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Monday, October 5
 

8:05am EDT

8:05am - 8:50am Event Check-in & Coffee
Monday October 5, 2026 8:05am - 8:50am EDT
Please add the "Event Check-in" to your schedule

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PRESENTERS / ATTENDEES / EXHIBITORS / VOLUNTEERS


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Monday October 5, 2026 8:05am - 8:50am EDT
190-LSA

9:00am EDT

Beyond the Artwork: Meaningful Ways to Assess Art Appreciation
Monday October 5, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
This workshop focuses on practical ways to assess students’ understanding and engagement with art at both elementary and high school levels. Participants will explore strategies for evaluating how students observe, interpret, and reflect on artworks. The session will include clear examples and adaptable approaches for the classroom. Attendees will leave with creative project ideas, assessment strategies, and ready-to-use resources to support effective evaluation of art appreciation.
Guest Presenters
avatar for Cristina Carpanzano

Cristina Carpanzano

Teacher - Sec. Arts, SWLSB
I graduated from Concordia Fine Arts with a Specialization in Art Education.  I have been teaching at SWLSB as an Arts teacher for 22 years at the highschool level.
Monday October 5, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
190-LSA: Room TBA
  Arts

9:00am EDT

The Creative Process: From Studio Chaos to Assessment
Monday October 5, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
The Creative Process: From Studio Chaos to Assessment explores how the messy, unpredictable stages of art-making can become meaningful evidence of student learning. Grounded in the Quebec Arts Education curriculum, this workshop looks at how teachers can encourage risk-taking, experimentation, problem-solving, and reflection while creating a studio environment that feels both creative and manageable. Participants will leave with practical strategies for documenting and assessing the creative process, not just the final product.
Presenters
avatar for Christina Karamalis

Christina Karamalis

Student Services Consultant, SWLSB
Over my 22 years in education, I’ve had the privilege of seeing school life from almost every angle, from elementary and high school classrooms to working directly with leadership teams as a consultant. My roots are in Art Education, which taught me early on to look at challenges... Read More →
Monday October 5, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
190-LSA: Room TBA
  Arts

9:00am EDT

Canva for Real Classrooms
Monday October 5, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
Canva is more than a design tool — it can become a complete classroom workflow system that saves teachers time, improves organization, and creates a more cohesive learning experience for students. In this hands-on session, participants will explore practical ways to use Canva for real classroom teaching, beyond isolated worksheets or decorative materials.“Canva for Real Classrooms” demonstrates how printed student workbooks, classroom presentations, daily agendas, instructional slides, and activities can be streamlined into one connected visual system. Participants will learn how consistent layouts, visual cues, icons, color palettes, and reusable templates can reduce student confusion while making lesson preparation faster and more efficient.The session begins with examples from real classroom implementation and ideas inspired by the Canva Create 2026 conference. Participants will then engage in guided creation time, building components of a mini-unit in Canva, including a student activity page and matching presentation slides using reusable design elements and classroom-friendly visual strategies.During independent creation time, teachers will adapt these techniques to their own subjects and grade levels. Participants will leave with practical Canva skills, reusable workflows, time-saving strategies, and free classroom-ready templates they can immediately use in their own teaching.
Guest Presenters
avatar for Sarah Leboeuf

Sarah Leboeuf

Teacher - Sec. MRE / PSD, SWLSB
Sarah Leboeuf is a Grade 7–8 teacher who integrates Canva into everyday classroom practice to create engaging, visually consistent learning experiences. She designs student workbooks, interactive classroom presentations, digital activities, and project-based learning materials that... Read More →
Monday October 5, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
190-LSA: Room TBA
  EdTech

9:00am EDT

Critical AI Literacy and Environmental Sustainability
Monday October 5, 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 October 5, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
190-LSA: Room TBA
  EdTech

9:00am EDT

Moving from Knowing to Doing: Fostering Mattering for Indigenous Learners in Quebec
Monday October 5, 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 October 5, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
190-LSA: Room TBA
  General Pedagogy

9:00am EDT

What Works and Why: Action Research in the Classroom
Monday October 5, 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 October 5, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
190-LSA: Room TBA
  General Pedagogy

9:00am EDT

Your School Library and Beyond: Resources to Enrich Your Lessons
Monday October 5, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
Join your School Board Librarian for an exploration of the diverse physical and digital resources available to support your classroom instruction. This session is designed to broaden your pedagogical toolkit by highlighting a wide range of high-quality resources in both English and French, for every level from Kindergarten to Grade 11. After a brief introduction to your school library and showing you how to access their collection online, I'll introduce you to a number of quality book and video resources available online for educators, such as ACF/Criterion, Biblius, Curio, NFB and more.
Presenters
avatar for Laura Wulf

Laura Wulf

School Board Librarian, SWLSB
Laura Wulf is our school board librarian who splits her time between the Pedagogical Services Department and the school board archives. Driven by a deep commitment to literacy, Laura is passionate about delivering high-quality library services and building meaningful connections with... Read More →
Monday October 5, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
190-LSA: Room TBA
  General Pedagogy

9:00am EDT

Let’s Talk: Understanding Language Disorders in Your Classroom
Monday October 5, 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 October 5, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
190-LSA: Room TBA
  SLP

9:00am EDT

Buzz, Bounce, Grow: Understanding ADHD Across Ages and Stages
Monday October 5, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition, yet its presentation shifts dramatically as a student grows. This session provides a comprehensive look at how ADHD manifests through different school-age developmental stages, spanning from the high-energy behavioral markers of kindergarten to the complex academic and executive dysfunction challenges faced by high school juniors.
Presenters
avatar for Lindsay Parr

Lindsay Parr

Student Services Consultant, SWLSB

Monday October 5, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
190-LSA: Room TBA
  Spec Ed

9:00am EDT

Exploring the Diverse Realities of Autism
Monday October 5, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
What does it feel like to navigate a classroom when the world is louder, faster, or more overwhelming than it appears to others? This workshop will help educators better understand the lived experiences of autistic students by exploring topics such as processing speed, sensory processing, executive functioning, and behaviour. Through practical examples, guided experiences, and interactive discussions, participants will gain insight into the reasons behind common challenges and learn how to respond with greater empathy and effectiveness. Educators will leave with a deeper understanding of autism and practical strategies to create more supportive and inclusive learning environments for all students.
Presenters
BM

Becky Marsland

Student Services Consultant, SWLSB

Monday October 5, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
190-LSA: Room TBA
  Spec Ed

9:00am EDT

From Reports to Action: Differentiation that Drives Results for Diverse Learners
Monday October 5, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
From Reports to Action: Differentiation That Drives Results for Diverse Learners is designed to help teachers confidently turn professional report recommendations into practical classroom strategies that truly support student success. This session will explore how to better understand student learning profiles, recognize how students learn best, and apply accommodations and differentiation in meaningful, manageable ways. Using real-life classroom scenarios and connections to UDL, RTI, and MTSS frameworks, participants will explore inclusive strategies that support engagement, accessibility, and achievement for diverse learners. Teachers will leave with practical tools, ideas, and approaches they can immediately apply to instruction, assessment, and classroom supports to create responsive learning environments where all students can thrive.































Presenters
avatar for Melissa D'Ambrosio

Melissa D'Ambrosio

Student Services Consultant, SWLSB
At heart, I am an educator. My perspective is shaped by years of rewarding, hands-on experience as both a generalist teacher and a remedial teacher specializing in diverse learning needs. Throughout my career, I have developed a deep passion for professional collaboration, mentorship... Read More →
Monday October 5, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
190-LSA: Room TBA
  Spec Ed

9:00am EDT

Les blessures invisibles: Enseigner avec une approche sensible aux traumas
Monday October 5, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
Les élèves ayant vécu des traumatismes portent souvent des fardeaux invisibles qui influencent leur fonctionnement en classe. Ces expériences peuvent affecter de manière importante leur disponibilité émotionnelle et leur capacité à s’engager dans les apprentissages.

Cette formation vise à mieux comprendre l’impact des traumas sur l’apprentissage, l’autorégulation et les relations interpersonnelles en milieu scolaire. Des pistes d’intervention et des stratégies ancrées dans une approche sensible aux traumas seront explorées. Ceci vous amènera à porter un regard différent sur les comportements des élèves et à mettre en place des pratiques qui favorisent un climat de classe sécurisant, bienveillant et propice aux apprentissages pour tous.
Presenters
avatar for Sonia Ethier

Sonia Ethier

Student Services Consultant, SWLSB
As a professional passionate about children’s development, I worked as a social worker for most of my career. I am deeply committed to the mental health of both adults and youth, intercultural intervention, working in vulnerable contexts, inclusive preventive practices, and collaborating... Read More →
Monday October 5, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
190-LSA: Room TBA
  Spec Ed

9:00am EDT

The Power Within: Self-Management in Adult SEL Through the CASEL Lens.
Monday October 5, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
This professional development presentation explores adult Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) through the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) framework, with a particular focus on self-management. The session will begin by outlining CASEL's definition of SEL and its five core competencies (the CASEL 5): self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. Building on this overview, the presentation narrows its focus to adult self-management (the ability to manage our emotions, thoughts and actions when working toward an objective/goal) for both elementary and high school teachers. Strong self-management helps us respond effectively to challenges by allowing us to pause before reacting to a situation, regulate our impulses, thoughtfully consider our options, and make intentional choices. Participants will dive deeper into self-management through practical activities and collaborative discussions.
Presenters
avatar for Anthony Capuano

Anthony Capuano

Student Services Consultant, SWLSB
I hold both a Bachelor's degree and a Master's degree in Child Studies (graduated at Concordia University). Since 2017, I have been working at the SWLSB, first as a Special Education Technician and now as a Student Services Consultant at PSD. I am passionate about supporting teachers... Read More →
Monday October 5, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
190-LSA: Room TBA
  Spec Ed

9:00am EDT

When Diagnoses Collide: What Do We Prioritize First in the Classroom?
Monday October 5, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
Students with co-occurring diagnoses often present with complex academic, behavioural, emotional, sensory, and social needs, making it difficult for teachers to know what to prioritize in the classroom. This professional development session will help teachers move beyond a diagnosis-first approach and use a practical, evidence-based framework to identify students’ most immediate needs, including safety, regulation, access to learning, communication, and skill-building. Participants will learn how to interpret behaviour through a needs-based lens, select appropriate classroom supports, and respond in ways that are proactive, compassionate, and focused on helping students participate meaningfully and build independence. 
Presenters
DA

Diana Antonacci

Student Services Consultant, SWLSB

Monday October 5, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
190-LSA: Room TBA
  Spec Ed

9:00am EDT

Wiring, Not Willfulness: Early Intervention for Oppositional Defiant Disorder
Monday October 5, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
When a five-year-old flips a chair during center time, or a seven-year-old flatly refuses to line up for recess, it is easy to feel like you are locked in a deliberate power struggle. But in the early elementary classroom, what looks like a bad attitude is usually a reflection of brain architecture, not a personal attack on your lesson plan.
Wiring, Not Willfulness reframes Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) specifically through an early intervention educational lens. Designed for teachers, this session moves past traditional, punitive disciplinary models, which often inadvertently escalate behaviours in young learners, to explore how early, school-based interventions can rewrite a student's trajectory. Instead of trying to break a challenging behaviour through sheer force of will, you will learn how to decode the neurodevelopmental "wiring" driving the defiance and intervene before negative school patterns become permanent.

Perfect for kindergarten through early elementary teachers looking to trade classroom frustration for effective, evidence-based engagement strategies.
Presenters
avatar for Nicholas Luis

Nicholas Luis

Student Services Consultant, SWLSB
As a Student Services Consultant for the Sir Wilfrid Laurier School Board, I support school teams in implementing specialized intervention plans and inclusive practices for at-risk and special needs students. I hold a Master of Education in Educational Psychology and Bachelor’s... Read More →
Monday October 5, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
190-LSA: Room TBA
  Spec Ed

9:00am EDT

The Power of Adult Posture: Creating the Conditions for Children's Learning, Engagement, and Well-Being
Monday October 5, 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 October 5, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
190-LSA: Room TBA
  Well-Being

9:00am EDT

Youth Suicide: What Schools Need to Know
Monday October 5, 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 October 5, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
190-LSA: Room TBA
  Well-Being

10:40am EDT

Beyond the Artwork: Meaningful Ways to Assess Art Appreciation
Monday October 5, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
This workshop focuses on practical ways to assess students’ understanding and engagement with art at both elementary and high school levels. Participants will explore strategies for evaluating how students observe, interpret, and reflect on artworks. The session will include clear examples and adaptable approaches for the classroom. Attendees will leave with creative project ideas, assessment strategies, and ready-to-use resources to support effective evaluation of art appreciation.
Guest Presenters
avatar for Cristina Carpanzano

Cristina Carpanzano

Teacher - Sec. Arts, SWLSB
I graduated from Concordia Fine Arts with a Specialization in Art Education.  I have been teaching at SWLSB as an Arts teacher for 22 years at the highschool level.
Monday October 5, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
190-LSA: Room TBA
  Arts

10:40am EDT

The Creative Process: From Studio Chaos to Assessment
Monday October 5, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
The Creative Process: From Studio Chaos to Assessment explores how the messy, unpredictable stages of art-making can become meaningful evidence of student learning. Grounded in the Quebec Arts Education curriculum, this workshop looks at how teachers can encourage risk-taking, experimentation, problem-solving, and reflection while creating a studio environment that feels both creative and manageable. Participants will leave with practical strategies for documenting and assessing the creative process, not just the final product.
Presenters
avatar for Christina Karamalis

Christina Karamalis

Student Services Consultant, SWLSB
Over my 22 years in education, I’ve had the privilege of seeing school life from almost every angle, from elementary and high school classrooms to working directly with leadership teams as a consultant. My roots are in Art Education, which taught me early on to look at challenges... Read More →
Monday October 5, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
190-LSA: Room TBA
  Arts

10:40am EDT

Canva for Real Classrooms
Monday October 5, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
Canva is more than a design tool — it can become a complete classroom workflow system that saves teachers time, improves organization, and creates a more cohesive learning experience for students. In this hands-on session, participants will explore practical ways to use Canva for real classroom teaching, beyond isolated worksheets or decorative materials.“Canva for Real Classrooms” demonstrates how printed student workbooks, classroom presentations, daily agendas, instructional slides, and activities can be streamlined into one connected visual system. Participants will learn how consistent layouts, visual cues, icons, color palettes, and reusable templates can reduce student confusion while making lesson preparation faster and more efficient.The session begins with examples from real classroom implementation and ideas inspired by the Canva Create 2026 conference. Participants will then engage in guided creation time, building components of a mini-unit in Canva, including a student activity page and matching presentation slides using reusable design elements and classroom-friendly visual strategies.During independent creation time, teachers will adapt these techniques to their own subjects and grade levels. Participants will leave with practical Canva skills, reusable workflows, time-saving strategies, and free classroom-ready templates they can immediately use in their own teaching.
Guest Presenters
avatar for Sarah Leboeuf

Sarah Leboeuf

Teacher - Sec. MRE / PSD, SWLSB
Sarah Leboeuf is a Grade 7–8 teacher who integrates Canva into everyday classroom practice to create engaging, visually consistent learning experiences. She designs student workbooks, interactive classroom presentations, digital activities, and project-based learning materials that... Read More →
Monday October 5, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
190-LSA: Room TBA
  EdTech

10:40am EDT

Critical AI Literacy and Environmental Sustainability
Monday October 5, 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 October 5, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
190-LSA: Room TBA
  EdTech

10:40am EDT

Moving from Knowing to Doing: Fostering Mattering for Indigenous Learners in Quebec
Monday October 5, 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 October 5, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
190-LSA: Room TBA
  General Pedagogy

10:40am EDT

What Works and Why: Action Research in the Classroom
Monday October 5, 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 October 5, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
190-LSA: Room TBA
  General Pedagogy

10:40am EDT

Your School Library and Beyond: Resources to Enrich Your Lessons
Monday October 5, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
Join your School Board Librarian for an exploration of the diverse physical and digital resources available to support your classroom instruction. This session is designed to broaden your pedagogical toolkit by highlighting a wide range of high-quality resources in both English and French, for every level from Kindergarten to Grade 11. After a brief introduction to your school library and showing you how to access their collection online, I'll introduce you to a number of quality book and video resources available online for educators, such as ACF/Criterion, Biblius, Curio, NFB and more.
Presenters
avatar for Laura Wulf

Laura Wulf

School Board Librarian, SWLSB
Laura Wulf is our school board librarian who splits her time between the Pedagogical Services Department and the school board archives. Driven by a deep commitment to literacy, Laura is passionate about delivering high-quality library services and building meaningful connections with... Read More →
Monday October 5, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
190-LSA: Room TBA
  General Pedagogy

10:40am EDT

Let’s Talk: Understanding Language Disorders in Your Classroom
Monday October 5, 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 October 5, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
190-LSA: Room TBA
  SLP

10:40am EDT

Buzz, Bounce, Grow: Understanding ADHD Across Ages and Stages
Monday October 5, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition, yet its presentation shifts dramatically as a student grows. This session provides a comprehensive look at how ADHD manifests through different school-age developmental stages, spanning from the high-energy behavioral markers of kindergarten to the complex academic and executive dysfunction challenges faced by high school juniors.
Presenters
avatar for Lindsay Parr

Lindsay Parr

Student Services Consultant, SWLSB

Monday October 5, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
190-LSA: Room TBA
  Spec Ed

10:40am EDT

Exploring the Diverse Realities of Autism
Monday October 5, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
What does it feel like to navigate a classroom when the world is louder, faster, or more overwhelming than it appears to others? This workshop will help educators better understand the lived experiences of autistic students by exploring topics such as processing speed, sensory processing, executive functioning, and behaviour. Through practical examples, guided experiences, and interactive discussions, participants will gain insight into the reasons behind common challenges and learn how to respond with greater empathy and effectiveness. Educators will leave with a deeper understanding of autism and practical strategies to create more supportive and inclusive learning environments for all students.
Presenters
BM

Becky Marsland

Student Services Consultant, SWLSB

Monday October 5, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
190-LSA: Room TBA
  Spec Ed

10:40am EDT

From Reports to Action: Differentiation that Drives Results for Diverse Learners
Monday October 5, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
From Reports to Action: Differentiation That Drives Results for Diverse Learners is designed to help teachers confidently turn professional report recommendations into practical classroom strategies that truly support student success. This session will explore how to better understand student learning profiles, recognize how students learn best, and apply accommodations and differentiation in meaningful, manageable ways. Using real-life classroom scenarios and connections to UDL, RTI, and MTSS frameworks, participants will explore inclusive strategies that support engagement, accessibility, and achievement for diverse learners. Teachers will leave with practical tools, ideas, and approaches they can immediately apply to instruction, assessment, and classroom supports to create responsive learning environments where all students can thrive.































Presenters
avatar for Melissa D'Ambrosio

Melissa D'Ambrosio

Student Services Consultant, SWLSB
At heart, I am an educator. My perspective is shaped by years of rewarding, hands-on experience as both a generalist teacher and a remedial teacher specializing in diverse learning needs. Throughout my career, I have developed a deep passion for professional collaboration, mentorship... Read More →
Monday October 5, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
190-LSA: Room TBA
  Spec Ed

10:40am EDT

Les blessures invisibles: Enseigner avec une approche sensible aux traumas
Monday October 5, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
Les élèves ayant vécu des traumatismes portent souvent des fardeaux invisibles qui influencent leur fonctionnement en classe. Ces expériences peuvent affecter de manière importante leur disponibilité émotionnelle et leur capacité à s’engager dans les apprentissages.

Cette formation vise à mieux comprendre l’impact des traumas sur l’apprentissage, l’autorégulation et les relations interpersonnelles en milieu scolaire. Des pistes d’intervention et des stratégies ancrées dans une approche sensible aux traumas seront explorées. Ceci vous amènera à porter un regard différent sur les comportements des élèves et à mettre en place des pratiques qui favorisent un climat de classe sécurisant, bienveillant et propice aux apprentissages pour tous.
Presenters
avatar for Sonia Ethier

Sonia Ethier

Student Services Consultant, SWLSB
As a professional passionate about children’s development, I worked as a social worker for most of my career. I am deeply committed to the mental health of both adults and youth, intercultural intervention, working in vulnerable contexts, inclusive preventive practices, and collaborating... Read More →
Monday October 5, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
190-LSA: Room TBA
  Spec Ed

10:40am EDT

The Power Within: Self-Management in Adult SEL Through the CASEL Lens.
Monday October 5, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
This professional development presentation explores adult Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) through the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) framework, with a particular focus on self-management. The session will begin by outlining CASEL's definition of SEL and its five core competencies (the CASEL 5): self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. Building on this overview, the presentation narrows its focus to adult self-management (the ability to manage our emotions, thoughts and actions when working toward an objective/goal) for both elementary and high school teachers. Strong self-management helps us respond effectively to challenges by allowing us to pause before reacting to a situation, regulate our impulses, thoughtfully consider our options, and make intentional choices. Participants will dive deeper into self-management through practical activities and collaborative discussions.
Presenters
avatar for Anthony Capuano

Anthony Capuano

Student Services Consultant, SWLSB
I hold both a Bachelor's degree and a Master's degree in Child Studies (graduated at Concordia University). Since 2017, I have been working at the SWLSB, first as a Special Education Technician and now as a Student Services Consultant at PSD. I am passionate about supporting teachers... Read More →
Monday October 5, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
190-LSA: Room TBA
  Spec Ed

10:40am EDT

When Diagnoses Collide: What Do We Prioritize First in the Classroom?
Monday October 5, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
Students with co-occurring diagnoses often present with complex academic, behavioural, emotional, sensory, and social needs, making it difficult for teachers to know what to prioritize in the classroom. This professional development session will help teachers move beyond a diagnosis-first approach and use a practical, evidence-based framework to identify students’ most immediate needs, including safety, regulation, access to learning, communication, and skill-building. Participants will learn how to interpret behaviour through a needs-based lens, select appropriate classroom supports, and respond in ways that are proactive, compassionate, and focused on helping students participate meaningfully and build independence. 
Presenters
DA

Diana Antonacci

Student Services Consultant, SWLSB

Monday October 5, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
190-LSA: Room TBA
  Spec Ed

10:40am EDT

Wiring, Not Willfulness: Early Intervention for Oppositional Defiant Disorder
Monday October 5, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
When a five-year-old flips a chair during center time, or a seven-year-old flatly refuses to line up for recess, it is easy to feel like you are locked in a deliberate power struggle. But in the early elementary classroom, what looks like a bad attitude is usually a reflection of brain architecture, not a personal attack on your lesson plan.
Wiring, Not Willfulness reframes Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) specifically through an early intervention educational lens. Designed for teachers, this session moves past traditional, punitive disciplinary models, which often inadvertently escalate behaviours in young learners, to explore how early, school-based interventions can rewrite a student's trajectory. Instead of trying to break a challenging behaviour through sheer force of will, you will learn how to decode the neurodevelopmental "wiring" driving the defiance and intervene before negative school patterns become permanent.

Perfect for kindergarten through early elementary teachers looking to trade classroom frustration for effective, evidence-based engagement strategies.
Presenters
avatar for Nicholas Luis

Nicholas Luis

Student Services Consultant, SWLSB
As a Student Services Consultant for the Sir Wilfrid Laurier School Board, I support school teams in implementing specialized intervention plans and inclusive practices for at-risk and special needs students. I hold a Master of Education in Educational Psychology and Bachelor’s... Read More →
Monday October 5, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
190-LSA: Room TBA
  Spec Ed

10:40am EDT

The Power of Adult Posture: Creating the Conditions for Children's Learning, Engagement, and Well-Being
Monday October 5, 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 October 5, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
190-LSA: Room TBA
  Well-Being

10:40am EDT

Youth Suicide: What Schools Need to Know
Monday October 5, 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 October 5, 2026 10:40am - 11:55am EDT
190-LSA: Room TBA
  Well-Being
 

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