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SWLSB Learning • Apprentissage
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Monday, September 21
 

9:00am EDT

Critical AI Literacy and Environmental Sustainability
Monday September 21, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
This workshop addresses the technical, ethical, and environmental dimensions of Artificial Intelligence. Educators will examine the fundamentals of how AI works, the impact of societal bias in data, and the importance of using objective language when discussing automated systems. The session also investigates the environmental footprint of generative AI and introduces classroom resources, including a school digital audit and five ready-to-teach lessons, to help students analyze and discuss sustainable technology policies.
Guest Presenters
avatar for Jérémy Martineau

Jérémy Martineau

Education facilitator and community developer,, Digital Moment
Education facilitator and community developer, has a background in computer science and education. Passionate about popularizing and sharing knowledge, he aims to make learning enjoyable and facilitate access to digital skills.
Monday September 21, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
182-RHS: Room TBA 530 Rue Northcote, Rosemère, QC J7A 1Y2, Canada
  EdTech

9:00am EDT

Integrating Computational Thinking in the Elementary Classroom
Monday September 21, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
Designed for teachers looking to incorporate digital literacy into their current practice, this workshop walks through the fundamentals of computational thinking using Scratch. We will build sample projects together and review the Experience CS lesson framework, which supports teachers of all technical backgrounds. The session concludes with a breakdown of how these resources map to the Quebec elementary curriculum to ensure seamless classroom integration.
Guest Presenters
avatar for German Arcila

German Arcila

Programs and Training Manager, Digital Moment
German Arcila, Programs and Training Manager at Digital Moment since 2019, has a background in business administration, computer science, and education. He designs and manages impactful training programs, bridging technology and human understanding to create dynamic learning for diverse... Read More →
Monday September 21, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
182-RHS: Room TBA 530 Rue Northcote, Rosemère, QC J7A 1Y2, Canada

9:00am EDT

The Progress Blueprint: Visualizing Student Milestones (Voc Ed)
LIMITED
Monday September 21, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This interactive session invites vocational teachers to rethink their role by focusing on how students learn, not just what is taught. Through the introduction of a practical instructional approach called structural learning, participants will explore how to visualize student progress using meaningful learning milestones. By working with critical thinking cards and connecting them to Bloom’s Taxonomy, teachers will engage in reflective and collaborative activities that bridge theory and practice. Participants will leave with a concrete strategy to try in their classroom, setting the stage for continued professional learning and shared reflection in follow-up sessions. 
Presenters
avatar for Geneviève Légaré

Geneviève Légaré

School Imp. Consultant, SWLSB

Monday September 21, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
182-RHS: Room TBA 530 Rue Northcote, Rosemère, QC J7A 1Y2, Canada
  Evidence

9:00am EDT

Moving from Knowing to Doing: Fostering Mattering for Indigenous Learners in Quebec
Monday September 21, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
Truth and Reconciliation is a journey that invites educators to move beyond awareness toward actions that foster a sense of mattering for Indigenous learners. This workshop offers practical pathways for creating culturally safe and welcoming spaces where students feel seen, valued, and essential. Grounded in a four-part Moodle professional learning course, the session explores strategies such as learning about the Indigenous nation(s) on whose territory we work, understanding historic and current Indigenous experiences in education, and developing an action plan for meaningful change. Participants will leave with concrete steps for their own professional journey towards reconciliation, which will impact their classrooms and school communities.
Guest Presenters
avatar for Stacy Anne Allen

Stacy Anne Allen

Pedagogical Consultant, LEARN Quebec
Stacy has worked as an elementary teacher and educational consultant for languages, social sciences, and art at Kativik Ilisarniliriniq. She also taught English as an additional language in Canada and Shanghai, China. She has a BA in English from Saint Francis Xavier University, as... Read More →
avatar for Sylwia Bielec

Sylwia Bielec

Pedagogical Consultant - Arts, LEARN Quebec
The LEARN team has decades of combined experience and expertise in promoting active and engaged learning for young people and adults alike. We believe in creating and facilitating learning environments that allow all people to learn in the ways which suit them best. Our consultants... Read More →
Monday September 21, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
182-RHS: Room TBA 530 Rue Northcote, Rosemère, QC J7A 1Y2, Canada
  General Pedagogy

9:00am EDT

What Works and Why: Action Research in the Classroom
Monday September 21, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
Applicable to all levels of teaching and subjects, action research is a dynamic and motivating cyclical process with the teacher being the researcher-participant in their own classroom. Target goals for the action plan could include but are not limited to: planning, implementation or evaluation, behaviour issues, or teaching strategies. Action research can help you identify a challenge or determine a change you want for your classroom and guide your process to address it.

In this session, you will 
  • learn what action research is, and what it looks like in the classroom.
  • learn how to use reflection and the cycles of inquiry to plan for action research in your own classroom or school communities.
  • learn how action research can empower you by informing your day-to-day decisions to make intentional shifts in your teaching.
Guest Presenters
avatar for Kelly Crowdis

Kelly Crowdis

Teacher - Generalist (Cycle 1-6), SWLSB
Kelly is a Grade 2 teacher at Pinewood Elementary and a former Pedagogical Consultant with the Sir Wilfrid Laurier School Board. She is also a part-time instructor in the DESS Graduate Diploma in Teacher Certification at Concordia University. A lifelong-learner and professional development... Read More →
Monday September 21, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
182-RHS: Room TBA 530 Rue Northcote, Rosemère, QC J7A 1Y2, Canada
  General Pedagogy

9:00am EDT

Secondary Math: Rich Tasks and Formative Assessment to Develop Critical Thinking in Competency 1 and 2
Monday September 21, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
Rich tasks can deepen student understanding, promote critical thinking, and encourage meaningful engagement without sacrificing rigour. In this hands-on workshop, teachers will explore classroom-ready examples that help students reason, justify, and reflect on their learning. We’ll look at how rich tasks can be used in everyday instruction, as well as how tasks that develop the C1 competency can help students prepare for summative C2 assessments. Participants will also have time to work directly with selected examples and consider how they could be adapted for their own classrooms. We’ll also explore practical strategies for creating rich tasks using existing materials, helping reduce prep time without compromising quality. Whether you’re new to rich tasks or looking to expand your toolkit, this session offers concrete steps for making critical thinking a natural part of your math classroom.
Presenters
avatar for James Gore

James Gore

Math Consultant, SWLSB
James Gore is the secondary mathematics pedagogical consultant for the Sir Wilfrid Laurier School Board. Before moving into this role, he taught mathematics in several schools across the board and worked with students, teachers, and communities in a variety of contexts. He is also... Read More →
Monday September 21, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
182-RHS: Room TBA 530 Rue Northcote, Rosemère, QC J7A 1Y2, Canada

9:00am EDT

Grief Support & Traumatic Event Navigation
Monday September 21, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
When tragedy strikes, knowing how to respond is vital.

This workshop equips teachers and staff with essential protocols and practical guidance following a student’s loss of an immediate family member or a school-wide traumatic event.

Learn exactly who to contact, when to intervene, and how to provide immediate, compassionate grief support while safely navigating community-wide crises.
Presenters
avatar for Daniel Johnson

Daniel Johnson

Community/Personal Dev Animator, SWLSB
With 30 years of experience as a behaviour specialist, Canadian Armed Forces Reservist, and media communicator, Daniel empowers educational communities by fostering leadership development, increasing and expanding the internal strengths, skills, and overall ability, and building levers... Read More →
Monday September 21, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
182-RHS: Room TBA 530 Rue Northcote, Rosemère, QC J7A 1Y2, Canada
  Personal Animation

9:00am EDT

Different Ways to Get Striking and Fielding into your Phys. Ed Program
Monday September 21, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
This interactive workshop will provide teachers with the opportunity to experience and participate in a variety of striking and fielding games that can be integrated into their Physical Education programs. Participants will explore the fundamental skills, strategies, rules, and teaching approaches associated with Cricket, Baseball, Softball, and Baseball5. Through active participation and practical activities, teachers will gain ideas and resources to create engaging, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate learning experiences for students of all skill levels.
Guest Presenters
avatar for Robert Richard

Robert Richard

Teacher - Elem. Physical Education, SWLSB
Physical Education Teacher from Saint Vincent with over 20 years experience.
Monday September 21, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
182-RHS: Room TBA 530 Rue Northcote, Rosemère, QC J7A 1Y2, Canada
  Phys Ed

9:00am EDT

Let’s Talk: Understanding Language Disorders in Your Classroom
Monday September 21, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT

Let’s talk about your students who struggle to follow verbal instructions, who have trouble finding their words, and who can't seem to retell a simple story. These might be your students who are often frustrated or exhibit challenging behaviour in class. Some of these students may be affected by Developmental Language Disorder, or DLD, which affects roughly 1 in 14 children — likely two or three kids in every classroom — yet it remains one of the least recognized conditions in schools.

Language matters more than you might think. Every subject you teach — reading, writing, math, even gym class — relies on language. Instructions, explanations, discussions, and peer interactions are all part of a student’s day-to-day life, which means a hidden language disorder touches every part of a child's school day.

In this presentation, we'll go over typical language development before taking a closer look at Developmental Language Disorders. We’ll talk about what a student with DLD really looks like in your classroom, using examples and case discussions. You'll walk away with a better understanding of what DLD is, how it shows up in your students, and what you can do to support them. Because for many of these students, the right support starts with the right understanding.



Presenters
avatar for Laurie Leibov

Laurie Leibov

Speech Language Pathologist, SWLSB
Laurie is a school speech language pathologist with more than 15 years of experience working at SWLSB. She has had the privilege of working across multiple schools within our school board, supporting students, families, and school teams.
Monday September 21, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
182-RHS: Room TBA 530 Rue Northcote, Rosemère, QC J7A 1Y2, Canada
  SLP

9:00am EDT

The Science of Reading Meets Secondary Literacy: Cross-Curricular and Disciplinary Literacy Strategies for Every Classroom
Monday September 21, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
Adolescent literacy is a shared responsibility across all subject areas. This interactive session explores how secondary educators can apply Science of Reading principles through practical, evidence-based strategies that support multisyllabic word reading, Tier 2 vocabulary development, fluency, comprehension, and disciplinary literacy. Participants will engage with classroom-ready routines, including vocabulary instruction and the "Get-the-Gist" strategy, to strengthen literacy outcomes and student understanding across the curriculum.
Guest Presenters
avatar for Dr. Todd Cunningham

Dr. Todd Cunningham

CEO, Learn Different
Dr. Cunningham is a clinical and school psychologies, Assistant Professor (teaching stream), Chair of the School and Clinical Child Psychology program at the University of Toronto and provides psychological services through is private practice. His research investigates the support... Read More →
avatar for John DeLuca

John DeLuca

Business Development Lead, Learn Different
Currently the Business Development Lead at Learn Different, John's influence extends beyond teaching. A skilled connector, he collaborates with School Boards, colleges, and businesses, uniting pedagogy with practicality through webinars, marketing, and resource creation. With 17... Read More →
Monday September 21, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
182-RHS: Room TBA 530 Rue Northcote, Rosemère, QC J7A 1Y2, Canada

9:00am EDT

The Power of Adult Posture: Creating the Conditions for Children's Learning, Engagement, and Well-Being
Monday September 21, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
Children's development is shaped not only by what adults teach, but by how adults show up in relationship with them each day. Through their presence, responses, and interactions, educators create the emotional climate that influences children's sense of safety, belonging, behaviour, engagement, and capacity to learn. Drawing on developmental science, attachment theory, and practical classroom experiences, participants will explore how adult posture influences children's behaviour, emotional regulation, sense of self, and willingness to engage in learning. Through practical examples and guided reflection, participants will discover how intentional, relationship-based interactions can foster healthy development, strengthen connections, and create the conditions in which children can thrive. This presentation is relevant to ALL STAFF at any grade level.
Guest Presenters
avatar for Catherine Korah, M. Ed., c.o., psychotherapist

Catherine Korah, M. Ed., c.o., psychotherapist

CEBM Coordinator, Centre of Excellence for Behaviour Management (CEBM)
For over 15 years, Catherine has worked in a number of educational settings with both elementary and secondary students with challenging behaviour problems. She has been actively involved in providing professional development, consultation, and liaising with various educations, health... Read More →
Monday September 21, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
182-RHS:Room TBA
  Well-Being

9:00am EDT

Tools for Attention
Monday September 21, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
Tools for Attention is an interactive session designed to equip teachers with practical, actionable strategies to boost and sustain student focus through proactive environmental and instructional shifts. Throughout this workshop, we will dive into high-impact in-class strategies to maintain engagement, discuss how to intentionally utilize flexible seating to meet diverse sensory needs, and share quick, purposeful movement breaks that reset young minds. Although this session is open to all teachers looking to sharpen their classroom management toolkit, the core strategies are primarily tailored for elementary teachers. Come ready to collaborate and walk away with a tangible set of tools ready for immediate, next-day implementation!
Presenters
avatar for Melissa Di Fruscia

Melissa Di Fruscia

Occupational Therapist, SWLSB
Melissa Di Fruscia, OT is a seasoned Occupational Therapist with over 25 years of experience exclusively dedicated to pediatric care. For the last 18 years, she has proudly served the community within the Sir Wilfrid Laurier School Board, helping students overcome barriers to learning and daily living... Read More →
avatar for Lina Ianni

Lina Ianni

Occupational Therapist, SWLSB
Lina Ianni, OT, PhD is an occupational therapist with 18 years of experience in school-based practice. Her work focuses on supporting students’ participation, learning, and independence within educational environments. Lina has specialized training in sensory processing, motor skill development... Read More →
Monday September 21, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
182-RHS: Room TBA 530 Rue Northcote, Rosemère, QC J7A 1Y2, Canada
  Well-Being

9:00am EDT

Youth Suicide: What Schools Need to Know
Monday September 21, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
  1. The presentation explains that youth suicide is a serious issue, and schools play a key role in prevention by recognizing warning signs and creating supportive environments.
  2. It outlines risk factors, critical moments, and warning signs (e.g., mental health struggles, trauma, behavioral changes), while emphasizing the importance of protective relationships and early intervention.
  3. It also highlights appropriate language, evidence-based prevention strategies (tiered supports), and the role of trained staff in assessing risk, ensuring safety, and connecting students to help.


Presenters
avatar for Melanie Bujold

Melanie Bujold

Social Services Officer, SWLSB
I am the Social Services Officer working out of the Pedagogcial Services Department. My work includes the promotion of health, wellbeing, and equity in our school communities; this includes but is not limited to: mental health, suicide prevention, Truth and Reconciliation, DEI, substance... Read More →
Monday September 21, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
182-RHS: Room TBA 530 Rue Northcote, Rosemère, QC J7A 1Y2, Canada
  Well-Being

10:40am EDT

Critical AI Literacy and Environmental Sustainability
Monday September 21, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
This workshop addresses the technical, ethical, and environmental dimensions of Artificial Intelligence. Educators will examine the fundamentals of how AI works, the impact of societal bias in data, and the importance of using objective language when discussing automated systems. The session also investigates the environmental footprint of generative AI and introduces classroom resources, including a school digital audit and five ready-to-teach lessons, to help students analyze and discuss sustainable technology policies.
Guest Presenters
avatar for Jérémy Martineau

Jérémy Martineau

Education facilitator and community developer,, Digital Moment
Education facilitator and community developer, has a background in computer science and education. Passionate about popularizing and sharing knowledge, he aims to make learning enjoyable and facilitate access to digital skills.
Monday September 21, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
182-RHS: Room TBA 530 Rue Northcote, Rosemère, QC J7A 1Y2, Canada
  EdTech

10:40am EDT

Integrating Computational Thinking in the Elementary Classroom
Monday September 21, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
Designed for teachers looking to incorporate digital literacy into their current practice, this workshop walks through the fundamentals of computational thinking using Scratch. We will build sample projects together and review the Experience CS lesson framework, which supports teachers of all technical backgrounds. The session concludes with a breakdown of how these resources map to the Quebec elementary curriculum to ensure seamless classroom integration.
Guest Presenters
avatar for German Arcila

German Arcila

Programs and Training Manager, Digital Moment
German Arcila, Programs and Training Manager at Digital Moment since 2019, has a background in business administration, computer science, and education. He designs and manages impactful training programs, bridging technology and human understanding to create dynamic learning for diverse... Read More →
Monday September 21, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
182-RHS: Room TBA 530 Rue Northcote, Rosemère, QC J7A 1Y2, Canada

10:40am EDT

The Progress Blueprint: Visualizing Student Milestones (Adult Ed)
Monday September 21, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
This interactive session invites adult education teachers to explore a practical framework for visualizing and monitoring student progress in a self-paced, modular context. Participants will engage in collaborative reflection and hands-on activities to identify key indicators of student readiness, integrate qualitative and quantitative data, and experiment with tools that support informed decision-making. The session focuses on developing simple, effective tracking systems that help reduce the cognitive load of monitoring each student’s progress
Presenters
avatar for Geneviève Légaré

Geneviève Légaré

School Imp. Consultant, SWLSB

Monday September 21, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
182-RHS: Room TBA 530 Rue Northcote, Rosemère, QC J7A 1Y2, Canada
  Evidence

10:40am EDT

Moving from Knowing to Doing: Fostering Mattering for Indigenous Learners in Quebec
Monday September 21, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
Truth and Reconciliation is a journey that invites educators to move beyond awareness toward actions that foster a sense of mattering for Indigenous learners. This workshop offers practical pathways for creating culturally safe and welcoming spaces where students feel seen, valued, and essential. Grounded in a four-part Moodle professional learning course, the session explores strategies such as learning about the Indigenous nation(s) on whose territory we work, understanding historic and current Indigenous experiences in education, and developing an action plan for meaningful change. Participants will leave with concrete steps for their own professional journey towards reconciliation, which will impact their classrooms and school communities.
Guest Presenters
avatar for Stacy Anne Allen

Stacy Anne Allen

Pedagogical Consultant, LEARN Quebec
Stacy has worked as an elementary teacher and educational consultant for languages, social sciences, and art at Kativik Ilisarniliriniq. She also taught English as an additional language in Canada and Shanghai, China. She has a BA in English from Saint Francis Xavier University, as... Read More →
avatar for Sylwia Bielec

Sylwia Bielec

Pedagogical Consultant - Arts, LEARN Quebec
The LEARN team has decades of combined experience and expertise in promoting active and engaged learning for young people and adults alike. We believe in creating and facilitating learning environments that allow all people to learn in the ways which suit them best. Our consultants... Read More →
Monday September 21, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
182-RHS: Room TBA 530 Rue Northcote, Rosemère, QC J7A 1Y2, Canada
  General Pedagogy

10:40am EDT

What Works and Why: Action Research in the Classroom
Monday September 21, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
Applicable to all levels of teaching and subjects, action research is a dynamic and motivating cyclical process with the teacher being the researcher-participant in their own classroom. Target goals for the action plan could include but are not limited to: planning, implementation or evaluation, behaviour issues, or teaching strategies. Action research can help you identify a challenge or determine a change you want for your classroom and guide your process to address it.

In this session, you will 
  • learn what action research is, and what it looks like in the classroom.
  • learn how to use reflection and the cycles of inquiry to plan for action research in your own classroom or school communities.
  • learn how action research can empower you by informing your day-to-day decisions to make intentional shifts in your teaching.
Guest Presenters
avatar for Kelly Crowdis

Kelly Crowdis

Teacher - Generalist (Cycle 1-6), SWLSB
Kelly is a Grade 2 teacher at Pinewood Elementary and a former Pedagogical Consultant with the Sir Wilfrid Laurier School Board. She is also a part-time instructor in the DESS Graduate Diploma in Teacher Certification at Concordia University. A lifelong-learner and professional development... Read More →
Monday September 21, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
182-RHS: Room TBA 530 Rue Northcote, Rosemère, QC J7A 1Y2, Canada
  General Pedagogy

10:40am EDT

Secondary Math: Rich Tasks and Formative Assessment to Develop Critical Thinking in Competency 1 and 2
Monday September 21, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
Rich tasks can deepen student understanding, promote critical thinking, and encourage meaningful engagement without sacrificing rigour. In this hands-on workshop, teachers will explore classroom-ready examples that help students reason, justify, and reflect on their learning. We’ll look at how rich tasks can be used in everyday instruction, as well as how tasks that develop the C1 competency can help students prepare for summative C2 assessments. Participants will also have time to work directly with selected examples and consider how they could be adapted for their own classrooms. We’ll also explore practical strategies for creating rich tasks using existing materials, helping reduce prep time without compromising quality. Whether you’re new to rich tasks or looking to expand your toolkit, this session offers concrete steps for making critical thinking a natural part of your math classroom.
Presenters
avatar for James Gore

James Gore

Math Consultant, SWLSB
James Gore is the secondary mathematics pedagogical consultant for the Sir Wilfrid Laurier School Board. Before moving into this role, he taught mathematics in several schools across the board and worked with students, teachers, and communities in a variety of contexts. He is also... Read More →
Monday September 21, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
182-RHS: Room TBA 530 Rue Northcote, Rosemère, QC J7A 1Y2, Canada

10:40am EDT

Grief Support & Traumatic Event Navigation
Monday September 21, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
When tragedy strikes, knowing how to respond is vital.

This workshop equips teachers and staff with essential protocols and practical guidance following a student’s loss of an immediate family member or a school-wide traumatic event.

Learn exactly who to contact, when to intervene, and how to provide immediate, compassionate grief support while safely navigating community-wide crises.
Presenters
avatar for Daniel Johnson

Daniel Johnson

Community/Personal Dev Animator, SWLSB
With 30 years of experience as a behaviour specialist, Canadian Armed Forces Reservist, and media communicator, Daniel empowers educational communities by fostering leadership development, increasing and expanding the internal strengths, skills, and overall ability, and building levers... Read More →
Monday September 21, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
182-RHS: Room TBA 530 Rue Northcote, Rosemère, QC J7A 1Y2, Canada
  Personal Animation

10:40am EDT

Different Ways to Get Striking and Fielding into your Phys. Ed Program
Monday September 21, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
This interactive workshop will provide teachers with the opportunity to experience and participate in a variety of striking and fielding games that can be integrated into their Physical Education programs. Participants will explore the fundamental skills, strategies, rules, and teaching approaches associated with Cricket, Baseball, Softball, and Baseball5. Through active participation and practical activities, teachers will gain ideas and resources to create engaging, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate learning experiences for students of all skill levels.
Guest Presenters
avatar for Robert Richard

Robert Richard

Teacher - Elem. Physical Education, SWLSB
Physical Education Teacher from Saint Vincent with over 20 years experience.
Monday September 21, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
182-RHS: Room TBA 530 Rue Northcote, Rosemère, QC J7A 1Y2, Canada
  Phys Ed

10:40am EDT

Let’s Talk: Understanding Language Disorders in Your Classroom
Monday September 21, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT

Let’s talk about your students who struggle to follow verbal instructions, who have trouble finding their words, and who can't seem to retell a simple story. These might be your students who are often frustrated or exhibit challenging behaviour in class. Some of these students may be affected by Developmental Language Disorder, or DLD, which affects roughly 1 in 14 children — likely two or three kids in every classroom — yet it remains one of the least recognized conditions in schools.

Language matters more than you might think. Every subject you teach — reading, writing, math, even gym class — relies on language. Instructions, explanations, discussions, and peer interactions are all part of a student’s day-to-day life, which means a hidden language disorder touches every part of a child's school day.

In this presentation, we'll go over typical language development before taking a closer look at Developmental Language Disorders. We’ll talk about what a student with DLD really looks like in your classroom, using examples and case discussions. You'll walk away with a better understanding of what DLD is, how it shows up in your students, and what you can do to support them. Because for many of these students, the right support starts with the right understanding.



Presenters
avatar for Laurie Leibov

Laurie Leibov

Speech Language Pathologist, SWLSB
Laurie is a school speech language pathologist with more than 15 years of experience working at SWLSB. She has had the privilege of working across multiple schools within our school board, supporting students, families, and school teams.
Monday September 21, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
182-RHS: Room TBA 530 Rue Northcote, Rosemère, QC J7A 1Y2, Canada
  SLP

10:40am EDT

The Science of Reading Meets Secondary Literacy: Cross-Curricular and Disciplinary Literacy Strategies for Every Classroom
Monday September 21, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
Adolescent literacy is a shared responsibility across all subject areas. This interactive session explores how secondary educators can apply Science of Reading principles through practical, evidence-based strategies that support multisyllabic word reading, Tier 2 vocabulary development, fluency, comprehension, and disciplinary literacy. Participants will engage with classroom-ready routines, including vocabulary instruction and the "Get-the-Gist" strategy, to strengthen literacy outcomes and student understanding across the curriculum.
Guest Presenters
avatar for Dr. Todd Cunningham

Dr. Todd Cunningham

CEO, Learn Different
Dr. Cunningham is a clinical and school psychologies, Assistant Professor (teaching stream), Chair of the School and Clinical Child Psychology program at the University of Toronto and provides psychological services through is private practice. His research investigates the support... Read More →
avatar for John DeLuca

John DeLuca

Business Development Lead, Learn Different
Currently the Business Development Lead at Learn Different, John's influence extends beyond teaching. A skilled connector, he collaborates with School Boards, colleges, and businesses, uniting pedagogy with practicality through webinars, marketing, and resource creation. With 17... Read More →
Monday September 21, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
182-RHS: Room TBA 530 Rue Northcote, Rosemère, QC J7A 1Y2, Canada

10:40am EDT

The Power of Adult Posture: Creating the Conditions for Children's Learning, Engagement, and Well-Being
Monday September 21, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
Children's development is shaped not only by what adults teach, but by how adults show up in relationship with them each day. Through their presence, responses, and interactions, educators create the emotional climate that influences children's sense of safety, belonging, behaviour, engagement, and capacity to learn. Drawing on developmental science, attachment theory, and practical classroom experiences, participants will explore how adult posture influences children's behaviour, emotional regulation, sense of self, and willingness to engage in learning. Through practical examples and guided reflection, participants will discover how intentional, relationship-based interactions can foster healthy development, strengthen connections, and create the conditions in which children can thrive. This presentation is relevant to ALL STAFF at any grade level.
Guest Presenters
avatar for Catherine Korah, M. Ed., c.o., psychotherapist

Catherine Korah, M. Ed., c.o., psychotherapist

CEBM Coordinator, Centre of Excellence for Behaviour Management (CEBM)
For over 15 years, Catherine has worked in a number of educational settings with both elementary and secondary students with challenging behaviour problems. She has been actively involved in providing professional development, consultation, and liaising with various educations, health... Read More →
Monday September 21, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
182-RHS:Room TBA
  Well-Being

10:40am EDT

Tools for Attention
Monday September 21, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
Tools for Attention is an interactive session designed to equip teachers with practical, actionable strategies to boost and sustain student focus through proactive environmental and instructional shifts. Throughout this workshop, we will dive into high-impact in-class strategies to maintain engagement, discuss how to intentionally utilize flexible seating to meet diverse sensory needs, and share quick, purposeful movement breaks that reset young minds. Although this session is open to all teachers looking to sharpen their classroom management toolkit, the core strategies are primarily tailored for elementary teachers. Come ready to collaborate and walk away with a tangible set of tools ready for immediate, next-day implementation!
Presenters
avatar for Melissa Di Fruscia

Melissa Di Fruscia

Occupational Therapist, SWLSB
Melissa Di Fruscia, OT is a seasoned Occupational Therapist with over 25 years of experience exclusively dedicated to pediatric care. For the last 18 years, she has proudly served the community within the Sir Wilfrid Laurier School Board, helping students overcome barriers to learning and daily living... Read More →
avatar for Lina Ianni

Lina Ianni

Occupational Therapist, SWLSB
Lina Ianni, OT, PhD is an occupational therapist with 18 years of experience in school-based practice. Her work focuses on supporting students’ participation, learning, and independence within educational environments. Lina has specialized training in sensory processing, motor skill development... Read More →
Monday September 21, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
182-RHS: Room TBA 530 Rue Northcote, Rosemère, QC J7A 1Y2, Canada
  Well-Being

10:40am EDT

Youth Suicide: What Schools Need to Know
Monday September 21, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
  1. The presentation explains that youth suicide is a serious issue, and schools play a key role in prevention by recognizing warning signs and creating supportive environments.
  2. It outlines risk factors, critical moments, and warning signs (e.g., mental health struggles, trauma, behavioral changes), while emphasizing the importance of protective relationships and early intervention.
  3. It also highlights appropriate language, evidence-based prevention strategies (tiered supports), and the role of trained staff in assessing risk, ensuring safety, and connecting students to help.


Presenters
avatar for Melanie Bujold

Melanie Bujold

Social Services Officer, SWLSB
I am the Social Services Officer working out of the Pedagogcial Services Department. My work includes the promotion of health, wellbeing, and equity in our school communities; this includes but is not limited to: mental health, suicide prevention, Truth and Reconciliation, DEI, substance... Read More →
Monday September 21, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
182-RHS: Room TBA 530 Rue Northcote, Rosemère, QC J7A 1Y2, Canada
  Well-Being
 

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