Hate Hurts – Kelly Dear 

In this session, participants will examine aspects of Social Cruelty such as Cyber Bullying, Mean Grrrlls, Gender Based Violence, and Homophobia as they impact our schools and our learners. Then we will explore how peer to peer, student leadership and creating a culture of care dim the hate and increase the peace.

Teaching and Learning in Diverse Classrooms – Jane Chin

This workshop will discuss 4 strategies common to any teaching situation but especially relevant to diverse classroom/teaching environments. Attendees will be given notes which outline each strategy along with one or two relevant resources. In addition, each strategy will be discussed in relation to the “why” and the “how” and will be reinforced with real-life examples. Finally, participants will work ingroups to devise strategies of their own and share with the larger group.

Mental Health Issues for Educators: A Primer – Chris Burns

Educators are generally the most significant mature influence in an adolescent’s life after parents. As such, teachers are in a position to notice when something is ‘wrong’. This workshop aims to provide educators with information to help in differentiating between ‘normal’ adolescent behaviour and mental health issues. Suggested responses and interventions will be discussed.

*Please note that Chris’s workshop is ideally suited for those wishing to teach at the intermediate/senior levels.

Learning Disabilities: Myths, Facts, Issues, and Interventions - Andrea Martin

As a hidden exceptionality, learning disabilities can be difficult to understand and complex to identify, leaving one uncertain how to best support these students so they can learn, experience success, and realize their potential. Therefore this workshop will debunk the myths and expose the facts about this challenging disability, address current issues and controversies, and suggest interventions and strategies within the context of the inclusive classroom.