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SWLSB Learning • Apprentissage
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Friday, September 18
 

9:00am EDT

Literacy Through the Lens of Research: Stop, Start, Continue (Elementary)
Friday September 18, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
This workshop for elementary teacher explores current research on effective literacy instruction and examines practices teachers should stop, start, and continue using in the classroom. Participants will gain practical, evidence-based strategies aligned with the Science of Reading, along with ready-to-use tools and resources!

Presenters
avatar for Lori Essery

Lori Essery

CCQ/SexEd/ELA Consultant, SWLSB
As an educational consultant, I support the implementation of the Culture and Citizenship in Quebec (CCQ) program, Sexuality Education for elementary and secondary schools, and English Language Arts (ELA). Having taught Kindergarten through Grade 6, my expertise is in elementary English... Read More →
Friday September 18, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
184-LRHS: Room TBA
  ELA

9:00am EDT

Small Steps, Big Readers: Building Literacy Every Day
Friday September 18, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
Building a strong foundation in literacy requires a well-thought-out roadmap grounded in evidence-based practices, explicit instruction, consistency, and meaningful engagement with language. As educators, it is essential that we create daily opportunities for students to make connections between letters, sounds, words, and meaning. Through intentional teaching and structured literacy experiences, students develop the foundational skills necessary for long-term reading success.Our goal is to support students in mastering phonological awareness, language acquisition, reading fluency, and reading comprehension while building confidence as communicators and learners. Effective literacy instruction goes beyond teaching students how to read; it helps them understand language, think critically, express ideas clearly, and engage with the world around them.Within both classroom and resource settings, small daily habits can have a powerful impact on literacy growth. Reading aloud, engaging in meaningful conversations, exploring sounds and vocabulary, and providing regular opportunities for writing all contribute to stronger literacy development over time. When these practices are implemented consistently and intentionally, students are better equipped to become confident, capable, and lifelong readers.Together, we will explore practical, evidence-based strategies that help students build strong literacy foundations, develop confidence, and become successful, engaged readers and writers from the very start.
Guest Presenters
avatar for Silvia Patella

Silvia Patella

Teacher - Retired Teacher FGJ, SWLSB
Semi-retired educator presently working as a resource teacher at Grenville Elementary School. Working with students from grades 1 to 6 with a focus on ELA and Math.
Friday September 18, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
184-LRHS: Room TBA
  ELA

9:00am EDT

Soutenir l'autonomie des élèves en français, langue seconde
Friday September 18, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
Comment soutenir l’autonomie des élèves en français langue seconde dans des classes aux besoins variés ? Cette formation proposera des stratégies, des ressources et des exemples concrets pour rendre les apprentissages plus accessibles et favoriser l’engagement de tous les élèves.
Presenters
avatar for Anabel Fournier

Anabel Fournier

FSL Consultant, SWLSB
Avec plus de dix ans d’expérience en enseignement et trois ans comme conseillère pédagogique, elle s’intéresse particulièrement au développement de la littératie en français langue seconde ainsi qu’aux pratiques pédagogiques innovantes et appuyées par la recherche... Read More →
Friday September 18, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
184-LRHS: Room TBA
  FLS

9:00am EDT

Enseigner de façon explicite avec la littérature jeunesse
Friday September 18, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
Les recherches démontrent que l'enseignement explicite est une des meilleures méthodes pour s'assurer que tous nos élèves réussissent. Lors de cet atelier sans prétention, je vais vous montrer la méthode de travail et d'organisation que j'utilise pour créer des activités pédagogiques, autant en lecture, qu'en écriture et en interaction orale, avec la littérature jeunesse. À la fin de l'atelier, j'aimerais qu'on réserve du temps pour créer des leçons ensemble, avec un gabarit qui préconise l'enseignement explicite.  Apportez vos albums de littérature jeunesse préférés si vous le désirez!
Guest Presenters
avatar for Isabelle Lortie

Isabelle Lortie

Teacher - Français 2e lang.pre, SWLSB
Je suis enseignante de français immersion depuis plus de 20 ans au 3e cycle du primaire. J'adore la littérature jeunesse et elle fait partie intégrante de mes leçons en classe. Que ce soit pour découvrir une nouvelle règle de grammmaire, approfondir le vocabulaire ou travailler... Read More →
Friday September 18, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
184-LRHS: Room TBA
  FLS  ELA

9:00am EDT

Exploring, Engaging, Journaling: Outdoor Learning to Inspire Curiosity, Writing and Mindfulness
Friday September 18, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
Today's curriculum is often packed with content, creating pressure and stress for both students and educators. Incorporating regular outdoor learning opportunities into the curriculum can alleviate stress, encourage a more positive mindset, and promote writing.Let`s explore simple, practical activities that take students outdoors to engage with their environment through place-based learning. These activities are designed to promote curiosity, mindfulness, and writing through meaningful connections with nature, benefiting both students and educators.Through intentional exploration, observation, and journaling, students will learn how to document their discoveries, reflect on their experiences, and engage in thoughtful discussions. Nature-inspired journaling sessions will help students capture details and insights for writing, while building calmness and emotional resilience.
Guest Presenters
avatar for Kelly Fahey

Kelly Fahey

Teacher - Generalist (Cycle 1-6), SWLSB
Kelly Fahey is an educator and teacher mentor who brings curriculum outdoors through place-based pedagogy. She develops outdoor learning programs, has managed an outdoor education centre, and promotes outdoor education via provincial workshops. She is a Teacher Advisor with Take Me... Read More →
Friday September 18, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
184-LRHS: Room TBA

9:00am EDT

Intégrer la musique dans la salle de classe
Friday September 18, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
Vous devez enseigner une règle de grammaire, enseigner tes tables de multiplications, des stratégies de lecture et vous voulez ajouter une touche magique à votre enseignement ? Vous souhaitez calmer votre groupe revenant d'une récréation agitée?Vous avez le goût de développer ce lien invisible entre vous et vos élèves qui vous permettra de les mener tout droit vers la réussite? Cet atelier est pour vous! La musique a ce pouvoir insoupçonné de transformer les tâches ardues en activités ludiques, de recentrer chaque personne avec des activités motrices simples liées au mouvement, au rythme et à l'attention.  Elle a cette capacité de rassembler autour d'un projet commun, de se connecter à ses émotions et de s'élever pour accéder à une grande satisfaction personnelle et collective. Cet atelier s'adressant autant aux titulaires qu'aux spécialistes du primaire vous fournira des outils concrets à ajouter à vos stratégies pour vous concentrer sur l'essentiel.    Objectifs de l’atelier·      Intégrer la musique comme outil pédagogique pour faciliter l’apprentissage (grammaire, tables de multiplication, lecture).·      Utiliser des activités musicales pour améliorer la concentration et le retour au calme des élèves.·      Développer des stratégies d’enseignement engageantes basées sur le rythme, le mouvement et l’écoute.·      Favoriser la motivation et le plaisir d’apprendre chez les élèves.·      Renforcer le lien enseignant–élèves afin de soutenir un climat de classe positif.·      Encourager la participation active et la collaboration au sein du groupe.·      Permettre aux élèves de mieux gérer leurs émotions grâce à des activités musicales.·      Outiller les enseignants avec des pratiques concrètes, simples et transférables en classe. Objectifs principaux de l’atelier1.   Intégrer la musique comme levier pédagogique pour soutenir les apprentissages (lecture, écriture, mathématiques).2.   Utiliser le rythme et le mouvement pour favoriser l’attention et le retour au calme, notamment lors des transitions en classe.3.   Renforcer l’engagement et le climat de classe en créant un lien positif entre l’enseignant et les élèves.
Guest Presenters
avatar for Isabelle Brassard

Isabelle Brassard

Teacher - Elementary Music, SWLSB
Isabelle Brassard enseigne la musique à l’école St-Paul Elementary depuis 2005. Spécialisée en musique après un baccalauréat en enseignement primaire et préscolaire, elle a suivi des formations musicales au Collège Marie-Victorin et avec Orff Québec. Chant populaire, piano... Read More →
Friday September 18, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
184-LRHS: Room TBA
  General Pedagogy

9:00am EDT

Supporting Learners, Together! Leveraging Alloprof for Student Autonomy and Success
Friday September 18, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
In an evolving educational landscape, educational goals remain constant: developing a world where each student takes charge of their learning with confidence. In this session, attendees will be introduced to the Alloprof platform, a free partner in the Quebec education ecosystem, designed to empower students through trusted academic support, fully in line with the Quebec Education Program. This presentation will demonstrate how educators can integrate these resources to provide continual support both inside and outside the classroom. By providing educators with practical strategies for differentiated instruction and student motivation, we can work together to ensure no student feels "stuck". Together, let's foster a world where every learner has the tools to succeed.
Guest Presenters
Friday September 18, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
184-LRHS: Room TBA

9:00am EDT

Development and Learning in Elementary Math
Friday September 18, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
This workshop focuses on strengthening Tier 1 math instruction by integrating 6 teaching Recommendations outlined in the What Works Clearing House Practice Guide 26 (2021), with an emphasis on the development of a key elementary concept across cycles. Participants will learn practical, evidence-based strategies for explicitly teaching mathematics.
Presenters
avatar for Vanessa Rayner

Vanessa Rayner

Math Consultant, SWLSB
Vanessa Rayner is the pedagogical consultant for elementary mathematics for the Sir Wilfrid Laurier School Board, where she collaborates with elementary math teachers to develop effective teaching practices and foundational understandings essential to building and extending math concepts... Read More →

Friday September 18, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
184-LRHS: Room TBA

9:00am EDT

PurInstinct: Learning a New Sport Based on Fast Decision-Making
Friday September 18, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
PürInstinct is a no-contact sport played 3 against 2 (teams of 6, 7, or 8) on a simple field, indoors or outside. In this workshop, you will learn the basic rules to get the game running in minutes and discover the 6 levels of difficulty that progressively challenge your students' decision-making. Designed for ages 10 and up, this is an active workshop: be ready to play, participate, and have fun.
Guest Presenters
avatar for Dominique Soucy

Dominique Soucy

PurInstinct
I am a former All-Canadian and pro basketball player. I grew up in a multisport community where play mattered as much as competition. After my career, I wanted a better way to train young athletes. I focused on fast decisions, because I saw that most systems ignored this skill.
Friday September 18, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
184-LRHS: Room TBA
  Phys Ed

9:00am EDT

Strategies to increase student participation and hard thinking
Friday September 18, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
Are your students doing the intellectual heavy lifting in your classroom? In this workshop on "Building Ratio" we will explore how to successfully shift the cognitive work—the thinking, writing, analyzing, and talking—from the teacher to the students.

You will walk away with a practical, easy-to-implement toolkit of engaging techniques designed to multiply the number of voices in your room and push your students to think harder.

Join us to learn how to step back, boost the ratio, and make every student an active, focused participant in their own learning!
Presenters
avatar for Sam Altarac

Sam Altarac

SciTech Consultant, SWLSB
As the Science Consultant for the Sir Wilfrid Laurier School Board, I support science and technology programming across 40 elementary and high schools. My work is centered on applying cognitive science—such as Cognitive Load Theory and Rosenshine’s Principles of Instruction—to... Read More →
Friday September 18, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
184-LRHS: Room TBA
  SciTech

9:00am EDT

Beyond Words: Using Visuals to Support Every Learner (Without the Stress!)
Friday September 18, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
Workshop Description:

In an educational landscape where communication takes many forms, visual supports are not just accommodations—they are universal tools for success. Grounded in current best practices and deeply informed by neurodivergent perspectives, this practical workshop reframes how we view and implement visuals to support every learner in the classroom.

What We Will Explore

Understanding Non-Speaking Students: Shift from a deficit model to an inclusive mindset by exploring the diverse reasons why some students are non-speaking or rely on various methods of non-verbal communication.

Diverse Communication Styles: Examine how information is processed and shared, honoring the unique communication styles of neurodivergent learners.

The Universal Language of Visuals: Realize just how much we all rely on visual cues in our own daily lives (from traffic signs to smartphone icons) and how to bridge that familiarity into the classroom.

Practical Visual Toolkits: Move beyond theory with a concrete introduction to different types of visuals—such as schedules, choice boards, and environmental cues—along with step-by-step strategies on how to create and implement them effortlessly.

What You Will Take Away

You don't need a background in graphic design or endless free time to make your environment more accessible. Attendees will leave this session with an actionable understanding of how to build preventative, visual supports that reduce anxiety and foster independence.

To ensure your success long after the workshop ends, all participants will receive a  package of extra resources, ready-to-use templates, and evidence-based guides to support your daily practice. Let's demystify visual supports together and make communication and learning accessible for everyone.
Guest Presenters
SL

Sheila Lindsay

Special Ed. Technician, SWLSB
With over a decade of experience supporting neurodivergent and neurotypical learners, Sheila Lindsay specializes in diverse, non-verbal communication methods. Currently a Special Education Technician at Crestview’s Rainbow Center, she focuses on crisis intervention and preventative... Read More →
Friday September 18, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
184-LRHS: Room TBA
  Spec Ed

10:40am EDT

Small Steps, Big Readers: Building Literacy Every Day
Friday September 18, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
Building a strong foundation in literacy requires a well-thought-out roadmap grounded in evidence-based practices, explicit instruction, consistency, and meaningful engagement with language. As educators, it is essential that we create daily opportunities for students to make connections between letters, sounds, words, and meaning. Through intentional teaching and structured literacy experiences, students develop the foundational skills necessary for long-term reading success.Our goal is to support students in mastering phonological awareness, language acquisition, reading fluency, and reading comprehension while building confidence as communicators and learners. Effective literacy instruction goes beyond teaching students how to read; it helps them understand language, think critically, express ideas clearly, and engage with the world around them.Within both classroom and resource settings, small daily habits can have a powerful impact on literacy growth. Reading aloud, engaging in meaningful conversations, exploring sounds and vocabulary, and providing regular opportunities for writing all contribute to stronger literacy development over time. When these practices are implemented consistently and intentionally, students are better equipped to become confident, capable, and lifelong readers.Together, we will explore practical, evidence-based strategies that help students build strong literacy foundations, develop confidence, and become successful, engaged readers and writers from the very start.
Guest Presenters
avatar for Silvia Patella

Silvia Patella

Teacher - Retired Teacher FGJ, SWLSB
Semi-retired educator presently working as a resource teacher at Grenville Elementary School. Working with students from grades 1 to 6 with a focus on ELA and Math.
Friday September 18, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
184-LRHS: Room TBA
  ELA

10:40am EDT

Soutenir l'autonomie des élèves en français, langue seconde
Friday September 18, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
Comment soutenir l’autonomie des élèves en français langue seconde dans des classes aux besoins variés ? Cette formation proposera des stratégies, des ressources et des exemples concrets pour rendre les apprentissages plus accessibles et favoriser l’engagement de tous les élèves.
Presenters
avatar for Anabel Fournier

Anabel Fournier

FSL Consultant, SWLSB
Avec plus de dix ans d’expérience en enseignement et trois ans comme conseillère pédagogique, elle s’intéresse particulièrement au développement de la littératie en français langue seconde ainsi qu’aux pratiques pédagogiques innovantes et appuyées par la recherche... Read More →
Friday September 18, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
184-LRHS: Room TBA
  FLS

10:40am EDT

Enseigner de façon explicite avec la littérature jeunesse
Friday September 18, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
Les recherches démontrent que l'enseignement explicite est une des meilleures méthodes pour s'assurer que tous nos élèves réussissent. Lors de cet atelier sans prétention, je vais vous montrer la méthode de travail et d'organisation que j'utilise pour créer des activités pédagogiques, autant en lecture, qu'en écriture et en interaction orale, avec la littérature jeunesse. À la fin de l'atelier, j'aimerais qu'on réserve du temps pour créer des leçons ensemble, avec un gabarit qui préconise l'enseignement explicite.  Apportez vos albums de littérature jeunesse préférés si vous le désirez!
Guest Presenters
avatar for Isabelle Lortie

Isabelle Lortie

Teacher - Français 2e lang.pre, SWLSB
Je suis enseignante de français immersion depuis plus de 20 ans au 3e cycle du primaire. J'adore la littérature jeunesse et elle fait partie intégrante de mes leçons en classe. Que ce soit pour découvrir une nouvelle règle de grammmaire, approfondir le vocabulaire ou travailler... Read More →
Friday September 18, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
184-LRHS: Room TBA
  FLS  ELA

10:40am EDT

Exploring, Engaging, Journaling: Outdoor Learning to Inspire Curiosity, Writing and Mindfulness
Friday September 18, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
Today's curriculum is often packed with content, creating pressure and stress for both students and educators. Incorporating regular outdoor learning opportunities into the curriculum can alleviate stress, encourage a more positive mindset, and promote writing.Let`s explore simple, practical activities that take students outdoors to engage with their environment through place-based learning. These activities are designed to promote curiosity, mindfulness, and writing through meaningful connections with nature, benefiting both students and educators.Through intentional exploration, observation, and journaling, students will learn how to document their discoveries, reflect on their experiences, and engage in thoughtful discussions. Nature-inspired journaling sessions will help students capture details and insights for writing, while building calmness and emotional resilience.
Guest Presenters
avatar for Kelly Fahey

Kelly Fahey

Teacher - Generalist (Cycle 1-6), SWLSB
Kelly Fahey is an educator and teacher mentor who brings curriculum outdoors through place-based pedagogy. She develops outdoor learning programs, has managed an outdoor education centre, and promotes outdoor education via provincial workshops. She is a Teacher Advisor with Take Me... Read More →
Friday September 18, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
184-LRHS: Room TBA

10:40am EDT

Intégrer la musique dans la salle de classe
Friday September 18, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
Vous devez enseigner une règle de grammaire, enseigner tes tables de multiplications, des stratégies de lecture et vous voulez ajouter une touche magique à votre enseignement ? Vous souhaitez calmer votre groupe revenant d'une récréation agitée?Vous avez le goût de développer ce lien invisible entre vous et vos élèves qui vous permettra de les mener tout droit vers la réussite? Cet atelier est pour vous! La musique a ce pouvoir insoupçonné de transformer les tâches ardues en activités ludiques, de recentrer chaque personne avec des activités motrices simples liées au mouvement, au rythme et à l'attention.  Elle a cette capacité de rassembler autour d'un projet commun, de se connecter à ses émotions et de s'élever pour accéder à une grande satisfaction personnelle et collective. Cet atelier s'adressant autant aux titulaires qu'aux spécialistes du primaire vous fournira des outils concrets à ajouter à vos stratégies pour vous concentrer sur l'essentiel.    Objectifs de l’atelier·      Intégrer la musique comme outil pédagogique pour faciliter l’apprentissage (grammaire, tables de multiplication, lecture).·      Utiliser des activités musicales pour améliorer la concentration et le retour au calme des élèves.·      Développer des stratégies d’enseignement engageantes basées sur le rythme, le mouvement et l’écoute.·      Favoriser la motivation et le plaisir d’apprendre chez les élèves.·      Renforcer le lien enseignant–élèves afin de soutenir un climat de classe positif.·      Encourager la participation active et la collaboration au sein du groupe.·      Permettre aux élèves de mieux gérer leurs émotions grâce à des activités musicales.·      Outiller les enseignants avec des pratiques concrètes, simples et transférables en classe. Objectifs principaux de l’atelier1.   Intégrer la musique comme levier pédagogique pour soutenir les apprentissages (lecture, écriture, mathématiques).2.   Utiliser le rythme et le mouvement pour favoriser l’attention et le retour au calme, notamment lors des transitions en classe.3.   Renforcer l’engagement et le climat de classe en créant un lien positif entre l’enseignant et les élèves.
Guest Presenters
avatar for Isabelle Brassard

Isabelle Brassard

Teacher - Elementary Music, SWLSB
Isabelle Brassard enseigne la musique à l’école St-Paul Elementary depuis 2005. Spécialisée en musique après un baccalauréat en enseignement primaire et préscolaire, elle a suivi des formations musicales au Collège Marie-Victorin et avec Orff Québec. Chant populaire, piano... Read More →
Friday September 18, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
184-LRHS: Room TBA
  General Pedagogy

10:40am EDT

Supporting Learners, Together! Leveraging Alloprof for Student Autonomy and Success
Friday September 18, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
In an evolving educational landscape, educational goals remain constant: developing a world where each student takes charge of their learning with confidence. In this session, attendees will be introduced to the Alloprof platform, a free partner in the Quebec education ecosystem, designed to empower students through trusted academic support, fully in line with the Quebec Education Program. This presentation will demonstrate how educators can integrate these resources to provide continual support both inside and outside the classroom. By providing educators with practical strategies for differentiated instruction and student motivation, we can work together to ensure no student feels "stuck". Together, let's foster a world where every learner has the tools to succeed.
Guest Presenters
Friday September 18, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
184-LRHS: Room TBA

10:40am EDT

Development and Learning in Elementary Math
Friday September 18, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
This workshop focuses on strengthening Tier 1 math instruction by integrating 6 teaching Recommendations outlined in the What Works Clearing House Practice Guide 26 (2021), with an emphasis on the development of a key elementary concept across cycles. Participants will learn practical, evidence-based strategies for explicitly teaching mathematics.
Presenters
avatar for Vanessa Rayner

Vanessa Rayner

Math Consultant, SWLSB
Vanessa Rayner is the pedagogical consultant for elementary mathematics for the Sir Wilfrid Laurier School Board, where she collaborates with elementary math teachers to develop effective teaching practices and foundational understandings essential to building and extending math concepts... Read More →

Friday September 18, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
184-LRHS: Room TBA

10:40am EDT

PurInstinct: Learning a New Sport Based on Fast Decision-Making
Friday September 18, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
PürInstinct is a no-contact sport played 3 against 2 (teams of 6, 7, or 8) on a simple field, indoors or outside. In this workshop, you will learn the basic rules to get the game running in minutes and discover the 6 levels of difficulty that progressively challenge your students' decision-making. Designed for ages 10 and up, this is an active workshop: be ready to play, participate, and have fun.
Guest Presenters
avatar for Dominique Soucy

Dominique Soucy

PurInstinct
I am a former All-Canadian and pro basketball player. I grew up in a multisport community where play mattered as much as competition. After my career, I wanted a better way to train young athletes. I focused on fast decisions, because I saw that most systems ignored this skill.
Friday September 18, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
184-LRHS: Room TBA
  Phys Ed

10:40am EDT

Strategies to increase student participation and hard thinking
Friday September 18, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
Are your students doing the intellectual heavy lifting in your classroom? In this workshop on "Building Ratio" we will explore how to successfully shift the cognitive work—the thinking, writing, analyzing, and talking—from the teacher to the students.

You will walk away with a practical, easy-to-implement toolkit of engaging techniques designed to multiply the number of voices in your room and push your students to think harder.

Join us to learn how to step back, boost the ratio, and make every student an active, focused participant in their own learning!
Presenters
avatar for Sam Altarac

Sam Altarac

SciTech Consultant, SWLSB
As the Science Consultant for the Sir Wilfrid Laurier School Board, I support science and technology programming across 40 elementary and high schools. My work is centered on applying cognitive science—such as Cognitive Load Theory and Rosenshine’s Principles of Instruction—to... Read More →
Friday September 18, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
184-LRHS: Room TBA
  SciTech

10:40am EDT

Beyond Words: Using Visuals to Support Every Learner (Without the Stress!)
Friday September 18, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
Workshop Description:

In an educational landscape where communication takes many forms, visual supports are not just accommodations—they are universal tools for success. Grounded in current best practices and deeply informed by neurodivergent perspectives, this practical workshop reframes how we view and implement visuals to support every learner in the classroom.

What We Will Explore

Understanding Non-Speaking Students: Shift from a deficit model to an inclusive mindset by exploring the diverse reasons why some students are non-speaking or rely on various methods of non-verbal communication.

Diverse Communication Styles: Examine how information is processed and shared, honoring the unique communication styles of neurodivergent learners.

The Universal Language of Visuals: Realize just how much we all rely on visual cues in our own daily lives (from traffic signs to smartphone icons) and how to bridge that familiarity into the classroom.

Practical Visual Toolkits: Move beyond theory with a concrete introduction to different types of visuals—such as schedules, choice boards, and environmental cues—along with step-by-step strategies on how to create and implement them effortlessly.

What You Will Take Away

You don't need a background in graphic design or endless free time to make your environment more accessible. Attendees will leave this session with an actionable understanding of how to build preventative, visual supports that reduce anxiety and foster independence.

To ensure your success long after the workshop ends, all participants will receive a  package of extra resources, ready-to-use templates, and evidence-based guides to support your daily practice. Let's demystify visual supports together and make communication and learning accessible for everyone.
Guest Presenters
SL

Sheila Lindsay

Special Ed. Technician, SWLSB
With over a decade of experience supporting neurodivergent and neurotypical learners, Sheila Lindsay specializes in diverse, non-verbal communication methods. Currently a Special Education Technician at Crestview’s Rainbow Center, she focuses on crisis intervention and preventative... Read More →
Friday September 18, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
184-LRHS: Room TBA
  Spec Ed
 

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