BTC 2026 - Edmonton: Full Schedule

Please submit your questions at www.menti.com and use code 8870 1164. If your question isn't answered during this session, you can find the answer during the social question and answer time at 4 pm today or you can call 1-800-332-1280 and ask to speak to an ATA staff officer.

Friday September 25, 2026 9:15am - 10:00am MDT
Ballroom D

Pinned

10:00am MDT

BREAK

Friday September 25, 2026 10:00am - 10:15am MDT

Lobby & Common Areas Outside Meeting Rooms

Friday September 25, 2026 10:00am - 10:15am MDT
Lobby & Common Areas Outside Meeting Rooms

Meals and Breaks

10:15am MDT

Outdoor Learning Adventures in Junior High Science (7-9)

LIMITED

Friday September 25, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT

Ballroom A/B

Limited Capacity seats available

Learning does not have to happen solely within the four walls of the classroom. This session will explore a multitude of experiential science learning opportunities you can do with your students! From simple, community excursions for a class block, land-based literacy opportunities with Indigenous Elders, to fully immersive overnight adventures. This session will provide multiple ideas and resources that will allow your students to construct knowledge and understanding of science in practical ways.

Speakers

Julie Arsenault

Friday September 25, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Ballroom A/B

CTS/CTF; Indigenous Education; Science, Division III

10:15am MDT

AI Tools to Make Teacher Life Easier (K-12)

LIMITED

Friday September 25, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT

Piesporter (Room 5)

Limited Capacity seats available

Keeping up with the latest AI tools can feel like a full-time job and the tools change quickly, but our purpose in using them as teachers hasn't changed. Are you wondering which one is worth using, which ones we should be using, and which ones are really just wrappers that don't offer much value? This session has you covered! Join Darren as he walks through all the best AI tools currently available for teachers and how you can use them! Increase your awesome and learn how AI infused tools can make your work easier, more effective, more engaging, and less stressful.

Speakers

Darren Maltais

Friday September 25, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Piesporter (Room 5)

Ed Tech, Division I, Division II, Division III, Division IV

10:15am MDT

Best Practices for Support ELLs with AI—A Sampler (K-12)

LIMITED

Friday September 25, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT

Madeira (Room 7)

Limited Capacity seats available

You have probably used AI in your classroom…whether it's creating images, articles, assignments, or even for assessments. You try your best to spot biases and check AI's work before giving it to your students…but are you integrating best practices for supporting ELLs in your prompts? What are the best ways to use AI to support ELLs anyways? Join this session as we explore how to integrate good EAL teaching practices and the EAL Benchmarks 2.0 into designing learning that will help your ELLs (and other students!) build vocabulary and become better speakers and writ

Speakers

Annie Fung

Friday September 25, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Madeira (Room 7)

English Language Learners, Division I, Division II, Division III, Division IV | Ed Tech, Division I, Division II, Division III, Division IV

10:15am MDT

Entretenir de Bons Liens - Introduction aux Protocoles Culturels (K-12)

LIMITED

Friday September 25, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT

Chivas (Room 4)

Limited Capacity seats available

Cet atelier d’initiation vous permettra d’en apprendre davantage au sujet des protocoles culturels entourant les manières autochtones de savoir, d’être et de faire. Il ne s’agit pas d’un « guide normatif » ou d’une « liste de choses à faire et à ne pas faire », mais plutôt d’un atelier axé sur le dialogue qui vise à familiariser les participants avec les concepts de base sur lesquels reposent le développement et le renforcement de notre relation avec les peuples autochtones et leurs systèmes de connaissances.

Speakers

Lise Nepton

Indigenous Education PD Facilitator, The Alberta Teachers' Association

Friday September 25, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Chivas (Room 4)

Francais, Division I, Division II, Division III, Division IV

10:15am MDT

CSI: Learning—What Every Teacher Needs to Know About Assessment (K-12)

LIMITED

Friday September 25, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT

Medoc (Room 14)

Limited Capacity seats available

Great teachers are educational detectives. Every day, students leave clues about what they know, understand, and can do, but learning is often invisible unless we know where to look. In this session, participants will explore practical assessment strategies that work across grade levels and subject areas. Grounded in the research of Black and Wiliam, McTighe, Shepard, Sadler, Brookhart, and Hattie, this session will help teachers move beyond grades and discover how assessment can be one of the most powerful tools for informing teaching and improving learning.

Speakers

Leanne Watson

Executive Staff Officer, Teacher Employment Services, ATA

Leanne Watson is an Executive Staff Officer for Teacher Employment Services with the Alberta Teachers’ Association. Leanne's previous roles include teacher, former K – 12 Administrator, School Improvement Coach and AAC casual consultant. Leanne’s commitment to enhancing educational... Read More →

Friday September 25, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Medoc (Room 14)

Hot Topics for Professionals, Division I, Division II, Division III, Division IV

10:15am MDT

Executive Function—Essential Skills for Deep Learning and Emotional Regulation (K-12)

LIMITED

Friday September 25, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT

Ballroom C

Limited Capacity seats available

Executive function skills are critical for success both within the school environment and in our lives outside of school. While we are born with the capacity for executive function, these skills need to be modeled, coached, and practiced over the course of our lifetimes if we are to become self-regulated, organized, and collaborative learners. Join us as we explore fundamental knowledge, skills and strategies that support students in developing their executive function. Through this workshop, we will explore executive function skills and development, opportunities to explicitly teach executive function skills, and executive function strength training strategies.

Speakers

Lisa Landry-Jones

ATA Learning Faciltator, The Alberta Teachers' Association

I have worked with Edmonton Public Schools for 27 years as a teacher, Curriculum Coordinator, and am currently an Assistant Principal. My background is in Language and Literacy as a Reading Specialist, and my passion is helping kids and teachers discover the joy of a great story... Read More →

Friday September 25, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Ballroom C

Hot Topics for Professionals, Division I, Division II, Division III, Division IV

10:15am MDT

How Teachers Get Paid (K-12)

LIMITED

Friday September 25, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT

Chablis (Room 12)

Limited Capacity seats available

Speakers

TEMSSO

Friday September 25, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Chablis (Room 12)

Hot Topics for Professionals, Division, I, Division II, Division III, Division IV

10:15am MDT

Modernizing Provincial Assessments: Alberta’s Digital Assessment Platform (K-12)

LIMITED

Friday September 25, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT

Champagne (Room 16)

Limited Capacity seats available

Provincial Assessment’s digital assessment team will provide an overview of the platform, including the teacher dashboard, the student user interface, built-in tools and accommodations, and more.

Speakers

Alberta Education and Childcare

Friday September 25, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Champagne (Room 16)

Hot Topics for Professionals, Division I, Division II, Division III, Division IV

10:15am MDT

Culturally Responsive Teaching—Fostering Inclusive Classrooms (K-12)

LIMITED

Friday September 25, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT

Chianti (Room 6)

Limited Capacity seats available

Creating an inclusive and culturally responsive classroom environment is an integral part of our teaching practice. This workshop will explore key approaches and practical strategies for integrating diverse perspectives, building cultural competence, and fostering an inclusive learning environment. Through interactive discussions and activities, you will gain insights into effective communication, addressing implicit biases, and infusing cultural sensitivity into the school and classroom. Join us as we explore tools to celebrate diversity in education and create a space where every student feels valued and respected.

Speakers

Janice Pinnock

Friday September 25, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Chianti (Room 6)

Inclusion, Division I, Division II, Division III, Division IV | Hot Topics for Professionals, Division I, Division II, Division III, Division IV

10:15am MDT

Building Confidence Through Numeracy Routines: Creating Safe and Engaging Math Classrooms (K-12)

LIMITED

Friday September 25, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT

Beaujolias (Room 10)

Limited Capacity seats available

This interactive session explores how purposeful numeracy routines can build student confidence, strengthen mathematical thinking, and create positive classroom culture in Grades K–12. Participants will experience a variety of practical, low-prep routines that encourage communication, reasoning, flexibility in thinking, and student engagement while supporting diverse learners. The session will also examine the impact of math trauma and anxiety, highlighting how predictable and low-risk instructional structures can help students rebuild confidence and develop a healthier mathematical identity. Educators will leave with ready-to-use routines, implementation strategies, and ideas for embedding meaningful numeracy conversations into everyday classroom practice.

Speakers

Patricia Shoemaker

Friday September 25, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Beaujolias (Room 10)

Inclusion; Mathematics, Division I, Division II, Division III, Division IV

10:15am MDT

Our Shared History, Our Shared Future—A Brief Introduction to Treaties (K-12)

LIMITED

Friday September 25, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT

Cognac (Room 15)

Limited Capacity seats available

This introductory workshop will explore historical and contemporary information and resources relating to numbered treaties within present-day Alberta. Educators will build their understanding of the acknowledgement of land and people, as well as our shared responsibilities to the land and each other. Participants will engage in dialogue and reflect on their professional learning in order to build capacity in treaty education.

Speakers

Riplea Matheson

Friday September 25, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Cognac (Room 15)

Indigenous Education, Division I, Division II, Division III, Division IV | Inclusion, Division I, Division II, Division III, Division IV

10:15am MDT

Practical Foundations for a Successful Primary Classroom (K-3)

LIMITED

Friday September 25, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT

Bordeaux (Room 9)

Limited Capacity seats available

This session focuses on building classroom community through meaningful literacy experiences and social-emotional learning, fostering a strong sense of belonging.

The session explores classroom routines, songs, and rhymes, along with mentor texts and activities that support reflection, relationship-building, and the development of writers. Attendees will also create their own plasticine art project inspired by Canadian author and illustrator Barbara Reid, gaining hands-on experience and techniques to bring back to their classrooms. Participants will leave with practical ideas to support student growth and create an inclusive, connected learning environment in primary classrooms.

Speakers

Michelle Bezubiak

Friday September 25, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Bordeaux (Room 9)

Language Arts; Fine Arts; Heath and/or Physical Education, Division I

10:15am MDT

Bringing the K–6 Computer Science Curriculum to Life (K-6)

LIMITED

Friday September 25, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT

Ballroom D

Limited Capacity seats available

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

Speakers

Sydney Munsterman

Friday September 25, 2026 10:15am - 11:30am MDT
Ballroom D

Science, Division I, Division II | Ed Tech, Division I, Division II

11:30am MDT

LUNCH

Friday September 25, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm MDT

Ballroom D

Friday September 25, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm MDT
Ballroom D

Meals and Breaks

12:30pm MDT

Your First Year EdTech Toolbox (4-9)

LIMITED

Friday September 25, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT

Ballroom D

Limited Capacity seats available

Starting your teaching career can feel overwhelming, especially when trying to navigate the endless number of educational technology tools available today. This session is designed specifically for new teachers who want practical, classroom-ready tools without spending hours learning complicated platforms. Participants will explore a curated collection of high-impact digital tools that support the core responsibilities of teaching, including lesson planning, classroom organization, communication, assessment, feedback, content creation, and student engagement. Rather than focusing on technology for technology's sake, this session emphasizes how digital tools can save time, reduce workload, and enhance learning experiences for students. Through demonstrations, classroom examples, and opportunities to explore tools firsthand, attendees will discover how to build an efficient and sustainable digital workflow that works across grade levels and subject areas. Participants will leave with a collection of ready-to-use resources, implementation ideas, and practical strategies they can immediately apply in their own classrooms.

Speakers

Sydney Munsterman

Friday September 25, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Ballroom D

CTS/CTF; Ed Tech, Division II, Division III

12:30pm MDT

Student Led Learning with 5 Minute Field Trips—How to make time for fun and games in any classroom! (K–12)

LIMITED

Friday September 25, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT

Chianti (Room 6)

Limited Capacity seats available

This interactive session explores quick, low-prep experiential learning activities that build movement, curiosity, connection, and student leadership in any classroom setting. Through hands-on games, challenges, and reflection strategies, participants will discover practical ways to increase engagement and bring outdoor learning principles into everyday teaching, without needing extensive time, equipment, or outdoor spaces. Participants will leave with ready-to-use activities and ideas that help foster classroom community, creativity, and meaningful student learning through play and exploration.

Speakers

Court Rustemeyer

Friday September 25, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Chianti (Room 6)

CTS/CTF; Heath and/or Physical Education; Teacher Wellness, Division I Division II Division III Division IV

12:30pm MDT

Making the Leap to Outcome Based Assessment and Reporting (7-9)

LIMITED

Friday September 25, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT

Ballroom A/B

Limited Capacity seats available

How much information are your students getting from standard grading practices? Does a traditional "percentage" grade really tell us which learning outcomes a student has mastered? Even when we want to make adjustments, it can seem overwhelming and scary, especially with changing curricula, increased demands and parental expectations of what indicates student success. So how do we make the transition from what we've always done to what we want to do? This session will share ideas and resources for tracking student progress, setting up an outcome based gradebook and reporting achievements that communicates learning to students and parents efficiently and effectively.

Speakers

Julie Arsenault

Friday September 25, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Ballroom A/B

CTS/CTF; Science, Division III

12:30pm MDT

Curriculum 101 : Une trousse d’outils pour enseignants débutants (K-12)

LIMITED

Friday September 25, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT

Chivas (Room 4)

Limited Capacity seats available

Cette séance vous aidera à naviguer le curriculum de l’Alberta ainsi que nouveau LearnAlberta. Découvrez comment le curriculum est organisé pour soutenir la planification, et où trouver des ressources et des appuis d’apprentissage et d’enseignement de haute qualité sur Nouveau LearnAlberta. Vous en repartirez avec des conseils pratiques, des outils utiles et une meilleure compréhension de la manière de planifier des expériences d’apprentissage en toute confiance.

Speakers

Alberta Education and Childcare

Friday September 25, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Chivas (Room 4)

Francais, Division I, Division II, Division III

12:30pm MDT

Brains Over Bots: AI-Resistant Approaches for Authentic Learning,(K-12)

LIMITED

Friday September 25, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT

Cognac (Room 15)

Limited Capacity seats available

Generative AI has changed what students can produce, but not what they need to learn. This session reframes the challenge of teaching in the age of AI as a design opportunity. We’ll explore how you can create AI-resistant assignments that emphasize process, creativity, and authentic demonstrations of understanding. You’ll leave with practical strategies you can apply right away to reinforce real thinking in a world of artificial answers.

Speakers

Stacey Hannay

Executive Staff Officer • Professional Development, The Alberta Teachers' Association

Dr. Stacey Hannay, Executive Staff Officer, Alberta Teachers’ Association. Dr. Stacey Hannay holds a Ph.D. in curriculum theory and teacher professional development, with a research focus on how teachers come to understand and live the concept of Physical Literacy in their teaching... Read More →

Friday September 25, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Cognac (Room 15)

Hot Topics for Professionals, Division I, Division II, Division III, Division IV

12:30pm MDT

From Screening to Support: What Every New Teacher Needs to Know (K-12)

LIMITED

Friday September 25, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT

Champagne (Room 16)

Limited Capacity seats available

Learn the basics of literacy and numeracy screening, where to find resources, and how to turn results into action.

Speakers

Alberta Education and Childcare

Friday September 25, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Champagne (Room 16)

Hot Topics for Professionals, Division I, Division II, Division III, Division IV

12:30pm MDT

Strategic and Workplace Communication (K-12)

LIMITED

Friday September 25, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT

Medoc (Room 14)

Limited Capacity seats available

Join me for a two-part look at communication in the teaching profession. We begin with a high-level overview of the Alberta Teachers’ Association (ATA) communications strategy, highlighting how the Association advocates for public education and keeps members informed. We then shift to the school level, equipping new teachers with essential workplace communication skills. Learn actionable approaches for collaborating with staff, communicating effectively with parents, setting professional boundaries, and handling difficult workplace dynamics early in your career.

Speakers

Kristine Wilkinson

Associate Coordinator, Communications, Government, The Alberta Teachers' Association

Kristine is a proud advocate for teachers and is committed to representing their voices and interests. With over 25 years of experience in education, Kristine has enjoyed a career that has evolved from Junior high teacher, to a School Counsellor and then finally to the role of High... Read More →

Friday September 25, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Medoc (Room 14)

Hot Topics for Professionals, Division I, Division II, Division III, Division IV

12:30pm MDT

Teacher Safety Net—Your Entitlements, Your Protection (K–12)

LIMITED

Friday September 25, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT

Chablis (Room 12)

Limited Capacity seats available

Over many years the Association has constructed a safety net for teachers and their families. This presentation provides an overview of what teachers have in regard to sick leave and other leaves through the collective agreement, extended disability, life insurance, other benefit plan provisions, as well as pension and death benefits. This is a light-hearted presentation that is intended to be presented to local teachers in order to provide very relevant and necessary information on existing entitlements.

Speakers

TEMSSO

Friday September 25, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Chablis (Room 12)

Hot Topics for Professionals, Division I, Division II, Division III, Division IV

12:30pm MDT

Trauma-Informed Practice—Safe, Supportive and Self-Regulated Classrooms (K-12)

LIMITED

Friday September 25, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT

Piesporter (Room 5)

Limited Capacity seats available

Participants in this interactive workshop will receive information and tools to help provide safe, supportive and self-regulated environments for students who have experienced trauma. Teachers will be provided with background information on trauma and its effects on the child and adolescent brain, how to create trauma-informed environments and how to help build resiliency and self-regulation skills in students.

Speakers

Andrea Fletcher

ATA Learning Facilitator, The Alberta Teachers' Association

Friday September 25, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Piesporter (Room 5)

Hot Topics for Professionals, Division I, Division II, Division III, Division IV

12:30pm MDT

UDL Meets EAL—Empowerment for All Learners (K-12)

LIMITED

Friday September 25, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT

Ballroom C

Limited Capacity seats available

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a powerful framework that can significantly enhance educational outcomes for all students, including students who are English as an Additional Language (EAL) learners. This workshop aims to empower educators with practical strategies to create inclusive and effective learning environments where all students, including those with diverse linguistic backgrounds, can thrive.

Speakers

Lisa Landry-Jones

ATA Learning Faciltator, The Alberta Teachers' Association

Friday September 25, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Ballroom C

Hot Topics for Professionals, Division I, Division II, Division III, Division IV

12:30pm MDT

Less Overwhelm, More Impact: High-Yield Universally Designed Strategies for Real Classrooms (K-12)

LIMITED

Friday September 25, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT

Madeira (Room 7)

Limited Capacity seats available

A few weeks or months into your new teaching career, are you wondering how you're going to get all the things done and still deliver quality teaching and learning to your students? Does it seem like everyone expects you to meet the needs of EVERY student in your classroom EVERY day, ie, to do the seemingly impossible? Then this is the session for you. In this session you'll learn about high-impact universal supports that reduce planning, teaching, assessment, and reporting strain; support inclusive classrooms; and provide deep learning opportunities for students across K–12 settings. Come and rid your backpack of almost everything but the most high yield/lower prep teaching tools and protocols, in order to become the most nimble (and better rested!) teacher you can be!

Speakers

Cathy Wiederick

Friday September 25, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Madeira (Room 7)

Inclusion, Division I, Division II, Division III, Division IV | Teacher Wellness, Division I, Division II, Division III, Division IV | Ed Tech, Division I, Division II, Division III, Division IV

12:30pm MDT

Supporting Struggling Mathematics Students with Evidence Based Pedagogy (K-9)

LIMITED

Friday September 25, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT

Bordeaux (Room 9)

Limited Capacity seats available

Mathematics achievement has quality of life implications for students who struggle with mathematics and/or have a diagnosed mathematics learning disability. As grade 1-8 educators, we must fully understand the barriers these students must overcome in learning mathematics and the effective practices that can be enacted to better support them. In this session, we off the results of our research on evidence-based intervention strategies that support students who struggles with mathematics. We will discuss the role of explicit instruction related to number sense along with automaticity and fluency. In addition, we will discuss how strategies such as manipulatives, visual representations and schema-based instruction are supporting elements within explicit instruction.

Speakers

Jennifer Steiner

Tanya Braybrook

Friday September 25, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Bordeaux (Room 9)

Mathematics, Division I, Division II, Division III | Inclusion, Division I, Division II, Division III

12:30pm MDT

The Power of the Science Journal: Reflection, Practice, and Deeper Learning (7-12)

LIMITED

Friday September 25, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT

Beaujolias (Room 10)

Limited Capacity seats available

In this session, teachers will explore the structure, purpose, and practical use of science journals in the secondary science classroom. Designed to support Assessment for Learning practices and meaningful FNMI connections, these journals serve as both a guided home study resource and a portfolio of student learning that can be shared with parents and guardians during conferences. Session participants will view student exemplars and leave with practical tools to begin developing science journals for their own classrooms. Teachers will receive ready-to-use templates, handouts, strategies, and ideas that can be implemented immediately in diverse learning environments. While Science 9 and 10 examples will be featured, the resources and approaches shared can be adapted across a variety of secondary subject areas. If you value student organization, accountability, pride in learning, and strong study habits, this session is for you!

Speakers

Erin Montgomery

Secondary Science Teacher, Elk Island Catholic Schools

Erin is a veteran Secondary Science Teacher with Elk Island Catholic Schools in Sherwood Park, AB. She currently teaches Science 9 & 10 but has also taught Gr. 5-8 Science over her 20-year career. She holds a Master's Degree in Secondary Science Education in Assessment and Resource... Read More →

Friday September 25, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm MDT
Beaujolias (Room 10)

Science, Division III, Division IV | Mathematics, Division III, Division IV | Indigenous Education, Division III, Division IV

1:45pm MDT

BREAK

Friday September 25, 2026 1:45pm - 2:00pm MDT

Lobby & Common Areas Outside Meeting Rooms

Friday September 25, 2026 1:45pm - 2:00pm MDT
Lobby & Common Areas Outside Meeting Rooms

Meals and Breaks

2:00pm MDT

Hands-On Learning—PBL Gold Standard (4-12)

LIMITED

Friday September 25, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT

Ballroom C

Limited Capacity seats available

The Career and Technology Education Council will share successful and engaging proven tricks and tips to make your CTF/CTS Class effective, efficient and engaging for your students. Experienced CTF/CTS teachers will share integrated curricular projects, classroom procedures, project examples and assessment strategies that will streamline your workday and provide challenging and customized lessons for your students.

Speakers

Paul Bohnert

Friday September 25, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Ballroom C

CTF/CTS, Division II, Division III, I Division IV | Science, Division II, Division III, I Division IV | Social Studies, Division II, Division III, I Division IV

2:00pm MDT

Art Games for Mental Health in the Language Classroom (K-12)

LIMITED

Friday September 25, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT

Madeira (Room 7)

Limited Capacity seats available

This workshop explores the integration of art-based games to support mental health while fostering language learning. Participants will discover creative, interactive activities that reduce anxiety, build resilience, and enhance communication in the classroom. Drawing from principles of social-emotional learning, trauma-informed practices, and art therapy, this session will equip educators with practical tools to create a safe and engaging environment for students

Speakers

Maria Herrera

Friday September 25, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Madeira (Room 7)

English Language Learners; Fine Arts; Second Languages, Division I, Division II, Division III, Division IV

2:00pm MDT

Accessibility Tools to Help Differentiate for All Students (K-9)

LIMITED

Friday September 25, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT

Piesporter (Room 5)

Limited Capacity seats available

Assistive tools for students have never been better and they get more exciting all the time! There are several tools that ALL students can use on Chromebooks to help them become better readers, writers, and learners in general. There are also so many ways that teachers can create and use resources that can reach every student. This session will help you address the diverse needs you will encounter in your classroom. We will look at the built-in accessibility features of Chromebooks, tools in Google Classroom to help with reading some features of Read&Write, how to adapt texts, assessments, and activities and ,most importantly, how to engage every student in multiple ways including English Language Learners.

Speakers

Darren Maltais

Friday September 25, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Piesporter (Room 5)

English Language Learning, Division I, Division II, Division III | Language Arts, Division I, Division II, Division III | Inclusion, Division I, Division II, Division III | Ed Tech, Division I, Division II, Division III

2:00pm MDT

Rhythmic Fun: Engaging Elementary Music Students with Hand Clapping Games (K-6)

LIMITED

Friday September 25, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT

Bordeaux (Room 9)

Limited Capacity seats available

Elementary music teachers, dive into the rhythm of hand clapping games in this interactive session. Explore how to weave these fun activities into your lessons, drawing from playground traditions and youth culture. Get ready to clap, stomp, and bring the playground spirit to your music room!

Speakers

Lorna Walker

Fine Arts Council

Connie Ohlman

Friday September 25, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Bordeaux (Room 9)

Fine Arts, Division I, Division II

2:00pm MDT

Artificial Intelligence Tools to Amplify Your Professionalism and Save Time (K–12)

LIMITED

Friday September 25, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT

Ballroom A/B

Limited Capacity seats available

Artificial Intelligence chatbots and tools are emerging as powerful supports for teachers and can generate lesson plans, teaching content, assessment materials, and more! With this potential also comes a professional responsibility to use these tools thoughtfully, ethically and critically. In this hands-on session, we will explore the professional use of AI tools which can help save you valuable time so you can focus more deeply on your students' needs. We will share a process for generating, evaluating, applying, and reflecting on the materials generated which keeps you in the drivers' seat as the designer of incredible learning experiences as professionals while at the same time allowing you to be more efficient in your daily work life.

Speakers

Tiff Pino

Executive Staff Officer, Professional Development, The Alberta Teachers' Association

Tiff Pino (she/her) is an Executive Staff Officer of Professional Development for the Alberta Teachers' Association. With 20 years of experience as an educator in Edmonton Catholic Schools, she has taught a variety of subjects from grades 7-12 in traditional and outreach settings... Read More →

Friday September 25, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Ballroom A/B

Hot Topics for Professionals, Division I Division II Division III Division IV

2:00pm MDT

Belonging Starts with YOU! Creating Inclusive Classrooms for Every Student (K-12)

LIMITED

Friday September 25, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT

Ballroom D

Limited Capacity seats available

Creating an inclusive classroom is not about following a checklist—it's about fostering a learning community where every student feels seen, valued, and respected. Through discussion, reflection, and interactive activities, participants will explore how their own identities influence their teaching while considering how to create classrooms that honour students' diverse cultural, religious, sexual, and gender identities. Participants will also be introduced to Alberta Teachers' Association resources and Diversity and Equity Networks that support inclusive teaching and provide opportunities for ongoing professional learning and connection. This session invites you to see inclusion as a lifelong professional practice rooted in reflection, curiousity and a commitment to ensuring every student belongs.

Speakers

Andrea Berg

Associate Coordinator, Professional Development, Alberta Teachers' Association

Friday September 25, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Ballroom D

Hot Topics for Professionals, Division I, Division II, Division III, Division IV

2:00pm MDT

Complaints Happen: A Friendly Guide to the Code of Professional Conduct and Strategies for Success in the Teaching Profession (K-12)

LIMITED

Friday September 25, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT

Chablis (Room 12)

Limited Capacity seats available

Join us for a session that outlines requirements for teachers found in the Code of Professional Conduct and the Teaching Quality Standard. This session will provide scenarios, trends and advice for you and will provide clarity as you start your career.

Speakers

GOVSO (RAMS)

Friday September 25, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Chablis (Room 12)

Hot Topics for Professionals, Division I, Division II, Division III, Division IV

2:00pm MDT

Curriculum 101: A Beginning Teacher’s Toolkit (K-12)

LIMITED

Friday September 25, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT

Champagne (Room 16)

Limited Capacity seats available

This session will help you navigate Alberta's curriculum and New LearnAlberta. Learn how curriculum is organized, how to identify what students need to know, understand and be able to do, and where to find high-quality learning and teaching resources and supports on New LearnAlberta. You'll leave with practical tips, useful tools, and a clearer understanding of how to plan learning experiences with confidence.

Speakers

Alberta Education and Childcare

Friday September 25, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Champagne (Room 16)

Hot Topics for Professionals, Division I, Division II, Division III, Division IV

2:00pm MDT

Du dépistage à l’intervention : ce qu’il faut savoir pour bien commencer en enseignement (K-12)

LIMITED

Friday September 25, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT

Chivas (Room 4)

Limited Capacity seats available

Familiarisez-vous avec les dépistages en littératie et en numératie, les ressources disponibles et les façons d’utiliser les résultats pour orienter vos interventions et soutenir les apprentissages des enfants et des élèves.

Speakers

Alberta Education and Childcare

Friday September 25, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Chivas (Room 4)

Hot Topics for Professionals, Division I, Division II, Division III, Division IV

2:00pm MDT

Making with Your ATA Library (K-12)

LIMITED

Friday September 25, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT

Medoc (Room 14)

Limited Capacity seats available

In this hands-on session, you’ll learn to use a button-maker, transfer an image in heat-transfer vinyl to a bandana using a heat press, and make paper flowers cut with a Silhouette machine. Want to borrow these machines from the library? We’ll cover that too! And we’ll tell you about some of the other awesome things your library has for you.

Speakers

Sandra Anderson

Friday September 25, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Medoc (Room 14)

Hot Topics for Professionals, Division I, Division II, Division III, Division IV

2:00pm MDT

Being in Good Relations—An Introduction to Cultural Protocols (K-12)

LIMITED

Friday September 25, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT

Cognac (Room 15)

Limited Capacity seats available

Join this introductory workshop to learn more about Cultural Protocols for engaging with Indigenous ways of knowing, being and doing. Rather than a "prescriptive guide" or a "checklist of dos and don'ts", this conversation-based workshop is an opportunity to be introduced to foundational concepts for developing and strengthening relationships with Indigenous Peoples and Indigenous systems of knowledge.

Speakers

Sheila Williams

Indigenous Education PD Instructor, The Alberta Teachers' Association

Sheila WIlliams is an Indigenous Education PD facilitator for the Alberta Teachers Association.

Friday September 25, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Cognac (Room 15)

Indigenous Education, Division I, Division II, Division III, Division IV | Inclusive Education, Division I, Division II, Division III, Division IV

2:00pm MDT

Engaging in Numeracy and Connections through First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Traditional Games (K12)

LIMITED

Friday September 25, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT

Chianti (Room 6)

Limited Capacity seats available

Did you know that First Nations, Métis, and Inuit traditional games are great ways to make connections to numeracy? Traditional games can provide entry points to deeper understanding of Indigenous ways of knowing and further connections to the land. Get ready to learn about resources for First Nations, Métis, and Inuit traditional games and how to create authentic learning experiences.

Speakers

Jason Schweizer

Indigenous Education PD Facilitator, The Alberta Teachers' Association

Friday September 25, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Chianti (Room 6)

Indigenous Education, Division I, Division II, Division III, Division IV | Inclusive Education, Division I, Division II, Division III, Division IV

2:00pm MDT

Bringing Science Fiction into Science Classes (4-12)

LIMITED

Friday September 25, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT

Beaujolias (Room 10)

Limited Capacity seats available

Sometimes engagement in science classes can be something that we struggle to get across all of our students in a science classroom. So how can science fiction (and superheroes, who are arguably a subset within science fiction) brought into your class help out? In this session, Nate Siler, who has taught science at the middle school, high school, and post-secondary levels will look at many various ways that a wide array of science fiction (and superheroes) can be brought into your science classrooms to re-engage those students whose interest sometimes seems to be lost.

Speakers

Nate Silier

Friday September 25, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Beaujolias (Room 10)

Science, Division II, Division III, Division IV | Language Arts, Division II, Division III, Division IV | Mathematics, Division II, Division III, Division IV

3:15pm MDT

BREAK

Friday September 25, 2026 3:15pm - 3:30pm MDT

Lobby & Common Areas Outside Meeting Rooms

Friday September 25, 2026 3:15pm - 3:30pm MDT
Lobby & Common Areas Outside Meeting Rooms

Meals and Breaks

3:30pm MDT

Central East—Your Representatives and You (Mandatory)

Friday September 25, 2026 3:30pm - 4:15pm MDT

Medoc (Room 14)

Central East Representatives
Aspen View Local No 7; Battle River Local No 32; Greater St Paul Local No 25; Lakeland Catholic Separate Local No 30; Northern Lights Local No 15; Park Plains East Local No 31

We’re thrilled to have you join us for this session where you’ll have the opportunity to meet and engage directly with your representatives. This is your moment to connect, ask questions and share insights.

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

Artists

Aspen View Local No 7

Battle River Local No 32

Greater St Paul Local No 25

Lakeland Catholic Separate Local No 30

Northern Lights Local No 15

Park Plains East Local No 31

Friday September 25, 2026 3:30pm - 4:15pm MDT
Medoc (Room 14)

3:30pm MDT

Central North——Your Representative and You (Mandatory)

Friday September 25, 2026 3:30pm - 4:15pm MDT

Chablis (Room 12)

Central North Representatives
Evergreen Catholic Local No 44; Evergreen Local No 11; Northern Gateway Local No 43; Parkland Teachers’ Local No 10; Pembina Hills Local No 22; Woodland Rivers Local No 40

We’re thrilled to have you join us for this session where you’ll have the opportunity to meet and engage directly with your representatives. This is your moment to connect, ask questions and share insights.

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

Artists

Evergreen Catholic Local No 44

Evergreen Local No 11

Northern Gateway Local No 43

Parkland Teachers’ Local No 10

Pembina Hills Local No 22

Woodland Rivers Local No 40

Friday September 25, 2026 3:30pm - 4:15pm MDT
Chablis (Room 12)

3:30pm MDT

Central Prairie Sky—Your Representatives and You (Mandatory)

Friday September 25, 2026 3:30pm - 4:15pm MDT

Bordeaux (Room 9)

Central Prairie Representatives
Elk Island Catholic Teachers Local No 21; Elk Island Local No 28; Greater St Albert Catholic Local No 23; St Albert Public Teachers Local Local No 73; Sturgeon Local No 27

We’re thrilled to have you join us for this session where you’ll have the opportunity to meet and engage directly with your representatives. This is your moment to connect, ask questions and share insights.

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

Artists

Elk Island Catholic Teachers Local No 21

Elk Island Local No 28

Greater St Albert Catholic Local No 23

St Albert Public Teachers Local Local No 73

Sturgeon Local No 27

Friday September 25, 2026 3:30pm - 4:15pm MDT
Bordeaux (Room 9)

3:30pm MDT

Central South—Your Representatives and You (Mandatory)

Friday September 25, 2026 3:30pm - 4:15pm MDT

Beaujolias (Room 10)

Central South Representatives
Chinook's Edge Local No 17; Clearview Teachers Local No 33; Red Deer Catholic Local No 80; Red Deer City Local No 60; Wolf Creek Local No 3

We’re thrilled to have you join us for this session where you’ll have the opportunity to meet and engage directly with your representatives. This is your moment to connect, ask questions and share insights.

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

Artists

Chinook's Edge Local No 17

Clearview Teachers Local No 33

Red Deer Catholic Local No 80

Red Deer City Local No 60

Wolf Creek Local No 3

Friday September 25, 2026 3:30pm - 4:15pm MDT
Beaujolias (Room 10)

3:30pm MDT

Central—Your Representatives and You (Mandatory)

Friday September 25, 2026 3:30pm - 4:15pm MDT

Piesporter (Room 5)

Central Representatives
Association des enseignantes et des enseignants francophone de l’Alberta; Black Gold Teachers’ Local No 8; St. Thomas Aquinas Teachers’ Local No 45; Timberline Local No 9; Wetaskiwin Local No 18

We’re thrilled to have you join us for this session where you’ll have the opportunity to meet and engage directly with your representatives. This is your moment to connect, ask questions and share insights.

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

Artists

Association des enseignantes et des enseignants francophone de l’Alberta

Black Gold Teachers’ Local No 8

St. Thomas Aquinas Teachers’ Local No 45

Timberline Local No 9

Wetaskiwin Local No 18

Friday September 25, 2026 3:30pm - 4:15pm MDT
Piesporter (Room 5)

3:30pm MDT

Edmonton McMurray—Your Representatives and You (Mandatory)

Friday September 25, 2026 3:30pm - 4:15pm MDT

Ballroom C

Edmonton-McMurray Representatives
Edmonton Catholic Teachers Local No 54; Edmonton Public Teachers Local No 37; Fort McMurray Local No 48

We’re thrilled to have you join us for this session where you’ll have the opportunity to meet and engage directly with your representatives. This is your moment to connect, ask questions and share insights.

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

Artists

Edmonton Catholic Teachers Local No 54

Edmonton Public Teachers Local No 37

Fort McMurray Local No 48

Friday September 25, 2026 3:30pm - 4:15pm MDT
Ballroom C

3:30pm MDT

North West—Your Representatives and You (Mandatory)

Friday September 25, 2026 3:30pm - 4:15pm MDT

Madeira (Room 7)

North West Representatives
Fort Vermilion Local No 77; Grande Prairie and District Catholic Teachers Local No 42; Greater Peace Local No 13; High Prairie Local No 62; Northern Spirit Local No 6; Northland Local No 69; Trumpeter Local No 26

We’re thrilled to have you join us for this session where you’ll have the opportunity to meet and engage directly with your representatives. This is your moment to connect, ask questions and share insights.

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

Artists

Fort Vermilion Local No 77

Grande Prairie and District Catholic Teachers Local No 42

Greater Peace Local No 13

High Prairie Local No 62

Northern Spirit Local No 6

Northland Local No 69

Trumpeter Local No 26

Friday September 25, 2026 3:30pm - 4:15pm MDT
Madeira (Room 7)

4:15pm MDT

SOCIAL

Friday September 25, 2026 4:15pm - 5:00pm MDT

Ballroom D

Social and Draw Prize

Just-In-Time Sessions include:
Beginning Teachers Network
Teacher Qualification Service
Collective Bargaining and Contracts

Friday September 25, 2026 4:15pm - 5:00pm MDT
Ballroom D

Q and A

6:00pm MDT

BTC #LevelUp Social with the Educational Technology Council

Friday September 25, 2026 6:00pm - 9:00pm MDT

Rec Room - West Edmonton Mall

When: 6:00-8:00PM
Where: Rec Room West Edmonton Mall
RSVP: https://bit.ly/BTCEdmonton

ETCATA Beginner Teachers Social at The Rec Room 🎉
Keep the conference excitement going by joining ETCATA for a fun evening at The Rec Room in West Edmonton Mall!
After a day of learning, connect with fellow educators in a fun, relaxed atmosphere filled with delicious (FREE) food, engaging conversations, and exciting games! Discover the latest trends in educational technology, engage in hands-on tech demos, swap classroom ideas, share experiences, and build meaningful connections.

Whether you're looking to expand your professional network, gain fresh inspiration, or simply enjoy a night out with colleagues, this social is the perfect opportunity to recharge, laugh, and make connections that will last well beyond the conference.

Come for the (FREE) food, stay for the fun, and leave with new ideas, new friends, and a stronger professional community!

*The first 40 attendees will get a FREE gaming band for the RecRoom to play some games!

Friday September 25, 2026 6:00pm - 9:00pm MDT
Rec Room - West Edmonton Mall

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