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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.
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

7:45am MDT

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

7:45am MDT

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

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

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

9:00am MDT

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

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

9:15am MDT

YOUR ASSOCIATION AND YOU: THINGS EVERY BEGINNING TEACHER SHOULD KNOW
Friday October 2, 2026 9:15am - 10:00am MDT
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 LuyckfasselTeacher Employment Services – Genevieve BlaisGovernment –...
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Friday October 2, 2026 9:15am - 10:00am MDT
Plaza 1

10:00am MDT

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

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

10:15am MDT

Your First Year EdTech Toolbox (K-12)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
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...
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Speakers
Friday October 2, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Pineridge

10:15am MDT

Art Games for Mental Health in the Language Classroom (K-12)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
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...
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Speakers
Friday October 2, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Plaza 3

10:15am MDT

The Power of Connection in Early Learning Classrooms (K-3)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
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...
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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

10:15am MDT

Curriculum 101 : Une trousse d’outils pour enseignants débutants (K-12)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
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...
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Friday October 2, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Temple

10:15am MDT

AI Tools to Amplify Your Professionalism and Save Time (K–12)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
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...
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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

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
Limited Capacity seats available
Learn the basics of literacy and numeracy screening, where to find resources, and how to turn results into action.
Friday October 2, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Whitehorn

10:15am MDT

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

Speakers
Friday October 2, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Garden Court 1

10:15am MDT

Making with Your ATA Library (K-12)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
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
Friday October 2, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Garden Court 2

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
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,...
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Speakers
avatar for Andrea Berg

Andrea Berg

Associate Coordinator, Professional Development, Alberta Teachers' Association

Friday October 2, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Deerfoot

10:15am MDT

Being in Good Relations - An Introduction to Cultural Protocols (K–12)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
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...
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Speakers
DL

Diane Litman

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

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
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...
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Friday October 2, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Plaza 1

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
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...
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Speakers
Friday October 2, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Plaza 4

11:30am MDT

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

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
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.
Friday October 2, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Temple

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
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...
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Speakers
EE

Erinn Esau

ATA Learning Facilitator, The Alberta Teachers' Association
Friday October 2, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Pineridge

12:30pm MDT

Modernizing Provincial Assessments: Alberta’s Digital Assessment Platform (K-12)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
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.
Friday October 2, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Whitehorn

12:30pm MDT

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

Speakers
Friday October 2, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Garden Court 1

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
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...
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Speakers
Friday October 2, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Plaza 5

12:30pm MDT

Culturally Responsive Teaching—Fostering Inclusive Classrooms (K–12)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
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

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
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.
Friday October 2, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Horizons Ballroom

12:30pm MDT

Supporting Struggling Mathematics Students with Evidence Based Pedagogy (1-8)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
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...
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Speakers
TB

Tanya Braybrook

Council for Inclusive Education
Friday October 2, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Plaza 3

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
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...
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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

12:30pm MDT

Teaching Computer Science and Computational Thinking in Any Classroom (4-9)
FULL
Friday October 2, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
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...
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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

12:30pm MDT

Navigating the New K–6 Social Studies Curriculum
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
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...
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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

12:30pm MDT

AI Tools to Make Teacher Life Easier (K-12)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
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...
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Speakers
Friday October 2, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Plaza 2

1:45pm MDT

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

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

2:00pm MDT

Accessibility Tools to Help Differentiate for All Students (K-9)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
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...
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Speakers
Friday October 2, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Plaza 2

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
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

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
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...
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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

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
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.
Friday October 2, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Garden Court 1

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
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,...
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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

2:00pm MDT

Curriculum 101: A Beginning Teacher’s Toolkit (K-12)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
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...
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Friday October 2, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Whitehorn

2:00pm MDT

Success in the Middle Years (4-9)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
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,...
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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

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
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...
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Speakers
VM

Valerie McDougall

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

2:00pm MDT

Exploring the "Essential 6" in a Mathematics Lesson (K-6)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
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...
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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

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
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,...
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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

2:00pm MDT

Bringing Science Fiction into Science Classes (4-12)
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
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...
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Speakers
Friday October 2, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Plaza 3

2:00pm MDT

Bringing the K-6 Computer Science Curriculum to Life
LIMITED
Friday October 2, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
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...
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Speakers
Friday October 2, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Pineridge

3:15pm MDT

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

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

3:30pm MDT

Calgary Public—Your Representatives and You (Mandatory)
Friday October 2, 2026 3:30pm - 4:15pm MDT
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.
Friday October 2, 2026 3:30pm - 4:15pm MDT
Plaza 1

3:30pm MDT

Calgary Separate—Your Representatives and You (Mandatory)
Friday October 2, 2026 3:30pm - 4:15pm MDT
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.
Friday October 2, 2026 3:30pm - 4:15pm MDT
Plaza 3

3:30pm MDT

Central and Central South—Your Representatives and You (Mandatory)
Friday October 2, 2026 3:30pm - 4:15pm MDT
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.


Friday October 2, 2026 3:30pm - 4:15pm MDT
Garden Court 1

3:30pm MDT

South Central Rockies—Your Representatives and You (Mandatory)
Friday October 2, 2026 3:30pm - 4:15pm MDT
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.
Friday October 2, 2026 3:30pm - 4:15pm MDT
Plaza 4

3:30pm MDT

South East—Your Representatives and You (Mandatory)
Friday October 2, 2026 3:30pm - 4:15pm MDT
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.
Friday October 2, 2026 3:30pm - 4:15pm MDT
Garden Court 2

3:30pm MDT

South West—Your Representatives and You (Mandatory)
Friday October 2, 2026 3:30pm - 4:15pm MDT
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.
Friday October 2, 2026 3:30pm - 4:15pm MDT
Plaza 5

4:00pm MDT

SOCIAL
Friday October 2, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
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

6:00pm MDT

BTC #LevelUp Social with the Educational Technology Council
Friday October 2, 2026 6:00pm - 9:00pm MDT
When: 7:00-9:00PMWhere: Best Western Premier Calgary Plaza Hotel & Conference Centre in the Garden Court 2RSVP: https://bit.ly/BTCCalgaryETCATA 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...
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Friday October 2, 2026 6:00pm - 9:00pm MDT
Garden Court 2
 
Saturday, October 3
 

8:00am MDT

NETWORKING BREAKFAST/DISPLAYS
Saturday October 3, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am MDT
Saturday October 3, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am MDT
Premier

9:00am MDT

Effortless Assessment: Digital Rubrics for Creative Classrooms (7-12)
LIMITED
Saturday October 3, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Streamline assessment and enhance feedback in your classes. In this interactive session, you'll learn to design your own digital rubric in Google Classroom using your program of studies outcomes. These rubrics can then be used live during student performances and presentations saving time and paper while increasing marking efficiency. Most importantly, they offer students and parents transparent,...
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Speakers
Saturday October 3, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Garden Court 2

9:00am MDT

Hands-On Learning - PBL Gold Standard (4-12)
LIMITED
Saturday October 3, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Limited Capacity seats available
The Career and Technology Education Council will share successful and engaging proven tricks and tips to make your CTF/CTS Class effective, efficient and engaging for your students. Experienced CTF/CTS teachers will share integrated curricular projects, classroom procedures, project examples and assessment strategies that will streamline your workday and provide challenging and customized lessons...
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Speakers
avatar for Paul Bohnert

Paul Bohnert

Lead Teacher, Career and Technology Education Council
Innovation in Education has been Paul's passion and focus for the past 30 years. He has shared his classroom and educational experiences with more than 15,000 educators and pre-service teachers across North America speaking at regional, national and international conferences/workshops... Read More →
Saturday October 3, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Whitehorn

9:00am MDT

Practical Foundations for a Successful Primary Classroom (K-3)
LIMITED
Saturday October 3, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This session focuses on building classroom community through meaningful literacy experiences and social-emotional learning, fostering a strong sense of belonging.The session explores classroom routines, songs, and rhymes, along with mentor texts and activities that support reflection, relationship-building, and the development of writers. Attendees will also create their own plasticine art project...
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Saturday October 3, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Garden Court 1

9:00am MDT

Creating a Co-Regulating Classroom (K-9)
LIMITED
Saturday October 3, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Teachers understand the challenge of supporting students through big emotions. This session acknowledges that journey and offers a path forward rooted in the latest neuroscience. Inspired by the work of Stuart Shanker, Dr. Bruce Perry, Lori Desautels, and more, you'll learn how to proactively create a classroom environment that fosters co-regulation and resilience for all. Expect practical,...
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Speakers
avatar for Jennifer Lacourse

Jennifer Lacourse

Red Deer City, Teacher
Jennifer's extensive experience, ranging from K-12 classrooms to impactful roles within non-profit organizations, provides her with unparalleled insight into the transformative power of education for all people. A dedicated leader within the Alberta Teachers’ Association as the... Read More →
Saturday October 3, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Pineridge

9:00am MDT

Surviving Your First Five Years as a Music Teacher (K-12)
LIMITED
Saturday October 3, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Limited Capacity seats available
The first years of teaching music can feel exciting, overwhelming, exhausting, and inspiring all at once. This practical and encouraging session focuses on realistic strategies for classroom management, concert preparation, assessment, organization, and teacher wellness.
Speakers
avatar for Amanda Clark

Amanda Clark

Fine Arts Council
Saturday October 3, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Plaza 1

9:00am MDT

Création de BD numérique: Séquence d'enseignement clé en main pour travailler les inférences et l'implicite (4-9)
LIMITED
Saturday October 3, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Limited Capacity seats available
L'enseignement de l'implicite et des inférences, souvent difficile pour les élèves, peut se faire par le biais d'un projet créatif : la création de bandes dessinées numériques! Cette présentation a pour but de vous partager une séquence d'enseignement clé en main qui articule l'écriture scolaire, le développement de stratégies de lecture et la collaboration. Les enseignants...
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Saturday October 3, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Temple

9:00am MDT

Building Resilience Through Relationships - Tales from a School Counsellor (K-12)
LIMITED
Saturday October 3, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Limited Capacity seats available
After 18 years of school counselling, I've learned a few things along the way. Building relationships and connections with students, families and staff will help build resilience too.
Sometimes we need a reminder of how important fostering relationships really is in the educational setting.
Speakers
Saturday October 3, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Plaza 5

9:00am MDT

20 Strategies You Can Use on Monday! (K-12)
LIMITED
Saturday October 3, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Are you looking for no-prep and low-prep ways to engage your students? Join us for a dynamic session where we will explore 20 versatile no-prep and low-prep activities you can implement in any subject and grade level. Be ready to engage with interactive activities and explore practical applications for these strategies in your teaching context. 
Speakers
avatar for Terra Kaliszuk

Terra Kaliszuk

Executive Staff Officer, Professional Development, The Alberta Teachers' Association
Terra Kaliszuk is an Executive Staff Officer in the Professional Development program area of the Alberta Teachers' Association. She brings a passion for understanding and supporting the human journey of learning to all of her work. In her Association role, Terra leads the Association... Read More →
Saturday October 3, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Plaza 2

9:00am MDT

Brains Over Bots: AI-Resistant Approaches for Authentic Learning (K-12)
LIMITED
Saturday October 3, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Generative AI has changed what students can produce, but not what they need to learn. This session reframes the challenge of teaching in the age of AI as a design opportunity. We’ll explore how you can create AI-resistant assignments that emphasize process, creativity, and authentic demonstrations of understanding. You’ll leave with practical strategies you can...
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Speakers
Saturday October 3, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Plaza 4

9:00am MDT

Mathematics: All Are Welcome! All Belong! (K-12)
LIMITED
Saturday October 3, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Did you get the delightful task to teach mathematics to students?  Does the word "fractions" frighten you?  Are you worried that you might struggle with teaching mathematics and meeting the diverse needs of your students?  This session is for you!!! Whether you are teaching Grade 1 counting or Grade 12 calculus, come and learn some high leverage strategies that will allow all your...
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Speakers
avatar for Dave Martin

Dave Martin

Past President, Mathematics Council
Dave Martin has a Master’s degree in Mathematics, a background in Education, and an unapologetic love of prime numbers. With over 20 years of experience teaching Grades 6–12, he has worked as a Math and Science Lead Teacher, administrator, post-secondary instructor, and is currently... Read More →
Saturday October 3, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Plaza 3

9:00am MDT

Care and Connect—Social and Emotional Learning 
LIMITED
Saturday October 3, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Now, more than ever, there is a need to look at practices and systems that nurture the social and emotional health of all members of the school community. This workshop was developed to enhance the social-emotional skills of adults within a school environment so that they can more effectively model and teach SEL to their students. This interactive workshop can be facilitated over a series of...
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Speakers
JH

John Houston

ATA Learning Facilitator, The Alberta Teachers' Association
Saturday October 3, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Horizons Ballroom

9:00am MDT

Walking Together: Collaboration, Reconciliation, and Lived Experiences in the Alberta Classroom (K-12)
LIMITED
Saturday October 3, 2026 9:00am - 11:45am MDT
Limited Capacity seats available
How can foundational shifts toward reconciliation authentically take root in our daily teaching practice? Join educators Omarla Cooke and Mya Penney for an inspiring, deeply personal session that explores the transformative power of collaboration, mentorship, and genuine friendship. Designed specifically for beginning teachers, this session moves beyond theory and policy. Through the art of...
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Saturday October 3, 2026 9:00am - 11:45am MDT
Deerfoot

10:15am MDT

BREAK
Saturday October 3, 2026 10:15am - 10:30am MDT
Saturday October 3, 2026 10:15am - 10:30am MDT
TBA

10:30am MDT

Start Small, Think Big: Build a Fibre Arts Program That Works (4-12)
LIMITED
Saturday October 3, 2026 10:30am - 11:45am MDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Looking to launch a fibre arts program but not sure where to start—or how to afford it? This hands-on session is designed specifically for teachers who want practical, classroom-ready ideas they can use right away. Using simple, low-cost materials like donated fabrics, felt, and socks, you'll learn how to guide students in creating eye-catching, meaningful textile projects—without stretching...
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Speakers
avatar for Darrin Wilson

Darrin Wilson

President, ATA Fine Arts Council
Darrin Wilson is the President of the ATA's Fine Arts Council (FAC) and has worked within the Calgary Board of Education (CBE) since 2008, focusing mostly on teaching English language arts, visual arts, and drama to middle school students. He has a Diplôme d'Études Collégiales... Read More →
Saturday October 3, 2026 10:30am - 11:45am MDT
Horizons Ballroom

10:30am MDT

Intentional Read Alouds: Mentor Texts for K–5
LIMITED
Saturday October 3, 2026 10:30am - 11:45am MDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Discover mentor texts that earn a permanent place on your classroom shelf. This session will highlight diverse K–5 picture books that support reading, writing, inquiry, and inclusive classroom conversations. Teachers will leave with practical ideas, ready-to-use applications, and a growing list of books they can bring directly into their classrooms.
Speakers
Saturday October 3, 2026 10:30am - 11:45am MDT
Plaza 1

10:30am MDT

Vocabulary Development Across Disciplines (K-12)
LIMITED
Saturday October 3, 2026 10:30am - 11:45am MDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Vocabulary is the single most important aspect of learning a new language! This session introduces teachers at all grade levels to the basic theory of vocabulary teaching and learning, provides a deeper explanation of the theory of vocabulary acquisition, and explores the difference between Basic Interactive Social language (BICS) and Cognitive Academic Language Development (CALP). The...
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Speakers
JM

Joan Miles

President Elect, Council for English as an Additional Language
Joan Miles has had over 35 years of experience teaching English Language Learners, both internationally and locally. She completed her MA in Language and Diversity (TESL) in 2014. From 2012-2016, Joan worked as an ELL System Specialist with the Calgary Board of Education to support... Read More →
Saturday October 3, 2026 10:30am - 11:45am MDT
Plaza 3

10:30am MDT

UDL Meets EAL—Empowerment for All Learners (K-12)
LIMITED
Saturday October 3, 2026 10:30am - 11:45am MDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a powerful framework that can significantly enhance educational outcomes for all students, including students who are English as an Additional Language (EAL) learners. This workshop aims to empower educators with practical strategies to create inclusive and effective learning environments where all students, including those with diverse linguistic...
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Speakers
avatar for Sinead Dullaghan

Sinead Dullaghan

ATA Learning Facilitator, The Alberta Teachers' Association
Saturday October 3, 2026 10:30am - 11:45am MDT
Garden Court 2

10:30am MDT

Communiquer oralement: la clé du succès pour nos apprenants de français (K-6)
LIMITED
Saturday October 3, 2026 10:30am - 11:45am MDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Lors de cette séance, nous aborderons l'importance de la composante orale dans un programme de langue française, ainsi que les défis auxquels sont confrontés les enseignants en salle de classe. Nous explorerons des approches pédagogiques en langue additionnelle, en mettant particulièrement l'accent sur l'approche neurolinguistique. La majeure partie de la présentation sera consacrée à la...
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Speakers
SD

Sophie Ducharme

Calgary Board of Education
Sophie Ducharme est enseignante et leader d'apprentissage en immersion au sein du Calgary Board of Education depuis 24 ans. Passionnée par la littératie, et plus particulièrement par le développement des compétences en lecture et en expression orale, Sophie adore transmettre... Read More →
Saturday October 3, 2026 10:30am - 11:45am MDT
Temple

10:30am MDT

Improving Teaching and Learning through Professional Growth Plans (K-12)
LIMITED
Saturday October 3, 2026 10:30am - 11:45am MDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This session will provide teachers with an opportunity to reflect on their understanding of provincial legislation, policy and other requirements related to teacher professional growth, promote awareness of the effective components of a professional growth plan, and share materials and tools that can be accessed to assist in the development of those plans. The session will also address the...
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Saturday October 3, 2026 10:30am - 11:45am MDT
Plaza 2

10:30am MDT

Strategic and Workplace Communication (K-12)
LIMITED
Saturday October 3, 2026 10:30am - 11:45am MDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Join me for a two-part look at communication in the teaching profession. We begin with a high-level overview of the Alberta Teachers’ Association (ATA) communications strategy, highlighting how the Association advocates for public education and keeps members informed. We then shift to the school level, equipping new teachers with essential workplace communication skills. Learn actionable...
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Speakers
Saturday October 3, 2026 10:30am - 11:45am MDT
Garden Court 1

10:30am MDT

Gamifying Math: Increasing Student Engagement Through Games and Interactive Strategies (K-9)
LIMITED
Saturday October 3, 2026 10:30am - 11:45am MDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This session is designed for math teachers across elementary and middle school grade levels who are looking for practical ways to increase student engagement in mathematics. Participants will explore a variety of game-based learning strategies, interactive activities, and classroom techniques that make math meaningful, collaborative, and enjoyable for students. The session will include adaptable...
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Speakers
Saturday October 3, 2026 10:30am - 11:45am MDT
Pineridge

10:30am MDT

A Toolbox for Additional Language Teachers: Practical Strategies for Language Growth (K-12)
LIMITED
Saturday October 3, 2026 10:30am - 11:45am MDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This interactive session will provide Additional Language teachers with a ready-to-use "toolbox" of practical, effective strategies to support language development across proficiency levels. Participants will explore what works, why it works, how to implement it, and where to start when teaching an additional language. Teachers will learn how to address the four pillars of language...
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Saturday October 3, 2026 10:30am - 11:45am MDT
Whitehorn

10:30am MDT

Thriving with the new Social Studies Curriculum (4-9)
LIMITED
Saturday October 3, 2026 10:30am - 11:45am MDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Learn how to balance curriculum expectations with classroom realities while making Social Studies engaging, meaningful, and manageable. This session will provide practical, classroom-ready strategies grounded in inquiry-based and project-based learning to help teachers confidently navigate the new Social Studies curriculum. Teachers will explore a variety of ready-to-use resources — from quick,...
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Saturday October 3, 2026 10:30am - 11:45am MDT
Plaza 5

10:30am MDT

Be a Gift: Tech Collaboration (K-12)
LIMITED
Saturday October 3, 2026 10:30am - 11:45am MDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Early-career teachers often join established grade or subject teams where communication, organization, and collaboration are essential. Technology can help new and experienced teachers work together more effectively while supporting students and strengthening parent communication. This session explores practical ways digital tools such as Google Classroom , Google Workspace , Canva , and email can...
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Speakers
Saturday October 3, 2026 10:30am - 11:45am MDT
Plaza 4

11:45am MDT

LUNCH
Saturday October 3, 2026 11:45am - 12:45pm MDT
Saturday October 3, 2026 11:45am - 12:45pm MDT
Premier

12:30pm MDT

CLOSING & PRIZES
Saturday October 3, 2026 12:30pm - 1:30pm MDT
Saturday October 3, 2026 12:30pm - 1:30pm MDT
Premier
 

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