new book of the same title. Born and raised in China and now a professor at Michigan State University, Zhao bases many of his observations on extensive research and firsthand experience as a student in China and as a parent of children attending school in the United States. His unique perspective leads him to conclude that “North American education is at a crossroads” and “we need to change course” to maintain leadership in a rapidly changing world. This Opening Keynote session repeats at 10:45.

Dr. Yong Zhao is currently Presidential Chair and Associate Dean for Global Education, College of Education at the University of Oregon. Zhao has extensive international experiences. He has consulted with government and educational agencies and spoken on educational issues in many countries on six continents. His current work focuses on designing 21st Century Schools in the context of globalization and the digital revolution. Zhao has published over 20 books and 100 articles

Speaker: Dr. Yong ZhaoRoom: Robson/Rundle 1st Chairperson: April Koziol, Northern Lights Local 2nd Chairperson: Rachelle Allen, Lakeland Catholic Local

Father Tony RicardHave You Seen Him?

Each day, we are given the chance to encounter the Lord. But, I wonder how many times has Jesus Christ tried to visit us and we missed seeing Him for who He really was. As the teachers, preachers, staff and administrators in Catholic Schools, it is our common call to search for Christ in the least expected places.

This exciting and interactive presentation will focus on finding Christ in the great world of Academia! It will also discuss the purpose of Catholic Schools and our role as the recognized “Elders” of Catholic communities.

Fr. Tony is a native of New Orleans. He is a former New Orleans Public School teacher who holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from Loyola University. He also has a master of Theology degree from Xavier University’s Institute for Black Catholic Studies and a Master of Divinity degree from Notre Dame Seminary.

This Opening Keynote session repeats at 10:45. Delegates may only attend this session once. Please let other delegates have a chance to attend!heir jobs." We need people who will pull together to get the job done." -Brenda Robinson

Speaker: Father Tony RichardRoom: Palisades1st Chairperson: Kim Barrie, Lakeland Catholic Local2nd Chairperson: Yvan Beaudoin, Greater St. Paul Local

Françoise RubanThe World Has Enough Sheep!

From Mongolia to Malawi, from Ghana to Guyana, Alberta teachers have long served teaching colleagues across many parts of the globe. What we do overseas, where we do it, with whom and how you can become involved is the focus of this session. Specific attention will be focused on the 2011-2012 CTF Project Overseas initiative. This interactive presentation will focus on the current hopes and challenges facing the Alberta Teachers’ Association’s International Assistance Program. A current overview of new and ongoing initiatives will be given and participants will discover how their personal contribution of time and expertise can impact our work with teachers and students internationally.

This session will be presented in French for the first session and in English during the second session. This session will repeat at 10:45.

Professional philosophy: The greatest good you can do for another is not to share your riches but to reveal to him his own.   Benjamin Disraeli

Françoise Ruban is an Executive Staff Officer in the Professional Development Program Area within the Alberta Teachers’ Association.  Her current dossiers include mentorship, French education and international assistance among others.

Françoise’s teaching and administrative career spans over 25 years within the  elementary, secondary and post-secondary levels, urban and rural communities in Alberta as well as overseas where she has taught in Germany, Ghana and in China.

Recipient of a national Excellence in Teaching Award from the Canadian Association of Immersion Teachers (Association Canadienne des Professeurs en Éducation), Françoise is particularly interested in issues pertaining to second language education, social justice  as well as issues in international development and teacher education, and women in leadership. 

Speaker: Françoise RubanRoom: Logan1st Chairperson: Nancy Crousset, Lakeland Catholic Local2nd Chairperson: Kimberly Pretty, Fort Vermilion Local

FIRST SMALL GROUP SESSIONS – Thursday morning Pool B - Lakeland Catholic, Northland, Northern LightsPool A – Other delegates are in one of the opening keynote sessions9:00 a.m. to 10:10 a.m.

SECOND SMALL GROUP SESSIONS – Thursday morning Pool A – Aspen View, Fort Vermilion, Greater St. PaulPool B – Other delegates are in one of the opening keynote sessions10:45 a.m. to 11:55 a.m.

Spencer Speaks – An Experience that You will Never Forget

My name is Spencer Beach and I learned that sometimes tragedy chooses you for no reason at all. On a day like any other, just doing my job, I found myself suddenly engulfed in a flash fire. It came with a whistle and a bang changing my life within the blink of an eye. Within twenty seconds, I received third and fourth degree burns to 90 percent of my body. I fought through the fire to escape, to live even though I thought I was going to die. Holding onto the fading thoughts of my wife and the developing child within her womb gave me the courage to find a way out. But I had no idea of what survival meant.

Experience my struggle through the fire and for survival, first hand. This is a journey that began on an average day and carried me to the brink of death. Relive with me the flames from an explosion, and the fourteen months in hospital as I overcame a 5 percent chance to live. Learn from my pain and hardships, from my disabilities and from my recovery; and most importantly, learn how simple mistakes can lead to tragic events changing many lives in the process... mistakes that can be easily avoided.

This is a presentation you will never forget; based on experiences I will always remember. This session repeats at 10:45.

Speaker: Spencer BeachRoom Emerald1st Chairperson: Randy Proskiw, District Representative NE2nd Chairperson: Patrick Duffy, District Representative NW

Mental Toughness: A Concept for Our Times

Tough times require tough-minded people. Schools need to focus on turning out resilient, hardy and mentally tough students who are more likely to stay in school and perform under pressure. Schools in the United Kingdom train students to use the concept of mental toughness to help improve classroom performance and lower dropout rates. This concept has also been used as a bullying intervention because people who are trained to meet challenges and stay in control tend to have increased resistance to the effects of bullying. There is a clear link between positive behavior and a student’s level of mental toughness. This session will be an introduction and exploration of this concept and its usefulness as a construct in the classroom. This session repeats at 10:45.

Speaker: Jay HetheringtonRoom: Amethyst1st Chairperson: Nav Attewel, Aspen View Local2nd Chairperson: Stephanie McKay, Fort Vermilion Local

My Heroes Have Always Been Indians:

My Heroes Have Always Been Indians is unique book because it highlights the often overlooked contribution that Aboriginal people have made to Alberta society. It has two parts: the first is an historical, cultural and demographic synopsis of Aboriginal peoples in Alberta. The second part highlights the contributions of 100 role models in short biographies and photographs. They contributed to Arts, Literature, Commerce, Community Development, Cultural Identity, Economic Development, Education, Environment, Health, Justice/Law, Leadership, Military Service, Politics, Sports, Technology, Traditional Knowledge, Tourism, Volunteerism, and Women's Issues. This session repeats at 10:45.

Dr. Cora Voyageur is an associate professor in the sociology department at the University of Calgary. She earned a Ph.D. in sociology at the University of Alberta where her dissertation explored Aboriginal people and their involvement with the Employment Equity Act. Her research focuses on the Aboriginal experience in Canada and includes women’s issues, politics, employment, media, and economic development. She has conducted extensive community-initiated research with many First Nations and Aboriginal organization. Dr. Voyageur is a member of the Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation in Fort Chipewyan, Alberta.

Speaker: Dr. Cora VoyageurRoom Maligne1st Chairperson: Karen Gamble, Fort Vermilion Local2nd Chairperson: Christine Brown, Northland Local

Assessing What’s Hard to Measure

While educators are in agreement as to the importance of helping students acquire 21st century skills, there appears to be less agreement in regard to how such skills could be assessed. Since we are already well into the 21st century, coming to such an understanding takes on an increased measure of importance! Through a case study approach, participants will examine a variety of ways to assess skills that can’t easily be measured using traditional assessment techniques. Support materials available through the AAC website will be highlighted. This session repeats at 10:45.

Speaker: Pat LoreRoom: Morraine1st Chairperson: Fred Kirby, Fort Vermilion Local2nd Chairperson: Lenore Lamouche, Aspen View Local

The Senses and the Mind

This talk is pertinent to anyone interested in psychology, philosophy, constructing a more accurate world view or just watching really cool video clips of animal (including human) behaviour. Our senses and mind construct a model of reality which we then project onto the external world - carelessly calling the model “reality”. Bias plays both an essential and a fallible role in our conception of reality. It is pervasive in sense receptors, neurons, hormones, images, emotions, thoughts, perspectives and world view.

Understanding the inherent role of bias in ourselves can help us discern a more accurate external “reality”. Concepts include: Associative Architecture of the Brain, Memory, Priming, Framing, Innate/ Experience, Attention, Colour, Various Intelligences, Hebb's Rule, Synaesthesia, Neuroplasticity Cognitive and Motivational Biases, Inattentional Blindness, Change Blindness and Accessibility Heuristic This session repeats at 10:45.

Speaker: Greg Hunter

Room Banff1st Chairperson: Shannon Simpson, Northern Lights Local2nd Chairperson: Sarah DeGiacomo, Northland Local

Teaching Students Who Live in Poverty

Educators who teach children from poverty know these students have different needs when coming to school. Understanding the culture they live in and knowing strategies that work best for these students is critical to teaching and learning. Many years of experience, reading and looking at the research have given me important knowledge to help these children be more successful at school. I would like to share this knowledge so you can empower and enable these students to be the best they can be. This session repeats at 10:45.

Speaker: Anthony KernaghanRoom Jasper1st Chairperson: Christine Yurko, Great St. Paul Local2nd Chairperson: Karie Becker, Fort Vermilion Local

Numeracy Tasks (Grades 7-9) 9:00 until 10:10

With the latest curriculum revisions numeracy has taken on a more prominent role within the grades 7 to 9 curriculum. But exactly what is this thing that we call numeracy? In this workshop we will examine this notion of numeracy and how it is different than mathematics. Participants will engage in, and leave with, a number of grades 7-9 numeracy tasks for use in meeting the curriculum's demand for attainment of this elusive, yet important, learning outcome. This session is brought to you by the Learning Network, one of the Alberta Consortia, as well as NETCA.

This session does not repeat! Any delegate may attend this session at this time! Dr. Peter Liljedahl is an Associate Professor of Mathematics Education in the Faculty of Education and an associate member in the Department of Mathematics at Simon Fraser University in Vancouver, Canada. His research interests are focused on the professional growth of mathematics teachers in general, and the role that beliefs play in this growth in particular. He is also interested in creativity, insight, and discovery in mathematics teaching and learning; mathematical problem solving; and numeracy.Speaker: Dr. Peter LiljedahlRoom: 2201/2203Chairperson: Marj Farris, Fort Vermilion Local

Numeracy Tasks (Grades 10-12) 10:45 until 11:55

With the latest curriculum revisions numeracy has taken on a more prominent role within the grades 10 to 12 curriculum. But exactly what is this thing that we call numeracy? In this workshop we will examine this notion of numeracy and how it is different than mathematics. Participants will engage in, and leave with, a number of grades 10-12 numeracy tasks for use in meeting the curriculum's demand for attainment of this elusive, yet important, learning outcome. This session is brought to you by the Learning Network, one of the Alberta Consortia, as well as NETCA.

This session does not repeat! Any delegate may attend this session at this time! Dr. Peter Liljedahl is an Associate Professor of Mathematics Education in the Faculty of Education and an associate member in the Department of Mathematics at Simon Fraser University in Vancouver, Canada. His research interests are focused on the professional growth of mathematics teachers in general, and the role that beliefs play in this growth in particular. He is also interested in creativity, insight, and discovery in mathematics teaching and learning; mathematical problem solving; and numeracy.Speaker: Dr. Peter LiljedahlRoom: 2201/2203Chairperson: Terry Lyn McLeod, Northland Local

Domino Math Games - Connecting the Dots (K- Gr. 3)

Come prepared to play domino games that help teach patterning, counting, place value, the operations and more. Reproducible game boards provided. These activities are great for regular and Special Education centers. ALL NEW games and strategies will be introduced in this session. This session repeats at 10:45.

Speaker: Joanne CurrahRoom: 2204/22061st Chairperson: Rachel Allen, Lakeland Catholic Local2nd Chairperson: Adam Cook, Greater St. Paul Local

Cross Curricular Literacy - Secondary

Secondary teachers of Math, Science, and Social Studies face the same literacy challenges as their colleagues in the English department. Using the current research on literacy development J.A. Williams School is implementing a school wide `Word-Learning Initiative'. This session provides an overview of the literacy challenges secondary teachers face; some research based practices and instructional strategies, as well as our school-wide implementation plan. This initiative embraces literacy as a responsibility for all subject area teachers.

Speaker: Conal DonovanRoom: 22051st Chairperson: Julie Chorney, Lakeland Catholic Local2nd Chairperson: Tanya Barron, Northern Lights Local

Providing Early Academic Success- A Look at Oral Language and Early Literacy  Participants will examine the stages of Oral Language Development and look at ways to assess and structure successful play- based oral language activities within the classroom. Participants will also examine Concepts of Print, Phonological Awareness and Letter Name/Sound Knowledge and understand how they are critical building blocks for reading success. Resource suggestions, ideas and websites to support the teaching of Oral Language and Early Literacy will be provided. This session is for K-2. This session repeats at 10:45.

Speaker: Petronella BouvierRoom 2207

1st Chairperson: Lorna Kravontka, Aspen View Local2nd Chairperson: Leanne Johnson, Lakeland Catholic Local

Linking Art With Literature (This is a half-day session)

Probably the most practical session you will ever attend! Come and make several art projects based on Andrea’s “Linking Art with Literature (The Third)” book of art lessons. All projects are based on quality children’s literature. The $20 fee (collected at the door) includes a copy of the 30+ lesson plans and resource lists. Come dressed for a mess, ready to paint, draw and have fun! Please register at april.koziol@nlsd.ab.ca This is a half-day session that is open to all delegates at this time. There is a registration limit of 30 participants.

THIS SESSION IS COMPLETELY FULL. SORRY!

Speaker: Andrea DalyRoom 2208/22101st Chairperson: Janet Bailey, Northland Local

Explore FMS through Lead-Up Games

Lead-Up Games are low organized activities that focus or mimic various sport skills without actually playing the sport in its entirety. Lead-Up actives give students the opportunity to utilize these various sports skills in small settings; therefore, allowing for a better learning experience without the stress of actually playing the “real” game. Come and learn activities involving modified rules and skills where the focus is on improving fundamental movement skills, confidence and having fun. This workshop also incorporates two new Physical Literacy initiatives created by the Be Fit for Life network (Move & Play through Physical Literacy) and Special Olympics Canada. (Active Start and FUNdamentals Program Guides) This session repeats at 10:45.

Speaker: Ever Active SchoolRoom: Mezzanine Room, Trade Centre1st Chairperson: Robert MacKay, Aspen View Local2nd Chairperson: Justin Barlow, Lakeland Catholic Local

Personal Pension Interviews – 15 Minute Interviews – Thursday and Friday

Personal interviews with a representative of the ATRF will be available. Pension matters of a personal nature may be discussed. Please bring any recent ATRF communications with you, such as a Contributor Record and/or a Pension Estimate. If you are planning to retire in the near future, please bring both the originals and copies of your birth certificate, your marriage certificate, and your spouse's birth certificate where applicable. Prior to Convention 2011 delegates may register for a pension interview at the ATRF website. www.atrf.com

Speaker: Dana Adams, ATRFRoom: Please ask at the registration desk.

SMALL GROUP SESSIONS (Thursday afternoon)Thursday, February 16th, 20121:30 p.m. to 2:40 p.m.

If Lady Gaga Can be Useful: The Education We Need

Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta, better known as Lady Gaga, is no doubt one of the most successful global super stars. She has over 13 million twitter followers and 40 million Facebook fans. Her YouTube video “Bad Romance” has accrued over 411 million views and www.celebritynetworth.com estimates her net worth to be about 110 million dollars. Apparently she has something valuable to offer. But her talents would be of little value in the Chinese village where Yong Zhao grew up. She would not make a great worker on Henry Ford’s assembly line either. What can we learn from Lady Gaga’s story?

At a time when the world needs more creative and innovative talents to meet the unprecedented challenges and take advantage of the vast opportunities presented by technological changes and globalization, school systems around the globe continue to focus on producing good tests takers. At a time when old industries are rapidly replaced by new ones, schools continue to force students to prepare for jobs that may not even exist when they graduate. At a time when students need to learn to collaborate globally in this interconnected and interdependent village, schools continue to push a nationalistic Cold War style curriculum to make them “globally competitive.” At a time when children have become increasingly disengaged and disinterested with the outdated Industrial Age curriculum and pedagogy, schools are asked to cram more of the same. At a time when human diversity should be celebrated and taped into as assets, schools are asked to homogenize the curriculum and narrow children’s educational experiences.

In this presentation, Dr. Yong Zhao provides a summary of his forthcoming book Students as Global Entrepreneurs. Reflecting on the reasons behind Lady Gaga’s success, Dr. Zhao suggests a radical new approach to preparing our children for the globalized world. Instead of imposing on children a prescribed common curriculum derived from past experiences or research about what today’s employers need, Dr. Zhao proposes that we should prepare children as global entrepreneurs who are willing and able to create jobs in the global economy, to contribute positively to the globalized society, and to enjoy the vast cultural diversity of humanity.

Speaker: Dr. Yong Zhao

Room: Robson/Rundle Chairperson: Terry Gibson. Fort Vermilion Local

Father Tony RicardI Still Believe!

On August 29, 2005, life as I knew it was changed forever. It was on this date that Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast. Never could I have imagined the pain and heartache that we, the Katrina Survivors, would have to endure. Yet, somehow, we are surviving. Somehow, we are making it. And, somehow, We Still Believe!

We know that it is through God’s Grace that we have been able to make it. Our faith is what has strengthened us for the Battle of Recovery. As I look back on my post-Katrina journey, I realize now, more than ever, how much God loves us. This is my testimony to that faith.

This heartfelt and interactive workshop will focus on keeping the faith in tough times. As the old folks would say, “As long as there is a God in Heaven, I know that I am going to be all right!” This is my testimony of faith after the storm because I Still Believe!We need people who will pull together to get the job done." -Brenda RobinsonSpeaker: Father Tony RicardRoom: PalisadesChairperson: Julie Reed, Fort Vermilion Local

Numeracy Tasks (Grades 1-3)

With the latest curriculum revisions numeracy has taken on a more prominent role within the grades 1 to 3 curriculum. But exactly what is this thing that we call numeracy? In this workshop we will examine this notion of numeracy and how it is different than mathematics. Participants will engage in, and leave with, a number of grades 1-3 numeracy tasks for use in meeting the curriculum's demand for attainment of this elusive, yet important, learning outcome. This session is brought to you by the Learning Network, one of the Alberta Consortia, as well as NETCA. Dr. Peter Liljedahl is an Associate Professor of Mathematics Education in the Faculty of Education and an associate member in the Department of Mathematics at Simon Fraser University in Vancouver,

Canada. His research interests are focused on the professional growth of mathematics teachers in general, and the role that beliefs play in this growth in particular. He is also interested in creativity, insight, and discovery in mathematics teaching and learning; mathematical problem solving; and numeracy.

Speaker: Dr. Peter LiljedahlRoom: LoganChairperson: Lance Gyte, Aspen View Local

“To Investigate or Not to Investigate”

This session looks at how school administrators should address complaints received about student(s) and teachers (s). Differentiation as to circumstances that need to be investigated by school administrators as well as those where the investigation should be left with the school district and/or police will be elaborated. The session discusses appropriate protocol s and elements that must be considered in order to conduct an appropriate investigation. One’s obligation under the “rules of natural justice” and the Code of Professional Conduct will be discussed. The session will also discuss the school administrator’s role when police seek the opportunity to interview students at the school.

Speaker: Marvin HackmanRoom: Emerald Chairperson: Dale Hymanyk, Northern Lights Local

Quick Thinking

Thinking matters, especially in the classroom. Knowing a student’s style of thinking is as important as knowing, that student’s learning style. Come and learn about a simple program of teaching students about thinking that is crafted in such a manner as to provide students and teachers with a simple lexicon about thinking that allows the users to converse easily with others in the classroom about the thinking process. There has been a demonstrated use in the classroom for this procedure as a way of getting students to apply an organized cognitive approach to essay test questions. Students who are given an awareness of their possible styles of thinking and how to apply particular styles of thinking to the specific requirements of particular test questions can open up an entirely different approach to teaching students.

Speaker: Jay HetheringtonRoom: AmethystChairperson: Dawn Cosman, Aspen View Local

Mental Wellness: Part of Your Healthy School Community

There is no health without mental health! Positive interactions, adapting to change, coping with adversity and finding balance in all aspects of life are critical elements of maintaining mental health. Participants will leave this workshop with an understanding of what mental health looks like as well as strategies to improve the mental health of the school community.

Speaker: Ever Active SchoolsRoom: MaligneChairperson: Tina Skakun, Northern Lights Local

The Psychology of Knowledge…..Idols of the Cave and the Tribe

This session is pertinent for anyone interested in constructing a more accurate world view, creating a better world. In the 17th Century, Sir Francis Bacon recognized biases inherent in human nature which he called “Idols of the Minds”, today’s “cognitive biases” - adaptive psychological processes “gone wrong”. Generalizations can be hasty or accurate. Cognitive dissonance can lead to confirmation bias or honest investigation. Understand the biases we use to construct our conceptions of reality is vital to understanding reality . The talk is richly illustrated with issues in history and current events.

Speaker: Greg HunterRoom: BanffChairperson: Timothy Crabbe, Northern Lights Local

Co-operative Games to Develop Story Development

In this session Bruce will run you through various games which aide in developing ideas for storytelling and story development. The activities may be used in language class or drama class. Bruce MacDonald is the winner of the “Prime ministers award for Excellence in Teaching” and is also the Alberta High School Drama Festival.

Speaker: Bruce MacDonaldRoom: JasperChairperson: Heather Ebbers, Greater St. Paul Local

Connecting Curriculum and the Metis Settlements of Alberta

Established in 1989 by the Don Getty gov’t the Metis Settlements of Alberta have played a role in the history of Alberta. This distinct and unique form of government has its jurisdiction under the Metis Settlements Act. Connecting community and curriculum is one way of providing a foundational relationship with this vibrant and growing community. Strategies for staff orientation and curriculum connections will be shared.

Speaker: Laurie ThompsonRoom: 2201/2203Chairperson: April Koziol, Northern Lights Local

Domino Math Games – Linking the Learning (Gr. 4-6)

Come prepared to play domino games that teacher the operations, fractions, place value, problem solving and more. Come discover the wide range of uses for the motivating and easy to use manipulative. Reproducible game boards provided. This session repeats at 2:55.

Speaker: Joanne CurrahRoom 2204/2206Chairperson: Kelsey Hill, Northern Lights Local

WRaP Project – Supporting Success for Students with FASD (Gr. 7-12)

The WRaP Project supports student engagement, academic achievement and the social, physical and emotional well-being of students. Following completion of the second year, this innovative approach to supports students with FASD, families and school staff will be shared as well as findings. Opportunities to discuss strategies to support students with FASD, families and school staff will be provided during this presentation.

Speaker: Tracy MastrangeloRoom: 2205Chairperson: Adrienne Sprecker, Northern Lights Local

Diggin’ in the Coal: Creating Art with Charcoal – Gr. 4-12 Come and get your hands dirty while experiencing the ancient art form of Chiaroscuro. You will have the opportunity to experiment with charcoal and leave with ideas to use immediately with your students or at home relaxing by yourself. This is a hands-on workshop.

Speaker: Karen Draycott/ Lisa GingrasRoom: Mezzanine, Trade Centre UpstairsChairperson: Shirley Fayant, Northland Local

SMALL GROUP SESSIONS – HALF Day WorkshopsThursday, February 16th, 20121:30 p.m. to 4:05 p.m.

Tour the Legislative Building and Witness the Legislative Assembly in Action!

Make democracy come alive! Take a step inside the Alberta Legislature and broaden your personal knowledge and understanding of Alberta history, parliamentary traditions and symbols along with the legislative process. Then discover a wealth of program opportunities and resources to support your classroom teaching. This session includes a comprehensive guided build tour, observation of the Assembly (25 seats have been reserved in the Legislative Gallery if government is in session). There will be a presentation as well as a question-and-answer period geared to teachers’ professional opportunity to view the student program venues. Transportation from the Mayfield Inn to the Legislative Assembly will be available.

Please contact april.koziol@nlsd.ab.ca to register for this session. This session is open to the first 25 delegates to sign up. Participants need to pay $10.00 to the chairperson to cover the cost of the bus. NETCA will pay the admission costs. Meet the bus outside the front doors of the Mayfield Inn at 1:30 p.m. This session is a half day workshop!

Speaker: Diane Brayman/Diana PanizzonRoom: Legislature Building Chairperson: Murray Lalonde, Aspen View Local

Tour the Art Gallery of AlbertaA PASSION FOR NATURE: Landscape Paintings from 19th Century France

This exhibition of masterworks from the collection of the Corcoran Gallery of Art in Washington DC, will trace the development of the landscape in French painting, from the mid-nineteenth to the early twentieth century. Artists such as Eugène Boudin, Gustave Courbet, Jean Baptiste Camille Corot, Johan Jongkind, Claude Monet and Théodore Rousseau pioneered this direct approach to their subject matter. All are represented in this exhibition, and are among the most important in the history of landscape art. Alongside these are artists who sought to develop the symbolic, emotional, subjective and even expressionistic aspects of landscape depiction. The exhibition will include examples from key movements, including Realism, Naturalism, the Barbizon School, Impressionism, Symbolism and Fauvism.

THIS SESSION IS COMPLETELY FULL. SORRY!Please contact april.koziol@nlsd.ab.ca to register for this session. This session is open to the first 30 delegates who register. Participants need to pay $10.00 to the chairperson to cover the cost of the bus. NETCA will pay the admission costs. Meet the bus outside the front doors of the Mayfield Inn at 1:30 p.m. This session is a half day workshop!

Speaker: Art Gallery of AlbertaRoom: Art Gallery of AlbertaChairperson: Jeanne Smith, Northern Lights Local

Study of Words: A Look at English Orthography

Teaching students to read words and spell can be a difficult task- it is said English doesn’t make sense. However, research suggests that less than 20% of English words are irregular in how they are spelled and the difficulty in teaching spelling lies in the lack of knowledge of English Orthography. This session will explore the layers of English Orthography, the Language Arts Curriculum and give suggestions on how to teach spelling according to individual student’s developmental stages. Session participants will engage in word sorting and classifying activities that can be used in the classroom with students.

Speaker: Petronella BouvierRoom: 2207Chairperson: Arin Jasmine, Northern Lights Local

Building a Better RubricWell-designed rubrics have the potential to not only document the results of student performance, but to actually facilitate improved student learning. Using excerpts from the AAC publication Building Better Rubrics, this session will provide a framework for recognizing quality rubrics and provide practical tools to support new and experienced developers.

Speaker: Pat LoreRoom: MorraineChairperson: Allan Spelrem, Fort Vermilion Local

Linking Art With Literature (This is a half-day session)

Probably the most practical session you will ever attend! Come and make several art projects based on Andrea’s “Linking Art with Literature (The Third)” book of art lessons. All projects are based on quality children’s literature. The $20 fee (collected at the door) includes a copy of the 30+ lesson plans and resource lists. Come dressed for a mess, ready to paint, draw and have fun! Please register at april.koziol@nlsd.ab.ca This is a half-day session!

THIS SESSION IS COMPLETELY FULL. SORRY!

Speaker: Andrea DalyRoom 2208/22101st Chairperson: Lori Cox, Fort Vermilion Local

SMALL GROUP SESSIONS (Thursday afternoon)Thursday, February 16th, 20122:55 p.m. to 4:05 p.m.

“Never Send a Man to Do a Machines Job”Sir Winston Churchill once said “We shape our buildings; thereafter they shape us.” Technologies we have created have also dramatically shaped our world. By reducing distance, enabling mass participation, and expanding human needs and capacities, technology has a created a new world that presents both new challenges and opportunities for our students—future residents of this new world. And education must act to prepare our children to competently meet these challenges and take advantage of the opportunities.

In this presentation, Yong Zhao discusses how we need to reconsider the relationship between technology and human teachers in schools. In order to harness the power of technology, we need to realign the capacity of technology and human beings to provide a more healthy education ecosystem in which children are supported to realize their individual potential and develop their strengths. Dr. Zhao will provide examples of how technology can be used to transform education to move from a mass production culture that emphasizes on standardization and narrow nationalism to one that values the individual and cultivates global competence.

Speaker: Dr. Yong ZhaoRoom: Robson/Rundle Chairperson: Glen Finney, Aspen View Local

Father Tony RicardDon’t Be Stupid

At an early age, Fr. Tony’s Momma taught him that ignorance is when you don’t know something and stupidity is when you know something is wrong but you still do it! How much better our lives would be if the official Church Theologians would just sum up all that God has been trying to teach us by simply saying, “Remember who you belong to and Don’t Be Stupid.”

This fun-filled and interactive session will focus on how we can all live

exciting lives while avoiding the Stupid Traps of this world. Join us as we vow to “not be stupid anymore!”." We need people who will pull together to get the job done." -Brenda RobinsonSpeaker: Father Tony RicardRoom: Palisades 1st Chairperson: Rhonda Games, Lakeland Catholic Local

Numeracy Tasks (Grades 4-6)

With the latest curriculum revisions numeracy has taken on a more prominent role within the grades 4 to 6 curriculum. But exactly what is this thing that we call numeracy? In this workshop we will examine this notion of numeracy and how it is different than mathematics. Participants will engage in, and leave with, a number of grades 4-6 numeracy tasks for use in meeting the curriculum's demand for attainment of this elusive, yet important, learning outcome. This session is brought to you by the Learning Network, one of the Alberta Consortia, as well as NETCA.

Dr. Peter Liljedahl is an Associate Professor of Mathematics Education in the Faculty of Education and an associate member in the Department of Mathematics at Simon Fraser University in Vancouver, Canada. His research interests are focused on the professional growth of mathematics teachers in general, and the role that beliefs play in this growth in particular. He is also interested in creativity, insight, and discovery in mathematics teaching and learning; mathematical problem solving; and numeracy.Speaker: Peter LiljedahlRoom: Logan Chairperson: Heather Dempsey, Northern Lights Local

Hot Point Issues for Teachers

This presentation addresses emerging or current issues being faced by classroom teachers. While the presentation addresses hot point issues raised by the audience, common issues discussed include the following: the impact of existing and emerging technologies on teachers, current case-laws related to interventionist programs in an inclusive environments the on-going evolution of the teachers’ right to use force, student search and confinement issues, teachers as bus drivers and field trip liability, participation in “safe-grads” and how to prevent the recent rise in wrongful allegations of sexual impropriety.

Speaker: Marvin HackmanRoom: Emerald Chairperson: Shirley Eggenschwiler, Fort Vermilion Local

Emotion In Education

The high road to learning is through the heart. Paying attention to Emotional IQ in the classroom helps translate classroom facts into real world application. A solid grounding in emotional education is an important part of the educational experience. Today, students need to harness and maximize their emotional energy to better cope with continuous change and increasing levels of complexity in their world. The practical goal of what has been popularized, as “emotional intelligence” is to become more aware and skillful at utilizing our emotional abilities. Attend this session to learn how to include the emotional needs of your student into the classroom experience.

Speaker: Jay HetheringtonRoom: AmethystChairperson: Helen Hong, Fort Vermilion Local

Health Promoting Schools

Research shows that healthier students are better prepared to learn and are more successful in school. Health Promoting Schools (HPS), also known as Comprehensive School Health, is a school-wide approach that links health and education and connects the home, school and community. Come learn about eh EAS Program and the steps to success in creating a healthy learning environment. This workshop will include essential elements learned from the Alberta Healthy School Community Wellness Fund and Physical and Health Education Canada.

Speaker: Ever Active SchoolsRoom: MaligneChairperson: Jodine Benning, Greater St. Paul Local

The Sociology of Knowledge…..Idols of the Marketplace and the Theatre

In the 17th Century Sir Francis Bacon recognized sociological influences on knowledge that he categorized as: “Idols of the Marketplace ... ill and unfit choice of words wonderfully obstructs the understanding” and “Idols of the Theatre: ... received systems are but stage plays.” We will take a sometimes sober and sometimes humorous look at our own received systems.

Speaker: Greg HunterRoom: BanffChairperson: Mike Straile, Northern Lights Local

Participating in the Provincial Drama FestivalBruce MacDonald is the winner of the “Prime ministers award for Excellence in Teaching” and is also the Alberta High School Drama Festival. In this session Bruce will outline the procedures involved in becoming involved with a zone festival from choosing scripts to producing your show.

Speaker: Bruce MacDonaldRoom: Jasper Chairperson: Dick Richards, Aspen View Local International Field Experience in Kenya

This presentation will show the highlights of a faculty initiated and university supported International Field Experience project in Kenya. This initiative attempted to create an exceptional and life-changing university experience for education students through curricular and extra –curricular offerings that integrated learning, discovery learning and citizenship to develop intellect and the imagination, educate leaders and enhance global perspective. Notions of leadership capacities and development of culturally responsive curriculum led the participants to educational conversations and pushed us to move beyond educational tourism.

Adventure Learning Experiences was founded in 1996 by Greg Rogers and Robert Lato. Since then, 45 study and service programs have been undertaken and have involved over

300 young people and over 200 adults to such diverse parts of the world as Central and East Asia, Central and South Africa, Western and Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Central America. These programs are set up for students as well as teachers.

Speaker: Alyre MorinRoom: 2201/2203Chairperson: Lorne Hughes, Fort Vermilion Local Domino Math Games – Linking the Learning (Gr. 4-6)

Come prepared to play domino games that teacher the operations, fractions, place value, problem solving and more. Come discover the wide range of uses for the motivating and easy to use manipulative. Reproducible game boards provided.

Speaker: Joanne CurrahRoom 2204/2206Chairperson: Julie Norrie, Lakeland Catholic Local

Let the Music Move You

Take the materials from this session and use it to good effect in your elementary classroom/music class. Come and play with words, experience rhythm with in lyric poetry and let the music move you.

Speaker: Udo MuellerRoom: 2205 Chairperson: Apryl Hewlett, Lakeland Catholic Local

“Not Just a Carbon Copy…….Celebrity Me” (Gr. K-12)

Come and explore the various sides of your character. Explore your many talents through a Picasso inspired portrait creation. You are definitely NOT a boring carbon copy. Come let yourself go wild with pastels and take some time for you. This is a hands-on workshop. There is a $10.00 workshop fee to cover the costs of the supplies. This is collected at the workshop!

Speaker: Karen Draycott/Lisa GingrasRoom: Mezzanine, Trade Centre UpstairsChairperson: Christie Roche, Greater St. Paul