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BTC 2026 - Calgary
WELCOME TO THE 2026 CALGARY BEGINNING TEACHERS’ CONFERENCE!

Teachers new to the profession are invited to attend the 2026 Beginning Teachers’ Conference, October 2-3, Best Western Premier Calgary Plaza Hotel & Conference Centre, Calgary. There is no registration fee. Space is limited; apply early.

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

Teachers in charter, federal and private schools must be associate members of the Association to be eligible to attend the Beginning Teachers Conference.
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Friday, October 2
 

7:30am MDT

REGISTRATION
Friday October 2, 2026 7:30am - 8:45am MDT

Friday October 2, 2026 7:30am - 8:45am MDT
  Registration

7:45am MDT

BREAKFAST
Friday October 2, 2026 7:45am - 8:45am MDT
Plaza 1
Friday October 2, 2026 7:45am - 8:45am MDT
Plaza 1
  Meals & Breaks

7:45am MDT

REFLECTION/QUIET SPACE
Friday October 2, 2026 7:45am - Saturday October 3, 2026 3:15pm MDT
Rundle

Friday October 2, 2026 7:45am - Saturday October 3, 2026 3:15pm MDT
Rundle

8:45am MDT

CONFERENCE KICK OFF AND WELCOME
Friday October 2, 2026 8:45am - 9:00am MDT
Plaza 1

Friday October 2, 2026 8:45am - 9:00am MDT
Plaza 1
  Plenary Sessions

9:00am MDT

WELCOME FROM THE PRESIDENT
Friday October 2, 2026 9:00am - 9:15am MDT
Plaza 1

Friday October 2, 2026 9:00am - 9:15am MDT
Plaza 1
  Plenary Sessions

9:15am MDT

YOUR ASSOCIATION AND YOU: THINGS EVERY BEGINNING TEACHER SHOULD KNOW
Friday October 2, 2026 9:15am - 10:00am MDT
Plaza 1
Please submit your questions at www.menti.com and use code 8870 1164. If your question isn't answered during this session, you can find the answer during the social question and answer time at 4 pm today or you can call 1-800-332-1280 and ask to speak to an ATA staff officer.

Panelists:
  • Professional Development – Nancy Luyckfassel
  • Teacher Employment Services – Genevieve Blais
  • Government – Dr. Elissa Corsi
Friday October 2, 2026 9:15am - 10:00am MDT
Plaza 1
  Plenary Sessions

10:00am MDT

BREAK
Friday October 2, 2026 10:00am - 10:15am MDT

Friday October 2, 2026 10:00am - 10:15am MDT
  Meals & Breaks

10:15am MDT

Your First Year EdTech Toolbox (K-12)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Pineridge
Limited Capacity seats available
Starting your teaching career can feel overwhelming, especially when trying to navigate the endless number of educational technology tools available today. This session is designed specifically for new teachers who want practical, classroom-ready tools without spending hours learning complicated platforms. Participants will explore a curated collection of high-impact digital tools that support the core responsibilities of teaching, including lesson planning, classroom organization, communication, assessment, feedback, content creation, and student engagement. Rather than focusing on technology for technology's sake, this session emphasizes how digital tools can save time, reduce workload, and enhance learning experiences for students. Through demonstrations, classroom examples, and opportunities to explore tools firsthand, attendees will discover how to build an efficient and sustainable digital workflow that works across grade levels and subject areas. Participants will leave with a collection of ready-to-use resources, implementation ideas, and practical strategies they can immediately apply in their own classrooms.
Speakers
LH
Friday October 2, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Pineridge
  CTS/CTF, Division I, II, III and IV |   Technology in the Classroom, Division I, II, III and IV

10:15am MDT

Art Games for Mental Health in the Language Classroom (K-12)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Plaza 3
Limited Capacity seats available
This workshop explores the integration of art-based games to support mental health while fostering language learning. Participants will discover creative, interactive activities that reduce anxiety, build resilience, and enhance communication in the classroom. Drawing from principles of social-emotional learning, trauma-informed practices, and art therapy, this session will equip educators with practical tools to create a safe and engaging environment for students
Speakers
MH
Friday October 2, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Plaza 3
  English Language Arts, Division I, II, III and IV |   Inclusion, Division I, II, III and IV

10:15am MDT

The Power of Connection in Early Learning Classrooms (K-3)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Plaza 5
Limited Capacity seats available
Beginning teachers often enter the classroom focused on routines, curriculum, and classroom management strategies, yet one of the most powerful influences on student success is frequently overlooked: relationship and connection. This session explores how meaningful relationships with students create the foundation for regulation, engagement, belonging, and learning. Participants will reflect on the ways connection impacts behaviour, emotional safety, and readiness to learn, while leaving with practical strategies to build trust, foster co-regulation, and create responsive classroom environments where all students can thrive.
Speakers
MC

Meghan Clark Jamieson

Science Council
Meghan has been an early year's educator for over twenty years with the CBE. She believes that all children have the right to a rich and engaging school experience. Most recently, Meghan has been a Kindergarten teacher at a science alternative school in Calgary where field studies... Read More →
Friday October 2, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Plaza 5
  English Language Learners, Division I |   Inclusion, Division I

10:15am MDT

Curriculum 101 : Une trousse d’outils pour enseignants débutants (K-12)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Temple
Limited Capacity seats available
Cette séance vous aidera à naviguer le curriculum de l’Alberta ainsi que nouveau LearnAlberta. Découvrez comment le curriculum est organisé pour soutenir la planification, et où trouver des ressources et des appuis d’apprentissage et d’enseignement de haute qualité sur Nouveau LearnAlberta. Vous en repartirez avec des conseils pratiques, des outils utiles et une meilleure compréhension de la manière de planifier des expériences d’apprentissage en toute confiance.

Speakers
AE
Friday October 2, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Temple
  French, Division I, II, III and IV |   Hot Topics for Professionals, Division I, II, III and IV

10:15am MDT

AI Tools to Amplify Your Professionalism and Save Time (K–12)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Plaza 2
Limited Capacity seats available
Artificial Intelligence chatbots and tools are emerging as powerful supports for teachers and can generate lesson plans, teaching content, assessment materials, and more! With this potential also comes a professional responsibility to use these tools thoughtfully, ethically and critically. In this hands-on session, we will explore the professional use of AI tools which can help save you valuable time so you can focus more deeply on your students' needs. We will share a process for generating, evaluating, applying, and reflecting on the materials generated which keeps you in the drivers' seat as the designer of incredible learning experiences as professionals while at the same time allowing you to be more efficient in your daily work life.  Ready to revolutionize your teaching? Join our workshop on AI tools that go beyond traditional lesson planning. Explore how generative AI can create personalized content, assessments, and more. We’ll guide you through a process that balances efficiency with creativity, ensuring you remain the architect of exceptional learning experiences. Plus, let’s delve into professional considerations—because AI is not just about algorithms; it’s about impact.
Speakers
avatar for Tiff Pino

Tiff Pino

Executive Staff Officer, Professional Development, The Alberta Teachers' Association
Tiff Pino (she/her) is an Executive Staff Officer of Professional Development for the Alberta Teachers' Association. With 20 years of experience as an educator in Edmonton Catholic Schools, she has taught a variety of subjects from grades 7-12 in traditional and outreach settings... Read More →
Friday October 2, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Plaza 2
  Hot Topics for Professionals, Division I, II, III and IV

10:15am MDT

From Screening to Support: What Every New Teacher Needs to Know (K-12)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Whitehorn
Limited Capacity seats available
Learn the basics of literacy and numeracy screening, where to find resources, and how to turn results into action.
Speakers
AE
Friday October 2, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Whitehorn
  Hot Topics for Professionals, Division I Division II Division III Division IV

10:15am MDT

How Teachers Get Paid (K–12)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Garden Court 1
Limited Capacity seats available

Speakers
T
Friday October 2, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Garden Court 1
  Hot Topics for Professionals, Division I Division II Division III Division IV

10:15am MDT

Making with Your ATA Library (K-12)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Garden Court 2
Limited Capacity seats available
In this hands-on session, you’ll learn to use a button-maker, transfer an image in heat-transfer vinyl to a bandana using a heat press, and make paper flowers cut with a Silhouette machine. Want to borrow these machines from the library? We’ll cover that too! And we’ll tell you about some of the other awesome things your library has for you.
Speakers
SA
Friday October 2, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Garden Court 2
  Hot Topics for Professionals, Division I Division II Division III Division IV

10:15am MDT

Belonging Starts with YOU! Creating Inclusive Classrooms for Every Student (K-12)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Deerfoot
Limited Capacity seats available
Creating an inclusive classroom is not about following a checklist—it's about fostering a learning community where every student feels seen, valued, and respected. Through discussion, reflection, and interactive activities, participants will explore how their own identities influence their teaching while considering how to create classrooms that honour students' diverse cultural, religious, sexual, and gender identities. Participants will also be introduced to Alberta Teachers' Association resources and Diversity and Equity Networks that support inclusive teaching and provide opportunities for ongoing professional learning and connection. This session invites you to see inclusion as a lifelong professional practice rooted in reflection, curiousity and a commitment to ensuring every student belongs. 
Speakers
avatar for Andrea Berg

Andrea Berg

Associate Coordinator, Professional Development, Alberta Teachers' Association

Friday October 2, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Deerfoot
  Hot Topics for Professionals, Division I Division II Division III Division IV |   Inclusion, Division I Division II Division III Division IV

10:15am MDT

Being in Good Relations - An Introduction to Cultural Protocols (K–12)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Horizons Ballroom
Limited Capacity seats available
Join this introductory workshop to learn more about Cultural Protocols for engaging with Indigenous ways of knowing, being and doing. Rather than a "prescriptive guide" or a "checklist of dos and don'ts", this conversation-based workshop is an opportunity to be introduced to foundational concepts for developing and strengthening relationships with Indigenous Peoples and Indigenous systems of knowledge.
Speakers
DL

Diane Litman

Indigenous Education PD Facilitator, The Alberta Teachers' Association
Friday October 2, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Horizons Ballroom
  Indigenous Education, Division I, II, III and IV

10:15am MDT

Building Confidence Through Numeracy Routines: Creating Safe and Engaging Math Classrooms (K-12)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Plaza 1
Limited Capacity seats available
This interactive session explores how purposeful numeracy routines can build student confidence, strengthen mathematical thinking, and create positive classroom culture in Grades K–12. Participants will experience a variety of practical, low-prep routines that encourage communication, reasoning, flexibility in thinking, and student engagement while supporting diverse learners. The session will also examine the impact of math trauma and anxiety, highlighting how predictable and low-risk instructional structures can help students rebuild confidence and develop a healthier mathematical identity. Educators will leave with ready-to-use routines, implementation strategies, and ideas for embedding meaningful numeracy conversations into everyday classroom practice.
Speakers
PS
Friday October 2, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Plaza 1
  Mathematics; Inclusion, Division I, II, III and IV

10:15am MDT

Less Prep, More Purpose: Literacy-rich Strategies for Alberta's New Social Studies Curriculum (4-6)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Plaza 4
Limited Capacity seats available
Beginning teachers gain confidence when they have a small set of reliable, interleaved strategies that make the new Alberta social studies curriculum feel manageable instead of overwhelming. By embedding close reading, annotation, and vocabulary routines into everyday lessons, teachers can help students tackle complex sources, build disciplinary language, and think more critically, without dramatically increasing planning time. In this interactive session, participants will experience and adapt practical, low-prep literacy routines specifically tailored to Alberta's new social studies outcomes, with a focus on sustainability and teacher well-being. Educators will leave with ready-to-use templates, sample activities, and planning moves they can implement immediately, so they feel more confident, better organized, and less at risk of burnout as they launch their careers.
Speakers
AT
Friday October 2, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Plaza 4
  Social Studies, Division II |   English Language Arts, Division II

11:30am MDT

LUNCH
Friday October 2, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm MDT
Premier
Friday October 2, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm MDT
Premier
  Meals & Breaks

12:30pm MDT

Du dépistage à l’intervention : ce qu’il faut savoir pour bien commencer en enseignement
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Temple
Limited Capacity seats available
Familiarisez-vous avec les dépistages en littératie et en numératie, les ressources disponibles et les façons d’utiliser les résultats pour orienter vos interventions et soutenir les apprentissages des enfants et des élèves.
Speakers
AE
Friday October 2, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Temple
  French, Division I, II, III and IV |   Hot Topics for Professionals, Division I, II, III and IV

12:30pm MDT

Executive Function—Essential Skills for Deep Learning and Emotional Regulation (K–12)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Pineridge
Limited Capacity seats available
Executive function skills are critical for success both within the school environment and in our lives outside of school. While we are born with the capacity for executive function, these skills need to be modeled, coached, and practiced over the course of our lifetimes if we are to become self-regulated, organized, and collaborative learners. Join us as we explore fundamental knowledge, skills and strategies that support students in developing their executive function. Through this workshop, we will explore executive function skills and development, opportunities to explicitly teach executive function skills, and executive function strength training strategies.
Speakers
EE

Erinn Esau

ATA Learning Facilitator, The Alberta Teachers' Association
Friday October 2, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Pineridge
  Hot Topics for Professionals, Division I, II, III and IV

12:30pm MDT

Modernizing Provincial Assessments: Alberta’s Digital Assessment Platform (K-12)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Whitehorn
Limited Capacity seats available
Provincial Assessment’s digital assessment team will provide an overview of the platform, including the teacher dashboard, the student user interface, built-in tools and accommodations, and more.
Speakers
AE
Friday October 2, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Whitehorn
  Hot Topics for Professionals

12:30pm MDT

Teacher Safety Net—Your Entitlements, Your Protection! (K-12)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Garden Court 1
Limited Capacity seats available

Speakers
T
Friday October 2, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Garden Court 1
  Hot Topics for Professionals, Division I Division II Division III Division IV

12:30pm MDT

Less Overwhelm, More Impact: High-Yield Universally Designed Strategies for Real Classrooms (K-12)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Plaza 5
Limited Capacity seats available
A few weeks or months into your new teaching career, are you wondering how you're going to get 'all the things' done and still deliver quality teaching and learning to your students? Does it seem like everyone expects you to meet the needs of EVERY student in your classroom EVERY day, i.e. to do the seemingly impossible? Then this is the session for you. In this session you'll learn about high-impact universal supports that reduce planning, teaching, assessment, and reporting strain; support inclusive classrooms; and provide deep learning opportunities for students across K–12 settings. Come and rid your 'backpack' of almost everything but the most high yield/lower prep teaching tools and protocols, in order to become the most nimble (and better rested!) teacher you can be!
Speakers
CW
Friday October 2, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Plaza 5
  Inclusion, Division I Division II Division III Division IV |   Teacher Wellness, Division I Division II Division III Division IV |   Technology in the Classroom, Division I Division II Division III Division IV

12:30pm MDT

Culturally Responsive Teaching—Fostering Inclusive Classrooms (K–12)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Garden Court 2
Limited Capacity seats available
This workshop explores approaches for examining beliefs, attitudes, policies, structures and practices to enable schools to effectively work cross-culturally. Participants will begin to learn how to develop a greater capacity to engage in cultural self-assessment and become more conscious of the dynamics of intercultural interactions.
Speakers
avatar for Uroog Quraishi

Uroog Quraishi

ATA Learning Facilitator, The Alberta Teachers' Association
Friday October 2, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Garden Court 2
  Inclusive Education, Division I Division II Division III Division IV

12:30pm MDT

Engaging in Numeracy and Connections through First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Traditional Games (K-12)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Horizons Ballroom
Limited Capacity seats available
Did you know that First Nations, Métis, and Inuit traditional games are great ways to make connections to numeracy? Traditional games can provide entry points to deeper understanding of Indigenous ways of knowing and further connections to the land. Get ready to learn about resources for First Nations, Métis, and Inuit traditional games and how to create authentic learning experiences.
Speakers
TE
IE
Friday October 2, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Horizons Ballroom
  Indigenous Education, Division I, II, III and IV

12:30pm MDT

Supporting Struggling Mathematics Students with Evidence Based Pedagogy (1-8)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Plaza 3
Limited Capacity seats available
Mathematics achievement has quality of life implications for students who struggle with mathematics and/or have a diagnosed mathematics learning disability. As grade 1-8 educators, we must fully understand the barriers these students must overcome in learning mathematics and the effective practices that can be enacted to better support them. In this session, we off the results of our research on evidence-based intervention strategies that support students who struggles with mathematics. We will discuss the role of explicit instruction related to number sense along with automaticity and fluency. In addition, we will discuss how strategies such as manipulatives, visual representations and schema-based instruction are supporting elements within explicit instruction.
Speakers
JS
TB

Tanya Braybrook

Council for Inclusive Education
Friday October 2, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Plaza 3
  Mathematics, Division I, II, III |   Inclusion, Division I, II, III

12:30pm MDT

The Power of the Science Journal: Reflection, Practice, and Deeper Learning (7-12)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Plaza 4
Limited Capacity seats available
In this session, teachers will explore the structure, purpose, and practical use of science journals in the secondary science classroom. Designed to support Assessment for Learning practices and meaningful FNMI connections, these journals serve as both a guided home study resource and a portfolio of student learning that can be shared with parents and guardians during conferences. Session participants will view student exemplars and leave with practical tools to begin developing science journals for their own classrooms. Teachers will receive ready-to-use templates, handouts, strategies, and ideas that can be implemented immediately in diverse learning environments. While Science 9 and 10 examples will be featured, the resources and approaches shared can be adapted across a variety of secondary subject areas. If you value student organization, accountability, pride in learning, and strong study habits, this session is for you!
Speakers
avatar for Erin Montgomery

Erin Montgomery

Secondary Science Teacher, Elk Island Catholic Schools
Erin is a veteran Secondary Science Teacher with Elk Island Catholic Schools in Sherwood Park, AB. She currently teaches Science 9 & 10 but has also taught Gr. 5-8 Science over her 20-year career. She holds a Master's Degree in Secondary Science Education in Assessment and Resource... Read More →
Friday October 2, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Plaza 4
  Science, Division III and IV |   Indigenous Education, Division III and IV

12:30pm MDT

Teaching Computer Science and Computational Thinking in Any Classroom (4-9)
FULL
Friday October 2, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Deerfoot
Limited Capacity full
Computer science and computational thinking are becoming increasingly important components of K–12 education, yet many teachers are unsure where to begin. This hands-on session introduces educators to a collection of accessible, classroom-ready tools that can be used to teach coding, problem solving, creativity, and computational thinking across subject areas. Participants will explore free resources from Code.org, visual programming through Scratch, and constructionist learning approaches using LEGO Robotics. The session will highlight practical classroom examples, curriculum connections, and strategies for implementation with students of varying experience levels. Attendees will leave with lesson ideas, resource links, and a clear pathway for introducing computer science concepts into their own teaching practice.
Speakers
avatar for Quinn McCashin

Quinn McCashin

Educator, University Of Alberta
Quinn McCashin is a Doctoral student in the Faculty of Education, University of Alberta. He previously worked as a high school science and math teacher in Edmonton, Alberta and most recently completed his Master of Education in the field of educational technology.
Friday October 2, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Deerfoot
  Science, Division II and III |   Technology in the Classroom, Division II and III

12:30pm MDT

Navigating the New K–6 Social Studies Curriculum
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Plaza 1
Limited Capacity seats available
Feeling overwhelmed by the new K–6 Social Studies curriculum? Together, we will unpack the curriculum, explore the foundations of quality social studies learning developed by the ATA Social Studies Council, and examine practical frameworks that can guide planning and instruction. Participants will leave with access to curated book lists, teacher created resources (no need to purchase worksheet bundles!), project ideas and assessment experiences, and connections to organizations, field trips, and educational learning partners that can bring social studies to life in the classroom. Whether you are searching for engaging cross-curricular inquiry opportunities, rich assessment ideas, or simply wondering where to begin, this session will help you navigate the curriculum with greater confidence.
Speakers
avatar for Jen Perry

Jen Perry

Social Studies Council
Hey there! I am the CCSD Elementary Social Studies Consultant. Come chat with me about all things new social studies curriculum implementation. I’m also the Calgary President of the ATA Social Studies Council & am eager to connect with K-12 social studies teachers to share resources... Read More →
Friday October 2, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Plaza 1
  Social Studies, Division I, Division II |   English Language Arts, Division I, Division II |   Indigenous, Division I, Division II

12:30pm MDT

AI Tools to Make Teacher Life Easier (K-12)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Plaza 2
Limited Capacity seats available
Keeping up with the latest AI tools can feel like a full-time job and the tools change quickly, but our purpose in using them as teachers hasn't changed. Are you wondering which one is worth using, which ones we should be using, and which ones are really just wrappers that don't offer much value? This session has you covered! Join Darren as he walks through all the best AI tools currently available for teachers and how you can use them! Increase your awesome and learn how AI infused tools can make your work easier, more effective, more engaging, and less stressful.
Speakers
DM
Friday October 2, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Plaza 2
  Technology in the Classroom, Division I, II, III and IV

1:45pm MDT

BREAK
Friday October 2, 2026 1:45pm - 2:00pm MDT

Friday October 2, 2026 1:45pm - 2:00pm MDT
  Meals & Breaks

2:00pm MDT

Accessibility Tools to Help Differentiate for All Students (K-9)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Plaza 2
Limited Capacity seats available
Assistive tools for students have never been better and they get more exciting all the time! There are several tools that ALL students can use on Chromebooks to help them become better readers, writers, and learners in general. There are also so many ways that teachers can create and use resources that can reach every student. This session will help you address the diverse needs you will encounter in your classroom. We will look at the built-in accessibility features of Chromebooks, tools in Google Classroom to help with reading some features of Read&Write, how to adapt texts, assessments, and activities and ,most importantly, how to engage every student in multiple ways including English Language Learners.
Speakers
DM
Friday October 2, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Plaza 2
  English Language Arts; English Language Learners; Inclusion; Technology in the Classroom, Division I, II, III

2:00pm MDT

Rhythmic Fun: Engaging Elementary Music Students with Hand Clapping Games (K-6)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Plaza 1
Limited Capacity seats available
Elementary music teachers, dive into the rhythm of hand clapping games in this interactive session. Explore how to weave these fun activities into your lessons, drawing from playground traditions and youth culture. Get ready to clap, stomp, and bring the playground spirit to your music room!
Speakers
LW

Lorna Walker

Fine Arts Council
avatar for Connie Ohlman

Connie Ohlman

Web Manager, Fine Arts Council
Friday October 2, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Plaza 1
  Fine Arts, Division I, Division II

2:00pm MDT

Les techniques d'impact en classe: de la théorie à la pratique. (K-9)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Temple
Limited Capacity seats available
Les techniques d'impact sont des interventions pédagogiques brèves qui utilisent des objets, des images, des mouvements ou des métaphores pour rendre un concept abstrait concret et mémorable. Plutôt que de miser uniquement sur le langage verbal, elles sollicitent les sens et les émotions de l'élève pour créer un "choc" visuel ou cognitif. On peut l'utiliser pour la gestion de classe, dans l'ancrage des connaissances, dans la gestion socio-émotionnelle et bien plus encore.
Speakers
avatar for Annie Jacques

Annie Jacques

Le Conseil français
Originaire de Montréal, Annie Jacques détient un baccalauréat en enseignement préscolaire et primaire. Déménagée à Calgary il y a une vingtaine d'années, elle enseigne au primaire pour le Conseil Scolaire Francosud. Elle cherche constamment de nouvelles stratégies pour développer... Read More →
Friday October 2, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Temple
  French, Division I, II, III |   Second Languages; Inclusion, Division I, II, III

2:00pm MDT

Complaints Happen: A Friendly Guide to the Code of Professional Conduct and Strategies for Success in the Teaching Profession (K-12)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Garden Court 1
Limited Capacity seats available
Join us for a session that outlines requirements for teachers found in the Code of Professional Conduct and the Teaching Quality Standard. This session will provide scenarios, trends and advice for you and will provide clarity as you start your career.
Speakers
AS
Friday October 2, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Garden Court 1
  Hot Topics for Professionals, Division I Division II Division III Division IV

2:00pm MDT

CSI: Learning - What Every Teacher Needs to Know About Assessment (K-12)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Garden Court 2
Limited Capacity seats available
Great teachers are educational detectives. Every day, students leave clues about what they know, understand, and can do, but learning is often invisible unless we know where to look. In this session, participants will explore practical assessment strategies that work across grade levels and subject areas. Grounded in the research of Black and Wiliam, McTighe, Shepard, Sadler, Brookhart, and Hattie, this session will help teachers move beyond grades and discover how assessment can be one of the most powerful tools for informing teaching and improving learning. 
Speakers
avatar for Leanne Watson

Leanne Watson

Executive Staff Officer, Teacher Employment Services, ATA
Leanne Watson is an Executive Staff Officer for Teacher Employment Services with the Alberta Teachers’ Association. Leanne's previous roles include teacher, former K – 12 Administrator, School Improvement Coach and AAC casual consultant. Leanne’s commitment to enhancing educational... Read More →
Friday October 2, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Garden Court 2
  Hot Topics for Professionals, Division I, II, III and IV

2:00pm MDT

Curriculum 101: A Beginning Teacher’s Toolkit (K-12)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Whitehorn
Limited Capacity seats available
This session will help you navigate Alberta's curriculum and New LearnAlberta. Learn how curriculum is organized, how to identify what students need to know, understand and be able to do, and where to find high-quality learning and teaching resources and supports on New LearnAlberta. You'll leave with practical tips, useful tools, and a clearer understanding of how to plan learning experiences with confidence.

Speakers
AE
Friday October 2, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Whitehorn
  Hot Topics for Professionals

2:00pm MDT

Success in the Middle Years (4-9)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Plaza 4
Limited Capacity seats available
Middle school teachers are unique in their ability to connect with students during a crucial period of growth. In this session, we'll draw on the Guide to Middle Years Education in Alberta to better understand the needs of young adolescents and how to respond to them in meaningful ways. You'll walk away with practical, ready-to-use strategies to strengthen relationships, make learning meanignful, and create a classroom environment where students thrive and teachers survive.
Speakers
avatar for Marissa Gillespie

Marissa Gillespie

Calgary Area Representative, Middle Years Council
Marissa has been a middle years teacher for the last seventeen years with the Calgary Board of Education. She specializes in French Immersion Humanities and has taught many subjects as well as grades in the middle years. She is passionate about language learning and cross curricular... Read More →
Friday October 2, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Plaza 4
  Inclusion; Teacher Wellness, Division II, III

2:00pm MDT

Our Shared History, Our Shared Future—A Brief Introduction to Treaties (K-12)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Deerfoot
Limited Capacity seats available
This introductory workshop will explore historical and contemporary information and resources relating to numbered treaties within present-day Alberta. Educators will build their understanding of the acknowledgement of land and people, as well as our shared responsibilities to the land and each other. Participants will engage in dialogue and reflect on their professional learning in order to build capacity in treaty education.
Speakers
VM

Valerie McDougall

Indigenous Education PD Facilitator, The Alberta Teachers' Association
Friday October 2, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Deerfoot
  Indigenous Education, Division I Division II Division III Division IV

2:00pm MDT

Exploring the "Essential 6" in a Mathematics Lesson (K-6)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Plaza 5
Limited Capacity seats available
What are the key elements of any mathematics lesson? Join us as we explore the "Essential 6"—a framework designed to support effective mathematics lesson planning. This interactive session will model key mathematical concepts, incorporate open-ended questioning techniques, and demonstrate cooperative learning strategies. We will also work with math manipulatives, engaging math games, and valuable numeracy resources to enhance student learning. Participants will receive a comprehensive handout outlining essential considerations and resources for mathematics teaching. Get ready to elevate your teaching and inspire mathematical thinking in your classroom!
Speakers
avatar for Lorelei Boschman

Lorelei Boschman

Mathematics Council
Lorelei is a mathematics and pre-service teacher educator and has taught for over 37 years. Currently she is Chair of Education at Medicine Hat College and facilitates the 4 year B.Ed program through Mount Royal University. Making mathematics achievable for all and building into... Read More →
Friday October 2, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Plaza 5
  Mathematics, Division I Division II

2:00pm MDT

Student Led Learning with 5 Minute Field Trips—How to make time for fun and games in any classroom! (K–12)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Horizons Ballroom
Limited Capacity seats available
Who doesn’t enjoy playing games and running activities with their classes? As teachers and instructors, these games and activities can not only be the highlight of a student’s day in school but serve meaningful and powerful purposes behind the scenes. Team building activities help create positive group norms, foster a sense of community and inclusive social climates, and get work done in fun, cooperative ways. Without even knowing, when classes take part in these activities, they are teaching risk management, basic skill development, impart knowledge and allow for a meaningful wellness break. Skilled instructors will know that these skills are often accomplished all at the same time, without the participants (students) even knowing that they are learning it! We will go through a variety of games, activities and resources to get your students outdoors, active and leading the way! Why wait for a PE class that might only be a few days a week!
Speakers
avatar for Court Rustemeyer

Court Rustemeyer

President, Global, Environmental & Outdoor Education Council

For almost 20 years, Court Rustemeyer has been inspiring youth and educators to connect with nature through daily exploration and adventure. A passionate advocate for outdoor learning, he creates opportunities for leadership, resilience, and stewardship through immersive experiences... Read More →
Friday October 2, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Horizons Ballroom
  Physical Education, Division I, II, III and IV |   Outdoor Education, Division I, II, III and IV

2:00pm MDT

Bringing Science Fiction into Science Classes (4-12)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Plaza 3
Limited Capacity seats available
Sometimes engagement in science classes can be something that we struggle to get across all of our students in a science classroom. So how can science fiction (and superheroes, who are arguably a subset within science fiction) brought into your class help out? In this session, Nate Siler, who has taught science at the middle school, high school, and post-secondary levels will look at many various ways that a wide array of science fiction (and superheroes) can be brought into your science classrooms to re-engage those students whose interest sometimes seems to be lost.
Speakers
NS
Friday October 2, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Plaza 3
  Science, Division II, III and IV

2:00pm MDT

Bringing the K-6 Computer Science Curriculum to Life
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Pineridge
Limited Capacity seats available
Computer Science is now embedded throughout Alberta's K–6 Science curriculum, but many teachers are unsure where to begin. This session is designed specifically for new teachers who want practical, low-prep ways to bring computer science and computational thinking into their classrooms. Participants will explore what computer science looks like across the elementary grades and discover classroom-ready activities that require little to no prior experience. Through demonstrations, lesson ideas, and examples from real classrooms, attendees will learn how concepts such as algorithms, coding, debugging, pattern recognition, and computational thinking can be taught through both unplugged and digital activities. The session will highlight accessible tools and resources such as Scratch, MakeCode, micro:bit, Minecraft Education, robotics, and unplugged learning experiences while emphasizing practical implementation strategies that fit within a busy teacher's schedule. Participants will leave with a collection of ready-to-use activities, resources, and increased confidence to begin integrating computer science learning into their classrooms immediately.
Speakers
LH
Friday October 2, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Pineridge
  Science; Technology in the Classroom, Division I, Division II

3:15pm MDT

BREAK
Friday October 2, 2026 3:15pm - 3:30pm MDT

Friday October 2, 2026 3:15pm - 3:30pm MDT
  Meals & Breaks

3:30pm MDT

Calgary Public—Your Representatives and You (Mandatory)
Friday October 2, 2026 3:30pm - 4:15pm MDT
Plaza 1
We’re thrilled to have you join us for this session where you’ll have the opportunity to meet and engage directly with your representatives. This is your moment to connect, ask questions and share insights.


Attendance and sign-in for Grant-In-Aid (GIA) to your local.
Locals
CP
Friday October 2, 2026 3:30pm - 4:15pm MDT
Plaza 1
  Hot Topics for Professionals

3:30pm MDT

Calgary Separate—Your Representatives and You (Mandatory)
Friday October 2, 2026 3:30pm - 4:15pm MDT
Plaza 3
We’re thrilled to have you join us for this session where you’ll have the opportunity to meet and engage directly with your representatives. This is your moment to connect, ask questions and share insights.

Attendance and sign-in for Grant-In-Aid (GIA) to your local.
Locals
CS
Friday October 2, 2026 3:30pm - 4:15pm MDT
Plaza 3
  Hot Topics for Professionals

3:30pm MDT

Central and Central South—Your Representatives and You (Mandatory)
Friday October 2, 2026 3:30pm - 4:15pm MDT
Garden Court 1
We’re thrilled to have you join us for this session where you’ll have the opportunity to meet and engage directly with your representatives. This is your moment to connect, ask questions and share insights.

Attendance and sign-in for Grant-In-Aid (GIA) to your local.


Locals
BG
CE
CT
LD
RD
RD
ST
TL
WL
WC
Friday October 2, 2026 3:30pm - 4:15pm MDT
Garden Court 1
  Hot Topics for Professionals

3:30pm MDT

South Central Rockies—Your Representatives and You (Mandatory)
Friday October 2, 2026 3:30pm - 4:15pm MDT
Plaza 4
We’re thrilled to have you join us for this session where you’ll have the opportunity to meet and engage directly with your representatives. This is your moment to connect, ask questions and share insights.

Attendance and sign-in for Grant-In-Aid (GIA) to your local.
Locals
CR
CT
FL
RV
Friday October 2, 2026 3:30pm - 4:15pm MDT
Plaza 4
  Hot Topics for Professionals

3:30pm MDT

South East—Your Representatives and You (Mandatory)
Friday October 2, 2026 3:30pm - 4:15pm MDT
Garden Court 2
We’re thrilled to have you join us for this session where you’ll have the opportunity to meet and engage directly with your representatives. This is your moment to connect, ask questions and share insights.

Attendance and sign-in for Grant-In-Aid (GIA) to your local.
Locals
GL
MH
MH
PR
PL
TD
Friday October 2, 2026 3:30pm - 4:15pm MDT
Garden Court 2
  Hot Topics for Professionals

3:30pm MDT

South West—Your Representatives and You (Mandatory)
Friday October 2, 2026 3:30pm - 4:15pm MDT
Plaza 5
We’re thrilled to have you join us for this session where you’ll have the opportunity to meet and engage directly with your representatives. This is your moment to connect, ask questions and share insights.

Attendance and sign-in for Grant-In-Aid (GIA) to your local.
Locals
HS
HL
LP
LR
PL
WL
Friday October 2, 2026 3:30pm - 4:15pm MDT
Plaza 5
  Hot Topics for Professionals

4:00pm MDT

SOCIAL
Friday October 2, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Premier
Social, Just-In-Time Talks and Draw Prize

Just-in-Time Sessions include:
Beginning Teachers Network
Teacher Qualification Service
Collective Bargaining and Contracts
Friday October 2, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Premier
  Q & A

6:00pm MDT

BTC #LevelUp Social with the Educational Technology Council
Friday October 2, 2026 6:00pm - 9:00pm MDT
Garden Court 2
When: 7:00-9:00PM
Where: Best Western Premier Calgary Plaza Hotel & Conference Centre in the Garden Court 2
RSVP: https://bit.ly/BTCCalgary

ETCATA Beginner Teachers Social 🎉
Keep the conference momentum going by joining ETCATA for an engaging evening at the Best Western Premier Calgary Plaza Hotel & Conference Centre in the Garden Court 2!

Connect with fellow educators in a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere while enjoying delicious (FREE) food, great conversation, and hands-on technology demos. Explore the latest trends in educational technology, discover practical tools you can bring back to your classroom, and exchange ideas with others.

Whether you're looking to grow your professional network, spark new classroom ideas, or simply unwind after a full day of learning, this social is the perfect opportunity to connect with like-minded educators and leave feeling inspired.
Come for the (FREE) food, and leave with fresh ideas, meaningful connections, and a growing community of educators!
Friday October 2, 2026 6:00pm - 9:00pm MDT
Garden Court 2
  Technology in the Classroom
 

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