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ATASC2024 has ended
Are YOU Ready For Door Prizes!  Many chances to win some fantastic prizes from our Exhibitors and we will have the Science Themed books that have been review this past year by your fellow teachers. You may even win one of the two custom curated boxes for Indigenous Box in Edmonton.
  • Draws will happen: Friday Breakfast (7:30AM - 8:45AM), Friday Lunch (11:30AM - 1:00PM), Friday Reception (4:00PM - 6:00PM), Saturday Breakfast (7:30AM - 9:00AM), Conference Wrap-up (2:00PM - 2:15PM)

Elections!!!
Have you ever considered being a part of the Science Council Executive?
AGM & Elections: Friday, November 3rd from 12:15PM - 1:00PM in the Orchid Ballroom
  • The following positions are up for election:
    • Vice President
    • Treasurer
  • So many more draw prizes and we will also draw for a free conference registration at the end of the meeting for our next conference!

Quiz Night!
Join your ATASC Executive Team at our reception for QUIZ NIGHT!!! Come and test your science and indigenous knowledge for great prizes.
  • Friday, November 8th from 4:00PM - 6:00PM in the Orchid Ballroom
  • Prizes!
  • Snacks will be provided
  • Cash/Debit bar

ATASC Awards presentation during Lunch
  • Saturday, November 9th from 11:30AM - 1:00PM in the Orchid Ballroom

Science Shirt Saturday!
  • Wear your best Science shirt for a chance to win a prize!
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Friday, November 8
 

7:30am MST

Breakfast & Door Prizes
Friday November 8, 2024 7:30am - 9:00am MST
Buffet breakfast will be served in the hotel concourse and delegates are to eat in the ballroom.

CONFERENCE PROGRAM WILL BEGIN AT 8:40AM
Friday November 8, 2024 7:30am - 9:00am MST
Hotel Concourse

7:30am MST

Conference Registration
Friday November 8, 2024 7:30am - 2:30pm MST
Friday November 8, 2024 7:30am - 2:30pm MST
Hotel Concourse - Registration Table

9:00am MST

KISKINITAMOWIN (Coming to know/understanding)
Friday November 8, 2024 9:00am - 10:00am MST
This session will focus on ININIW (Cree) Methodologies. Prior to the coming of the Europeans to our reality, Indigenous people had their own methodological process of coming to knowledge. Some steps were similar to the Scientific Method, while others differed…vastly.
Speakers
avatar for Wilfred Buck

Wilfred Buck

ININIW (Cree), Indigenous Astronomer & Consultant, Author, Educator, Addictions Consultant, CulturalConsultant, Education Consultant, Sun Dance Chief, Knowledge Keeper, Lecturer, Astrologer, Artist,Father, Husband, Portable Planetarium Owner & Operator.Wilfred originates from OPASKWAYAK... Read More →
Friday November 8, 2024 9:00am - 10:00am MST
Orchid Ballroom

10:00am MST

AM Break
Friday November 8, 2024 10:00am - 10:30am MST
Morning refreshments will be served in the hotel concourse.  
Friday November 8, 2024 10:00am - 10:30am MST
Hotel Concourse

10:30am MST

The Anti-worksheet Workshop - Back again!
Friday November 8, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am MST
Join our interactive session aimed at moving beyond traditional teaching methods to foster student curiosity and critical thinking. The activities presented are centered around students, promoting collaboration, problem-solving, and critical thinking. By integrating Universal Design for Learning principles, science becomes accessible to everyone, fostering deeper comprehension and long-term retention beyond memorization.
Speakers
avatar for Susie Sirman

Susie Sirman

High School Science Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division
Susie is one of Edmonton Catholic School Division's Secondary Science Consultant with extensive experience teaching all four disciplines of Science.  She is passionate about getting kids excited about science and helping them to achieve success, particularly if they have struggled... Read More →
avatar for Helen Grijo

Helen Grijo

Edmonton Catholic Schools
Helen Grijo, a seasoned science educator, excels at teaching chemistry at Archbishop MacDonald. Her dynamic, humor-infused style, enriched with real-world experiences, engages all students. She innovatively assesses students, fueled by her infectious love for chemistry.
Friday November 8, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am MST
Caribou Room
  Chemistry

10:30am MST

AI Tools to Amplify Your Professionalism and Save Time
Friday November 8, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am MST
Ready to revolutionize your teaching? Join our workshop on AI tools that go beyond traditional lesson planning. Explore how generative AI can create personalized content, assessments, and more. We’ll guide you through a process that balances efficiency with creativity, ensuring you remain the architect of exceptional learning experiences. Plus, let’s delve into professional considerations—because AI is not just about algorithms; it’s about impact.
Speakers
avatar for Dan Grassick

Dan Grassick

Executive Staff Officer, Professional Development, The Alberta Teachers' Association
Dan Grassick (they/them) is an Executive Staff Officer in the Alberta Teachers’ Association Professional Development program area where their main responsibilities include supporting the Association's specialist councils and teachers’ conventions, and working with Alberta teacher... Read More →
Friday November 8, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am MST
Orchid Ballroom
  General

10:30am MST

Hands-on Minds On: The Intersection of Trades and STEM in Education
Friday November 8, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am MST
Dive into an Alberta-based STEM initiative in partnership with Lethbridge Polytechnic that enriches K-12 science education with practical trades experience. The session features an interactive opportunity to explore and engage with our free digital and hands-on resources. You will spend the majority of the session interacting with the activities and resources that can be immediately implemented into your practice. You’ll leave better equipped to answer the question “Why do I need to learn this?” by connecting mathematics and science concepts to students’ everyday lives. 
Speakers
WA

Warren Anderson

Warren is a STEM Consultant at Lethbridge Polytechnic. He is passionate about providing authentic learning experiences to youth that help them see the connections between what they are learning and the real world. This is rooted in his 12 years of experience with inquiry and project-based... Read More →
Friday November 8, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am MST
Squirrel Room
  General

10:30am MST

Weaving Métis Ways of Knowing into Land-Based Learning:
Friday November 8, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am MST
Askîhk Kiskinohamâtowin - Weaving Métis Ways of Knowing into Land-Based Learning: Land Based Learning is central to Métis ways of knowing and being. When we create relationships to the land, we have a responsibility to live in reciprocity by protecting and caring for the land and all that lives on it. Seeing the land as a relation is an important Métis worldview. Join Rupertsland Centre for Teaching and Learning in exploring what Land-Based Learning could look like in schools, what it is and resources to support this learning.
Speakers
avatar for Holly Brandsma

Holly Brandsma

Metis Education Consultant, Rupertsland Institute
Rupertsland Centre for Teaching and Learning develops comprehensive foundational knowledge resources, engaging lesson plans, meaningful professional development opportunities and authentic classroom learning tools that speak accurately and meaningfully to topics in Métis educati... Read More →
avatar for Kimmy Fraser-Airhart

Kimmy Fraser-Airhart

Métis Education Manager, Rupertsland Institute
Rupertsland Centre for Teaching and Learning develops comprehensive foundational knowledge resources, engaging lesson plans, meaningful professional development opportunities and authentic classroom learning tools that speak accurately and meaningfully to topics in Métis educati... Read More →
Friday November 8, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am MST
Wolverine Room
  Indigenous Education
  • Knowledge & Experience Level Beginner
  • Grade Level All

10:30am MST

Rethinking The STEAM Classroom Experience
Friday November 8, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am MST
My hope is to inspire other teachers to start their STEAM journey. Whether it's incorporating coding or design challenges into your classroom, starting a STEAM option, or launching a steam club, there will be something for everyone. I will share my best practices as well as resources from myself and other teachers who have inspired me along the way
Speakers
avatar for Christina Dafoe

Christina Dafoe

Teacher, Sturgeon Public School
I have been immersed in STEAM education and Ed Tech for over 10 years. Throughout my teaching career, I have facilitated STEAM clubs, and in 2020, I began teaching a STEAM Academy program. I am honoured to be the recipient of the 2024 Prime Minister's Award for Teaching Excellence... Read More →
avatar for Konnor Wood

Konnor Wood

Sturgeon Public Schools, Gibbons School
I have engaged in STEAM my whole teaching career, but have been the lead teacher for our school's STEAM Academy for two years. I am excited for the opportunity to continue to grow STEAM education at our school and beyond.
Friday November 8, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am MST
Grizzly Room
  STEAM Education

10:30am MST

Embracing Indigenous Wisdom: Classroom Integration
Friday November 8, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am MST
Explore the rich tapestry of Indigenous wisdom and its integration into science education. Join us as we delve into culturally responsive teaching practices, fostering an inclusive learning environment rooted in diverse perspectives and knowledge systems. Gain practical strategies for infusing Indigenous ways of knowing into your science curriculum, empowering students to engage with science through a holistic lens that honors Indigenous cultures and traditions. 
Speakers
EM

Elisabeth McLaughlin

Elisabeth has spent most of her career working in Indigenous studies. She is an advocate for inclusive education & cultural understanding, and is dedicated to empowering educators in integrating Indigenous perspectives into their practices.
Friday November 8, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am MST
Cougar Room
  Teacher Education

11:30am MST

Lunch & Door Prizes
Friday November 8, 2024 11:30am - 1:00pm MST
Friday November 8, 2024 11:30am - 1:00pm MST
Hotel Concourse

12:15pm MST

AGM
Friday November 8, 2024 12:15pm - 1:00pm MST
Please join us for the Science Council Annual General Meeting, this short formality helps empower the council to act on behalf of the membership in their best interest. We will receive a (brief!) financial update and budget presentation.
  • We will also be holding our Council elections: Vice President (one position) and Treasurer (one position).
  • Best of all, stay until the end and there will be some fantastic door prizes! We will be drawing for a FREE Registration to the next Science Conference!
The agenda and all meeting materials can be found below.  
Friday November 8, 2024 12:15pm - 1:00pm MST
Orchid Ballroom

1:00pm MST

Growing Native PLANTs?! in your garden!
Friday November 8, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
Growing native plants can help preserve local wildlife populations, provide pollen/food/shelter for natural wildlife, are more likely to thrive in our climate and require less maintenance and resources to grow. We can also use them to teach about our natural ecology and the history of the many different group’s who call Canada home. We will talk about raising Painted Lady Butterflies and Darkling Beetles with local company Wings N Wishes. We will also learn about the AMA School Garden Studio site that can connect gardeners to a teacher-exclusive community forum.
Speakers
avatar for Nathan Bell

Nathan Bell

I have taught students to grow gardens in Edmonton for 17 years. Together we have used traditional gardens, greenhouses, cold frames grow lights, and hydroponics to grow food. We should all learn to grow plants to improve our quality of life and to create more sustainable food so... Read More →
Friday November 8, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
Cougar Room
  Biology

1:00pm MST

Communicating Environmental Change: Western Science and Ind Ways of Knowing
Friday November 8, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
Explore Indigenous Map Overlays for AB, time travel back to 1910 and to 2050 to see what the landscape looked like in the past and may look like in the future. Use either watersheds or Traditional Territories, Western Science or Indigenous Indicators. View “Stoney Stories”  in both Stoney and English of Elders talking about the land past, present and future. Also Included in this FREE ONLINE platform: climate change scenarios, water field trips, videos, 360 VR Tours and more. Works on tablets or computers (phones work but are a bit small). Check it out at www.albertatomorrow.ca 
Speakers
avatar for Jennifer Janzen

Jennifer Janzen

Executive Director, Alberta Tomorrow
With > 30 years experience as a teacher, plant ecologist, and environmental educator, Jennifer is ED of Alberta Tomorrow and is dedicated to providing a platform that empowers youth to design and live sustainable futures.
Friday November 8, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
Squirrel Room
  General

1:00pm MST

Oreo Cookies and Scientific Method
Friday November 8, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
Please bring your own device in order to participate fully; this is a very hands on session! With the advent of a new science curriculum, there is a new organization and format to the science curriculum. One of the new Organizing Ideas is the Scientific Method. I will show you how to offer an engaging 2 week unit. Can you let go of sage on the stage and help guide your students through an engaging investigation? Let me show you how with this highly engaging investigation. We will then explore ways that scientific inquiry can be incorporated into other organizing ideas for various grade levels.
Speakers
avatar for Michelle Savoie

Michelle Savoie

Secretary, ATA Science Council
Michelle is a passionate science teacher of grade 6-9 students at Eleanor Hall School in Clyde for the last 18 years. She is also in her second term as secretary on the ATA Science Council.​​
Friday November 8, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
Caribou Room
  General

1:00pm MST

Use a Graphic Calculator to Code a Martian Rover
Friday November 8, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
Graphic calculators have evolved significantly! In this session, we will program a Texas Instruments calculator to control a rover. Our challenge will be navigating the rover through a simulated terrain resembling Mars' Olympus Mons. We will conclude by exploring the potential applications of these devices in your Junior High science classroom, accompanied by suggestions for additional educational activities. 
Speakers
avatar for Matt Gunderson

Matt Gunderson

Secondary Science Consultant, Edmonton Catholic School Division
Matt Gunderson, a secondary science consultant with Edmonton Catholic Schools, brings seventeen years of classroom experience to his role. He has taught science across elementary, junior high, and senior high levels, and has served as a sessional instructor at the University of A... Read More →
Friday November 8, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
Grizzly Room
  General

1:00pm MST

ININIW ACAKOSUK (Cree Stars)
Friday November 8, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
Planetarium sessions will immerse participants in ININIW COSMOLOGY…from the basic cardinal directions to a new perspective on Newtonian Physics.
Speakers
avatar for Wilfred Buck

Wilfred Buck

ININIW (Cree), Indigenous Astronomer & Consultant, Author, Educator, Addictions Consultant, CulturalConsultant, Education Consultant, Sun Dance Chief, Knowledge Keeper, Lecturer, Astrologer, Artist,Father, Husband, Portable Planetarium Owner & Operator.Wilfred originates from OPASKWAYAK... Read More →
Friday November 8, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
Crocus Room

1:00pm MST

Science on a Budget: Bringing the New K-6 Science Curriculum to Life!
Friday November 8, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
Join Inside Education for this dynamic interactive workshop for K-6 teachers where we will delve into the environmental science and natural resource components of the new Alberta Science Curriculum. We will share hands-on tools, tricks, and methods to use inexpensive classroom supplies for engaging educational experiences in your classroom and outdoor spaces, as well as highlight our new no-cost outdoor-focused toolkit. Leave feeling inspired and prepared with resources and activities to foster inquiry-based learning, critical thinking, and environmental stewardship within your students!
Speakers
avatar for Inside Education

Inside Education

Inside Education
Inside Education is an Alberta-based, environment and natural resource education charity. We have been supporting teachers and students to think critically about environmental topics since 1985! With our no-cost teaching resources, youth summits, in-class and field programs, and professional... Read More →
Friday November 8, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
Wolverine Room
  Teacher Education

2:00pm MST

PM Snack Break
Friday November 8, 2024 2:00pm - 2:15pm MST
Refreshments and snacks served in the hotel concourse.
Friday November 8, 2024 2:00pm - 2:15pm MST
Hotel Concourse

2:15pm MST

Collaborative Space - Discuss your take-aways from the day.
Friday November 8, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm MST
Come and discuss your take-aways from the day in this open discussion forum.
Speakers
avatar for Bernice Pui

Bernice Pui

Educational Technology Consultant, Edmonton Public Schools
Bernice has been with Edmonton Public Schools for almost a decade as a Knowledge and Employability (K&E) teacher, high school science/biology/chemistry teacher, advanced placement teacher, speech & debate teacher, Department Head of Technology, and now, technology consultant. Bernice... Read More →
Friday November 8, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm MST
Grizzly Room
  General
  • Knowledge & Experience Level All
  • Grade Level All

2:15pm MST

Weaving Meaningful Curriculum Connections Across Grade 7-9 Science
Friday November 8, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm MST
In this session we’ll explore ways to meaningfully integrate traditional ecological knowledge across various units of the grade 7-9 science curriculum. Whether you’re new to teaching junior high science or an old pro looking for a new way to engage your students, this session has something for everyone!
Speakers
avatar for Dan Grassick

Dan Grassick

Executive Staff Officer, Professional Development, The Alberta Teachers' Association
Dan Grassick (they/them) is an Executive Staff Officer in the Alberta Teachers’ Association Professional Development program area where their main responsibilities include supporting the Association's specialist councils and teachers’ conventions, and working with Alberta teacher... Read More →
Friday November 8, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm MST
Orchid Ballroom
  General
  • Knowledge & Experience Level All
  • Grade Level Div III

2:15pm MST

Dual-Credit Land Camp Models for Two-Eyed Seeing in STEM
Friday November 8, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm MST
Join us as we share two locally developed dual-credit high school land camp models as ways of connecting Indigenous and Western perspectives in STEM. Learn about building relationships between local Indigenous communities, school divisions and post-secondaries to serve Indigenous high school students. Red Deer Polytechnic and Red Deer Catholic Regional Schools will discuss their partnership and the joys and challenges in their 'Four-Seasons' and 'Aunties in Training' land camps for Indigenous high school youth in Central Alberta.
Speakers
avatar for Pamela Neumann

Pamela Neumann

Red Hot Science Outreach Coordinator, Red Deer Polytechnic
Pamela Neumann is the Red Hot Science outreach coordinator and a faculty member in science at Red Deer Polytechnic.
avatar for Tracy Meneen Skinner

Tracy Meneen Skinner

Tracy Meneen-Skinner is an Indigenous Education Consultant with the Indigenous Education Services Team at Red Deer Catholic Regional Schools.
JM

Jonathan Mauro

Indigenous Education Services Coordinator, Red Deer Catholic Regional Schools
Jonathan Mauro is the Indigenous Education Services Coordinator at Red Deer Catholic Regional Schools.
Friday November 8, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm MST
Squirrel Room
  Indigenous Education
  • Knowledge & Experience Level All
  • Grade Level Div IV

2:15pm MST

Allyship in Reconciliation through STEM
Friday November 8, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm MST
When approaching the concept of Truth and Reconciliation in the classroom, it can feel overwhelming, especially if one is concerned with avoiding tokenism and cultural appropriation. This session is about the journey taken, as ally teachers, to share teachings that have been passed to them through Indigenous-created resources and members of the Indigenous Community. Julie and Amanda will help you walk away with a plethora of resources, ideas, and hopefully a better understanding of Truth & Reconciliation in STEM.
Speakers
avatar for Julie Arsenault

Julie Arsenault

Science Lead Teacher, Science Council
After receiving her Bachelors and Masters degrees in Microbiology and Biotechnology, Julie entered the Faculty of Education at the U of A to pursue teaching. She has been with EPS since 2002 and has developed a passion for incorporating authentic, project-based learning experiences... Read More →
avatar for Amanda Green

Amanda Green

Teacher, Science Council
Amanda's spark for science ignited at an early age exploring nature with her family and grew into a flame for space exploration as she followed Canada's journey skyward. She teaches Jr High STEM classes in both English and French in Beaumont. She thrives through collaboration and... Read More →
Friday November 8, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm MST
Wolverine Room
  STEAM Education
  • Knowledge & Experience Level All
  • Grade Level Div III

2:15pm MST

STEAM Playground - Coding, Robotics, 3D Printing and more!
Friday November 8, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm MST
Join us to try out some of our favourite tools, activities, and challenges that we use in our STEAM programs. Explore coding,robotics, animation, 3D printing, soldering, and much more! 
Speakers
avatar for Christina Dafoe

Christina Dafoe

Teacher, Sturgeon Public School
I have been immersed in STEAM education and Ed Tech for over 10 years. Throughout my teaching career, I have facilitated STEAM clubs, and in 2020, I began teaching a STEAM Academy program. I am honoured to be the recipient of the 2024 Prime Minister's Award for Teaching Excellence... Read More →
avatar for Konnor Wood

Konnor Wood

Sturgeon Public Schools, Gibbons School
I have engaged in STEAM my whole teaching career, but have been the lead teacher for our school's STEAM Academy for two years. I am excited for the opportunity to continue to grow STEAM education at our school and beyond.
Friday November 8, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm MST
Caribou Room
  STEAM Education

2:15pm MST

Stay Calm! Be Brave! Wait for the Signs!
Friday November 8, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm MST
Stay Calm! Be Brave! Wait for the Signs!  is how CBC’s “Dead Dog Café Comedy Hour” regularly signs off. These words of encouragement have helped educator, Jenna Willman, follow a path of professional development and personal growth. Stay Calm – it’s overwhelming. Be Brave – don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Wait for the Signs – take every opportunity you can. During this session, participants will learn about Jenna’s journey, some of the lessons and resources she uses in her own classroom, and encouragement to start on their own path. 
Speakers
avatar for Jenna Willman

Jenna Willman

High School Science
Jenna Willman has been teaching high school Biology, General Science, Forensics and most recently, Indigenous Studies, for 18 years in Elk Island Public Schools. Jenna has spent the last 10 years of her career learning ways to weave Indigenous stories, worldviews and knowledge into... Read More →
Friday November 8, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm MST
Cougar Room
  Teacher Education

2:15pm MST

Community Science: Turning your students into real scientists. CANCELLED!
Friday November 8, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm MST
A community scientist is anyone in the community who is interested in contributing data to real scientific research projects. Community science fosters scientific literacy by engaging students in meaningful science research that addresses real-world issues and leads to scientific advancement. Incorporating community science in your classrooms can be a tool to help address barriers that girls and gender diverse students face in STEM spaces. Teachers will get an intro to community science and some ideas for how to integrate community science into their curricula.
Friday November 8, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm MST
Squirrel Room
  THIS SESSION HAS BEEN CANCELLED!

4:30pm MST

Conference Reception - Science & Indigenous Knowledge QUIZ NIGHT!
Friday November 8, 2024 4:30pm - 6:15pm MST
Science & Indigenous Knowledge QUIZ NIGHT!

Come enjoy some snacks and test your knowledge for great prizes!

There will be a cash bar.
Friday November 8, 2024 4:30pm - 6:15pm MST
Orchid Ballroom
 
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