Workshop Descriptions & Presenter Biographies
Scroll down and check out the categories for descriptions of each workshop we will be hosting, as well as biographies for each presenter. To find out when each presenter will be leading their workshop please check out our conference schedule.
There will be a limited number of seats in each workshop, and participation will be on a first-come-first-serve basis. When you arrive to the conference for sign-in each day, you will be able to pick which workshops you attend.
Please Note: This list is currently under development so check back often for updates!
There will be a limited number of seats in each workshop, and participation will be on a first-come-first-serve basis. When you arrive to the conference for sign-in each day, you will be able to pick which workshops you attend.
Please Note: This list is currently under development so check back often for updates!
Sustainability
Sustainable Education (Sherri Norbury and Nikki Wright)
Day: Saturday 1:30-3:30pm
Target Audience: Especially Appropriate for Middle and Elementary Teachers.
In this workshop you will:
Sherri Norbury , Sherri received her Bachelor of Education at the University of Victoria and completed her Master’s Degree in Leadership and Training at Royal Roads University. She began her teaching career on the Nass River and has taught for many years, in Victoria. In addition to full time teaching, Sherri consults for Learning for Sustainable a Future, and ERAC.
Nikki Wright, is a Marine Biologist, passionate about effecting change. Her organization, SeaChange Marine Conservation Society, was established as a charitable non-profit in 1998, and educates children and the public about marine and watershed ecology through hands-on interactive outdoor programs.
Day: Saturday 1:30-3:30pm
Target Audience: Especially Appropriate for Middle and Elementary Teachers.
In this workshop you will:
- Be introduced to the components of Education for Sustainability.
- Focus in on Place Based Learning and welcome it as a curricular foundation.
- Learn what you can do and what/who you can access to build your knowledge and expertise in Outdoor Education.
- Receive tips and teaching aids for outdoor learning with students.
- Connect with a local Marine Biologist to find out how she helps you to “Be the change you want to see in the world.”
Sherri Norbury , Sherri received her Bachelor of Education at the University of Victoria and completed her Master’s Degree in Leadership and Training at Royal Roads University. She began her teaching career on the Nass River and has taught for many years, in Victoria. In addition to full time teaching, Sherri consults for Learning for Sustainable a Future, and ERAC.
Nikki Wright, is a Marine Biologist, passionate about effecting change. Her organization, SeaChange Marine Conservation Society, was established as a charitable non-profit in 1998, and educates children and the public about marine and watershed ecology through hands-on interactive outdoor programs.
Exceptional Learners
Different Speeds and Different Needs: Adapting Physical Education (Gary Barber)
Day: Saturday 10:30am - 12:30pm
Target Audience:
This material looks at the teaching strategies that can help children with special needs benefit from their classes. This would help not just those teachers with an interest in PE but also classroom teachers wishing to design an inclusive and enriching environment for all learners.
Gary Barber is a physical education teacher and school administrator with over 30 years experience teaching students of all ages, abilities and varying needs. He lives in Victoria, British Columbia and is the father of two sons who have autism. He was international level middle distance runner and uses his knowledge of this sport as the Head Coach of Islanders Running Club: a running programme especially designed for students that have experienced difficulties in other sports. Gary is also the head of SportWrite Education - www.sportwrite.ca. This is a company that provides parents, teachers, and educators with resources to support all students in finding success and acceptance in sport and physical education. Gary has written three books: “Getting Started in Track and Field Athletics”, “Sports Psychology for Runners”, and “Different Speeds and Different Needs: How to teach sports to every kid” (Paul Brookes Publishing).
Practical Strategies and Information about Students with Special Needs for a TOC (Kristin Wiens)
Day: Saturday 1:30-2:25pm
Target Audience: Student Teachers and Teachers
We will cover a variety of possibilities that a TOC may encounter in the classroom. We will suggest practical strategies that will benefit all students, including students with special needs. We will review the basics of IEP's important points to look for, what they mean and how it effects you as the TOC.
We will explore simple techniques that can make your TOC day go more smoothly. We will introduce resources within a school district and on the Internet.
Kristin Wiens - Bio to come
Day: Saturday 10:30am - 12:30pm
Target Audience:
This material looks at the teaching strategies that can help children with special needs benefit from their classes. This would help not just those teachers with an interest in PE but also classroom teachers wishing to design an inclusive and enriching environment for all learners.
Gary Barber is a physical education teacher and school administrator with over 30 years experience teaching students of all ages, abilities and varying needs. He lives in Victoria, British Columbia and is the father of two sons who have autism. He was international level middle distance runner and uses his knowledge of this sport as the Head Coach of Islanders Running Club: a running programme especially designed for students that have experienced difficulties in other sports. Gary is also the head of SportWrite Education - www.sportwrite.ca. This is a company that provides parents, teachers, and educators with resources to support all students in finding success and acceptance in sport and physical education. Gary has written three books: “Getting Started in Track and Field Athletics”, “Sports Psychology for Runners”, and “Different Speeds and Different Needs: How to teach sports to every kid” (Paul Brookes Publishing).
Practical Strategies and Information about Students with Special Needs for a TOC (Kristin Wiens)
Day: Saturday 1:30-2:25pm
Target Audience: Student Teachers and Teachers
We will cover a variety of possibilities that a TOC may encounter in the classroom. We will suggest practical strategies that will benefit all students, including students with special needs. We will review the basics of IEP's important points to look for, what they mean and how it effects you as the TOC.
We will explore simple techniques that can make your TOC day go more smoothly. We will introduce resources within a school district and on the Internet.
Kristin Wiens - Bio to come
Educational Technologies
Technology in Education (Dr. Valerie Irvine)
Day: Sunday 1:30-3:30pm
Target Audience:
This workshop will teach you different ways to incorporate technology into your classrooms in effective ways.
Dr. Valerie Irvine is an Assistant Professor of Educational Technology in the Department of Curriculum of Instruction at the University of Victoria. She is also co-director of the Technology Integration and Evaluation (TIE) Research Lab, which was in part funded by the Canada Foundation for Innovation. You can learn more about Valerie and the TIE Lab at http://tie.uvic.ca. Follow Valerie on Twitter: @_valeriei
Day: Sunday 1:30-3:30pm
Target Audience:
This workshop will teach you different ways to incorporate technology into your classrooms in effective ways.
Dr. Valerie Irvine is an Assistant Professor of Educational Technology in the Department of Curriculum of Instruction at the University of Victoria. She is also co-director of the Technology Integration and Evaluation (TIE) Research Lab, which was in part funded by the Canada Foundation for Innovation. You can learn more about Valerie and the TIE Lab at http://tie.uvic.ca. Follow Valerie on Twitter: @_valeriei
Sexual Health
Body Smart: Right From the Start (Kerri Isham)
Day: Saturday 10:30-11:25am
Target Audience: Primary (K-3)
In this workshop we will discuss the reasons why we teach sexual health from a verIy young age.
1. To increase abuse resistance in children.
2. To build a foundation for the development of positive attitudes about sexuality and themselves as sexual beings.
3. To feel good about themselves as males and females and be aware of opportunities available regardless of their gender.
4. To receive accurate, age-appropriate information about the questions they are likely to ask.
5. To gain control of their small world by naming it. With each new word, the child grows in understanding and power. Once a sexual part is named, the child can talk about it, ask questions about it, understand its specialness.
Age appropriate resources and activities will be shared.
Kerri Isham - Certified Sexual Health Educator is a knowledgeable, experienced and passionate educator dedicated to excellence and committed to the empowerment of young people. Her primary goal is to make exploring sexual health fun and meaningful, and to alleviate the shame and embarrassment sometimes associated with this topic. Kerri completed the Sexual Health Educator Certification program through Options for Sexual Health in Vancouver and has been teaching sexual health education for 13 years.
Body Smart: From Child to Teen (Kerri Isham)
Day: Saturday 11:35am-12:30pm
Target Audience: Intermediate (Gr. 4-7)
When teachers talk openly and honestly about sexuality, students will have the comfort, knowledge and support they need to achieve healthy sexual lives.
Puberty can be a scary and challenging time. As a teacher, you have the unique opportunity to make puberty an exciting right of passage for your students.
With fun, meaningful and hands-on activities, our students can learn to be open and confident with these sensitive topics.
This workshop will be entertaining, engaging and informative.
Kerri Isham - Certified Sexual Health Educator is a knowledgeable, experienced and passionate educator dedicated to excellence and committed to the empowerment of young people. Her primary goal is to make exploring sexual health fun and meaningful, and to alleviate the shame and embarrassment sometimes associated with this topic. Kerri completed the Sexual Health Educator Certification program through Options for Sexual Health in Vancouver and has been teaching sexual health education for 13 years.
Body Smart: Decision-Making for Teens (Kerri Isham)
Day: Saturday 1:30-3:30pm
Target Audience: Highschool (Gr. 8-12)
When teachers talk openly and honestly about sexuality, students will have the comfort, knowledge and support they need to achieve healthy sexual lives.
As a teacher, you have the unique opportunity to help guide decision-making in the teen years. Once we have built relationships with our students, we are able to discuss topics such as gender, sexual orientation, sexting, pornography, condom negotiation, the effects of alcohol on decision-making, etc.
With fun, meaningful and hands-on activities, our students can learn to be open and confident with these sensitive topics.
This workshop will be entertaining, engaging and informative.
Kerri Isham - Certified Sexual Health Educator is a knowledgeable, experienced and passionate educator dedicated to excellence and committed to the empowerment of young people. Her primary goal is to make exploring sexual health fun and meaningful, and to alleviate the shame and embarrassment sometimes associated with this topic. Kerri completed the Sexual Health Educator Certification program through Options for Sexual Health in Vancouver and has been teaching sexual health education for 13 years.
Day: Saturday 10:30-11:25am
Target Audience: Primary (K-3)
In this workshop we will discuss the reasons why we teach sexual health from a verIy young age.
1. To increase abuse resistance in children.
2. To build a foundation for the development of positive attitudes about sexuality and themselves as sexual beings.
3. To feel good about themselves as males and females and be aware of opportunities available regardless of their gender.
4. To receive accurate, age-appropriate information about the questions they are likely to ask.
5. To gain control of their small world by naming it. With each new word, the child grows in understanding and power. Once a sexual part is named, the child can talk about it, ask questions about it, understand its specialness.
Age appropriate resources and activities will be shared.
Kerri Isham - Certified Sexual Health Educator is a knowledgeable, experienced and passionate educator dedicated to excellence and committed to the empowerment of young people. Her primary goal is to make exploring sexual health fun and meaningful, and to alleviate the shame and embarrassment sometimes associated with this topic. Kerri completed the Sexual Health Educator Certification program through Options for Sexual Health in Vancouver and has been teaching sexual health education for 13 years.
Body Smart: From Child to Teen (Kerri Isham)
Day: Saturday 11:35am-12:30pm
Target Audience: Intermediate (Gr. 4-7)
When teachers talk openly and honestly about sexuality, students will have the comfort, knowledge and support they need to achieve healthy sexual lives.
Puberty can be a scary and challenging time. As a teacher, you have the unique opportunity to make puberty an exciting right of passage for your students.
With fun, meaningful and hands-on activities, our students can learn to be open and confident with these sensitive topics.
This workshop will be entertaining, engaging and informative.
Kerri Isham - Certified Sexual Health Educator is a knowledgeable, experienced and passionate educator dedicated to excellence and committed to the empowerment of young people. Her primary goal is to make exploring sexual health fun and meaningful, and to alleviate the shame and embarrassment sometimes associated with this topic. Kerri completed the Sexual Health Educator Certification program through Options for Sexual Health in Vancouver and has been teaching sexual health education for 13 years.
Body Smart: Decision-Making for Teens (Kerri Isham)
Day: Saturday 1:30-3:30pm
Target Audience: Highschool (Gr. 8-12)
When teachers talk openly and honestly about sexuality, students will have the comfort, knowledge and support they need to achieve healthy sexual lives.
As a teacher, you have the unique opportunity to help guide decision-making in the teen years. Once we have built relationships with our students, we are able to discuss topics such as gender, sexual orientation, sexting, pornography, condom negotiation, the effects of alcohol on decision-making, etc.
With fun, meaningful and hands-on activities, our students can learn to be open and confident with these sensitive topics.
This workshop will be entertaining, engaging and informative.
Kerri Isham - Certified Sexual Health Educator is a knowledgeable, experienced and passionate educator dedicated to excellence and committed to the empowerment of young people. Her primary goal is to make exploring sexual health fun and meaningful, and to alleviate the shame and embarrassment sometimes associated with this topic. Kerri completed the Sexual Health Educator Certification program through Options for Sexual Health in Vancouver and has been teaching sexual health education for 13 years.
Science
Primarily Science: Eureka! Come Into the Lab Junior Scientists! (Pamela Quigg)
Day: Saturday 10:30am - 12:30pm
Target Audience: Primary (but Intermediate grades can adapt any of ideas shared)
This session offers some “explosive” , exciting ideas about how to teach science using Big Ideas and Big Questions. Pam will share some of her “all time” favourite science ideas, used across the grades, to maximize student engagement in inquiry-based learning. A handout will be shared.
Pamela Quigg taught for 37 years in Saanich School District. During her career she also taught overseas in Germany for two years and worked as an Elementary Curriculum Consultant, in SD #63, for a period of five years. She has authored numerous articles and books. She was a member of several author teams writing Science, Math and Social Studies materials for various publishers, namely , Harcourt, Fitzhenry and Whiteside, Oxford University Press, and Thomson-Nelson throughout the years. She was a member of the writing team for Rick Hansen's BC Life Skills program. Pamela has a particular interest in Kindergarten /Early Learning and Science education. She has presented workshops across Canada and in the Yukon. She is currently a sessional instructor at UVic.
Day: Saturday 10:30am - 12:30pm
Target Audience: Primary (but Intermediate grades can adapt any of ideas shared)
This session offers some “explosive” , exciting ideas about how to teach science using Big Ideas and Big Questions. Pam will share some of her “all time” favourite science ideas, used across the grades, to maximize student engagement in inquiry-based learning. A handout will be shared.
Pamela Quigg taught for 37 years in Saanich School District. During her career she also taught overseas in Germany for two years and worked as an Elementary Curriculum Consultant, in SD #63, for a period of five years. She has authored numerous articles and books. She was a member of several author teams writing Science, Math and Social Studies materials for various publishers, namely , Harcourt, Fitzhenry and Whiteside, Oxford University Press, and Thomson-Nelson throughout the years. She was a member of the writing team for Rick Hansen's BC Life Skills program. Pamela has a particular interest in Kindergarten /Early Learning and Science education. She has presented workshops across Canada and in the Yukon. She is currently a sessional instructor at UVic.
Math
Escher/Tesselations Sponge Printing (Jill Britton)
Day: Sunday 10:40am - 12:40pm
Target Audience: Primary to Intermediate/Middle
Learn about the mathematical basis of Escher’s artwork. Contribute your interpretation of the repeating piece to a pop-up sponge jigsaw puzzle. Create your own Escher-like template, then use it to draw your “tessellation” and to turn it into a tessellating sponge print with tempera paint. Workshop has been conducted for several years by Camosun students in grade 2-4 classes in Victoria area schools. Interested participants can give the workshop as part of their practicum (materials paid for by Scientists and Innovators in the schools).
Teacher, consultant, author, conference speaker, Jill Britton is deeply interested in the teaching of mathematics. Jill's experiences include teaching Middle School students in summer camps, conducting workshops for elementary students and/or teachers nationwide, and instructing college level students full-time. She is currently a mathematics instructor at Camosun College in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. Jill regards mathematics as the study of patterns and uses symmetry and tessellations, the art of M. C. Escher, polyhedra (unit origami and tetrahedral kites), curves (line designs, conics, cycloids/spirograph, curves of constant width, and fractals), and recreational topology to promote an interest in mathematics. See What's love got to do with math? Jill's strong background in teaching forms the basis for the books she has authored. These books are intended to be resource material to supplement the curriculum with recreationally-focused topics. In 2009, Jill was the recipient of the ACCC national award for teaching excellence. ACCC features the video by her peers presented at the awards ceremony in Charlottetown.
Polyhedra and Tetrahedron Kites (Jill Britton)
Day: Sunday 1:30 - 2:30pm
Target Audience: Primary to Intermediate/Middle
Make a 4-cell tetrahedron kite like the one devised by Alexander Graham Bell. Flying lines will be provided. Then make an M.C. Escher kaleidocycle. Workshop has been conducted for several years by Camosun students in grade 5-8 classes in Victoria area schools. Interested participants can make a classroom set of kite kits and give the workshop as part of their practicum (materials paid for by Scientists and Innovators in the schools).
Teacher, consultant, author, conference speaker, Jill Britton is deeply interested in the teaching of mathematics. Jill's experiences include teaching Middle School students in summer camps, conducting workshops for elementary students and/or teachers nationwide, and instructing college level students full-time. She is currently a mathematics instructor at Camosun College in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. Jill regards mathematics as the study of patterns and uses symmetry and tessellations, the art of M. C. Escher, polyhedra (unit origami and tetrahedral kites), curves (line designs, conics, cycloids/spirograph, curves of constant width, and fractals), and recreational topology to promote an interest in mathematics. See What's love got to do with math? Jill's strong background in teaching forms the basis for the books she has authored. These books are intended to be resource material to supplement the curriculum with recreationally-focused topics. In 2009, Jill was the recipient of the ACCC national award for teaching excellence. ACCC features the video by her peers presented at the awards ceremony in Charlottetown.
Day: Sunday 10:40am - 12:40pm
Target Audience: Primary to Intermediate/Middle
Learn about the mathematical basis of Escher’s artwork. Contribute your interpretation of the repeating piece to a pop-up sponge jigsaw puzzle. Create your own Escher-like template, then use it to draw your “tessellation” and to turn it into a tessellating sponge print with tempera paint. Workshop has been conducted for several years by Camosun students in grade 2-4 classes in Victoria area schools. Interested participants can give the workshop as part of their practicum (materials paid for by Scientists and Innovators in the schools).
Teacher, consultant, author, conference speaker, Jill Britton is deeply interested in the teaching of mathematics. Jill's experiences include teaching Middle School students in summer camps, conducting workshops for elementary students and/or teachers nationwide, and instructing college level students full-time. She is currently a mathematics instructor at Camosun College in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. Jill regards mathematics as the study of patterns and uses symmetry and tessellations, the art of M. C. Escher, polyhedra (unit origami and tetrahedral kites), curves (line designs, conics, cycloids/spirograph, curves of constant width, and fractals), and recreational topology to promote an interest in mathematics. See What's love got to do with math? Jill's strong background in teaching forms the basis for the books she has authored. These books are intended to be resource material to supplement the curriculum with recreationally-focused topics. In 2009, Jill was the recipient of the ACCC national award for teaching excellence. ACCC features the video by her peers presented at the awards ceremony in Charlottetown.
Polyhedra and Tetrahedron Kites (Jill Britton)
Day: Sunday 1:30 - 2:30pm
Target Audience: Primary to Intermediate/Middle
Make a 4-cell tetrahedron kite like the one devised by Alexander Graham Bell. Flying lines will be provided. Then make an M.C. Escher kaleidocycle. Workshop has been conducted for several years by Camosun students in grade 5-8 classes in Victoria area schools. Interested participants can make a classroom set of kite kits and give the workshop as part of their practicum (materials paid for by Scientists and Innovators in the schools).
Teacher, consultant, author, conference speaker, Jill Britton is deeply interested in the teaching of mathematics. Jill's experiences include teaching Middle School students in summer camps, conducting workshops for elementary students and/or teachers nationwide, and instructing college level students full-time. She is currently a mathematics instructor at Camosun College in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. Jill regards mathematics as the study of patterns and uses symmetry and tessellations, the art of M. C. Escher, polyhedra (unit origami and tetrahedral kites), curves (line designs, conics, cycloids/spirograph, curves of constant width, and fractals), and recreational topology to promote an interest in mathematics. See What's love got to do with math? Jill's strong background in teaching forms the basis for the books she has authored. These books are intended to be resource material to supplement the curriculum with recreationally-focused topics. In 2009, Jill was the recipient of the ACCC national award for teaching excellence. ACCC features the video by her peers presented at the awards ceremony in Charlottetown.
Fine Arts
Drama (Barb Hall and Andrew Gillot)
Day: Saturday 1:30-3:30pm
Target Audience: Student Teachers and Teachers (Elementary focused)
Description:
Ever wondered how you might be able to incorporate drama into subject areas like Math or Science? This workshop is designed to provide student-teachers with a collection of book titles, meaningful drama games, story structures, and applied theatre techniques that can be used and easily adapted across the curriculum for any subject area. Just bring along your imagination! Barb and Andrew will be engaging participants in a hands-on approach to the material, so that everyone is given the opportunity to learn by doing and experiencing. Come and explore everything from basic warm-ups to human integers and enrich your students learning environment by inviting them to become that which they are learning.
Biography:
Barb Hall is a recent graduate from the University of Victoria and currently works as a teacher on call for Lakewood Elementary School teaching drama in collaboration with Professor Phil Duchene. She obtained her BFA in Applied Theatre in 2010, and completed the BEd PDPP program specializing in middle years education in 2012. Now, a working teacher on call for the Sooke school district, Barb has the great privilege of teaching dramatic techniques to students in Kindergarten - Grade 12! Barb lives and loves to make plays and design drama in education workshops that cross the curriculum and reach beyond to the unexpected, the experimentational, the weird and the human.
DIY Classroom Culture (Michael Emme)
Day: Sunday 2:35 - 3:30pm
Target Audience: Elementary
This workshop will focus on how the imagery of a typical elementary classroom defines success and failure, belonging and exclusion. Participants will be encouraged to imagine their classroom as a blank canvas that can only be completed when it reflects the visual culture of their students.
A variety of projects will be presented that support the students in developing their own
Visual reward systems
Attendance systems
Teaching and learning aids
Story-telling resources
Student handbooks
Visual approach to second language learning and welcoming of new students in the classroom.
Focus will also be on how a classroom teacher can use a few accessible digital tools to support a more effective approach to visual portfolio building for their students.
Time will be given to discussion around when it is possible to give up control of your classroom aesthetic.
Michael Emme Bio to come
Music…In MY Classroom?! (Regan)
Day: Sunday 10:40-11:35am
Target Audience: Student Teachers and Teachers
Do you think that music class is all recorders, ukuleles, and squeaky beginning band rehearsals? Are you worried that music is only for the ‘talented’? If so, I invite you to come and explore some of the many options available to allow you to use music in your elementary, middle, and secondary classrooms and schools. We will discuss some ways to bring music into your lessons and unit plans either with a music specialist or without. Bring your questions and the will to try!
Regan McLachlan can be found most weekdays in Music Education Resource Room at the University of Victoria (MacLaurin A167). In addition to this role, she is a Practicum Supervisor and an Instructor of Music Education courses: ME101 “Introduction to Music Education” and ME309 “Instrumental Techniques.” A graduate of the University of Saskatchewan (B.Ed/B.Mus.Ed) and University of Victoria (M.Ed.), Regan taught middle school Music (band, choir, jazz), Social Studies, English, and PE as well as High School Choir and Vocal Jazz before coming to work at UVic in 2008. Regan is the Editor of the BC Music Educators’ Association (BCMEA) Journal and member of the BCMEA Executive.
Music…In MY Classroom?! (Regan)
Day: 11:45am - 12:40pm
Target Audience: Student Teachers and Teachers
Do you think that music class is all recorders, ukuleles, and squeaky beginning band rehearsals? Are you worried that music is only for the ‘talented’? If so, I invite you to come and explore some of the many options available to allow you to use music in your elementary, middle, and secondary classrooms and schools. We will discuss some ways to bring music into your lessons and unit plans either with a music specialist or without. Bring your questions and the will to try!
Regan McLachlan can be found most weekdays in Music Education Resource Room at the University of Victoria (MacLaurin A167). In addition to this role, she is a Practicum Supervisor and an Instructor of Music Education courses: ME101 “Introduction to Music Education” and ME309 “Instrumental Techniques.” A graduate of the University of Saskatchewan (B.Ed/B.Mus.Ed) and University of Victoria (M.Ed.), Regan taught middle school Music (band, choir, jazz), Social Studies, English, and PE as well as High School Choir and Vocal Jazz before coming to work at UVic in 2008. Regan is the Editor of the BC Music Educators’ Association (BCMEA) Journal and member of the BCMEA Executive.
Day: Saturday 1:30-3:30pm
Target Audience: Student Teachers and Teachers (Elementary focused)
Description:
Ever wondered how you might be able to incorporate drama into subject areas like Math or Science? This workshop is designed to provide student-teachers with a collection of book titles, meaningful drama games, story structures, and applied theatre techniques that can be used and easily adapted across the curriculum for any subject area. Just bring along your imagination! Barb and Andrew will be engaging participants in a hands-on approach to the material, so that everyone is given the opportunity to learn by doing and experiencing. Come and explore everything from basic warm-ups to human integers and enrich your students learning environment by inviting them to become that which they are learning.
Biography:
Barb Hall is a recent graduate from the University of Victoria and currently works as a teacher on call for Lakewood Elementary School teaching drama in collaboration with Professor Phil Duchene. She obtained her BFA in Applied Theatre in 2010, and completed the BEd PDPP program specializing in middle years education in 2012. Now, a working teacher on call for the Sooke school district, Barb has the great privilege of teaching dramatic techniques to students in Kindergarten - Grade 12! Barb lives and loves to make plays and design drama in education workshops that cross the curriculum and reach beyond to the unexpected, the experimentational, the weird and the human.
DIY Classroom Culture (Michael Emme)
Day: Sunday 2:35 - 3:30pm
Target Audience: Elementary
This workshop will focus on how the imagery of a typical elementary classroom defines success and failure, belonging and exclusion. Participants will be encouraged to imagine their classroom as a blank canvas that can only be completed when it reflects the visual culture of their students.
A variety of projects will be presented that support the students in developing their own
Visual reward systems
Attendance systems
Teaching and learning aids
Story-telling resources
Student handbooks
Visual approach to second language learning and welcoming of new students in the classroom.
Focus will also be on how a classroom teacher can use a few accessible digital tools to support a more effective approach to visual portfolio building for their students.
Time will be given to discussion around when it is possible to give up control of your classroom aesthetic.
Michael Emme Bio to come
Music…In MY Classroom?! (Regan)
Day: Sunday 10:40-11:35am
Target Audience: Student Teachers and Teachers
Do you think that music class is all recorders, ukuleles, and squeaky beginning band rehearsals? Are you worried that music is only for the ‘talented’? If so, I invite you to come and explore some of the many options available to allow you to use music in your elementary, middle, and secondary classrooms and schools. We will discuss some ways to bring music into your lessons and unit plans either with a music specialist or without. Bring your questions and the will to try!
Regan McLachlan can be found most weekdays in Music Education Resource Room at the University of Victoria (MacLaurin A167). In addition to this role, she is a Practicum Supervisor and an Instructor of Music Education courses: ME101 “Introduction to Music Education” and ME309 “Instrumental Techniques.” A graduate of the University of Saskatchewan (B.Ed/B.Mus.Ed) and University of Victoria (M.Ed.), Regan taught middle school Music (band, choir, jazz), Social Studies, English, and PE as well as High School Choir and Vocal Jazz before coming to work at UVic in 2008. Regan is the Editor of the BC Music Educators’ Association (BCMEA) Journal and member of the BCMEA Executive.
Music…In MY Classroom?! (Regan)
Day: 11:45am - 12:40pm
Target Audience: Student Teachers and Teachers
Do you think that music class is all recorders, ukuleles, and squeaky beginning band rehearsals? Are you worried that music is only for the ‘talented’? If so, I invite you to come and explore some of the many options available to allow you to use music in your elementary, middle, and secondary classrooms and schools. We will discuss some ways to bring music into your lessons and unit plans either with a music specialist or without. Bring your questions and the will to try!
Regan McLachlan can be found most weekdays in Music Education Resource Room at the University of Victoria (MacLaurin A167). In addition to this role, she is a Practicum Supervisor and an Instructor of Music Education courses: ME101 “Introduction to Music Education” and ME309 “Instrumental Techniques.” A graduate of the University of Saskatchewan (B.Ed/B.Mus.Ed) and University of Victoria (M.Ed.), Regan taught middle school Music (band, choir, jazz), Social Studies, English, and PE as well as High School Choir and Vocal Jazz before coming to work at UVic in 2008. Regan is the Editor of the BC Music Educators’ Association (BCMEA) Journal and member of the BCMEA Executive.
Aboriginal Education
Gen7 (Richelle Williams)
Day: Sunday 10:40am - 12:40pm
Target Audience: Student Teachers and Teachers (all grades)
In this workshop you will learn about ways to engage Aboriginal students, teach Aboriginal culture, and learn of some resource to help you not fear this topic.
Richelle Williams:
Huni'xlot, or Richelle Williams, is Coast Salish of Cowichan Tribes on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. Her family mask is the Raven and was born into a family of athletes and strong women. Life skills learned early in sport, traditional teachings and the values and ceremonies of her People have given taught her inclusive leadership, pride in her roots, connection to the land and an intense determination to strive for what she wants and believes in.
Richelle’s story is one of determination, perseverance, mental fitness and dreaming big. Richelle's passion for sport, culture and her sincere desire to build champions on and off the court are truly evident through her words and actions.
On February 12, 2004, a snowboarding accident ignited an injury that would take sport away from Richelle for almost three years. She was sidelined and forced to see life through a new set of eyes, frame of mind and a new left knee. She had to learn how to walk again, and from there, to run. Two reconstructive knee surgeries allowed her time to transform her love to live and breathe the sport of rugby as her source of motivation.
Through years of rehabilitation she finally made her comeback and represented Aboriginal Team BC at the Denver 2006 North American Indigenous Games. Richelle would wear her first uniform and new sense of pride as she entered the next chapter in her life. Richelle continues to play rugby for the Cowichan Rugby Senior Women’s team and coaches in her spare time.
Only weeks before Richelle's snowboarding accident, her aunt and role model was diagnosed with breast cancer. Her aunt is now healthy and has taught Richelle about recovery, adversity, how to be strong and how to overcome life altering obstacles. Her aunt is her biggest source of motivation as she continues to teach Richelle of her heritage, family, and leadership.
Richelle believes hole heartedly in the power of sport and physical activity to heal as a form of medicine, and surrounding yourself with people who champion you, people who teach you to be strong and believe in you. Richelle lives by LIVESTRONG. Her inspiration stems from Lance Armstrong's book It's Not About the Bike: My Journey Back to Life.
In addition to her passion for sport and culture, Richelle is also learning how to play the piano and the guitar. As a GEN7 Messenger, Richelle hopes to spread her message of inspiration, determination, healthy active lifestyles and leadership to other Aboriginal youth across British Columbia.
Day: Sunday 10:40am - 12:40pm
Target Audience: Student Teachers and Teachers (all grades)
In this workshop you will learn about ways to engage Aboriginal students, teach Aboriginal culture, and learn of some resource to help you not fear this topic.
Richelle Williams:
Huni'xlot, or Richelle Williams, is Coast Salish of Cowichan Tribes on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. Her family mask is the Raven and was born into a family of athletes and strong women. Life skills learned early in sport, traditional teachings and the values and ceremonies of her People have given taught her inclusive leadership, pride in her roots, connection to the land and an intense determination to strive for what she wants and believes in.
Richelle’s story is one of determination, perseverance, mental fitness and dreaming big. Richelle's passion for sport, culture and her sincere desire to build champions on and off the court are truly evident through her words and actions.
On February 12, 2004, a snowboarding accident ignited an injury that would take sport away from Richelle for almost three years. She was sidelined and forced to see life through a new set of eyes, frame of mind and a new left knee. She had to learn how to walk again, and from there, to run. Two reconstructive knee surgeries allowed her time to transform her love to live and breathe the sport of rugby as her source of motivation.
Through years of rehabilitation she finally made her comeback and represented Aboriginal Team BC at the Denver 2006 North American Indigenous Games. Richelle would wear her first uniform and new sense of pride as she entered the next chapter in her life. Richelle continues to play rugby for the Cowichan Rugby Senior Women’s team and coaches in her spare time.
Only weeks before Richelle's snowboarding accident, her aunt and role model was diagnosed with breast cancer. Her aunt is now healthy and has taught Richelle about recovery, adversity, how to be strong and how to overcome life altering obstacles. Her aunt is her biggest source of motivation as she continues to teach Richelle of her heritage, family, and leadership.
Richelle believes hole heartedly in the power of sport and physical activity to heal as a form of medicine, and surrounding yourself with people who champion you, people who teach you to be strong and believe in you. Richelle lives by LIVESTRONG. Her inspiration stems from Lance Armstrong's book It's Not About the Bike: My Journey Back to Life.
In addition to her passion for sport and culture, Richelle is also learning how to play the piano and the guitar. As a GEN7 Messenger, Richelle hopes to spread her message of inspiration, determination, healthy active lifestyles and leadership to other Aboriginal youth across British Columbia.
Social, Health, and Personal Development
_ Cooperative Games and Activities (Cindy Brown)
Day: Sunday 1:30 - 2:25pm
Target Audience: All grades
This workshop presents cooperative games that help to build a safe, inclusive, learning environment. These cooperative games and activities give students a chance to get to know one another, to seek out common interests, and to build a sense of identity. Some of our favourite games have been modified to emphasize: participation, success, cooperation, inclusion, action, safety, skill, and diversity. The afternoon should result in healthy interaction, exercise, and a big dose of fun. Please wear comfortable clothes and footwear (runners).
Lucinda (Cindy) is a continuing sessional instructor and Ph.D. student at the University of Victoria. Cindy has been a classroom teacher, student-teacher supervisor, educational consultant/writer and guest speaker for professional development workshops, conferences, and educational psychology classes. Cindy is also the proud mother of a son who is attending UVic, and she has two clever standard poodles who are working on an environmentally friendly source of energy. She fully expects that one day they will win a Nobel Prize. Cindy is involved with the Pacific Animal Therapy Society, and has been a volunteer counselor with the Pet Loss Support Line since 2004.
A Cup Half-Full: Looking at Inclusion in the Elementary Classroom (Carol Nahachewsky)
Day: Saturday 11:35am -12:30pm
Audience: Student Teachers and Teachers (Elementary focused)
Carol will provide an up-close and personal look at the successful inclusion of her son in the elementary classroom. This presentation will highlight the power of a positive attitude in navigating the challenges of today's diverse classroom.
Carol Nahachewsky is an educator and mom of three active boys, the youngest of whom - Aidan - has Down syndrome. She has made several presentations on her experiences raising Aidan, and works as a Sessional Instructor and Practicum Supervisor at the University of Victoria.
The WITS Program (Rock Solid Foundation)
Day: Sunday 10:40 - 11:35pm
Target Audience: Student Teachers and Teachers
The WITS Programs bring together schools, families and communities to help children deal with bullying and victimization and to help adults learn to respond effectively to children's request for help
The Rock Solid Foundation (RSF) is an Esquimalt BC born charity. Since 1999 RSF, in conjuction with a team from the University of Victoria, has developed and evaluated the WITS Programs. RSF is committed to getting the proven-effective WITS strategy out to children at the least possible cost to already financially stressed schools.
Day: Sunday 1:30 - 2:25pm
Target Audience: All grades
This workshop presents cooperative games that help to build a safe, inclusive, learning environment. These cooperative games and activities give students a chance to get to know one another, to seek out common interests, and to build a sense of identity. Some of our favourite games have been modified to emphasize: participation, success, cooperation, inclusion, action, safety, skill, and diversity. The afternoon should result in healthy interaction, exercise, and a big dose of fun. Please wear comfortable clothes and footwear (runners).
Lucinda (Cindy) is a continuing sessional instructor and Ph.D. student at the University of Victoria. Cindy has been a classroom teacher, student-teacher supervisor, educational consultant/writer and guest speaker for professional development workshops, conferences, and educational psychology classes. Cindy is also the proud mother of a son who is attending UVic, and she has two clever standard poodles who are working on an environmentally friendly source of energy. She fully expects that one day they will win a Nobel Prize. Cindy is involved with the Pacific Animal Therapy Society, and has been a volunteer counselor with the Pet Loss Support Line since 2004.
A Cup Half-Full: Looking at Inclusion in the Elementary Classroom (Carol Nahachewsky)
Day: Saturday 11:35am -12:30pm
Audience: Student Teachers and Teachers (Elementary focused)
Carol will provide an up-close and personal look at the successful inclusion of her son in the elementary classroom. This presentation will highlight the power of a positive attitude in navigating the challenges of today's diverse classroom.
Carol Nahachewsky is an educator and mom of three active boys, the youngest of whom - Aidan - has Down syndrome. She has made several presentations on her experiences raising Aidan, and works as a Sessional Instructor and Practicum Supervisor at the University of Victoria.
The WITS Program (Rock Solid Foundation)
Day: Sunday 10:40 - 11:35pm
Target Audience: Student Teachers and Teachers
The WITS Programs bring together schools, families and communities to help children deal with bullying and victimization and to help adults learn to respond effectively to children's request for help
The Rock Solid Foundation (RSF) is an Esquimalt BC born charity. Since 1999 RSF, in conjuction with a team from the University of Victoria, has developed and evaluated the WITS Programs. RSF is committed to getting the proven-effective WITS strategy out to children at the least possible cost to already financially stressed schools.
Critical Challenges
Inviting your students to critically think: How to make critical thinking an essential component to all of your lessons (Alex Bomphray)
Day: Sunday 1:30 - 3:30pm
Target Audience: All grades
For every lesson that you teach, it is important to ask yourself ‘For what greater purpose am I teaching this lesson? Beyond ‘covering PLOs’ all lessons should incorporate space where students are engaged in learning and practicing essential life skills (i.e. questioning skills, listening and speaking skills, and critical thinking skills). As an essential life skill, critical thinking is something that students need to continuously work on and develop in every grade level (including Kindergarten!). Lessons requiring critical thinking also tend to be more meaningful for students and can lead to higher degrees of motivation and engagement. In this workshop, you will develop your conceptual understanding of what critical thinking means and you will have the opportunity to explore the various smaller skills and strategies that make up critical thinking. This workshop will also highlight various strategies for incorporating critical thinking in every subject area (with a particular emphasis on the language arts and social studies).With the tools and ideas presented in this workshop, you will be better prepared to make critical thinking a core focus of your teaching.
_Alexandra Bomphray is a PhD Candidate and Sessional Instructor at the University of Victoria. During her time as an elementary teacher, she worked extensively with Spanish speaking English language learners and more recently completed a six month research study with third grade Spanish speakers. Her research interests include the use of multimodal literacy strategies to enhance English language learners sense of belonging and active participation in the classroom.
Day: Sunday 1:30 - 3:30pm
Target Audience: All grades
For every lesson that you teach, it is important to ask yourself ‘For what greater purpose am I teaching this lesson? Beyond ‘covering PLOs’ all lessons should incorporate space where students are engaged in learning and practicing essential life skills (i.e. questioning skills, listening and speaking skills, and critical thinking skills). As an essential life skill, critical thinking is something that students need to continuously work on and develop in every grade level (including Kindergarten!). Lessons requiring critical thinking also tend to be more meaningful for students and can lead to higher degrees of motivation and engagement. In this workshop, you will develop your conceptual understanding of what critical thinking means and you will have the opportunity to explore the various smaller skills and strategies that make up critical thinking. This workshop will also highlight various strategies for incorporating critical thinking in every subject area (with a particular emphasis on the language arts and social studies).With the tools and ideas presented in this workshop, you will be better prepared to make critical thinking a core focus of your teaching.
_Alexandra Bomphray is a PhD Candidate and Sessional Instructor at the University of Victoria. During her time as an elementary teacher, she worked extensively with Spanish speaking English language learners and more recently completed a six month research study with third grade Spanish speakers. Her research interests include the use of multimodal literacy strategies to enhance English language learners sense of belonging and active participation in the classroom.
Physical Activity
Classroom Healthy Eating with Action Schools! (Julie Bertrand from Action Schools BC)
Day: Saturday 10:30am - 12:30pm
Target Audience: Elementary
Description: BC Looking for ideas to incorporate healthy eating into your classroom and school? Action Schools! BC is a best practices model designed to assist schools in creating individualized action plans to promote healthy living while achieving academic outcomes. This recently updated workshop now highlights increasing vegetable and fruit consumption, reducing intake of sugary drinks, reducing sodium intake, and enhancing media awareness. Action Schools! BC teacher resources will be provided.
Action Schools! BC is a best practices model designed to assist schools in creating individualized action plans to promote healthy living.ACTION SCHOOLS! BC contributes to the health of children by integrating physical activity and healthy eating messages into the fabric of the school community, with the goal of providing children with a foundation for life-long healthy living.provides a framework for action, building on best practices and existing resources within the school community, targeting six Action Zones. It promotes the creation of inclusive and diverse physical activity and healthy eating opportunities throughout the school day, and supports school initiatives to make healthy choices the easy choices for children. It is a source of inspiration and practical resources including action ideas, program recommendations, success stories, downloadable resources and program information, and links to healthy living resources from British Columbia and across Canada. It utilizes existing relationships and generates new partnerships among teachers, school administrators, families, and community practitioners.It is based on a comprehensive evidenced-based health outcome evaluation that proved the model was effective at increasing the physical activity level of students, and contributed to improvements in their bone health, heart health, dietary requirement awareness, and academic performance (McKay, H.A., 2004). Healthy Eating pilot demonstrated that the initiative was effective at changing the pattern of vegetable and fruit consumption of school children in Grades 4 to 7 (Day, Strange, & Naylor, 2007).
Supporting Daily Physical Activity (DPA) with Action Schools! (Julie Bertrand from Action Schools BC)
Day: Saturday 1:30 - 3:30pm
Target Audience: Elementary
BC Looking for ideas to support Daily Physical Activity in your school? Action Schools! BC is a best practices model designed to assist schools in creating individualized action plans to promote healthy living while achieving academic outcomes. Learn about the Classroom Action Zone and try out the popular “10 minute” classroom activities including Chair Aerobics, Fit Kids’ Workouts, Head-to-Toe Stretches and BrainDance. Action Schools! BC teacher resources will be provided.
Action Schools! BC is a best practices model designed to assist schools in creating individualized action plans to promote healthy living.ACTION SCHOOLS! BC contributes to the health of children by integrating physical activity and healthy eating messages into the fabric of the school community, with the goal of providing children with a foundation for life-long healthy living.provides a framework for action, building on best practices and existing resources within the school community, targeting six Action Zones. It promotes the creation of inclusive and diverse physical activity and healthy eating opportunities throughout the school day, and supports school initiatives to make healthy choices the easy choices for children. It is a source of inspiration and practical resources including action ideas, program recommendations, success stories, downloadable resources and program information, and links to healthy living resources from British Columbia and across Canada. It utilizes existing relationships and generates new partnerships among teachers, school administrators, families, and community practitioners.It is based on a comprehensive evidenced-based health outcome evaluation that proved the model was effective at increasing the physical activity level of students, and contributed to improvements in their bone health, heart health, dietary requirement awareness, and academic performance (McKay, H.A., 2004). Healthy Eating pilot demonstrated that the initiative was effective at changing the pattern of vegetable and fruit consumption of school children in Grades 4 to 7 (Day, Strange, & Naylor, 2007).
Exercise in Disguise (Gary Pemberton)
Day: Sunday 10:40am - 12:40pm
Target Audience: All
Exercise in Disguise will show you how to make the best use of your classroom space with indoor games and drama activities. Great for a TOC's repertoire or to use as brain breaks in the classroom. Behaviour management and the best way to lead games will also be covered in this session. You will get to experience the games first hand and can ask lots of questions as well!
Gary Pemberton has been an advocate for youth for over 15 years in the capital region, starting out as a Club Coordinator with Boys & Girls Club Services, a Youth Programmer with Saanich Community Services and currently as a Neighbourhood Coordinator for the City of Victoria. He has created a youth strategy for the Township of Esquimalt, the Step Up Leadership Crew for the City of Victoria and also operates as one third of a creative partnership known as Exercise in Disguise. EID is a group that is dedicated to creating activities that challenge youth and youth practitioners to think outside the box when programming, as they strive to innovate new ways to keep kids who don’t play sports active and engaged in physical activity. Gary’s latest program initiative involving youth leadership and summer programming has recently received aProgram Excellence award via the BC Parks & Recreation Association in 2011.
How To Juggle (Bethany and Jonny)
Day: Sunday 1:30-2:35
Target Audience: All
They will be taking a methodical approach to learning, and teaching people, how to juggle.
Day: Saturday 10:30am - 12:30pm
Target Audience: Elementary
Description: BC Looking for ideas to incorporate healthy eating into your classroom and school? Action Schools! BC is a best practices model designed to assist schools in creating individualized action plans to promote healthy living while achieving academic outcomes. This recently updated workshop now highlights increasing vegetable and fruit consumption, reducing intake of sugary drinks, reducing sodium intake, and enhancing media awareness. Action Schools! BC teacher resources will be provided.
Action Schools! BC is a best practices model designed to assist schools in creating individualized action plans to promote healthy living.ACTION SCHOOLS! BC contributes to the health of children by integrating physical activity and healthy eating messages into the fabric of the school community, with the goal of providing children with a foundation for life-long healthy living.provides a framework for action, building on best practices and existing resources within the school community, targeting six Action Zones. It promotes the creation of inclusive and diverse physical activity and healthy eating opportunities throughout the school day, and supports school initiatives to make healthy choices the easy choices for children. It is a source of inspiration and practical resources including action ideas, program recommendations, success stories, downloadable resources and program information, and links to healthy living resources from British Columbia and across Canada. It utilizes existing relationships and generates new partnerships among teachers, school administrators, families, and community practitioners.It is based on a comprehensive evidenced-based health outcome evaluation that proved the model was effective at increasing the physical activity level of students, and contributed to improvements in their bone health, heart health, dietary requirement awareness, and academic performance (McKay, H.A., 2004). Healthy Eating pilot demonstrated that the initiative was effective at changing the pattern of vegetable and fruit consumption of school children in Grades 4 to 7 (Day, Strange, & Naylor, 2007).
Supporting Daily Physical Activity (DPA) with Action Schools! (Julie Bertrand from Action Schools BC)
Day: Saturday 1:30 - 3:30pm
Target Audience: Elementary
BC Looking for ideas to support Daily Physical Activity in your school? Action Schools! BC is a best practices model designed to assist schools in creating individualized action plans to promote healthy living while achieving academic outcomes. Learn about the Classroom Action Zone and try out the popular “10 minute” classroom activities including Chair Aerobics, Fit Kids’ Workouts, Head-to-Toe Stretches and BrainDance. Action Schools! BC teacher resources will be provided.
Action Schools! BC is a best practices model designed to assist schools in creating individualized action plans to promote healthy living.ACTION SCHOOLS! BC contributes to the health of children by integrating physical activity and healthy eating messages into the fabric of the school community, with the goal of providing children with a foundation for life-long healthy living.provides a framework for action, building on best practices and existing resources within the school community, targeting six Action Zones. It promotes the creation of inclusive and diverse physical activity and healthy eating opportunities throughout the school day, and supports school initiatives to make healthy choices the easy choices for children. It is a source of inspiration and practical resources including action ideas, program recommendations, success stories, downloadable resources and program information, and links to healthy living resources from British Columbia and across Canada. It utilizes existing relationships and generates new partnerships among teachers, school administrators, families, and community practitioners.It is based on a comprehensive evidenced-based health outcome evaluation that proved the model was effective at increasing the physical activity level of students, and contributed to improvements in their bone health, heart health, dietary requirement awareness, and academic performance (McKay, H.A., 2004). Healthy Eating pilot demonstrated that the initiative was effective at changing the pattern of vegetable and fruit consumption of school children in Grades 4 to 7 (Day, Strange, & Naylor, 2007).
Exercise in Disguise (Gary Pemberton)
Day: Sunday 10:40am - 12:40pm
Target Audience: All
Exercise in Disguise will show you how to make the best use of your classroom space with indoor games and drama activities. Great for a TOC's repertoire or to use as brain breaks in the classroom. Behaviour management and the best way to lead games will also be covered in this session. You will get to experience the games first hand and can ask lots of questions as well!
Gary Pemberton has been an advocate for youth for over 15 years in the capital region, starting out as a Club Coordinator with Boys & Girls Club Services, a Youth Programmer with Saanich Community Services and currently as a Neighbourhood Coordinator for the City of Victoria. He has created a youth strategy for the Township of Esquimalt, the Step Up Leadership Crew for the City of Victoria and also operates as one third of a creative partnership known as Exercise in Disguise. EID is a group that is dedicated to creating activities that challenge youth and youth practitioners to think outside the box when programming, as they strive to innovate new ways to keep kids who don’t play sports active and engaged in physical activity. Gary’s latest program initiative involving youth leadership and summer programming has recently received aProgram Excellence award via the BC Parks & Recreation Association in 2011.
How To Juggle (Bethany and Jonny)
Day: Sunday 1:30-2:35
Target Audience: All
They will be taking a methodical approach to learning, and teaching people, how to juggle.
Professional Development
Alternative Practicum in Africa: The Experience (Jayne, Chelsea, Sarah, Mel)
Day: Sunday 2:35-3:30pm
Target Audience: Student Teachers
Join Melanie, Sarah, Jayne and Chelsea as they discuss the planning process, not only lesson plans, but travel plans as well, fundraising, and the incredible connections they made half way around the world. They will share their pictures and their stories and experiences from teaching grades four to seven. Come learn how an alternative practicum can influence your teaching and how your teaching can impact a community.
Melanie, Sarah, Jayne and Chelsea are third year students in the education program. They all chose to do their first practicum in the small community of Ulamba, Kenya. They spent all of May 2012 teaching in the primary school, grades four to seven. Once finished teaching they ventured to Tanzania for a safari, sightseeing and relaxation.
They will be joined by Anna Lefsrud. A recent graduate from the B.Ed program currently employed as a T.O.C. in Sooke as well as Victoria. Anna also did her first practicum in Ulamba, Kenya in 2010.
Interviewing for a Teaching Job: you've done the coursework, you've completed your practicum, now it's time to get the job! (Jan Therrien)
Day: Saturday 11:35am - 12:30pm & Saturday 2:35 - 3:30pm
Target Audience: Student Teachers and Teachers
Participants in this session will:
-gain confidence in their abilities as teacher candidates
-gain insight into presenting their skills in an interview
-have a better understanding of the qualities that school districts are looking for in new teacher candidates
-be better equipped to participate in the interview process.
Janice Therrien has spent 15 years interviewing teacher candidates for positions in Coquitlam School District; interviewing teachers for specific postings in various schools, as well as participating in selection committees for vice -principal appointments. Janice combines her passion for teaching, with the purpose of providing students with the best possible learning experiences. She believes that the first and most critical step to achieving this end, is hiring the best people.
Janice Therrien is an ideal teacher mentor, and well equiped to speak with student teachers about interviewing strategies. She is a 35 year veteran of the education system. She brings to this session on interviewing skills, expertise as a teacher, counsellor and an administrator, as well as the unique background of having both taught and administrated at all three levels of the system.
When she retired from School Administration, she was brought back by Coquitlam School District to mentor new Administrators. She is currently instructing at Coquitlam International College, working with Chinese teachers both in China and in Coquitlam, sharing both the pedagogy and the practical teaching strategies used to enhance student learning in B.C. schools.
" Education is what we have left, when we forget what we memorized for the test!"
Offshore Teaching Opportunities (John Simpson)
Day: Saturday 10:30 - 11:25am & Saturday 2:35 - 3:30pm
Target Audience: Student Teachers and Teachers
Workshop Description:
BC Education is well respected around the world. We have a great system, and we train great teachers. Whether you are interested as an alternative to the challenging employment prospects locally, or your sense of adventure has you yearning for a new and totally different environment, teaching abroad is worth considering. Working and learning in an international setting can provide a rich cultural experience, and enormous opportunities. John Simpson is a BC Offshore School Representative, and will share information about this program as well as discussion about other international teaching opportunities.
John brings a wealth of experience to bear in consulting on issues within the “education domain”. As a former teacher, principal and superintendent, he is a strong believer in respectful dialogue – Collaboration and collegiality require effective listening.
John is proud of many successful initiatives under his leadership in Coquitlam, Burnaby and Maple Ridge. He believes that strong leadership must acknowledge the importance of nurturing effective relationships in order to achieve strategic goals and lasting positive changes in practice and culture. He would be please to consult in any of the following areas:
- School Act interpretation and Governance
- International Education including Offshore Schools
- Mediation – John has undertaken formal training and has first hand experience in a wide variety of school board, and school district issues, as well as human
resources and business dispute resolution.
- Conflict Resolution
- Student Achievement (use of data)
-Issues with standardized testing
-Advocate of Formative Assessment to influence instruction
-Authentic assessment
- Culture Building at both the School and District level
- Team Building at both the School and District level (ask him about “Executive Adventures”)
- Performance Enhancing Mentorship
- Performance Reviews of Principals, senior staff and Superintendents.
Classroom Management (Jim Nelson)
Day: Saturday 1:30-2:25pm
Target Audience: Student Teachers and Teachers
Classroom Management
Admit it. You really want to be a teacher and you know you’ll be good.... but you’re a bit worried about how you’ll get the kids to sit still and be quiet long enough to digest your fabulous lesson plans. Is your affable personality enough to enthuse and engage them? What about the guy in the back who throws his eyes towards the ceiling repeatedly sighing “ This sucks”? This session will deal with how to avoid “discipline” problems in classrooms - what to do, what not to do, and what you should be trying to do in “managing” your students and classroom. What works with kids, what doesn’t , and a few sneaky tricks to help you with those really challenging students. We’ll discuss techniques of invisible discipline and how to get students to take individual responsibility for staying engaged in the classroom. What part does administration play in discipline and what kind of school wide discipline programmes work? You’ll get suggestions for who and what to read on the subject of classroom management , and I hope we’ll have time for questions about “discipline” and “classroom management”
Jim Nelson is a retired teacher/ administrator from School district #43 (Coquitlam). Jim has a B.P.E. (English major) from U.B.C., teacher training from S.F.U. P.D.P, and a Masters of Arts in Educational Administration from San Diego State University ( go Aztecs!). Mr. Nelson spent his 35-year career in Coquitlam schools. He taught junior and senior high school P.E. and English. He was a school counsellor, coached football, basketball, and rugby at all secondary levels. Jim served as a vice principal of secondary schools (Mary Hill, Centennial, Pinetree, and Charles Best) and as Principal of Montgomery Middle school. Mr. Nelson is currently retired, a bit of a snowbird, and writing a weekly column in the Tri –City News, Coquitlam’s local newspaper, where his sometimes-provocative ideas stir up controversy on local, provincial, and national issues. Married to a retired Coquitlam high school counsellor, Jim has a daughter and a son, both high school teachers in School district #43. Prepare to see him clad in an Hawaiian shirt... it’s a bit of a uniform.
What Makes A Good School (Jim Nelson)
Day: Saturday 11:35am - 12:30pm
Target Audience: Student Teachers and Teachers (Middle school/Secondary focused)
How can we tell if a school is a good school? How do we measure good schools? Is Crofton House a good school? The Province newspaper says it’s the best high school in B.C. Is it better than public high schools? Why or why not? This session will deal with what’s really important in schools and what’s a waste of time. What kind of rules and expectations do good schools have? How do good schools motivate students? How important are student activities like sports, drama, music, debating, awards nights, and cheerleading? What part does administration play in a good school? What are the goals of good schools? What kinds of things happen in a good school? What kind of communication is there? How can I contribute? What part do parents play in helping a “good school” be good? You’ll get suggestions of who and what to read on the subject of “good schools” and I hope you’ll ask questions.
Jim Nelson is a retired teacher/ administrator from School district #43 (Coquitlam). Jim has a B.P.E. (English major) from U.B.C., teacher training from S.F.U. P.D.P, and a Masters of Arts in Educational Administration from San Diego State University ( go Aztecs!). Mr. Nelson spent his 35-year career in Coquitlam schools. He taught junior and senior high school P.E. and English. He was a school counsellor, coached football, basketball, and rugby at all secondary levels. Jim served as a vice principal of secondary schools (Mary Hill, Centennial, Pinetree, and Charles Best) and as Principal of Montgomery Middle school. Mr. Nelson is currently retired, a bit of a snowbird, and writing a weekly column in the Tri –City News, Coquitlam’s local newspaper, where his sometimes-provocative ideas stir up controversy on local, provincial, and national issues. Married to a retired Coquitlam high school counsellor, Jim has a daughter and a son, both high school teachers in School district #43. Prepare to see him clad in an Hawaiian shirt... it’s a bit of a uniform.
Teaching Internationally: Work & Life (Lisa Starr)
Day: Sunday 11:45 - 12:40pm
Target Audience: Student Teachers and Teachers
Lisa will be talking about perspectives on teaching internationally, the ins and outs of the job search and the challenges of life/work balance.
Bio to come
Day: Sunday 2:35-3:30pm
Target Audience: Student Teachers
Join Melanie, Sarah, Jayne and Chelsea as they discuss the planning process, not only lesson plans, but travel plans as well, fundraising, and the incredible connections they made half way around the world. They will share their pictures and their stories and experiences from teaching grades four to seven. Come learn how an alternative practicum can influence your teaching and how your teaching can impact a community.
Melanie, Sarah, Jayne and Chelsea are third year students in the education program. They all chose to do their first practicum in the small community of Ulamba, Kenya. They spent all of May 2012 teaching in the primary school, grades four to seven. Once finished teaching they ventured to Tanzania for a safari, sightseeing and relaxation.
They will be joined by Anna Lefsrud. A recent graduate from the B.Ed program currently employed as a T.O.C. in Sooke as well as Victoria. Anna also did her first practicum in Ulamba, Kenya in 2010.
Interviewing for a Teaching Job: you've done the coursework, you've completed your practicum, now it's time to get the job! (Jan Therrien)
Day: Saturday 11:35am - 12:30pm & Saturday 2:35 - 3:30pm
Target Audience: Student Teachers and Teachers
Participants in this session will:
-gain confidence in their abilities as teacher candidates
-gain insight into presenting their skills in an interview
-have a better understanding of the qualities that school districts are looking for in new teacher candidates
-be better equipped to participate in the interview process.
Janice Therrien has spent 15 years interviewing teacher candidates for positions in Coquitlam School District; interviewing teachers for specific postings in various schools, as well as participating in selection committees for vice -principal appointments. Janice combines her passion for teaching, with the purpose of providing students with the best possible learning experiences. She believes that the first and most critical step to achieving this end, is hiring the best people.
Janice Therrien is an ideal teacher mentor, and well equiped to speak with student teachers about interviewing strategies. She is a 35 year veteran of the education system. She brings to this session on interviewing skills, expertise as a teacher, counsellor and an administrator, as well as the unique background of having both taught and administrated at all three levels of the system.
When she retired from School Administration, she was brought back by Coquitlam School District to mentor new Administrators. She is currently instructing at Coquitlam International College, working with Chinese teachers both in China and in Coquitlam, sharing both the pedagogy and the practical teaching strategies used to enhance student learning in B.C. schools.
" Education is what we have left, when we forget what we memorized for the test!"
Offshore Teaching Opportunities (John Simpson)
Day: Saturday 10:30 - 11:25am & Saturday 2:35 - 3:30pm
Target Audience: Student Teachers and Teachers
Workshop Description:
BC Education is well respected around the world. We have a great system, and we train great teachers. Whether you are interested as an alternative to the challenging employment prospects locally, or your sense of adventure has you yearning for a new and totally different environment, teaching abroad is worth considering. Working and learning in an international setting can provide a rich cultural experience, and enormous opportunities. John Simpson is a BC Offshore School Representative, and will share information about this program as well as discussion about other international teaching opportunities.
John brings a wealth of experience to bear in consulting on issues within the “education domain”. As a former teacher, principal and superintendent, he is a strong believer in respectful dialogue – Collaboration and collegiality require effective listening.
John is proud of many successful initiatives under his leadership in Coquitlam, Burnaby and Maple Ridge. He believes that strong leadership must acknowledge the importance of nurturing effective relationships in order to achieve strategic goals and lasting positive changes in practice and culture. He would be please to consult in any of the following areas:
- School Act interpretation and Governance
- International Education including Offshore Schools
- Mediation – John has undertaken formal training and has first hand experience in a wide variety of school board, and school district issues, as well as human
resources and business dispute resolution.
- Conflict Resolution
- Student Achievement (use of data)
-Issues with standardized testing
-Advocate of Formative Assessment to influence instruction
-Authentic assessment
- Culture Building at both the School and District level
- Team Building at both the School and District level (ask him about “Executive Adventures”)
- Performance Enhancing Mentorship
- Performance Reviews of Principals, senior staff and Superintendents.
Classroom Management (Jim Nelson)
Day: Saturday 1:30-2:25pm
Target Audience: Student Teachers and Teachers
Classroom Management
Admit it. You really want to be a teacher and you know you’ll be good.... but you’re a bit worried about how you’ll get the kids to sit still and be quiet long enough to digest your fabulous lesson plans. Is your affable personality enough to enthuse and engage them? What about the guy in the back who throws his eyes towards the ceiling repeatedly sighing “ This sucks”? This session will deal with how to avoid “discipline” problems in classrooms - what to do, what not to do, and what you should be trying to do in “managing” your students and classroom. What works with kids, what doesn’t , and a few sneaky tricks to help you with those really challenging students. We’ll discuss techniques of invisible discipline and how to get students to take individual responsibility for staying engaged in the classroom. What part does administration play in discipline and what kind of school wide discipline programmes work? You’ll get suggestions for who and what to read on the subject of classroom management , and I hope we’ll have time for questions about “discipline” and “classroom management”
Jim Nelson is a retired teacher/ administrator from School district #43 (Coquitlam). Jim has a B.P.E. (English major) from U.B.C., teacher training from S.F.U. P.D.P, and a Masters of Arts in Educational Administration from San Diego State University ( go Aztecs!). Mr. Nelson spent his 35-year career in Coquitlam schools. He taught junior and senior high school P.E. and English. He was a school counsellor, coached football, basketball, and rugby at all secondary levels. Jim served as a vice principal of secondary schools (Mary Hill, Centennial, Pinetree, and Charles Best) and as Principal of Montgomery Middle school. Mr. Nelson is currently retired, a bit of a snowbird, and writing a weekly column in the Tri –City News, Coquitlam’s local newspaper, where his sometimes-provocative ideas stir up controversy on local, provincial, and national issues. Married to a retired Coquitlam high school counsellor, Jim has a daughter and a son, both high school teachers in School district #43. Prepare to see him clad in an Hawaiian shirt... it’s a bit of a uniform.
What Makes A Good School (Jim Nelson)
Day: Saturday 11:35am - 12:30pm
Target Audience: Student Teachers and Teachers (Middle school/Secondary focused)
How can we tell if a school is a good school? How do we measure good schools? Is Crofton House a good school? The Province newspaper says it’s the best high school in B.C. Is it better than public high schools? Why or why not? This session will deal with what’s really important in schools and what’s a waste of time. What kind of rules and expectations do good schools have? How do good schools motivate students? How important are student activities like sports, drama, music, debating, awards nights, and cheerleading? What part does administration play in a good school? What are the goals of good schools? What kinds of things happen in a good school? What kind of communication is there? How can I contribute? What part do parents play in helping a “good school” be good? You’ll get suggestions of who and what to read on the subject of “good schools” and I hope you’ll ask questions.
Jim Nelson is a retired teacher/ administrator from School district #43 (Coquitlam). Jim has a B.P.E. (English major) from U.B.C., teacher training from S.F.U. P.D.P, and a Masters of Arts in Educational Administration from San Diego State University ( go Aztecs!). Mr. Nelson spent his 35-year career in Coquitlam schools. He taught junior and senior high school P.E. and English. He was a school counsellor, coached football, basketball, and rugby at all secondary levels. Jim served as a vice principal of secondary schools (Mary Hill, Centennial, Pinetree, and Charles Best) and as Principal of Montgomery Middle school. Mr. Nelson is currently retired, a bit of a snowbird, and writing a weekly column in the Tri –City News, Coquitlam’s local newspaper, where his sometimes-provocative ideas stir up controversy on local, provincial, and national issues. Married to a retired Coquitlam high school counsellor, Jim has a daughter and a son, both high school teachers in School district #43. Prepare to see him clad in an Hawaiian shirt... it’s a bit of a uniform.
Teaching Internationally: Work & Life (Lisa Starr)
Day: Sunday 11:45 - 12:40pm
Target Audience: Student Teachers and Teachers
Lisa will be talking about perspectives on teaching internationally, the ins and outs of the job search and the challenges of life/work balance.
Bio to come
Vendors and Information Booths
Compost Society
Society for Students with Disabilities
Society for Students with Disabilities