ECSD Elementary Summer Summit: Full Schedule

ECSD Elementary Summer Summit: Flourishing in Hope – Growing Toward Optimal Learning
Join us on August 26 for a day of connection, inspiration, and deep learning. With over 40 sessions featuring classroom-ready resources, high-impact strategies, and engaging lessons across all subject areas—including the brand-new Social Studies curriculum—this year’s Summit will help you start the year with confidence and purpose. Explore the schedule below and plan your path toward flourishing in your practice and fostering optimal learning for every student.

8:00am MDT

Registration and Check in (all participants please register for this session)

Tuesday August 26, 2025 8:00am - 8:45am MDT

Leadership Hall

Start your day with coffee and colleagues!
Join us in the Leadership Hall for registration, refreshments, and reconnecting. Grab your name tag, settle in with a hot drink, and prepare for a day filled with learning, collaboration, and inspiration.
Let the conversations (and the caffeine) get you energized for what’s ahead!

Tuesday August 26, 2025 8:00am - 8:45am MDT
Leadership Hall

All Participants

8:45am MDT

Welcome and Opening Keynote

Tuesday August 26, 2025 8:45am - 9:30am MDT

Leadership Hall

Flourishing in Hope: The Optimized Classroom
This year, we’re not just growing—we’re optimizing. Think mixtapes versus Spotify, paper maps versus GPS, or dial-up versus fiber optic. The tools may change, but the goal stays the same: to connect, to guide, to grow.
In this keynote, we’ll explore how educators can design for excellence by cultivating the right conditions—using purposeful planning, responsive teaching, and evidence-informed strategies. Let’s embrace hope in action, and reimagine what’s possible when we optimize our work for the learners who need us most.

Speakers

Trisha Roffey

Manager of Elementary Curriculum, Edmonton Catholic Schools

Tuesday August 26, 2025 8:45am - 9:30am MDT
Leadership Hall

All Participants

9:45am MDT

Count on It: Addition and Subtraction Routines for Building Strong Math Foundations

Tuesday August 26, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT

Session Materials

Activate your math block with effective routines and strategies that emphasize the importance of foundational math skills. Participants will experience practical, research-based approaches to develop strategies for fluency. These routines will allow for insight into student thinking, and provide engaging ways to make foundational math meaningful and accessible. Join us to deepen your impact and help every student thrive in math!

Speakers

Meredith Aubin

Math Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Meredith is an Elementary Mathematics Consultant who has been with Edmonton Catholic Schools since 2014. She is passionate about helping students to love learning mathematics in meaningful ways. You can also find her spending time outdoors, enjoying restaurants around the city, listening... Read More →

Tuesday August 26, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
2A

1-3

9:45am MDT

Write from the Start LIMITED

Tuesday August 26, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT

Leadership Hall

Session Materials

Setting up the classroom environment to promote writing from the start. Encouraging student motivation and buy-in for writing, even for reluctant writers.

Speakers

Brandi Clark

English Language Arts Consultant (K-6), Edmonton Catholic School Division

I have been working in the division for 25 years. I have a Masters in Elementary Language Arts. My passions are reading and writing across a variety of genres and topics. I live in a house of artists and writers, specifically, my husband, two adult kids, a pug and two cats. I look... Read More →

Tuesday August 26, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Leadership Hall

1-6

9:45am MDT

Counter Intelligence: The Hidden Potential of Two-Sided Counters (4-6) LIMITED

Tuesday August 26, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT

Session Materials

Join us for an interactive professional development session where we will uncover some of the many potential uses of two-sided counters to invite students to make sense of mathematics. Get ready to explore innovative and surprising ways to use this deceptively simple “tool for thinking” that can be leveraged in number, patterns, statistics and more! You will leave with ready to use ideas to make math KUSPS come alive for your students all year long.

Speakers

Caroline Lepps

Math Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Lil' C. is a former backup dancer turned math educator who believes that the best learning happens somewhere between a facepalm and a breakthrough. With over a decade of experience teaching math, she’s made it her mission to help educators embrace the glorious mess of mathematical... Read More →

Tuesday August 26, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
2B

4-6

9:45am MDT

Help! I Have to Teach FSL! LIMITED

Tuesday August 26, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT

Public Boardroom

Session Materials

Feeling overwhelmed about teaching FSL? Whether you are new to FSL or just need a fresh start, this session will give you practical tools to get students speaking from day one. We will focus on effective routines, simple oral activities, games and ways to teach without relying on grammar drills. Get ready to walk away with low-prep activities and strategies, confidence and a solid plan for your year ahead. No fluency required - just a willingness to try!

Speakers

Amy Leavitt

French as an Additional Language Consultant, Edmonton Catholic Schools

Amy Leavitt, a self-professed language nerd from Saskatchewan, is a dynamic French as an Additional Language consultant with Edmonton Catholic Schools in Alberta. Passionate about making language learning fun, Amy incorporates game-based learning and the Action-Oriented Approach into... Read More →

Tuesday August 26, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Public Boardroom

4-6

9:45am MDT

Ready, Set, September! K–3 Social Studies Kickoff LIMITED

Tuesday August 26, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT

Session Materials

Explore the new K–3 Social Studies curriculum architecture using New Learn Alberta. We'll walk through key features, highlight New Learn Alberta resources, and introduce pacing guides designed to support your planning from day one. This session will set the stage for confident, purposeful teaching rooted in curriculum clarity.

Speakers

Anne Simpson

English Language Arts Consultant (K-6), Edmonton Catholic School Division

I am a mom to two children and two fur babies. I love to travel, read, do anything creative and spend time with friends and family (especially in cold hockey arenas and very hot soccer centers).

Samantha Davidson

Elementary Social Studies Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Samantha Davidson is the Elemenraty Social Studies consultant. She loves movies and will use movie quotes and songs whenever possible.

Tuesday August 26, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
3A

K-3

9:45am MDT

AI as Your Planning Partner: Forward Assessment Planning with Backward Design (K-6) LIMITED

Tuesday August 26, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT

Heritage Room

Session Materials

Imagine having a collaborative partner to help you plan your year, design units, and align monthly lessons to outcomes—AI can do that. In this forward-thinking session, you’ll explore how artificial intelligence tools can support long-range planning, backward design, and curriculum mapping. Discover how to generate outcome-aligned learning progressions, brainstorm differentiated tasks, and create assessment ideas with the help of responsible AI prompting. Whether you’re just getting started or ready to level up your planning game, this session will show you how to save time and spark creativity using AI as a co-designer in your teaching practice.

Speakers

Nicole Cunningham

Emtech, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Nicole Cunningham is a Consultant with the Emerging Technology team in Learning Services with Edmonton Catholic Schools. She has been an educator with ECSD for 26 years, teaching K-6 students and serving as a technology coach for Early Learning, Inclusive Education and Curriculum... Read More →

Joel Kristiansen

Emerging Technology Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Joel is part of the Emerging Technology team at Edmonton Catholic Schools. Joel has worked in ECSD for over a decade, spending most of his time in K-9 schools teaching design, robotics, and collaborating with teachers to integrate makerspaces into their subject area.

Leanne Hemphill

Curriculum and Assessment, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Leanne is a tech enthusiast and Assessment & Reporting consultant! Her passion lies in revolutionizing how assessments are conducted, making them engaging and insightful for all. When she's not diving deep into assessment strategies, Leanne can be found gliding through the water with... Read More →

Alyson Gabucci

Curriculum and Assessment Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Alyson Gabucci is an Assessment & Reporting consultant at Edmonton Catholic Schools. She is passionate about eating, mainly salty carbohydrates, working out because of those salty carbohydrates, and you can often find her with her nose in a book either learning more about assessment... Read More →

Tuesday August 26, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Heritage Room

K-6

9:45am MDT

The Well-Being Blueprint: Creating Your Personal Plan for a Resilient Year LIMITED

Tuesday August 26, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT

211 Boardroom Tower

Welcome back! As we begin a new school year, this energizing and meaningful session will help you refocus on the most important part of the classroom— YOU Rooted in the research by Kendrick, Kapoyannis, and Pagaling (2024), and presented in partnership with Learning Services and Human Resource Services, this session explores what self-care means for educators today.
We’ll take a fresh look at research-based strategies, intentional self-care planning and a daily wellness practice known as “streaking.” Together, we’ll break down common misconceptions about self-care, uncover barriers that can stand in the way of well-being, and engage in reflective activities to help you create a personalized, sustainable plan for mental and emotional health.
Whether you’re just starting your teaching journey or are a seasoned educator, this session offers real tools to help you thrive, prevent burnout, and build a career that is not only impactful but also joyful and lasting.

Speakers

Stephanie Malkin

Jacqueline Koval

Physical Education and Wellness Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Jackie is a Physical Education and Wellness consultant with Edmonton Catholic schools. She is an elementary trained teacher who has taught both in Edmonton and internationally. Over a twenty-year career, Jackie has taught preschool through to grade six. Her greatest pleasure when... Read More →

Tuesday August 26, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
211 Boardroom Tower

K-6

9:45am MDT

What the KUSP is a KUSP? LIMITED

Tuesday August 26, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT

Room 1

Session Materials

Get ready to break down the buzzwords and build up your confidence! In this session, we’ll demystify the Knowledge, Understanding, and Skills & Procedures (KUSPs) that shape Alberta’s new curriculum. You’ll explore how KUSPs drive planning, how they connect across subject areas, and how to turn them into meaningful, manageable learning for your students.

Whether you're brand new to the curriculum or just need a refresher, this session will leave you saying, “I get it now!”—and maybe even cracking a smile along the way.

Speakers

Trisha Roffey

Manager of Elementary Curriculum, Edmonton Catholic Schools

Tuesday August 26, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Room 1

K-6

9:45am MDT

Wired for Wonder: Integrating Computer Science and Scientific Methods LIMITED

Tuesday August 26, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT

Room 8

Session Materials

Wired for Wonder: Integrating Computer Science and Scientific Methods invites elementary teachers to explore the natural connections between scientific inquiry and computational thinking. In this interactive session, we’ll examine how the verbs in the K–6 Science curriculum’s skills and procedures—like test, predict, collect, and evaluate—align with key concepts in Computer Science. Through hands-on examples and cross-curricular strategies, we’ll explore how integrating these disciplines can deepen student thinking, enhance problem-solving, and create rich, inquiry-based learning experiences. Discover how students can "think like scientists and coders" while strengthening their understanding of the scientific method—and leave with ready-to-use ideas that spark wonder in your classroom.

Speakers

Katerina Campbell

Elementary Science Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Katerina is an elementary Science consultant at Edmonton Catholic Schools. She loves all things Science, exploring natural phenomena and will never stop asking “why?” Katerina is a self proclaimed maker and cardboard collector. She is a proud promoter of inquiry based learning... Read More →

Natalie Zuberbuhler

Elementary Science Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Natalie Zuberbuhler: Elementary Science Curriculum and Assessment Consultant with Edmonton Catholic Schools lives for Science and supporting her teacher colleagues. Natalie always has great recommendations on books, tips for catching fish, and how to incorporate computer science to... Read More →

Tuesday August 26, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Room 8 350 5th Ave New York, NY 10018 USA

K-6

9:45am MDT

Big Ideas, Little Learners: Exploring the New Kindergarten Social Studies Curriculum LIMITED

Tuesday August 26, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT

Session Materials

Adding another subject area in Kindergarten seems completely overwhelming. Let’s step into the new Kindergarten Social Studies curriculum together with curiosity and confidence. We are going to explore what’s familiar, what’s new, and how to bring big ideas like identity, community, and belonging to life through playful, purposeful learning. We will see how blocks, loose parts, and small world play can support concepts like roles, relationships, and spaces. We will discuss how our tuff trays can become powerful tools for engaged, hands-on learning. We will examine how children’s picture books can open conversation and connect to each organizing idea.

Speakers

Kathleen Ruff

Kindergarten Programming Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Kindergarten Consultant. French Immersion teacher. Boy mom. Baker. Carbohydrate lover. TV watcher.

Taylor-Ann Malish

Tuesday August 26, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
3B

Kindergarten

11:00am MDT

Ready, Set, Edwin – Kick Off Your Classroom with Confidence (4-6) LIMITED

Tuesday August 26, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT

Heritage Room

Session Materials

Start the year strong with strategies to integrate Edwin into your classroom. This session will walk through logging in, navigating key features, and finding curriculum-aligned lessons and resources in Math, ELAL, Science, and Social Studies.
Edwin is a flexible teaching platform designed to support planning, instruction, and student engagement. You’ll leave with tips for organizing content, customizing lessons, and streamlining your workflow.

Speakers

Benjamin Prather

Math Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Benjamin is a mathematics consultant for the Edmonton Catholic School Division. Following a rewarding stint as an Emerging Technology consultant, and a return to the classroom, he has returned to his true passion: mathematics.In the role of a mathematics consultant, Benjamin brings... Read More →

Tuesday August 26, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Heritage Room

4-6

11:00am MDT

Mind the Gap: Empowering Classroom Teachers with Math Intervention Tools & Strategies (K-3) LIMITED

Tuesday August 26, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT

Session Materials

Not every school has a dedicated intervention teacher—but that doesn’t mean students can’t get the targeted support they need! This hands-on session is designed specifically for classroom teachers who are navigating the challenge of filling numeracy gaps within their own classrooms. Explore high-impact intervention resources and practical, easy-to-implement strategies that help address learning gaps during whole-class instruction, small groups, or independent work time. Walk away with a toolkit of ideas to make math more accessible, purposeful, and personalized—no extra staffing required.

Speakers

Amy Swinkels

Math Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Amy is a Math convert! Being a child that hated Math and was highly unsuccessful in Math, it became her absolute passion to help make Math fun, meaningful and successful for all students. When not championing Math, Amy is either reading absolute garbage on a beach or running marathons... Read More →

Tuesday August 26, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
2B

K-3

11:00am MDT

Plan It, Pack It, Teach It! K–3 Social Studies in Action! LIMITED

Tuesday August 26, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT

Session Materials

Get hands-on with all things created by ECSD to turn Social Studies into a curriculum of doing. We’ll dig into engaging and relevant placemat tools, resource-rich curriculum crates,all aligned to the new curriculum. Leave with practical tools and ready-to-use supports to bring your Social Studies to life.

Speakers

Anne Simpson

English Language Arts Consultant (K-6), Edmonton Catholic School Division

I am a mom to two children and two fur babies. I love to travel, read, do anything creative and spend time with friends and family (especially in cold hockey arenas and very hot soccer centers).

Samantha Davidson

Elementary Social Studies Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Samantha Davidson is the Elemenraty Social Studies consultant. She loves movies and will use movie quotes and songs whenever possible.

Tuesday August 26, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
3A

K-3

11:00am MDT

Blooming Science: Verbs, Skills & Smarter Assessments LIMITED

Tuesday August 26, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT

Room 8

Session Materials

In Blooming Science: Verbs, Skills & Smarter Assessment, we dig into the powerful language of Alberta’s K–6 Science curriculum—specifically, the verbs that drive the “doing” of science. These action words shape how we design learning experiences, engage students in meaningful inquiry, and assess their progress authentically. Together, we’ll unpack what verbs like observe, compare, design, and analyze actually look like in the classroom. Through interactive activities and practical examples, we’ll explore how these skills can bloom into hands-on investigations, stronger scientific thinking, and more intentional, skill-based assessment. Come ready to connect, collaborate, and leave with tools that make Science more vibrant and visible in your classroom!

Speakers

Leanne Hemphill

Curriculum and Assessment, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Katerina Campbell

Elementary Science Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Natalie Zuberbuhler

Elementary Science Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Alyson Gabucci

Curriculum and Assessment Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Tuesday August 26, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Room 8 350 5th Ave New York, NY 10018 USA

K-6

11:00am MDT

Building Strong Bodies and Minds: Integrating SEL in PEW LIMITED

Tuesday August 26, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT

Session Materials

Discover how to integrate Social Emotional Learning (SEL) into your physical education classes to foster character development and healthy relationships. This session will provide practical strategies to enhance students' emotional intelligence and resilience while promoting a supportive classroom environment. Equip your students with lifelong skills for personal and social success through engaging and interactive activities.

Speakers

Jacqueline Koval

Physical Education and Wellness Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Anna Deligianis

EAL and Languages, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Anna Deligianis is an Elementary English as an Additional Language Consultant with Edmonton Catholic School Division. She previously worked as an elementary classroom teacher in Alberta and Mexico for many years. Anna graduated from her Masters in Educational Leadership with a focus... Read More →

Melissa Astle

EAL Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Melissa is an EAL consultant with Edmonton Catholic Schools. Her background includes teaching in both bilingual and second language programs in elementary and junior high setting. As a language lover and multilingual herself, she is committed to helping EAL learners find success in... Read More →

Tuesday August 26, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
2A

K-6

11:00am MDT

Exploring Indigenous Knowledge Across Subject Areas (K-6) LIMITED

Tuesday August 26, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT

Session Materials

This session supports K–6 teachers in understanding how Indigenous Knowledge is woven throughout all subjects in the new curriculum. Educators will explore key themes of identity and land, and discuss how these can be meaningfully addressed in KUSPs. Participants will also be introduced to the Teacher Foundational Knowledge Resource, a practical tool to support respectful and confident weaving of Indigenous perspectives into professional practice.

Speakers

Shannon Loutitt

Indigenous Learning Services Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Shannon Loutitt was born in mâskwasîpîsis (Grande Prairie) and raised in nistawoyou (Fort McMurray). She now lives in amiskwaciwâskahikan (Edmonton). Shannon is otepemsew (Métis); her dad Jack is from Fort Smith and her late mom Irene was a fluent Cree speaker from Paddle Prairie... Read More →

Tuesday August 26, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
3B

K-6

11:00am MDT

Let's have a Courageous Conversation with Students LIMITED

Tuesday August 26, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT

Public Boardroom

Student learning is impacted by their ability to be included, feel safe and have a sense of belonging. In this session we will explore a framework for courageous conversations (stay engaged, speak your truth, experience discomfort, expect and accept non-closure) while incorporating brave spaces and restorative practices to support challenging conversations. Join us to dive into strategies to help students understand what it means to be a person in a relationship with others and how they can address conflict in a respectful manner. Participants will be provided with key strategies and resources that help students of all abilities thrive in their environment alongside their peers.

Speakers

Shireen Mohammed

EDIAR Specialist, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Shireen has been in education for 30+ years as a teacher, consultant, counsellor, and assistant principal. She is truly passionate about students and how we can improve our practices to fully support them in all areas of their lives. Shireen is originally from Trinidad which is... Read More →

Tuesday August 26, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Public Boardroom

K-6

11:00am MDT

Rooted in Meaning: Unpacking Text Forms & Structures LIMITED

Tuesday August 26, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT

Leadership Hall

Session Materials

What do strong readers and writers have in common? A deep understanding of how texts work. In this session, we’ll dig into the Organizing Idea Text Forms and Structures—not as another “thing to teach,” but as the root system that supports everything from phonics and fluency to comprehension and composition. Together, we’ll simplify the complexity, clarify the terminology, and explore classroom-ready ways to make this essential idea part of your everyday instruction. With practical examples, thoughtful reflection, and a fresh perspective, you’ll walk away with a stronger understanding of how to help students make sense of the texts they read—and the ones they write.

Speakers

Brandi Clark

English Language Arts Consultant (K-6), Edmonton Catholic School Division

Venessa Chalifoux

Elementary English Language Arts and Literature Consultant

Venessa Chalifoux is one of the Elementary English Language Arts Consultants. She has been teaching for 20 years in grades 1-6 with experience as English as an Additional Language Designate. She has a passion for making learning engaging and fun for students and is an avid reader... Read More →

Carilynn Salisbury

English Language Arts Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Carilynn Salisbury is one of our Elementary English Language Arts Consultants who has been teaching for 15 years with ECSD. She loves all things literacy, especially diving into a great literacy podcast on her commute to work. Loves coffee, sunshine and movement to name a few e... Read More →

Stephanie Pedersen

English Language Arts Consultant (K-6), Edmonton Catholic School Division

Stephanie is an Elementary English Language Arts consultant with ECSD. She is passionate about literacy and establishing effective reading and writing instruction. In her spare time you can find her visiting with friends and family; likely sharing her love of podcasts, plants, and... Read More →

Stephanie Denman

English Language Arts Consultant (K-6), Edmonton Catholic School Division

Stephanie is a newbie joining the ELA Elementary team. She has been an Educator for 15 years with ECSD and completed her Masters in Religious Education. Stephanie has a passion for building powerful literacy classrooms where all learners experience success. She loves reading, traveling... Read More →

Tuesday August 26, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Leadership Hall

K-6

11:00am MDT

So you're teaching in a Language Program, Now What? LIMITED

Tuesday August 26, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT

Room 1

Session Materials

Whether you’re new to language programs or looking to deepen your understanding, this session is for you! Join us for an engaging overview of the various language programs offered at ECSD, including immersion, bilingual, and second language models. We’ll explore what teaching in these programs entails, clarify key expectations, and share practical planning strategies to support student success. You'll leave with a clearer sense of direction and some ready-to-use tools to help you thrive in your language classroom.

Speakers

Suzanne Pitts

French Immersion Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Suzanne Pitts is a French immersion consultant with ECSD. With an insatiable appetite for snacks, an undeniable zest for sports, and an unwavering love for technology, Suzanne is a multifaceted force to be reckoned with. However, her true ardor lies in supporting and empowering teachers... Read More →

Carmen Vaugeois

French Immersion Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Carmen Vaugeois is a French Immersion consultant with ECSD. She is a cheese aficionado, a self-professed reality tv junkie and a sun worshiper. Mentoring beginning teachers in the French Immersion program is near and dear to her heart!

Stephanie Denman

English Language Arts Consultant (K-6), Edmonton Catholic School Division

Tuesday August 26, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Room 1

K-6

12:00pm MDT

Let's Talk Lunch LIMITED

Tuesday August 26, 2025 12:00pm - 12:45pm MDT

Leadership Hall

Join us for a refreshing lunch with colleagues! Not only will there be great food and friends we will also have our AAC and SLP team for a lunch and learn all about communication!

Let's Talk Lunch Playground Area
Explore the incredible technology that empowers our non-speaking students! This interactive session will showcase how communication devices can be integrated into the classroom to support curriculum access, facilitate engaging conversations, and ensure that communication is inclusive for all students. What to Expect: Hands-On Activities: Engage with the latest AAC devices and see firsthand how they can be utilized to support student learning and interaction. Expert Insights: Learn from AAC mentors about the best practices and strategies for incorporating assistive technology in the classroom. Q&A Session: Ask questions and discuss real-life applications and scenarios with experienced AAC professionals. Networking: Connect with other educators and professionals who are passionate about inclusive communication. Whether you're new to AAC or looking to expand your knowledge, this lunch event offers a valuable opportunity to learn, share, and grow.

Speakers

Krista Wennerstrom

Manager, Speech-Language Pathology, Edmonton Catholic School

Krista is a Speech-Language Pathologist with 30 years experience supporting children with complex needs. For much of her career she has focused her practice on inclusion and advocating for the rights of all children to have a voice. In her role at Edmonton Catholic Schools, you can... Read More →

Paige Ingstrup

Tuesday August 26, 2025 12:00pm - 12:45pm MDT
Leadership Hall

All Participants

12:45pm MDT

Counter Intelligence: The Hidden Potential of Two-Sided Counters (1-3)

Tuesday August 26, 2025 12:45pm - 1:45pm MDT

Room 8

Session Materials

Speakers

Caroline Lepps

Math Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Tuesday August 26, 2025 12:45pm - 1:45pm MDT
Room 8 350 5th Ave New York, NY 10018 USA

1-3

12:45pm MDT

Count on It: Multiplication and Division Routines for Building Strong Math Foundations LIMITED

Tuesday August 26, 2025 12:45pm - 1:45pm MDT

Heritage Room

Session Materials

Speakers

Amy Swinkels

Math Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Meredith Aubin

Math Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Tuesday August 26, 2025 12:45pm - 1:45pm MDT
Heritage Room

3-6

12:45pm MDT

New and Novel Ideas to Start Your Year LIMITED

Tuesday August 26, 2025 12:45pm - 1:45pm MDT

Leadership Hall

Session Materials

Discover how novels and book clubs can become powerful tools for transforming literacy instruction in upper elementary classrooms. This session explores innovative strategies for integrating rich, diverse texts into your teaching practice to foster deeper comprehension, critical thinking, and student engagement. Learn how to structure meaningful book club experiences that promote student voice, build community, and connect reading to writing, inquiry, and cross-curricular learning. Whether you're new to book clubs or looking to refresh your approach, you'll leave with practical ideas, adaptable resources, and a renewed excitement for using literature to inspire young readers and thinkers.

Speakers

Samantha Davidson

Elementary Social Studies Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Samantha Davidson is the Elemenraty Social Studies consultant. She loves movies and will use movie quotes and songs whenever possible.

Stephanie Denman

English Language Arts Consultant (K-6), Edmonton Catholic School Division

Tuesday August 26, 2025 12:45pm - 1:45pm MDT
Leadership Hall

4-6

12:45pm MDT

Natural Connections: Integrating Curriculum Through a Holistic Approach LIMITED

Tuesday August 26, 2025 12:45pm - 1:45pm MDT

Session Materials

Join us for Natural Connections, an interactive session that brings together English Language Arts and Literacy, Physical Education and Wellness, and Science curriculums to life through Indigenous-focused knowledge. This experience fosters a deeper connection to Indigenous cultures, the natural world, and social emotional well-being. You will walk away with numerous strategies, tools, and new books!

Speakers

Venessa Chalifoux

Elementary English Language Arts and Literature Consultant

Jacqueline Koval

Physical Education and Wellness Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Natalie Zuberbuhler

Elementary Science Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Tuesday August 26, 2025 12:45pm - 1:45pm MDT
3A

K-3

12:45pm MDT

Culturally Responsive Teaching Where Do I Start? LIMITED

Tuesday August 26, 2025 12:45pm - 1:45pm MDT

Public Boardroom

In this session, we will delve into the essential concepts of Culturally Responsive Teaching (CRT) to empower educators with practical strategies for their classrooms. Centered around positive uses of language, strategies are shared that demonstrate culturally responsive approaches to struggles students may have in their school. As the educational landscape continues to evolve, fostering inclusive environments and addressing systemic barriers are paramount. This session highlights the need for mutual respect, interpersonal understanding, and our common human struggle.

Speakers

Fitzroy Ford

EDIAR Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division

As the EDIAR Consultant my goal is to make the uncomfortable comfortable, to open the circle wider, and to help us feel good about doing this much needed work.

Tuesday August 26, 2025 12:45pm - 1:45pm MDT
Public Boardroom

K-6

12:45pm MDT

Reframing Autism: Superheros, Minecraft and Bluey! Leverage Your Student's Interests (and your own!) LIMITED

Tuesday August 26, 2025 12:45pm - 1:45pm MDT

Session Materials

Join us for "Reframing Autism: Superheroes, Minecraft, and Bluey - Leverage Your Student Interests (And Your Own!)" This session is designed to help teachers kick off the year by focusing on what brings their students joy. Educators will learn how to create curriculum-aligned lessons that incorporate both their own and their students' interests, making learning more engaging and meaningful.

Speakers

Katerina Campbell

Elementary Science Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Anne Simpson

English Language Arts Consultant (K-6), Edmonton Catholic School Division

I am a mom to two children and two fur babies. I love to travel, read, do anything creative and spend time with friends and family (especially in cold hockey arenas and very hot soccer centers).

Tuesday August 26, 2025 12:45pm - 1:45pm MDT
2A

K-6

12:45pm MDT

Say Something: Prioritizing Oral Language LIMITED

Tuesday August 26, 2025 12:45pm - 1:45pm MDT

Room 1

Session Materials

Oral language is at the heart of a successful language learning journey. In this session, we’ll explore how placing a strong focus on speaking and listening can transform the classroom experience and strengthen students’ confidence, communication skills, and connection to the language. We’ll share high-impact strategies that boost student engagement and highlight inclusive supports that ensure all learners can access, participate in, and enjoy the program fully. Whether you teach in an immersion, bilingual, or second language setting, this session will equip you with tools to make oral language a driving force behind a rich and rewarding program experience for every student.

Speakers

Suzanne Pitts

French Immersion Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Carmen Vaugeois

French Immersion Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Tuesday August 26, 2025 12:45pm - 1:45pm MDT
Room 1

K-6

12:45pm MDT

SpacesEDU Success: Crafting Impactful Student Portfolios LIMITED

Tuesday August 26, 2025 12:45pm - 1:45pm MDT

Session Materials

Join us for an engaging professional development session where we'll explore how SpacesEDU can make learning visible. Discover innovative strategies to enhance student learning, showcase growth, and foster a deeper connection between students and their educational journey. Learn how SpacesEDU acts as a bridge, providing parents with a window into the classroom, helping them better understand and support their child's progress. Perfect for educators looking to elevate their classroom experience and maximize student potential. Don't miss out on this opportunity to transform your teaching with dynamic portfolios!

Speakers

Nicole Cunningham

Emtech, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Joel Kristiansen

Emerging Technology Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Leanne Hemphill

Curriculum and Assessment, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Alyson Gabucci

Curriculum and Assessment Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Tuesday August 26, 2025 12:45pm - 1:45pm MDT
2B

K-6

12:45pm MDT

Foundations that Grow: From Scribbles to Sentences in Kindergarten LIMITED

Tuesday August 26, 2025 12:45pm - 1:45pm MDT

Session Materials

What does early reading and writing really look like in Kindergarten? In this hands-on session, we’ll explore how playful materials—like magnetic letter builders, stamping stones, and word pebbles—can support foundational literacy skills in any language program from the first scribbles to early words. Rooted in language learning outcomes of Alberta’s curriculums, this session connects joyful exploration to message-making, vocabulary development, phonological awareness, and phonics. You’ll discover how to use tools like the tuff tray and light pad intentionally across the year, and learn how to match your materials to the right literacy focus—whether you’re building sounds, letters, or ideas. Come ready to play, reflect, and plan for a year of meaningful literacy learning that grows with your students.

Speakers

Kathleen Ruff

Kindergarten Programming Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Kindergarten Consultant. French Immersion teacher. Boy mom. Baker. Carbohydrate lover. TV watcher.

Taylor-Ann Malish

Tuesday August 26, 2025 12:45pm - 1:45pm MDT
3B

Kindergarten

2:00pm MDT

Unlocking Curriculum: Strategies to support EAL Learners LIMITED

Tuesday August 26, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT

Room 1

Session Materials

ECSD is home to a richly diverse EAL student population, representing a wide range of linguistic and cultural backgrounds. This diversity brings strengths and varied learning experiences which calls for intentional planning to ensure every student can access. In this session, we will explore effective language instruction practices helping make content more accessible and responsive to the needs of EAL learners.

Speakers

Devin Austin

Elementary EAL Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Devin Austin, a forward-thinking Elementary EAL consultant with Edmonton Catholic Schools, sharing his skills in diverse capacities since 2011. He loves globe-trotting, keeping abreast of the newest tech innovations, supporting diverse learners, and moments with his family. Devin... Read More →

Angelica Tan

English as an Additional Language Consultant (K-6), Edmonton Catholic School Division

Angelica Tan is an Elementary English as an Additional Language Consultant with Edmonton Catholic Schools. Growing up as a multilingual learner, she developed a deep passion for languages. She holds a Bachelor of Education degree from the University of Alberta, majoring in French... Read More →

Tuesday August 26, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT
Room 1

1-6

2:00pm MDT

Kicking Off Fluency Instruction: Unlocking Microsoft Reading Progress & Essential Fluency Routines! LIMITED

Tuesday August 26, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT

Leadership Hall

Session Materials

Build your foundational knowledge of the critical impact of fluency instruction in the classroom and its role in bridging to reading comprehension. Explore how the Microsoft Teams Reading Progress tool supports instruction by simplifying the tracking of reading progress over time. Discover how this innovative tool empowers students to hear themselves read, practice fluency, and receive immediate, effective feedback. In addition, we will share engaging and effective classroom routines and structures to support fluency, such as Reader's Theatre, tongue twisters, partner poems, and more. This session will equip you with the tools and strategies to confidently kick off your language arts structures from the get-go, setting a strong foundation for the year ahead. Leave empowered and inspired with practical strategies to seamlessly integrate these resources into your classroom, ensuring enhanced student success and a vibrant, fluency-focused learning environment!

Speakers

Brandi Clark

English Language Arts Consultant (K-6), Edmonton Catholic School Division

Venessa Chalifoux

Elementary English Language Arts and Literature Consultant

Carilynn Salisbury

English Language Arts Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Stephanie Pedersen

English Language Arts Consultant (K-6), Edmonton Catholic School Division

Stephanie Denman

English Language Arts Consultant (K-6), Edmonton Catholic School Division

Tuesday August 26, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT
Leadership Hall

2-6

2:00pm MDT

Visualize & Conquer: Enhancing Mathematics Fluency LIMITED

Tuesday August 26, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT

Heritage Room

Session Materials

Immerse yourself in the world of visual learning and discover how engaging visuals can reimagine the way students understand math. By making abstract concepts more concrete, visuals enhance comprehension, boost retention, and make math more accessible. Inspire your students and help them build a strong, positive math identity through the power of visualization.

Speakers

Anita Hanneman

Elementary Math Consultant at Edmonton Catholic School Division, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Anita is incredibly grateful for the multitude of opportunities that God has graciously placed before her throughout her career in education. These opportunities have allowed her to receive training in various capacities, including early learning, secondary education, sciences, mathematics... Read More →

Tuesday August 26, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT
Heritage Room

4-6

2:00pm MDT

Pack It Up, Pack It In, Let Me Begin... with Digi-Blocks K-3 LIMITED

Tuesday August 26, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT

Session Materials

Get ready to kick off the school year by building strong foundations in number sense and operations—with Digi-Blocks! In this hands-on session, we’ll explore the Packed with Math resource books for K–1 and 2–3, and unpack how these tools can support counting, place value, composing/decomposing numbers, and early operations. You'll leave with a copy of the resource book, practical classroom-ready activities, and a better sense of how to help students “pack it in” and “count it out” with confidence!

Speakers

Benjamin Prather

Math Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Tuesday August 26, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT
2B

K-3

2:00pm MDT

Boost Your Bins LIMITED

Tuesday August 26, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT

Room 8

Session Materials

Boost Your Bins is your all-access pass to enhancing hands-on science in your classroom! Join us as we dive into Edmonton Catholic Schools' updated Science bins across all organizing ideas—Earth Systems, Matter, Energy, Space, Living Systems, Computer Science, and Climate Action. Together, we’ll explore new resources like the Science Placemat, Stepping Into Science, Launching Into Science, and Edwin, and discover how they support joyful, meaningful learning. You’ll have the opportunity to refresh your bins, add new tools and materials, and see how science mentor texts can spark wonder and connection. Walk away with practical ideas and fresh inspiration to make science even more active, engaging, and student-centered.

Speakers

Katerina Campbell

Elementary Science Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Natalie Zuberbuhler

Elementary Science Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Tuesday August 26, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT
Room 8 350 5th Ave New York, NY 10018 USA

K-6

2:00pm MDT

Building Bridges: Fostering Peer Relationships with Restorative Circles (K-6) LIMITED

Tuesday August 26, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT

Public Boardroom

Restorative circles are used as a method to improve communication, understanding, and empathy among peers. Restorative circles are structured group conversations where each participant has an equal opportunity to speak and be heard without interruption in a proactive manner. The process helps build trust, strengthen relationships and resolve conflicts by promoting a safe space for open dialogue.

Speakers

Shireen Mohammed

EDIAR Specialist, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Jennifer Manzulenko

Tuesday August 26, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT
Public Boardroom

K-6

2:00pm MDT

PEW Resource Round-Up LIMITED

Tuesday August 26, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT

Session Materials

Join us for an engaging movement based session designed to enhance your physical education and wellness curriculum! This session will introduce you to valuable resources and practical strategies, blending active participation with resource familiarization. You'll leave with a comprehensive toolkit to promote physical activity and wellness in your classroom. Don't miss this opportunity to collaborate with fellow educators and inspire a healthier, more dynamic learning environment!

Speakers

Jacqueline Koval

Physical Education and Wellness Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Tuesday August 26, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT
3A

K-6

2:00pm MDT

Think It. Click It. Represent It! Digital Visual Journals with Book Creator LIMITED

Tuesday August 26, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT

Session Materials

Unlock student creativity and reflection with Book Creator, the ultimate tool for digital visual journals! In this energizing, hands-on session, you'll discover how to help students think deeply, click creatively, and share proudly by capturing their ideas in dynamic, multimedia journal entries. Learn how to use Book Creator to transform traditional journaling into an engaging digital experience, complete with audio, video, drawings, text, and more. You’ll explore ready-made templates, build your own journal page, and gather ideas to support cross-curricular learning, formative assessment, and student voice.

Perfect for all grade levels, this session will leave you inspired to start the school year with a creative journaling routine that puts thinking on display, one click at a time!

Speakers

Nicole Cunningham

Emtech, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Joel Kristiansen

Emerging Technology Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Tuesday August 26, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT
2A

K-6

2:00pm MDT

The Power of the Number Path: Anchoring Early Counting Through Play LIMITED

Tuesday August 26, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT

Session Materials

In early math, how children see and interact with numbers matters. This hands-on session focuses on the number path—a powerful visual tool that supports one-to-one correspondence, abstraction, stable order, order irrelevance, and cardinality.We will explore how the number path can ground children’s understanding of counting through meaningful, manipulative-based play. We will discuss how to use the number path for attendance, small group games, and centre set-ups. Materials such as two-sided counters, jumbo number pebbles, magnetic tiles, and Silishape numbers can anchor children’s learning experiences in addition to using a range of materials commonly found in classrooms. We will look at English, French, and Spanish children’s math literature that pieces together knowledge and understanding and assists in providing visual information for exploratory centres. Whether you're new to the number path or looking to deepen its use, this session will leave you with practical strategies to embed it across your math learning environment—all while keeping play at the heart of your teaching.

Speakers

Kathleen Ruff

Kindergarten Programming Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division

Kindergarten Consultant. French Immersion teacher. Boy mom. Baker. Carbohydrate lover. TV watcher.

Taylor-Ann Malish

Tuesday August 26, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT
3B

Kindergarten

3:00pm MDT

Wrap Up and Prize Draw LIMITED

Tuesday August 26, 2025 3:00pm - 3:15pm MDT

Leadership Hall

Join us in Leadership Hall from 3:00–3:15 PM as we come back together to celebrate a day of learning, connection, and growth. We’ll share a few closing words, draw for some exciting prizes, and send you off feeling inspired and ready to flourish this school year. Don’t miss your chance to win—and to wrap up the day with hope and gratitude!

Speakers

Trisha Roffey

Manager of Elementary Curriculum, Edmonton Catholic Schools

Tuesday August 26, 2025 3:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Leadership Hall

All Participants

ECSD Elementary Summer Summit