Date: Friday, September 27th, 2024
Topic: Understanding How to Support Students Through a Trauma-Informed Lens (Elementary Educators and Elementary Administrators) (AM)
Entity Hosting: RRDSB
Presenters: Dr. David Tranter (Lakehead University)
Description: Dr. David Tranter will speak to staff about the need to move beyond simply changing visible elements of a system, such as programs, curriculum, or personnel, which often produce limited results. He will encourage educators to focus on how we work within the system—how we teach, communicate, and support each other. By understanding and clarifying the deeper purpose, or the "why" behind our actions. Dr. Tranter will also highlight the importance of recognizing the complexity and interconnectedness of education systems, promoting flexibility, experimentation, and adaptation to foster healthier environments for both students and educators.
Topic: Math / Literacy (Elementary Teachers and Elementary Administrators) (PM)
Entity Hosting: RRDSB
Presenters: RRDSB STEM Coordinator / RRDSB Literacy Lead
Description: This session will focus on equipping elementary educators with valuable knowledge about various literacy/numeracy resources and digital tools that support and enhance classroom instruction. The session is designed to deepen teachers' understanding of how these tools can be seamlessly integrated into their daily teaching practices, ultimately improving both literacy and numeracy outcomes.
Topic: Indigenous Ways of Knowing (Secondary Teachers / Secondary Administrators / Educational Support Personnel) (All Day)
Entity Hosting: RRDSB
Presenters: First Nation / Metis Community Partners
Description: This session will support educators in furthering their understanding of Indigenous Ways of Knowing. Sharing of Indigenous knowledge systems and how they are deeply connected to the land, community, and culture, valuing storytelling, observation, and lived experiences. Educators will learn strategies to incorporate these approaches into their teaching practices, promoting inclusivity, respect for diverse perspectives, and a more culturally responsive learning environment. These sessions aim to foster understanding and integration of Indigenous knowledge in the classroom, while encouraging meaningful engagement with Indigenous students and communities.
Topic: Native Language PLC (Elementary Anishinaabemowin Teachers)
Entity Hosting: RRDSB
Presenters: Native Language Coordinator / Community Elder
Description: This session is dedicated to fostering a profound connection with the Anishinaabe language and culture through collaborative learning and teaching. The gathering will involve an Elder from a local community, who will provide invaluable language teachings to educators. These insights aim to enhance the integration of Anishinaabemowin within classroom programming.
Topic: French Language PLC (Elementary French Language Teachers)
Entity Hosting: RRDSB
Presenters: All Participants
Description: Collaboration between FSL Teachers to create and select reading tasks using RRDSB French resources. Time will be allotted to discuss any challenges teachers face with reading instruction and will explore strategies to support student achievement in French language learning.
September 27 PD Day agenda