BTA LIFT Conference

Event is FULL - Currently not accepting registrations

FULL - 13A - Let's Talk Money

Let’s Talk Money is an opportunity to learn more about your money. From understanding your paycheque better, to managing everyday spending, learning about large purchases, how to become a saver, how to invest for your future, what do our pensions look like, and retirement planning and living.

If you are just starting out, in the middle of your career, or ready to retire, this engaging presentation will increase your financial knowledge and leave you with more money in your pocket!

Presenter: Nick Onischuk, Guidance Counselor, Brandon School Division

Nick Onischuk is a school counselor by day and creator and host of his financial educational podcast Talking Toonies by night. Nick has spent 10 years in education and over 8 years facilitating financial workshops for teachers and university students.

Nick is passionate about helping people figure out their money better. Nick takes an honest and simplified approach to all money concepts so that everyone can understand.

Suitable for: All Educators

Location: Room 30 – École Secondaire Neelin High School, 1020 Brandon Ave., Brandon, MB

Time: 9:00 am - 11:30 am

Participant Max: 30

Cost: $27.50 until September 15th / $32.50 after September 15th

FULL - 14A - Tips for Your First 5 Years of Teaching

Tips for teachers in their first 5 years. Things I wish I knew before starting in my own classroom. Advice from fellow colleagues and current students!

Presenter: Michelle Olinyk, Grade 5/6 Teacher, Brandon School Division

Michelle Olinyk is a grade 5/6 teacher who just completed her first 5 years of teaching. She grew up on a farm just outside of Ethelbert, MB. Michelle completed her Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Education at Brandon University and currently is completing her Masters of Education as well!

Suitable for: All Educators in 1st five years and Student Teachers

Location: Betty Gibson School, 701 - 12th Street, Brandon, MB

Time: 9:00 am - 11:30 am

Participant Max: 30

Cost: $27.50 until September 15th / $32.50 after September 15th

FULL - 15A - Make, Play, Learn, Repeat: Makeable Math Games

You will spend the day making and playing math-based games. All of these can be constructed using readily available materials found in any classroom. Most games can be scaled up or down depending on skill levels and all will connect to math outcomes. Some are familiar, some are ancient, some are student created, and all are classroom tested.

While any teacher from K – 12 would get something useful out of this session, most games are geared for students in grades 3 – 8.

Presenter: Jon Nairn, Teacher, Brandon School Division

Jon Nairn is a Grade 7/8 teacher in the Brandon School Division who has also taught all the math courses in senior years. He tries to incorporate games into his math instruction as much as possible.

Suitable for: Early Years and Middle Years Educators

Location: Room 29 – École Secondaire Neelin High School, 1020 Brandon Avenue, Brandon, MB

Time: 9:00 am - 11:30 am

Participant Max: 30

Cost: $27.50 until September 15th / $32.50 after September 15th

FULL - 16A - Book Creator

Book Creator is a simple, inclusive way for teachers and students to create dynamic content in the classroom. Books can be lessons, projects, portfolios ... anything you want. They include links, videos, voice recordings, images, etc. Teachers can present their lesson with a book. Students can create a book instead of an essay, a presentation or other type of media. This half-day session would complement the Digital Storytelling session.

If time permits the popular and free Canvas LMS (Learning Management System) will also be presented and explored. An LMS used properly can be used to assist all students outside of class time as needed along with being the presentation method in class.

Presenter: Cheryl Klimack, ICT Teacher, Brandon School Division

Cheryl has been teaching technology classes for 25 years at Crocus.

Suitable for: All Educators

Location: Room 212 – Computer Lab - Crocus Plains Regional Secondary School, 1930 First Street, Brandon, MB

Time: 9:00 am - 11:30 am

Participant Max: 21

Cost: $27.50 until September 15th / $32.50 after September 15th

FULL - 18A - You Down, Dog? An Introduction to Yoga

A half day session open to anyone who has been thinking about adopting a more balanced and intuitive practice into their life. Led by yoga instructor Chantelle Crepeele and long-time yoga practitioner and aspiring yoga instructor, Veronica Robinson. Learn the benefits of how yoga, mindfulness practices and breath and body awareness can positively influence your well-being. Expect to be guided through basic yoga postures, gentle movement, and meditation. Receive a take-home resource to help you apply some of these practices into your life and into your classroom or office space. Dress comfortable and in layers. Bring a yoga mat if you have one.

Presenters: Chantelle Crepeele, Teacher, Brandon School Division and Veronica Robinson, Principal, Rolling River School Division

Chantelle Crepeele is a Resource and Grade 5/6 Teacher in Brandon School Division and a 200hr YTT and Feelosophy certified yoga instructor. She finds balance between life and work through her yoga practice and instruction and uses yoga as a healing and coping tool. Outside of the classroom and the studio you can catch her hanging with her rescue dog or snuggled up to a book.

Veronica Robinson is a Principal at Minnedosa Collegiate Institute and makes yoga and Pilates a daily practice to keep her mind clear and healthy. She has been practicing yoga for decades, has completed her Level 1 YogaFit teacher training and is pursuing her 200hr YTT. She loves hiking mountains, backcountry camping, canoeing, snowshoeing, and doing jigsaw puzzles.

Suitable for: All Educators

Location: Dance Studio – École Secondaire Neelin High School, 1020 Brandon Avenue, Brandon, MB

Time: 9:00 am - 11:30 am

Participant Max: 18

Cost: $27.50 until September 15th / $32.50 after September 15th

FULL - 19A - Balanced: Supporting Educators Through Mindfulness

Are you looking for more of a life/work balance? With increased demands in the workplace, this interactive workshop will provide mindful ways to support educators in schools and classrooms. Together, we will explore, reflect, and discuss the challenges and stresses that arise each day. You will be introduced to empowering resources and leave with ready-to-use strategies to help you create more balance in your life.

Presenter: Jennifer Morrison, Teacher, Brandon School Division

Jennifer is currently working as a teacher at Maryland Park School in the Brandon School Division. She has been a teacher for over 20 years. Jennifer was nominated and selected as a semi-finalist for the Excellence in Teaching Award. She has worked as an Early Diverse Learning Consultant for the Calgary Catholic School District and has most recently completed her Master’s Degree in Educational Administration at Brandon University. She has been following her passion by teaming up with wellness educators to present motivational workshops on how to find balance in the workplace through mindfulness. Jennifer has 2 active boys and a doodle. She infuses wellness into her classroom by teaching yoga and spending time outdoors. She also teaches spin classes at a local spin studio.

Suitable for: All Educators

Location: Maryland Park School, 700 Maryland Avenue, Brandon, MB

Time: 9:00 am - 11:30 am

Participant Max: 30

Cost: $27.50 until September 15th / $32.50 after September 15th

FULL - 20A - Student Engagement for the Future

Are you or your students in a funk? Well, let’s change that! In this session, you will receive information, strategies, and techniques to have students invest in their own learning through curiosity, connection, and motivation. It will be an engaging, interactive, and energetic presentation filled with strategies that you can use in your classroom tomorrow! This session will help you feel inspired to teach at the next level and will help your students engage through creatively designed lessons. We will hear from different perspectives and positions on how to gain the attention of your students. The world of education pivoted during the pandemic and now it is time to see the future of student engagement. The ultimate goal is to give you easy strategies/tools to transition your teaching forward. Let’s inspire ourselves and our students.

Presenter: Tara Pitz, Teacher, Fort la Bosse School Division

Tara Pitz has twenty-one years of teaching experience and was a facilitator for the Manitoba Rural Learning Consortium Numeracy Achievement Program for four years. She has presented extensively within several school divisions and has experience at the LIFT and BYTE Conferences, where she was recently the spotlight speaker. She is currently a grade six teacher at the Virden Junior High School, with a key role in numeracy. Tara has had a decorated athletic career which has transcended into coaching numerous sports. Through academics and athletics, she has tailored her teaching around student engagement. She has been devoted to helping students invest in their own learning through curiosity, connection, and motivation.

Suitable for: Middle Years

Location: Room 204 – Crocus Plains Regional Secondary School, 1930 First Street, Brandon, MB

Time: 9:00 am - 11:30 am

Participant Max: 25

Cost: $27.50 until September 15th / $32.50 after September 15th

FULL - 21A - The First 7 Minutes: Warm Up and Instant Activites for K-8 Physical Education

The first 7 minutes of any Physical Education class should be filled with movement, little instruction, and high energy to get students active right away. This session will provide activities for your students to get moving and warm them up for the rest of the lesson activities. This session will give you ways to relay the information to your students using technology so that as soon as they walk into the gym with very little instruction, they instantly become active.
This will be an "Active" session, so participants are encouraged to wear appropriate footwear and clothing. Participants will receive a package that will contain all the activities to take home with them.

NOTE: Session will take place at J.R. Reid School (813 - 26th Street). Please use SW Doors marked by the gymnasium to enter the building.

Presenter: Derek Richels, K-8 Physical Education/Health Teacher, Brandon School Division

Derek Richels is a K-8 Physical Educator at J.R. Reid School in Brandon, Manitoba. Derek is married to Kim Richels, who is also a K-8 Physical Educator. Together they have two young boys who enjoy being active. Derek has been teaching in the Brandon School Division for over 20 years and was the recipient of the 2022 Physical Educator Middle Years Award from PHE MB.

Suitable for: K-8 Physical Education Teachers

Location: Gymnasium – J.R. Reid School, 813 - 26th Street, Brandon, MB

Time: 9:00 am - 11:30 am

Participant Max: 24

Cost: $27.50 until September 15th / $32.50 after September 15th

FULL - 22A - Pickle Ball 101

This session will focus on the introduction to Pickle Ball and review the rules and shots necessary to be successful. This is an active session where participants WILL be engaging in the shots and moving around for the entire session. Please wear appropriate clothing and footwear.

Presenter: Jason Curtis, PE Specialist, Brandon School Division

Instructor Jason Curtis has been playing Pickle Ball for around 3 years and competing for 2 years. He is the current men's provincial singles and doubles title holder. He is also the current men’s Western Canadian 50+ singles title holder along with other tournament titles he has collected over the past couple years. He has been playing racquet sports competitively for over 30 years starting in badminton.

Suitable for: Middle Years

Location: Gymnasium, Kirkcaldy Heights School, 10 Knowlton Drive, Brandon, MB

Time: 9:00 am - 11:30 am

Participant Max: 16

Cost: $27.50 until September 15th / $32.50 after September 15th

FULL - 23A - Book-Nics - Reading, Writing and Tasty Treats

Engage students in reading and writing by creating a tasty treat. In this session Des Tucker will share one of her favourite activities in her classroom, book-nics! She will share with you monthly/seasonal books, recipes, and no bake treats that you can easily make in your classroom with your students.

Presenter: Des Tucker, Teacher, Brandon School Division

Des is a mother, wife, and Grade 1 teacher. Des has been an early year’s teacher for 11 years. Baking has been a lifelong hobby and passion of hers, and she grasps every opportunity to incorporate it into her class and the learning they do.

Suitable for: Early Years

Location: Room 7 – Riverheights School, 32 E. Fotheringham Drive, Brandon, MB

Time: 9:00 am - 11:30 am

Participant Max: 25

Cost: $30.50 until September 15th / $35.50 after September 15th (includes $3.00 for supplies)

FULL - 24A - Not All Classrooms Have 4 Walls

Our teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that every child is capable of learning, and that growth can best be supported through a relationship driven, developmentally appropriate, play-based curriculum enriched with nature. We believe that all children deserve equitable access to high quality education, and that learning happens best through hands-on, student-led and outdoor experiences led by knowledgeable and supportive teachers. This session will lead educators through various stages of implementing learning outdoors from the first days to 6-week outdoor challenges. We will share our celebrations, challenges, and journey through our outdoor experiences. All levels of outdoor enthusiast are welcome. Be prepared to spend this session outdoors. Dress for the weather!

Presenters: Carolyn Skene, Resource Teacher, Brandon School Division and Amanda Burtinack, Guidance Counsellor, Brandon School Division

Carolyn is a Resource Teacher at George Fitton School, Brandon School Division. She has taught every grade from kindergarten to grade 6. Amanda is a Guidance Counsellor at George Fitton and has taught grades 1 to 6. Carolyn and Amanda consider themselves play-based teachers and outdoor enthusiasts. They have been teaching outdoors since 2017 and explored various outdoor environments including school grounds to provincial parks.

Suitable for: K-6 Educators

Location: Outdoor Space – George Fitton School, 1129 - 3rd Street, Brandon, MB

Time: 9:00 am - 11:30 am

Participant Max: 20

Cost: $27.50 until September 15th / $32.50 after September 15th

FULL - 25A - Zumba

In this 2 1/2-hour session, participants will learn 2 - 3 Zumba choreos and enjoy some of the benefits this workout brings to your mind and body: 1) Burns weight and calories. 2) It's Addicting, So You Will Want To Exercise More! 3) Relieves Stress 4) Full-Body Workout 5) Great for Cardio 6) Tones the Body; You'll Look Even Better! 7) Improves Your Coordination 8) Enhances Mood. Zumba is all about having fun. Few exercise classes have had Zumba's staying power. This dance workout — which looks and sounds more like a dance party — remains a popular go-to for fitness-minded folks around the world.

Presenters: Lucia Bravo, Teacher, Brandon School Division and Sandra Fernandez Mesa, Teacher, Brandon School Division

Sandra Fernandez Mesa is originally from Cuba and has been living in Brandon with her husband since 2014. She has been a teacher at École Secondaire Neelin High school since 2017. Sandra currently teaches Spanish and Social Studies in French Immersion and is fluent in Spanish, English and French. She believes, regular physical activity is one of the most important things you can do for your health. Being physically active can improve your brain health, help manage weight, and reduce the risk of disease, thus she has practiced physical exercises regularly since the age of 14. Sandra enjoys dancing and weightlifting. She has practiced CrossFit for nearly 5 years. Sandra has been a certified Zumba instructor since January 2021, and currently volunteers at the YMCA of Brandon as a Zumba Step Instructor.

Lucia Bravo was born and raised in Chile, South America and came to Canada in 2013 with her husband and two sons, who are her most significant support and inspiration. In 2021, they became Canadian citizens, which made them so proud! Currently, Lucia is a French Immersion teacher at École New Era School but used to be a dentist in Chile. Since she was young, she had a passion for dancing and exercise. As a girl and a teenager, Lucia spent hours after school doing rhythm gymnastics, aerobics, and basketball. After attending Zumba classes for a couple of years, she decided to try something new and became a certified Zumba instructor in February 2020. Since then, she has been dancing and teaching Zumba classes at the YMCA of Brandon since the beginning of the pandemic and taking different Zumba specialties such as Zumba Step, Zumba Gold, Zumba Toning, and Zumba Kids. What inspires her the most and keeps her willing to continue teaching Zumba is the smiley faces of participants and seeing them having a blast in the class. Teaching Zumba has allowed her to know new people who share the same joy of dancing and share her culture. Lucia would definitely encourage people to try Zumba. Come and join Sandra and Lucia in their session! You will be thrilled with all the benefits of dancing. Sandra and Lucia guarantee you will have fun and exercise at the same time!

Suitable for: All Educators

Location: Gymnasium – Earl Oxford School, 540 - 18th Street, Brandon, MB

Time: 9:00 am - 11:30 am

Participant Max: 20

Cost: $27.50 until September 15th / $32.50 after September 15th

FULL - 26A - Therapy Dogs in Schools

Participants will gain an understanding of the training and skills required of certified therapy dogs and their handlers. We will discuss opportunities for dogs to be included in school programming, and you will be able to interact with some of our team.

Presenter: Ngaire Abernethy, Social Worker and Therapy Dog Volunteer

Ngaire Abernethy is a social worker in Brandon who has done community service with her dogs for many years. She is also a Team Leader with HOPE Animal-Assisted Crisis Response. PATDogs Brandon (certified and insured by Alliance of Therapy Dogs) is a group of keen volunteers who, with their canine partners, enjoy "sharing smiles and joy" with a number of venues in Brandon.

Suitable for: All Educators

Location: Gymnasium – Betty Gibson School, 701 - 12th Street, Brandon, MB

Time: 9:00 am - 11:30 am

Participant Max: 40

Cost: $27.50 until September 15th / $32.50 after September 15th

FULL - 27A - Towards Trauma-Sensitive Classrooms

Participants will explore the impact adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) has on students’ learning and how teachers can shift their thinking and classroom practices to support the diverse needs of all their students.

Topics: ACEs; trauma in the classroom; learning-ready state vs survival mode; setting up an environment for all students to thrive; and
vicarious trauma.

Presenters: Robyn Paulishyn, Guidance Teacher, Brandon School Division and Fiona England, Healthy Minds Specialist and School Social Work Clinician, Winnipeg School Division

Suitable for: All Educators

Location: Room 112 – Crocus Plains Regional Secondary School, 1930 First Street, Brandon, MB

Time: 9:00 am - 11:30 am

Participant Max: 25

FULL - 29A - Vertical Surfaces in the Classroom

Building a thinking classroom using non-permanent vertical surfaces.

Presenters: Lorie Stutsky, Teacher, Brandon School Division and Kiera Bowskill, CIC, Brandon School Division

Lorie Stutsky has been teaching for 27 years and has experience in both high school and middle years. She currently teaches Grade 7-8 at Meadows School and has implemented the thinking classroom technique into her math class and slowly introducing it into the other subject areas. After attending Peter Liljedahl sessions, “Building a Thinking Classroom”, Lorie adapted her teaching style to incorporate the vertical learning surfaces, which she has found that it encourages students to work together with random groupings, be more engaged in their learning, and increase their critical thinking skills for curriculum and non-curriculum topics.

Kiera Bowskill has taught for 10 years with experiences overseas, in Winnipeg and now Brandon. She is currently the Continuous Improvement Coach at Meadows School. After attending sessions with Peter Liljedahl, and team teaching with staff at her school, Kiera has the benefits of using his techniques in the classroom. As a coach, finding high-yielding and large impact strategies for teachers is a top priority. The use of non-permanent surfaces not only helps to make students learning visible but can be used as a tool to facilitate high impact.

Suitable for: Middle Years Educators

Location: Room 17, Meadows School, 1220 - 22nd Street, Brandon, MB

Time: 9:00 am - 11:30 am

Participant Max: 25

Cost: $27.50 until September 15th / $32.50 after September 15th

FULL - 30A - Indigenizing the Classroom

This workshop is designed to give a basic overview and to provide some general knowledge of Indigenous people and to share strategies necessary to create inclusive learning environments. The overall goal will be to provide understanding and several take‐aways to assist you in your work with Indigenous students. This session is interactive so those who already have experience working with Indigenous students will have lots of opportunity to share their knowledge. Key points to be presented and discussed include: western disconnect with Indigenous learners, basic history of Indigenous peoples, the meaning of systemic racism, the effect of colonization on loss of cultural identity/self‐worth, current and historical implications of legislation including the Indian Act, contemporary relationships within Canada, and their subsequent implications for funding models and service provision. The session will conclude with next steps and strategies to assist you in your schools and classrooms to create an inclusive and respectful learning environment for all.

Presenter: Douglas Pople, Career Planning & Placement Officer, Brandon University

Doug Pople is a proud Métis originally from Portage la Prairie. He has a demonstrated passion for Indigenization in all facets of life and a solid commitment to the principle of decolonizing in order to achieve a fair society. Culture is of paramount importance, both learning and sharing. Doug is an avid harvester of both plants and animals yet always lives the belief of, only take what you need and leave plenty for future generations. The passion to reclaim his Métis heritage is a decade’s long journey with no end in sight. Travelling to and experiencing historical sites such as Ste. Madeleine, Batoche, Duck Lake, Rooster Town and Fish Creek is so important to his understanding of Métis history. His Kookum is with him in spirit every time he stands up and proudly proclaims his Métis ancestry, which she had to give up 90 years ago in order to survive in the settler world. Doug strives to be a positive role model and always promotes meaningful changes, especially those that recognize Indigenous ways of knowing, researching, and working. He is also a huge proponent of personal growth and individual empowerment, while still being aware of the historical realities in which we live and the challenges and barriers many Indigenous people still face to this day.

Suitable for: All Educators

Location: Ceremony Room – Brandon University, 270 - 18th Street, Brandon, MB

Time: 9:00 am - 11:30 am

Participant Max: 20

Cost: $27.50 until September 15th / $32.50 after September 15th

FULL - 31A - Ungrading: Empowering Students Through Assessment

Tired of students only being able to mimic what you do, but not actually understand? Done with the stress of students haggling for part marks every assessment? Starting to realize that traditional assessment models aren’t equitable for all students? This half-day session is open to teachers of all disciplines and will explore how some traditional practices can undermine our students’ learning and several potential solutions. The focus on this presentation will be on ungrading, the idea that removing grades as much as possible from the classroom environment can have a tremendous benefit on student learning and mental health. Other assessment models that will be discussed include standards-based grading, skills-based grading, and gamification. Participants will walk away with resources to help them make the shift to a modern classroom that promotes learning and growth.

Presenter: Christopher Sarkonak, Teacher, Brandon School Division

Christopher Sarkonak is a Physics teacher at Crocus Plains Regional Secondary School, was the first Canadian high school teacher to be selected by CERN to attend their International High School Teacher Programme in 2019 and is the 2022 recipient of the Excellence in Physics Teaching Award from the Canadian Association of Physicists. He is also a member of the Perimeter Institute Teacher Network, the PASCO Champions team, and is the teacher mentor for the Crocus Plains STEM for Girls program. He has worked with several different assessment models in both mathematics and science courses.

Suitable for: Senior Years

Location: Room 226 – Crocus Plains Regional Secondary School, 1930 First Street, Brandon, MB

Time: 9:00 am - 11:30 am

Participant Max: 30

Cost: $27.50 until September 15th / $32.50 after September 15th

FULL - 32A - Tips for Implementing Augmentative/Alternative Communications (AAC) in the Classroom - Making It Fun and Interactive!

Looking for creative ways to support students in your classroom who may have limited or no speech? We will give you ideas and strategies for you and for EAs working with your students who may use AAC such as core boards, iPads with communication apps or who are just beginning to use visuals to communicate. Walk away with ideas you can try in your classroom on Monday!

Presenters: Jan Pilling and Donna Wilson, Speech Language Pathologists and Stephanie Innes, Early Years Teacher, Brandon School Division

Jan Pilling is a Speech Language Pathologist who has worked in the field for over 25 years. She is passionate about working with students who have complex communication needs and who utilize augmentative/alternative communication systems. Most recently she was instrumental in starting up Accessible Learning in the Brandon School Division and up until this year provided training, support and access to communication systems and assistive technology.

Stephanie Innes began as an educational assistant and after working with a non-verbal student was inspired to go back to school to become a teacher. As a grade 1/2 classroom teacher, she strives to provide inclusive programming and foster a community-based classroom. While implementing strategies and ideas in the classroom setting, she has used many different resources, visuals, and tools that support students with limited communication abilities.

Donna Wilson is an experienced Speech Language Pathologist who has worked more than 30 years in the public schools with many students who have communication needs and has been instrumental in the successful implementation of AAC systems in the classroom setting.

Suitable for: Early Years Educators

Location: Library – Crocus Plains Regional Secondary School, 1930 First Street, Brandon, MB

Time: 9:00 am - 11:30 am

Participant Max: 30

Cost: $27.50 until September 15th / $32.50 after September 15th

FULL - 33A - K-6 'Try and Take' Agriculture in the Classroom - MB Resources

Come and experience AITC-M’s curriculum linked resource kits, activities, and games. Learn about AITC-M’s Kindergarten – Grade 6 programs. Then pick the breakout sessions with the resources you want to explore. Leave the session with free ‘Monday morning ready resources’ for your classroom.

Presenters: Karen Hill, Curriculum Specialist, Agriculture in The Classroom and Adelle Gervin, Program Manager, Agriculture In the Classroom

Karen Hill is the Curriculum Specialist with Agriculture in the Classroom - MB (AITC-M). Karen combines her years of experience as a classroom teacher working with students from grades 1 – 12 with her agriculture experience as a farm partner on a sheep and cattle ranch to connect our agriculture and food story to MB curriculum in fun and interactive ways. AITC-M is a non-profit, charitable organization with a mandate to promote agriculture literacy in Manitoba schools through innovative, curriculum-based programs and resources. Our mission is to inspire educators to promote agriculture literacy for a sustainable future. Karen says, “The best part of my job is sharing the resources with teachers and then watching the many ways they use them to inspire student learning.”

Adelle Gervin is a Program Manager with Agriculture in the Classroom - MB (AITC-M). Adelle strives to educate today’s youth on our agricultural story and show them her perspective as a cattle rancher and “advocate”. AITC-M is a non-profit, charitable organization with a mandate to promote ag literacy in Manitoba schools through innovative, curriculum-based programs and resources. Our mission is to inspire educators to promote agriculture literacy for a sustainable future. Adelle has helped students across Manitoba learn about what all the ag sector has to offer. From providing the food on their plates to the magnitude of job opportunities, she is honored to educate the future of our industry. Adelle says, “what motivates me is witnessing a student’s understanding of how agricultural practices change to a point where they can see themselves in a career in agriculture”.

Suitable for: K-6 Educators

Location: Room 225 – Crocus Plains Regional Secondary School, 1930 First Street, Brandon, MB

Time: 9:00 am - 11:30 am

Participant Max: 25

Cost: $27.50 until September 15th / $32.50 after September 15th

FULL - 38A - Master Your Retirement (VIRTUAL)

Join us to learn key actions into securing the retirement you have always wanted. Although the past couple years has been littered with uncertainty, it has motivated many Canadians to rethink how they can maximize their savings and leverage their assets in new ways for retirement.

We'll discuss, with a focus on teachers and TRAF, the importance of managing your plan through market volatility, how to identify sources of retirement income to reach your retirement goals, and answer the most frequently asked questions on tax, investment considerations, and new trends impacting the way Canadians are thinking about retirement.

Presenter: Cal Vanderschuit, Division Manager at IG Wealth Management

An award winning Certified Financial Planner, Cal came to us from the teaching industry and uses his skills to break down complex financial concepts into easy-to-understand material for his clients so that they know and understand their IG Living Plan. He is very active in his local community of Onanole where he is the President of the Onanole Foundation which raises donations for local charities. Cal is married to Lauren, and they live on an acreage just south of Riding Mountain National Park with their dog Stella. He splits his time between the Onanole and Brandon office.

Suitable for: All Educators

Platform: Microsoft Teams

Time: 9:00 am - 11:30 am

Participant Max: 60

Cost: $27.50 until September 15th / $32.50 after September 15th

FULL - 39A - 2STLGBQ+ Diversity and Inclusion (VIRTUAL)

Supporting diversity and promoting inclusion are essential components of working with people in culturally relevant and safe ways. This training opportunity invites educators to broaden their awareness and build capacity around Two-Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer identities, and experiences.

Presenter: Marshall Morrisseau, 2STLGBQ+ Program Facilitator

Suitable for: All Educators

Platform: Zoom

Time: 9:00 am - 11:30 am

Participant Max: 40

Cost: $27.50 until September 15th / $32.50 after September 15th

FULL - 01 - See the Signs of Human Trafficking

Presenting on how human trafficking happens every day in Manitoba.

Presenter: Joy Smith, Founder of the Joy Smith Foundation

Joy Smith holds a Bachelor's Degree (B.Ed.) and a Master's Degree (M.Ed.) in education and was a teacher for 23 years. She was devoted to educating high school students in mathematics and science.

She was elected to Parliament in 2004.

One of her major achievements was the unanimous passing by the House of Commons in 2007 of her Private Members Motion M-153 on human trafficking which called on Parliament to condemn the trafficking of women and children across international borders for the purposes of sexual exploitation and to immediately adopt a comprehensive strategy to combat the trafficking of persons worldwide.

She made Canadian history by passing two laws, Bill C-268 mandatory minimums for traffickers of children 18 years and under. On June 29, 2010, Bill C-268 was granted Royal Assent and became law. The successful passage of a Private Members Bill is rare, and it was only the 15th time in the history of the Canada that a Private Members Bill amended the Criminal Code.

She then passed Bill C-310 which reaches the long arm of the Canadian law into other countries when permanent residents of Canada or Canadian citizens go abroad to traffic or sexually exploit victims. These predators can now be brought back to Canada for justice.

In September 2010, Mrs. Smith released a proposal for a National Action Plan to Combat Human Trafficking called Connecting the Dots. This proposal was strongly endorsed by law enforcement, agencies, and victims groups across Canada. It led to the development and launch of the federal government’s 2012 National Action Plan to Combat Human Trafficking.

She founded the "Joy Smith Foundation,” where she tirelessly volunteers her time combatting human trafficking and fighting for the rights of women in Canada and around the globe.

Joy Smith’s Awards
Joy Smith has received many awards. The Canadian Sexual Exploitation Summit Award in 2021, the Order of Manitoba in 2019 and the Distinguished Christian Leadership Award.

She also received the United Nations Women Canada Recognition of Achievement Award and the Stand Strong Award from the First Nations people in recognition of her outstanding leadership and commitment to combating sexual exploitation of First Nations people.

Suitable for: All Educators

Time: 9:00 am - 3:30 pm

Location: Gymnasium, Crocus Plains High School, 1930 First Street, Brandon, MB

Participant Max: 100

Cost: $55.00 until September 15th / $65.00 after September 15th

FULL - 02 - Good Grief: How to Cope and Move Forward

We all experience grief, but our dominant culture is death phobic and grief avoidant. That makes our experience of grief harder. In Angela’s experience, most people worry that they are doing grief "right". In this workshop, there will be discussions, you will do exercises and watch videos about what is normal in grief, and how it affects your emotions, body, and mind. You will also talk about ambiguous loss, and how these are the kinds of losses that educators stacked up over the pandemic. Because this is an educational workshop, not a support group or a therapy group, you will not be asked to share your personal stories. Come join Angela for a day of learning, connecting and maybe even a chuckle or two.

Presenters: Angela Haig, Staff Officer/Psychologist

Angela Haig is a clinical psychologist who worked for 17 years in the Educator Assistance program at MTS, before transitioning to mental health education in the Professional and French Language Services Department in 2022. Her clinical speciality is anything to do with teachers: how they navigate the multitude of expectations placed upon them by themselves and others, how they avoid burnout, and the barriers to looking after themselves. She is a big believer in education about mental health, and grief in particular.

Suitable for: All Educators

Location: Room 207 – Crocus Plains Regional Secondary School, 1930 First Street, Brandon, MB

Time: 9:00 am - 3:30 pm

Participant Max: 25

Cost: $55.00 until September 15th / $65.00 after September 15th

FULL - 03 - Great Books for Great Kids

Together, Sally and Don will share some new illustrated books, information books, poetry, picture books, biographies and graphic novels. They might even sneak in a few of their old favourites.

Come join them for a day filled with great books for great kids!

Presenters: Sally Bender and Don Cuggy, Retired Teachers

Sally is a retired teacher with a wealth of knowledge and a passion for books.

Don is also a retired teacher fortunate to have a kind friend like Sally patient enough to put up with him for these many years.

Location: Gymnasium – Linden Lanes School, 49 Silver Birch Drive, Brandon, MB

Time: 9:00 am - 3:30 pm

Participant Max: 60

Suitable for: Kindergarten, Early Years, Middle Years, Student Teachers

Cost: $55.00 until September 15th/$65.00 after September 15th

FULL - 04 - Digital Scrapbooking

Teresa has been scrapbooking and making cards for many years, both paper and digital. She currently uses the online Picaboo program to make cards, calendars, and books. She has created many different books over the years, including memory books from vacations, wedding albums, baby albums, pattern books for young children, family history albums and many more. Teresa will share a variety of the items she has created. Learn to create your own memory books, calendars, or cards using the user friendly online Picaboo program.

Presenters: Teresa Flannery, Teacher-Academic Support, Brandon School Division

Teresa is a Resource Teacher at Meadows School in the Brandon School Division. She currently works as the Literacy Coach and Academic Support for the school. She has several hobbies that include photography, cake decorating, card making and scrapbooking.

Suitable for: All Educators

Location: Room 216 – Crocus Plains Regional Secondary School, 1930 First Street, Brandon, MB

Time: 9:00 am - 3:30 pm

Participant Max: 25

Cost: $55.00 until September 15th / $65.00 after September 15th

FULL - 05 - Intro to Charcoal: Building Teacher and Student Confidence in Art

In this session participants will experience the class as they would teach it back in their classroom. Learn about the importance of instilling confidence in students by allowing them to create artworks that they can be proud of, as well as how to create the flow of confidence in the Art room. This session will go through a unit on the basics of drawing with charcoal. You can expect drawing games, skill building exercises, and a final project that EVERY student can find success in. This session will be hands on, participants will get the opportunity to try out the techniques as we go.

Presenter: Nicole Wruth, Art Specialist, BFA, B.Ed.

Nicole is a world traveler from rural Manitoba and has been a public-school teacher for 6 years. She graduated from the University of Manitoba with a Fine Arts Degree, travelled, and then received a degree in Education. She has taught in Churchill, Gillam, Winkler, and Rolling River School Division. She has worked as an Arts specialist (inc. dance, drama), along with teaching homeroom subjects where she always strived to incorporate the Arts cross-curricular.

Suitable for: Middle Years

Location: Art Room (Room 118) – Crocus Plains Regional Secondary School, 1930 First Street, Brandon, MB

Time: 9:00 am - 3:30 pm

Participant Max: 15

Cost: $65.00 until September 15th / $75.00 after September 15th (includes $10.00 for supplies)

FULL - 06 - Empowering Neurodiverse Learners Within Inclusive Classroom Settings

In this full-day session, participants will be introduced to the fundamentals of Structured Teaching approaches, build a deeper understanding of how to plan for the learning styles of atypical learners, and learn how to implement classroom-based strategies that compliment adaptive curriculum concepts. The morning session will include hands-on tools, opportunities to learn how to create task systems, and how to build a structured teaching program. In the afternoon, participants will learn how individualized schedules effectively engage students in activities and help students transition throughout their day. Be ready to construct, cut, fold, and create individualized schedules for students presenting with a variety of learning needs. All supplies for the make and take visual schedules will be provided.

Presenters: Bobbi Schaminee, Grade 1 Teacher, Brandon School Division and Shannon Vogel, Vice-Principal, Brandon School Division

Bobbi Schaminee received her B.Ed. A.D. from Brandon University, Orff Level 1 from University of Manitoba, and Advanced Application of TEACCH Principles and Practices in 2022, from the University of North Carolina. Bobbi has presented for Berklee Institute for Arts Education and Special Needs and the Manitoba Orff Chapter. She has enjoyed a variety of teaching roles for K-6 Music, HALEP, Kindergarten, Grade 1, and Grade 4. Bobbi infuses her passion for inclusive practices in her grade one classroom at Riverheights School.

Shannon Vogel completed her master’s in special education in 2016 and Advanced Application of TEACCH Principles and Practices in 2022, from the University of North Carolina. Shannon has presented for Berklee Institute for Arts Education and Special Needs, LIFT, and Brandon University. As vice-principal, at Betty Gibson School, Shannon facilitates and monitors individualized student programming with structured and inclusive practices in mind.

Suitable for: K-8, Music, Resource Teachers, School Leaders

Location: Music Room – Betty Gibson School, 701 – 12th Street, Brandon, MB

Time: 9:00 am - 3:30 pm

Participant Max: 30

Cost: $65.00 until September 15th / $75.00 after September 15th (includes $10.00 for supplies)

FULL - 07 - Hands-On Classroom Art - Drawing

You will do about 6 or 7 different drawing lessons that include dimensions, free hand, and portraits. Examples will be included. There will be step by step lessons for most. A copy of the power point lessons will be available to each participant. Disclaimer: Harvey is not a "trained artist", just an ordinary teacher who had some success with these lessons and wants to pass them on. Harvey’s focus has mainly been on grades 5/6 but he has done some in grade 4 and 7/8.

Presenter: Harvey Dutkewich, Retired Teacher

Harvey Dutkewich has a BSc degree and a teaching certificate from Brandon University. His teaching career spanned 34 years in grades 5/6 and 18 years of terms and subbing.

Suitable for: Middle Years Educators

Location: Room 206 – Crocus Plains Regional Secondary School, 1930 First Street, Brandon, MB

Time: 9:00 am - 3:30 pm

Participant Max: 20

Cost: $55.00 until September 15th / $65.00 after September 15th

FULL - 08 - Let's Make Asian Rolls!

Come enjoy learning how to make a variety of Asian cuisine. You will be handling fish as well as other seafood during this session. Everyone will get the opportunity to make and take home sushi rolls, salad rolls, spring rolls, wontons, and poke bowls.

Participants - please bring a large container (at least a 9x13 cake pan size) to take home your food!

Presenters: Lani Parker and Sarah Paddock, Grade 7 Human Ecology Teachers, Brandon School Division

Lani and Sarah are two of the Human Ecology middle years teachers for the Brandon School Division. We both enjoy experimenting with different cuisines and sharing our passion with others.

Suitable for: All Educators

Location: Human Ecology Classrooms - Earl Oxford School, 540 – 18th Street, Brandon, MB

Time: 9:00 am - 3:30 pm

Participant Max: 20

Cost: $105.00 until September 15th/$115.00 after September 15th (includes $50.00 for supplies)

FULL - 09 - Visual Schedules & Social Stories

THIS IS A SATELLITE SESSION – HOSTED BY MOUNTAIN VIEW TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION

We all know kids learn best with visuals. We all need visuals to navigate their lives. Learn about the importance of visuals and how they can help kids learn and grow in your classroom. Visuals are a great tool for universal design and differentiated instruction. Let us help you make and design effective visuals for all students. Bring your laptop and your needs and let's work together to visualize it.

Presenters: Shawna Packo, Student Services Teacher, Mountain View School Division and Kelsy Black, Student Services Teacher, Mountain View School Division

Shawna Packo and Kelsy Black are Student Services Teachers at Roblin Elementary School and have made using visuals part of their daily practice. They have used a variety of types of visuals from AAC boards to social stories. Shawna and Kelsy want everyone to understand the importance of using visuals in the classroom.

Suitable for: All Educators

Location: Roblin Elementary School, 330 King Street, Roblin, Manitoba

Time: 9:00 am - 3:30 pm

Participant Max: 25

Cost: $55.00 until September 15th / $65.00 after September 15th

FULL - 10 - Wellness/Outdoor Experience (Satellite Session at Northgate Trail System)

In this session, we will complete a hike and have discussions on staff wellness. This will provide an opportunity to take part in a wellness activity while reflecting on how you can improve staff wellness at your school.

This session will take place at the Northgate Trail System about 15 km south of Dauphin (151 km north of Brandon), near the boundary of Riding Mountain National Park. Please meet at the trailhead at 9:00 am. There is a sign on the west side of Highway 10 that notes the location of the trailhead.

**Please bring a bag lunch as we will be stopping to eat on the trail. A backpack with extra clothing, water, lunch, snacks, etc. will be required. Please wear appropriate footwear and dress in layers as the weather can be unpredictable at this time of year. The specific trail(s) hiked will be determined in the fall. The trail rating will be moderate or difficult.

Presenter: Orrin McIntyre, Teacher, Mountainview School Division

Suitable for: All Educators

Location: Northgate Trail System (15 km south of Dauphin – 151 km north of Brandon). Please meet at the trailhead at 9:00 a.m. There is a sign on the west side of Highway 10 that notes location of the trailhead.

Time: 9:00 am - 3:30 pm

Participant Max: 20

Cost: $55.00 until September 15th / $65.00 after September 15th

FULL - 11 - Macrame and Watercolour Art (Satellite Session in Dauphin, MB)

THIS IS A SATELLITE SESSION – HOSTED BY MOUNTAIN VIEW TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION

Learn the techniques and skills of watercolour art. Participants will spend the morning learning how to creatively design watercolour portraits.

In the afternoon, participants will learn the basic techniques and skills to create a macrame project.

A $50.00 fee per person will include the macrame project, watercolour brushes, paper, and a watercolour paint pallet. You will be able to take all of these item’s home with you so that you can continue your creativity!

The session will take place at Henderson Elementary School in Dauphin, Manitoba.

Presenter: Vicky Ogg, Teacher, Mountain View School Division

Vicky Ogg teaches grades 3/4 at Henderson Elementary School in Dauphin, Manitoba. She enjoys creating different crafts and art projects personally and, in her classroom, as well. Vicky learned the different styles and knots of macrame art 4 years ago. She also participated in multiple watercolour sessions that local artists had organized and taught. Watercolour art relaxes her, and she loves how each art piece is unique and different!

Suitable for: All Educators

Location: Room 10, Henderson Elementary School, 911 Bond Street, Dauphin, Manitoba

Time: 9:00 am - 3:30 pm

Participant Max: 25

Cost: $105.00 until September 15th/$115.00 after September 15th (includes $50.00 for supplies)

FULL - 12 - Intergenerational Trauma: Developing a Greater Understanding (Satellite Session in Dauphin, MB)

THIS IS A SATELLITE SESSION – HOSTED BY MOUNTAIN VIEW TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION

As a group of learners, we will work towards a greater understanding of intergenerational trauma, how events in Canada's history have contributed to trauma for Indigenous peoples, the ongoing effects of trauma, and how we can really begin to consider what reconciliation might look like for ourselves, our communities, and our schools.

Presenter: Myla Krauskopf, Resource and High School Teacher, Mountain View School Division

Myla Krauskopf has been teaching for 23 years in rural BC and Manitoba. She grew up without an awareness of her Métis heritage but is on a journey to understand what it means to be Red River Métis. Myla has always loved to learn and understand more about life and people. That passion for learning has led her to explore the topic of 'Intergenerational Trauma' to better understand herself, her students and Canada. She does not claim to be an expert, but a learner. Myla extends an invitation to other educators to come learn with her.

Suitable for: All Educators

Location: Conference Room - Mountain View School Division, Hwy 5 & 10 West, Dauphin, MB

Time: 9:00 am - 3:30 pm

Participant Max: 25

Cost: $55.00 until September 15th / $65.00 after September 15th

FULL - 13B - Let's Talk Money

Let’s Talk Money is an opportunity to learn more about your money. From understanding your paycheque better, to managing everyday spending, learning about large purchases, how to become a saver, how to invest for your future, what do our pensions look like, and retirement planning and living.

If you are just starting out, in the middle of your career, or ready to retire, this engaging presentation will increase your financial knowledge and leave you with more money in your pocket!

Presenter: Nick Onischuk, Guidance Counselor, Brandon School Division

Nick Onischuk is a school counselor by day and creator and host of his financial educational podcast Talking Toonies by night. Nick has spent 10 years in education and over 8 years facilitating financial workshops for teachers and university students.

Nick is passionate about helping people figure out their money better. Nick takes an honest and simplified approach to all money concepts so that everyone can understand.

Suitable for: All Educators

Location: Room 30 – École Secondaire Neelin High School, 1020 Brandon Ave., Brandon, MB

Time: 1:00 pm - 3:30 pm

Participant Max: 30

Cost: $27.50 until September 15th / $32.50 after September 15th

FULL - 14B - Tips for Your First 5 Years of Teaching

Tips for teachers in their first 5 years. Things I wish I knew before starting in my own classroom. Advice from fellow colleagues and current students!

Presenter: Michelle Olinyk, Grade 5/6 Teacher, Brandon School Division

Michelle Olinyk is a grade 5/6 teacher who just completed her first 5 years of teaching. She grew up on a farm just outside of Ethelbert, MB. Michelle completed her Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Education at Brandon University and currently is completing her Masters of Education as well!

Suitable for: All Educators in 1st five years and Student Teachers

Location: Betty Gibson School, 701 - 12th Street, Brandon, MB

Time: 1:00 pm - 3:30 pm

Participant Max: 30

Cost: $27.50 until September 15th / $32.50 after September 15th

FULL - 15B - Make, Play, Learn, Repeat: Makeable Math Games

You will spend the day making and playing math-based games. All of these can be constructed using readily available materials found in any classroom. Most games can be scaled up or down depending on skill levels and all will connect to math outcomes. Some are familiar, some are ancient, some are student created, and all are classroom tested.

While any teacher from K – 12 would get something useful out of this session, most games are geared for students in grades 3 – 8.

Presenter: Jon Nairn, Teacher, Brandon School Division

Jon Nairn is a Grade 7/8 teacher in the Brandon School Division who has also taught all the math courses in senior years. He tries to incorporate games into his math instruction as much as possible.

Suitable for: Early Years and Middle Years Educators

Location: Room 29 – École Secondaire Neelin High School, 1020 Brandon Avenue, Brandon, MB

Time: 1:00 pm - 3:30 pm

Participant Max: 30

Cost: $27.50 until September 15th / $32.50 after September 15th

FULL - 16B - Book Creator

Book Creator is a simple, inclusive way for teachers and students to create dynamic content in the classroom. Books can be lessons, projects, portfolios ... anything you want. They include links, videos, voice recordings, images, etc. Teachers can present their lesson with a book. Students can create a book instead of an essay, a presentation or other type of media. This half-day session would complement the Digital Storytelling session.

If time permits the popular and free Canvas LMS (Learning Management System) will also be presented and explored. An LMS used properly can be used to assist all students outside of class time as needed along with being the presentation method in class.

Presenter: Cheryl Klimack, ICT Teacher, Brandon School Division

Cheryl has been teaching technology classes for 25 years at Crocus.

Suitable for: All Educators

Location: Room 212 – Computer Lab - Crocus Plains Regional Secondary School, 1930 First Street, Brandon, MB

Time: 1:00 pm - 3:30 pm

Participant Max: 21

Cost: $27.50 until September 15th / $32.50 after September 15th

FULL - 18B - You Down, Dog? An Introduction to Yoga

A half day session open to anyone who has been thinking about adopting a more balanced and intuitive practice into their life. Led by yoga instructor Chantelle Crepeele and long-time yoga practitioner and aspiring yoga instructor, Veronica Robinson. Learn the benefits of how yoga, mindfulness practices and breath and body awareness can positively influence your well-being. Expect to be guided through basic yoga postures, gentle movement, and meditation. Receive a take-home resource to help you apply some of these practices into your life and into your classroom or office space. Dress comfortable and in layers. Bring a yoga mat if you have one.

Presenters: Chantelle Crepeele, Teacher, Brandon School Division and Veronica Robinson, Principal, Rolling River School Division

Chantelle Crepeele is a Resource and Grade 5/6 Teacher in Brandon School Division and a 200hr YTT and Feelosophy certified yoga instructor. She finds balance between life and work through her yoga practice and instruction and uses yoga as a healing and coping tool. Outside of the classroom and the studio you can catch her hanging with her rescue dog or snuggled up to a book.

Veronica Robinson is a Principal at Minnedosa Collegiate Institute and makes yoga and Pilates a daily practice to keep her mind clear and healthy. She has been practicing yoga for decades, has completed her Level 1 YogaFit teacher training and is pursuing her 200hr YTT. She loves hiking mountains, backcountry camping, canoeing, snowshoeing, and doing jigsaw puzzles.

Suitable for: All Educators

Location: Dance Studio – École Secondaire Neelin High School, 1020 Brandon Avenue, Brandon, MB

Time: 1:00 pm - 3:30 pm

Participant Max: 18

Cost: $27.50 until September 15th / $32.50 after September 15th

FULL - 19B - Balanced: Supporting Educators Through Mindfulness

Are you looking for more of a life/work balance? With increased demands in the workplace, this interactive workshop will provide mindful ways to support educators in schools and classrooms. Together, we will explore, reflect, and discuss the challenges and stresses that arise each day. You will be introduced to empowering resources and leave with ready-to-use strategies to help you create more balance in your life.

Presenter: Jennifer Morrison, Teacher, Brandon School Division

Jennifer is currently working as a teacher at Maryland Park School in the Brandon School Division. She has been a teacher for over 20 years. Jennifer was nominated and selected as a semi-finalist for the Excellence in Teaching Award. She has worked as an Early Diverse Learning Consultant for the Calgary Catholic School District and has most recently completed her Master’s Degree in Educational Administration at Brandon University. She has been following her passion by teaming up with wellness educators to present motivational workshops on how to find balance in the workplace through mindfulness. Jennifer has 2 active boys and a doodle. She infuses wellness into her classroom by teaching yoga and spending time outdoors. She also teaches spin classes at a local spin studio.

Suitable for: All Educators

Location: Maryland Park School, 700 Maryland Avenue, Brandon, MB

Time: 1:00 pm - 3:30 pm

Participant Max: 30

Cost: $27.50 until September 15th / $32.50 after September 15th

FULL - 20B - Student Engagement for the Future

Are you or your students in a funk? Well, let’s change that! In this session, you will receive information, strategies, and techniques to have students invest in their own learning through curiosity, connection, and motivation. It will be an engaging, interactive, and energetic presentation filled with strategies that you can use in your classroom tomorrow! This session will help you feel inspired to teach at the next level and will help your students engage through creatively designed lessons. We will hear from different perspectives and positions on how to gain the attention of your students. The world of education pivoted during the pandemic and now it is time to see the future of student engagement. The ultimate goal is to give you easy strategies/tools to transition your teaching forward. Let’s inspire ourselves and our students.

Presenter: Tara Pitz, Teacher, Fort la Bosse School Division

Tara Pitz has twenty-one years of teaching experience and was a facilitator for the Manitoba Rural Learning Consortium Numeracy Achievement Program for four years. She has presented extensively within several school divisions and has experience at the LIFT and BYTE Conferences, where she was recently the spotlight speaker. She is currently a grade six teacher at the Virden Junior High School, with a key role in numeracy. Tara has had a decorated athletic career which has transcended into coaching numerous sports. Through academics and athletics, she has tailored her teaching around student engagement. She has been devoted to helping students invest in their own learning through curiosity, connection, and motivation.

Suitable for: Middle Years

Location: Room 204 – Crocus Plains Regional Secondary School, 1930 First Street, Brandon, MB

Time: 1:00 pm - 3:30 pm

Participant Max: 25

Cost: $27.50 until September 15th / $32.50 after September 15th

FULL - 21B - The First 7 Minutes: Warm Up and Instant Activities for K-8 Physical Education

The first 7 minutes of any Physical Education class should be filled with movement, little instruction, and high energy to get students active right away. This session will provide activities for your students to get moving and warm them up for the rest of the lesson activities. This session will give you ways to relay the information to your students using technology so that as soon as they walk into the gym with very little instruction, they instantly become active.
This will be an "Active" session, so participants are encouraged to wear appropriate footwear and clothing. Participants will receive a package that will contain all the activities to take home with them.

NOTE: Session will take place at J.R. Reid School (813 - 26th Street). Please use SW Doors marked by the gymnasium to enter the building.

Presenter: Derek Richels, K-8 Physical Education/Health Teacher, Brandon School Division

Derek Richels is a K-8 Physical Educator at J.R. Reid School in Brandon, Manitoba. Derek is married to Kim Richels, who is also a K-8 Physical Educator. Together they have two young boys who enjoy being active. Derek has been teaching in the Brandon School Division for over 20 years and was the recipient of the 2022 Physical Educator Middle Years Award from PHE MB.

Suitable for: K-8 Physical Education Teachers

Location: Gymnasium – J.R. Reid School, 813 - 26th Street, Brandon, MB

Time: 1:00 pm - 3:30 pm

Participant Max: 24

Cost: $27.50 until September 15th / $32.50 after September 15th

FULL - 22B - Pickle Ball 101

This session will focus on the introduction to Pickle Ball and review the rules and shots necessary to be successful. This is an active session where participants WILL be engaging in the shots and moving around for the entire session. Please wear appropriate clothing and footwear.

Presenter: Jason Curtis, PE Specialist, Brandon School Division

Instructor Jason Curtis has been playing Pickle Ball for around 3 years and competing for 2 years. He is the current men's provincial singles and doubles title holder. He is also the current men’s Western Canadian 50+ singles title holder along with other tournament titles he has collected over the past couple years. He has been playing racquet sports competitively for over 30 years starting in badminton.

Suitable for: Middle Years

Location: Gymnasium, Kirkcaldy Heights School, 10 Knowlton Drive, Brandon, MB

Time: 1:00 pm - 3:30 pm

Participant Max: 16

Cost: $27.50 until September 15th / $32.50 after September 15th

FULL - 23B - Book-Nics - Reading, Writing and Tasty Treats

Engage students in reading and writing by creating a tasty treat. In this session Des Tucker will share one of her favourite activities in her classroom, book-nics! She will share with you monthly/seasonal books, recipes, and no bake treats that you can easily make in your classroom with your students.

Presenter: Des Tucker, Teacher, Brandon School Division

Des is a mother, wife, and Grade 1 teacher. Des has been an early year’s teacher for 11 years. Baking has been a lifelong hobby and passion of hers, and she grasps every opportunity to incorporate it into her class and the learning they do.

Suitable for: Early Years

Location: Room 7 – Riverheights School, 32 E. Fotheringham Drive, Brandon, MB

Time: 1:00 pm - 3:30 pm

Participant Max: 25

Cost: $30.50 until September 15th / $35.50 after September 15th (includes $3.00 for supplies)

FULL - 24B - Not All Classrooms Have 4 Walls

Our teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that every child is capable of learning, and that growth can best be supported through a relationship driven, developmentally appropriate, play-based curriculum enriched with nature. We believe that all children deserve equitable access to high quality education, and that learning happens best through hands-on, student-led and outdoor experiences led by knowledgeable and supportive teachers. This session will lead educators through various stages of implementing learning outdoors from the first days to 6-week outdoor challenges. We will share our celebrations, challenges, and journey through our outdoor experiences. All levels of outdoor enthusiast are welcome. Be prepared to spend this session outdoors. Dress for the weather!

Presenters: Carolyn Skene, Resource Teacher, Brandon School Division and Amanda Burtinack, Guidance Counsellor, Brandon School Division

Carolyn is a Resource Teacher at George Fitton School, Brandon School Division. She has taught every grade from kindergarten to grade 6. Amanda is a Guidance Counsellor at George Fitton and has taught grades 1 to 6. Carolyn and Amanda consider themselves play-based teachers and outdoor enthusiasts. They have been teaching outdoors since 2017 and explored various outdoor environments including school grounds to provincial parks.

Suitable for: K-6 Educators

Location: Outdoor Space – George Fitton School, 1129 - 3rd Street, Brandon, MB

Time: 1:00 pm - 3:30 pm

Participant Max: 20

Cost: $27.50 until September 15th / $32.50 after September 15th

FULL - 25B - Zumba

In this 2 1/2-hour session, participants will learn 2 - 3 Zumba choreos and enjoy some of the benefits this workout brings to your mind and body: 1) Burns weight and calories. 2) It's Addicting, So You Will Want To Exercise More! 3) Relieves Stress 4) Full-Body Workout 5) Great for Cardio 6) Tones the Body; You'll Look Even Better! 7) Improves Your Coordination 8) Enhances Mood. Zumba is all about having fun. Few exercise classes have had Zumba's staying power. This dance workout — which looks and sounds more like a dance party — remains a popular go-to for fitness-minded folks around the world.

Presenters: Lucia Bravo, Teacher, Brandon School Division and Sandra Fernandez Mesa, Teacher, Brandon School Division

Sandra Fernandez Mesa is originally from Cuba and has been living in Brandon with her husband since 2014. She has been a teacher at École Secondaire Neelin High school since 2017. Sandra currently teaches Spanish and Social Studies in French Immersion and is fluent in Spanish, English and French. She believes, regular physical activity is one of the most important things you can do for your health. Being physically active can improve your brain health, help manage weight, and reduce the risk of disease, thus she has practiced physical exercises regularly since the age of 14. Sandra enjoys dancing and weightlifting. She has practiced CrossFit for nearly 5 years. Sandra has been a certified Zumba instructor since January 2021, and currently volunteers at the YMCA of Brandon as a Zumba Step Instructor.

Lucia Bravo was born and raised in Chile, South America and came to Canada in 2013 with her husband and two sons, who are her most significant support and inspiration. In 2021, they became Canadian citizens, which made them so proud! Currently, Lucia is a French Immersion teacher at École New Era School but used to be a dentist in Chile. Since she was young, she had a passion for dancing and exercise. As a girl and a teenager, Lucia spent hours after school doing rhythm gymnastics, aerobics, and basketball. After attending Zumba classes for a couple of years, she decided to try something new and became a certified Zumba instructor in February 2020. Since then, she has been dancing and teaching Zumba classes at the YMCA of Brandon since the beginning of the pandemic and taking different Zumba specialties such as Zumba Step, Zumba Gold, Zumba Toning, and Zumba Kids. What inspires her the most and keeps her willing to continue teaching Zumba is the smiley faces of participants and seeing them having a blast in the class. Teaching Zumba has allowed her to know new people who share the same joy of dancing and share her culture. Lucia would definitely encourage people to try Zumba. Come and join Sandra and Lucia in their session! You will be thrilled with all the benefits of dancing. Sandra and Lucia guarantee you will have fun and exercise at the same time!

Suitable for: All Educators

Location: Gymnasium – Earl Oxford School, 540 - 18th Street, Brandon, MB

Time: 1:00 pm - 3:30 pm

Participant Max: 20

Cost: $27.50 until September 15th / $32.50 after September 15th

FULL - 26B - Therapy Dogs in Schools

Participants will gain an understanding of the training and skills required of certified therapy dogs and their handlers. We will discuss opportunities for dogs to be included in school programming, and you will be able to interact with some of our team.

Presenter: Ngaire Abernethy, Social Worker and Therapy Dog Volunteer

Ngaire Abernethy is a social worker in Brandon who has done community service with her dogs for many years. She is also a Team Leader with HOPE Animal-Assisted Crisis Response. PATDogs Brandon (certified and insured by Alliance of Therapy Dogs) is a group of keen volunteers who, with their canine partners, enjoy "sharing smiles and joy" with a number of venues in Brandon.

Suitable for: All Educators

Location: Gymnasium – Betty Gibson School, 701 - 12th Street, Brandon, MB

Time: 1:00 pm - 3:30 pm

Participant Max: 40

Cost: $27.50 until September 15th / $32.50 after September 15th

FULL - 27B - Towards Trauma-Sensitive Classrooms

Participants will explore the impact adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) has on students’ learning and how teachers can shift their thinking and classroom practices to support the diverse needs of all their students.

Topics: ACEs; trauma in the classroom; learning-ready state vs survival mode; setting up an environment for all students to thrive; and
vicarious trauma.

Presenters: Robyn Paulishyn, Guidance Teacher, Brandon School Division and Fiona England, Healthy Minds Specialist and School Social Work Clinician, Winnipeg School Division

Suitable for: All Educators

Location: Room 112 – Crocus Plains Regional Secondary School, 1930 First Street, Brandon, MB

Time: 1 pm - 3:30 pm

Participant Max: 25

FULL - 29B - Vertical Structures in the Classroom

Building a thinking classroom using non-permanent vertical surfaces.

Presenters: Lorie Stutsky, Teacher, Brandon School Division and Kiera Bowskill, CIC, Brandon School Division

Lorie Stutsky has been teaching for 27 years and has experience in both high school and middle years. She currently teaches Grade 7-8 at Meadows School and has implemented the thinking classroom technique into her math class and slowly introducing it into the other subject areas. After attending Peter Liljedahl sessions, “Building a Thinking Classroom”, Lorie adapted her teaching style to incorporate the vertical learning surfaces, which she has found that it encourages students to work together with random groupings, be more engaged in their learning, and increase their critical thinking skills for curriculum and non-curriculum topics.

Kiera Bowskill has taught for 10 years with experiences overseas, in Winnipeg and now Brandon. She is currently the Continuous Improvement Coach at Meadows School. After attending sessions with Peter Liljedahl, and team teaching with staff at her school, Kiera has the benefits of using his techniques in the classroom. As a coach, finding high-yielding and large impact strategies for teachers is a top priority. The use of non-permanent surfaces not only helps to make students learning visible but can be used as a tool to facilitate high impact.

Suitable for: Middle Years Educators

Location: Room 17, Meadows School, 1220 - 22nd Street, Brandon, MB

Time: 1:00 pm - 3:30 pm

Participant Max: 25

Cost: $27.50 until September 15th / $32.50 after September 15th

FULL - 35B - Amazing Science Resources from the Perimeter Institute!

This half-day session will explore a number of free high school science resources from the Perimeter Institute. Astronomy is one of the most fascinating topics in all of science and students only get the opportunity to learn about it in Grade 9 Science and so we will be working through some activities in the Figuring Outer Space resource (https://resources.perimeterinstitute.ca/products/figuring-outer-space).

We will also explore some activities from the Evidence for Climate Change resource (https://resources.perimeterinstitute.ca/products/evidence-for-climate-change) as anthropogenic climate change is one of the most important issues facing our students. This resource connects to several outcomes throughout the Grade 10 Science curriculum. We will also spend some time looking at the Process of Science resource (https://resources.perimeterinstitute.ca/products/the-process-of-science) which has a number of activities that can be used to promote scientific thinking in our classrooms.

Presenter: Christopher Sarkonak, Teacher, Brandon School Division

Christopher Sarkonak is a Physics teacher at Crocus Plains Regional Secondary School, was the first Canadian high school teacher to be selected by CERN to attend their International High School Teacher Programme in 2019 and is the 2022 recipient of the Excellence in Physics Teaching Award from the Canadian Association of Physicists. He is the Regional Coordinator for Manitoba for the Perimeter Institute Teacher Network and has been working to promote STEM at Crocus Plains by acting as a teacher mentor for the STEM for Girls program and STEM Club and is trying to promote a wide variety of opportunities to students, such as the ESA Moon Camp Challenge and Students on the Beamline from the Canadian Light Source.

Suitable for: Senior Years Educators

Location: Room 226, Crocus Plains Regional Secondary High School, 1930 – First Street, Brandon, MB

Time: 1:00 pm - 3:30 pm

Participant Max: 30

Cost: $27.50 until September 15th / $32.50 after September 15th

FULL - 36B - Kairos Blanket Exercise (KBE)

The KAIROS Blanket Exercise™ program is a unique, participatory history lesson – developed in collaboration with Indigenous Elders, knowledge keepers and educators – that fosters truth, understanding, respect and reconciliation among Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples.

Developed in collaboration with Indigenous Elders, Knowledge Keepers and educators, the KAIROS Blanket Exercise (KBE) is an interactive and experiential teaching tool that explores the historic and contemporary relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples in the land we now know as Canada.

During this 2 to 3-hour workshop, participants step on blankets representing the land and into the role of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. They are guided by trained facilitators, including Indigenous Elders and Knowledge Keepers, who work from a script that covers pre-contact, treaty-making, colonization, resistance and much more. Participants read scrolls and respond to cues in the script. The KBE concludes with a debriefing, conducted as a talking circle, during which participants discuss the learning experience, process their feelings, ask questions, share insights, and deepen their understanding.

Over the past two decades, thousands of KAIROS Blanket Exercises have been delivered in Canada and around the world, including in the United States, Central and South America, Europe, and Australia. By engaging participants on both emotional and intellectual levels, the KBE both educates and creates empathy and understanding.

Presenter: Douglas Pople, Career Planning & Placement Officer, Brandon University

Doug is a proud Métis originally from Portage la Prairie. He has a demonstrated passion for Indigenization in all facets of life and a solid commitment to the principle of decolonizing in order to achieve a fair society. Culture is of paramount importance, both learning and sharing. Doug is an avid harvester of both plants and animals yet always lives the belief of, only take what you need and leave plenty for future generations. The passion to reclaim his Métis heritage is a decade’s long journey with no end in sight. Travelling to and experiencing historical sites such as Ste. Madeleine, Batoche, Duck Lake, Rooster Town and Fish Creek is so important to his understanding of Métis history. His Kookum is with him in spirit every time he stands up and proudly proclaims his Métis ancestry, which she had to give up 90 years ago in order to survive in the settler world. Doug strives to be a positive role model and always promotes meaningful changes, especially those that recognize Indigenous ways of knowing, researching, and working. He is also a huge proponent of personal growth and individual empowerment, while still being aware of the historical realities in which we live and the challenges and barriers many Indigenous people still face to this day.

Suitable for: All Educators

Location: Ceremony Room – Brandon University, 270 - 18th Street, Brandon, MB

Time: 1:00 pm - 3:30 pm

Participant Max: 25

Cost: $27.50 until September 15th / $32.50 after September 15th

FULL - 37B - Grade 7-12 'Try and Take' Agriculture in the Classroom - MB Resources

Come and experience AITC-M’s curricular linked resource kits and games. Learn about AITC-M’s grade 7 - 12 programs. Then pick the breakout sessions with the resources you want to explore. Leave the session with free ‘Monday morning ready resources’ for your classroom.

Presenters: Karen Hill, Curriculum Specialist, Agriculture in The Classroom and Adelle Gervin, Program Manager, Agriculture in the Classroom

Karen Hill is the Curriculum Specialist with Agriculture in the Classroom - MB (AITC-M). Karen combines her years of experience as a classroom teacher working with students from grades 1 – 12 with her agriculture experience as a farm partner on a sheep and cattle ranch to connect our agriculture and food story to MB curriculum in fun and interactive ways. AITC-M is a non-profit, charitable organization with a mandate to promote agriculture literacy in Manitoba schools through innovative, curriculum-based programs and resources. Our mission is to inspire educators to promote agriculture literacy for a sustainable future. Karen says, “The best part of my job is sharing the resources with teachers and then watching the many ways they use them to inspire student learning.”

Adelle Gervin is a Program Manager with Agriculture in the Classroom - MB (AITC-M). Adelle strives to educate today’s youth on our agricultural story and show them her perspective as a cattle rancher and “advocate”. AITC-M is a non-profit, charitable organization with a mandate to promote ag literacy in Manitoba schools through innovative, curriculum-based programs and resources. Our mission is to inspire educators to promote agriculture literacy for a sustainable future. Adelle has helped students across Manitoba learn about what all the ag sector has to offer. From providing the food on their plates to the magnitude of job opportunities, she is honored to educate the future of our industry. Adelle says, “what motivates me is witnessing a student’s understanding of how agricultural practices change to a point where they can see themselves in a career in agriculture”.

Suitable for: Grade 7 - 12 Educators

Location: Room 225 – Crocus Plains Regional Secondary School, 1930 First Street, Brandon, MB

Time: 1:00 pm - 3:30 pm

Participant Max: 25

Cost: $27.50 until September 15th / $32.50 after September 15th

FULL - 38B - Master Your Retirement (VIRTUAL)

Join us to learn key actions into securing the retirement you have always wanted. Although the past couple years has been littered with uncertainty, it has motivated many Canadians to rethink how they can maximize their savings and leverage their assets in new ways for retirement.

We'll discuss, with a focus on teachers and TRAF, the importance of managing your plan through market volatility, how to identify sources of retirement income to reach your retirement goals, and answer the most frequently asked questions on tax, investment considerations, and new trends impacting the way Canadians are thinking about retirement.

Presenter: Cal Vanderschuit, Division Manager at IG Wealth Management

An award winning Certified Financial Planner, Cal came to us from the teaching industry and uses his skills to break down complex financial concepts into easy-to-understand material for his clients so that they know and understand their IG Living Plan. He is very active in his local community of Onanole where he is the President of the Onanole Foundation which raises donations for local charities. Cal is married to Lauren, and they live on an acreage just south of Riding Mountain National Park with their dog Stella. He splits his time between the Onanole and Brandon office.

Suitable for: All Educators

Platform: Microsoft Teams

Time: 1:00 pm - 3:30 pm

Participant Max: 60

Cost: $27.50 until September 15th / $32.50 after September 15th

FULL - 40B - Teaching Human Sexuality

SERC has been training and consulting on comprehensive sexuality education in Manitoba for over 20 years. Teen Talk, our youth program, has been leading hundreds of workshops every year in and out of classroom with youth for the same amount of time. You could say this workshop is the basis of our Training Institute.

We definitely know a thing or two, but we certainly don’t know everything. This is one reason our youth program evaluates and updates their workshops every year. In 2021, Teen Talk took on the large task of not only updating their workshops but including more content for pre teen aged youth (grade 5 and 7 levels).

This workshop will cover updated information and activities to use with youth aged grade 5 and up. This training is designed to set participants up to facilitate these activities with youth immediately after leaving the workshop. Interested in being a sexuality educator or sharpening your skills? This workshop is a great place to start.

Presenter: Erika Reis, Comprehensive Sexuality Education

Suitable for: All Educators

Platform: Zoom

Time: 1:00 pm - 3:30 pm

Participant Max: 40

Cost: $27.50 until September 15th / $32.50 after September 15th