Conférence de CESBA
2025

Principals & Vice-Principals  (New!)

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This sector day is intended for those working as A&CE Principals and Vice-Principals only.

• Format for the day and introductions
• Celebration of our roles
• Skills it takes to be an A&CE Administrator
• Why CESBA is an asset to this role
• Brief Description of LDCSB, WCDSB and CDSBEO models
• No two Adult and Continuing Education schools are alike—Get to know our models and who runs which programs in the room
• Learning Curves—Where are you on the curve? What has been the most challenging
• Q/A group sharing activity
• Add to the parking lot to guide the rest of the day

Presenters:

Alma Gordon, Jennifer Lentz & Lisa Mackay

 

 

Indigenous Learners (Co-hosted by ONLC)

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Good Learning Anywhere has been working with Correctional Services Canada (ON) education staff since 2022 to provide access to digital adult literacy courses to inmates. The program utilizes an internal secure Learning Management System developed by CSC ON education staff. 

The program has been awarded the ABC Canada Life Literacy award, a Peter Gzowski Foundation for Literacy Grant and was featured in a 2-part W5 series in April 2025. What started as a small pilot has grown to include more facilities and community partners. By offering access to digital learning before release, the program prepares individuals for successful reintegration into society. When inmates are equipped with education and skills, they are less likely to re-offend, contributing to a safer community for everyone. 

Good Learning Anywhere has been involved in digital learning for over 20 years. They are the Indigenous eChannel lead and are a part of the Sioux-Hudson Literacy Council located in Sioux Lookout, ON which also operates a Community LBS site.

Trauma-Informed Care: Understanding Trauma and Creating Safety Training To equip service providers with knowledge on trauma and practical tools on how to support clients who have experienced trauma. We will discuss how service providers can care for themselves in doing this work.

Presenters: 

Linda Wright & Brittany Madigan

 

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR)/Credit/Guidance

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Block 1: Understanding PPM 132 PLAR for Mature Students

This opening session provides an overview of the mature PLAR process, including the expectations outlined in PPM 132. Participants will review eligibility criteria, the standardized of process, the considerations for mature learners versus secondary school students, using student samples as reference. Tools and resources to support an individual assessment will also be shared.

 

 

Literacy and Basic Skills (LBS)

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Block 1: 

Promoting Student Engagement in an LBS Environment Through Games

Using games to enhance learning opportunities can add significant value by making learning more engaging, interactive, and practical. Gaming can reach the resistant, motivate the mundane and electrify the environment.

Presenter:

Jaime Sobotka

Success Story: Board showcase TBD

 

Personal Support Worker (PSW) Programs

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Block 1:

9:20 a.m. Welcome from Anita, Introductions, PSW Projects Update

9:35–9:50 a.m. Ministry Updates

9:50–10:30 a.m. Updates with The Health and Supportive Care Providers Oversight Authority (HSCPOA)

English as a Second Language (ESL)/French as a Second Language (FSL)/Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC)

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Block 1:

Centre for Canadian Language Benchmarks (CCLB): Join members from the CCLB for a workshop on literacy tools and resources for administrators and instructors. Workshop topics will include an exploration of CCLB resources for EAL Literacy and discussion on the L-designation for adult literacy learners.

Presentation on key national projects from National Language Project Group (NLPG)

 

 

Principals & Vice-Principals

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Block 2: 

This sector day is intended for those working as A&CE Principals and Vice-Principals only.

• HR—Working with unions, staffing challenges, uniqueness of our own roles, current hiring and employment climate
• Finance—Where are the challenges, tricks of the trade
• Enrolment and place within board processes and systems
• Making program decisions through many different filters—The changing face of Adult Ed?
• Exploration activity by program (i.e., Summer School, Lit/Num, DaySchool, Self Study, ESL/FSL/LINC, IILE, PSW, etc)
• Add to parking lot

Presenters:

Alma Gordon, Jennifer Lentz & Lisa Mackay

 

 

 

Indigenous Learners (Co-hosted by ONLC)

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Block 2:

Turtle’s Back Publishing (TBP) international book award winner and developer of Indigenous LBS/educational curriculum will give an overview of publications available and how they can be used. Brennor Jacobs, TBP manager, will also speak to his award-winning book, “Akhwatsireko:wa.”

Onkwehowe Games: with owner/operator Dallas Squire and assistant Mekwan Tulpin (World Games medal winner) will demonstrate their interactive and informative historical perspective on the use of Indigenous Games as a powerful teaching tool for skill development as laid out in the TBP Indigenous Games Curriculum.

 

Presenters: 

Brennor Jacobs, Dallas Squire & Mekwan Tulpin

 

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR)/Credit/Guidance

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Block 2: Assessment Process including customizing Preparation Pathways

This session examines the structure, delivery, and evaluation of the Grade 9/10 and 11/12 PLAR processes. Participants will review sample assessments and explore how generative AI can support educators in customizing preparatory materials for diverse learners. Additionally, participants will explore strategies for leveraging LBS, Literacy & Numeracy, and GLE3O programs to enhance PLAR readiness for Grade 9/10 assessments and the Grade 11/12 application process. The session will also cover tracking and reporting practices.

 

 

Literacy and Basic Skills (LBS)

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Block 2: 

LBS Program and Data Analysis 

This will be a guided working session using Report 61. You will learn how to interpret the data and apply it strategically to improve your program outcomes.

Success Story

Showcase a program that utilized the data available and formulated a plan of action based on the data and created an innovative solution or program.

Alternative choices: Block 2 in both PLAR and Indigenous Learners have workshops that are relevant to LBS.

Personal Support Worker (PSW) Programs

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Block 2: Best Practices for Stroke Care

Presenter:

Jodi Powel Champlain, Regional Stroke Network

 

 

English as a Second Language (ESL)/French as a Second Language (FSL)/Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC)

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Block 2:

Roundtable Discussion #1: Topics to be determined by surveying ESL Sector Day participants in advance. If you listed ESL as your primary sector, watch your inbox to send in your feedback!

 

 

Principals & Vice-Principals

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Block 3: 

This sector day is intended for those working as A&CE Principals and Vice-Principals only.

• Co-terminus boards, community trends, etc.
• Importance of telling your story within your school board, as well as to the community and potential students
• Data to tell the story
• Innovation in practice—Do you have any new innovations or ideas that you have to share?
• Q&A group sharing

Presenters:

Alma Gordon, Jennifer Lentz & Lisa Mackay

 

 

 

Indigenous Learners (Co-hosted by ONLC)

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Block 3:

Creative Students: Mentoring talents into a job involves a variety of activities, including finding the outlet, as well as helping them develop their potential. TBP has developed entry level graphic design curriculum to assist aspiring artists to use these skills toward a rewarding career. Join three talented artist now graphic specialist and illustrators who have just completed TBP latest book release and first graphic novel.

 

Presenters: 

Artie Martin, Cassandra Bomberry & Montana Martin

 

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR)/Credit/Guidance

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Block 3: Case Study Clinic- Applying PLAR Across Student Profiles

Participants will analyze 5–7 student case studies, applying the day's learning to develop PLAR plans. Scenarios will include English language learners/newcomers, mature students with interrupted schooling, and at-risk secondary students. Discussions will focus on the assessment process, the final four + graduation requirements.

 

 

Literacy and Basic Skills (LBS)

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Block 3:

Skills Development Fund - Overview of Collaborative LBS Onboarding Training (10 minutes)

CESBA is collaborating with CSC, CLO, LLO, and Contact North to develop a series of comprehensive e-training modules. These modules will provide foundational orientation to the Literacy and Basic Skills (LBS) program, CaMS, the Ontario Adult Literacy Curriculum Framework (OALCF), and the Performance Management Framework (PMF). Lou-Ann will present an update and overview of the development progress and outline the implementation plan for these training resources.

Presenter:

Lou-Ann Best

Networking Session (50 minutes)

A valuable opportunity to connect with colleagues for open dialogue, the exchange of effective practices, and shared learning through thoughtful questions and collaborative discussion.

Success Stories: LBS/Credit/PLAR Collaboration Best Practices (15 minutes)

Board showcase TBD

Personal Support Worker (PSW) Programs

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Block 3: Care Passport Micro Credentials

Presenter:

Sandy Vascotto

 

 

English as a Second Language (ESL)/French as a Second Language (FSL)/Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC)

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Block 3:

Roundtable Discussion #2: Topics to be determined by surveying ESL Sector Day participants in advance. If you listed ESL as your primary sector, watch your inbox to send in your feedback!

 

 

Principals & Vice-Principals

Room:

Block 4: 

This sector day is intended for those working as A&CE Principals and Vice-Principals only.

• Parking lot questions
• Picking up topics from earlier in the day still lingering
• Networking
• Moving forward exit ticket—What do you need or want from CESBA and from each other?

Presenters:

Alma Gordon, Jennifer Lentz & Lisa Mackay

 

Indigenous Learners (Co-hosted by ONLC)

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Block 4:

Deborah Martin Abel, a recently retired math specialist, has been raising the math skills level of Indigenous children for the past 40 years. She will demonstrate how utilizing traditional Indigenous teachings and materials will assist your math learners to embrace and excel in math and other areas.

 

Presenter: 

Deborah Martin Abel

 

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR)/Credit/Guidance

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Block 4: Networking Guidance Camp

Participants will generate discussion questions for the final session. Each table will engage in a 10-minute discussion on topics including, but not limited to:

• PLAR (Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition)
• Guidance and support for mature students
• Mature Student Assessment for old diploma types vs. MPLAR (Mature PLAR)
• Student Management Systems

 

 

Literacy and Basic Skills (LBS)

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Block 4:

Bridging the Gap: Supporting ESL Learners Transitioning into LBS

This interactive workshop will explore the unique challenges and promising solutions in supporting learners transitioning from English as a Second Language programs into Literacy and Basic Skills programs. Drawing from practitioner experiences, we will address systemic and learner-specific barriers and share practical strategies that have led to success.

Presenters:

Narjis Ahmed & Laura Andrighetti, Upper Grand District School Board

Note: This is a collaboration session for both LBS and ESL Sectors.

Personal Support Worker (PSW) Programs

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Block 4: Support for Internationally Educated Health Care Professionals

Presenter:

Makini McGuire Brown, Ontario Health

 

 

English as a Second Language (ESL)/French as a Second Language (FSL)/Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC)

Room:

Block 4:

Bridging the Gap: Supporting ESL Learners Transitioning into LBS

This interactive workshop will explore the unique challenges and promising solutions in supporting learners transitioning from English as a Second Language programs into Literacy and Basic Skills programs. Drawing from practitioner experiences, we will address systemic and learner-specific barriers and share practical strategies that have led to success.

Presenters:

Narjis Ahmed & Laura Andrighetti, Upper Grand District School Board

Note: This is a collaboration session for both ESL and LBS Sectors.

 

A1: Tailored Learning: A Profile of St. Michael’s Adult Secondary Day School Delivery Models

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A1: Tailored Learning: A Profile of St. Michael’s Adult Secondary Day School Delivery Models

St. Michael’s offers numerous delivery models for our students to meet their diverse needs. Our programming is offered during a four-period day similar to a regular high school. We offer compressed courses, face-to-face, semestered classes, hybrid learning, and full virtual classes, as well as independent study, eLearning and correspondence. We also host a school wide festival every year called the Celebration of Nations.

Presenter:

Principal of St. Michael’s Adult Secondary School, Continuing Education, and Principal of Information Technology at Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board, Douglas Sadler has led his board's adult education programs for the past seven years of his 27 years as an educator. He is also the AI Task Force Lead, President of CPCP Windsor-Essex, and a St. Clair College Liberal Arts Department PAC member.

A2: Working With AI: Why Thinking Still Matters

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A2: Working With AI: Why Thinking Still Matters

Artificial intelligence (AI) has already changed how we work and collaborate — but are we thinking about what we’re giving up? What cost are we paying for these efficiency gains? This interactive workshop explores how working with AI “teammates” can support productivity while posing risks to critical thinking, creativity, and healthy disagreement. We’ll discuss the concept of “frictionless collaboration,” the dangers of thought convergence, and why human judgment still matters in decision-making, especially in education.

Presenter:

Jen Artan, M.Ed., OCELT, CELTA, is a seasoned Con-Ed Instructor and Innovation Maestro/ “Learning Support Lead” with Thames Valley District School Board, a (sometimes) WRIT Professor with Fanshawe College, a Member-At-Large on the TESL Ontario Board of Directors and a Mentor with Avenue.ca.  Since the release of ChatGPT, she has delivered presentations on AI at various events, including CESBA, Tutela, TESL Ontario. Sequoia, TESL Niagara, TOSCON, TESL Toronto, Centre for Skills Development & LCAE.

A3: Fostering optimism, resilience and connection in all roles we play!

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A3: Fostering optimism, resilience and connection in all roles we play!

Feeling drained by the end of the workweek? Looking for a reminder about why you entered the education field in the first place? This workshop will provide an opportunity to practice strategies to bring joy back into our workplaces. We will connect with ourselves and our colleagues across the province to foster resilience and optimism, reminding ourselves of the remarkable work we do, and the amazing human beings that we are.

Presenter:

Daphne Marsella began her teaching career in a remote community in the Northwest Territories. When she returned to Ontario, she took a job as a youth outreach worker, returning to education at an alternative high school in Durham District School Board a couple of years later. Daphne loved working in alt. ed., but she was thrilled when she was offered the job as guidance department head at Durham Continuing Education (DCE) four years ago. She is passionate about what she does and loves working on the team at DCE.

A4: PLAR 101 For New Assessors

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A4: PLAR 101 For New Assessors

If you are a new PLAR assessor or a new Adult and Continuing Education Administrator, then this is the workshop for you! Participants will be introduced to PPM 132 (including recent revisions) and will learn the four steps of the PLAR process to competently assess students. They will also learn about where to find additional PLAR resources and supports.

Presenter:

Andrea Murphy is the Guidance/PLAR Coordinator for CESBA. She has retired from the Limestone District School Board after 35 years in Education, including 20+ years in Adult and Continuing Education as Limestone's Central PLAR Consultant, Literacy Numeracy Lead, Night School Supervisor, and the Re-Engagement Coordinator. Andrea has been an active CESBA member since 1999.

A5: Connected for Success: Integrating Education and Training in Adult & Alternative

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A5: Connected for Success: Integrating Education and Training in Adult & Alternative

Discover how co-locating PLAR, high school credit, LBS and ESL programs within adult and alternative school settings transforms student outcomes. This interactive session highlights our successful model, fosters collaboration, and explores strategies to enhance student engagement, career readiness, and community impact. Join us to learn how integrated programming empowers learners, supports diverse pathways, and strengthens school-community partnerships.

Presenters:

Colline Bell is the Campus Program Lead at the Northumberland Centre for Individual Studies (NCIS). She has over 20 years of experience in alternative and adult education with the Kawartha Pine Ridge DSB, beginning as an English teacher and later moving into a Guidance/SST/PLAR role. As the first point of contact for student intake, Colline serves as the central connector for the wide range of programs and services that support diverse learners. She has been an active CESBA member for the last decade!

 

Bria Morford leads the Long-Term Suspension and Expulsion Program (LTSEP), based out of the Northumberland Centre for Individual Studies (NCIS). With 17 years of experience with the Kawartha Pine Ridge DSB, she has worked extensively in adult and alternative education where she has brought her passion for science and her extensive knowledge of Special Education into the classroom. She is actively pursuing her Guidance qualifications and draws on her deep understanding of PLAR.

A6: Ignite Your IILE Program: A CESBA Primer

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A6: Ignite Your IILE Program: A CESBA Primer

Are you new to International and Indigenous Language (IILE) programming in the continuing education context? Join us for a practical and interactive 101-style session tailored specifically for CESBA members working in school boards across the province.

This workshop will introduce participants to the foundational elements of designing, implementing, and sustaining IILE programs. We’ll explore how these programs align with Ministry of Education priorities, support communities, and integrate culturally responsive practices within adult and continuing education.

Participants will:

Gain a clear understanding of what IILE encompasses in the context of continuing education.
Learn key steps for program planning, funding, staffing, and community engagement.
Hear from experienced practitioners on overcoming challenges and building partnerships.

Whether you're just beginning or looking to strengthen your approach, this session is an ideal starting point for educators, administrators, and program leads seeking to expand their IILE offerings.

Intended audience: Program Managers and Coordinators, Principals and Vice Principals, Superintendents.

Presenter:

Christine Mink-Hiles, Supervisor, International and Indigenous Languages Elementary, Simcoe-Muskoka Catholic District School Board

B1: Delivering Grade 8 Reach Ahead: 3 Flexible Learning Models

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B1: Delivering Grade 8 Reach Ahead: 3 Flexible Learning Models

Join two Northwestern Ontario school boards as they share innovative approaches to delivering a Grade 8 Reach Ahead credit that supports a strong and equitable transition to high school. Designed for all students, this inclusive program emphasizes skill-building, hands-on learning, peer connection, and early relationships with secondary staff, helping students begin Grade 9 with the confidence and tools to succeed. With three flexible delivery models: virtual, hybrid, and in-person, the program is designed to meet the needs of diverse learners, including students from remote and First Nations communities.

Presenters:

Jane Lower, Superintendent of Education, Lakehead District School Board, has been the superintendent for the past five years and was a student success leader for 19 years. A dedicated educator, she focuses on enhancing programs to meet diverse student needs, strengthening skills, confidence and relationships. Jane believes in life- long learning and networking with educators provincially and, at times, globally has been motivating. In her spare time, Jane enjoys the outdoors and the many seasonal Northwest Ontario sports.

 

Shawnda Norlock is Superintendent of Education, Keewatin Patricia District School Board. An EdD student at Ontario Tech University, Shawnda is focusing her research and learning on how to better support at-risk students and improve outcomes for all learners. She is a lifelong educator committed to growth and is always teaching and learning. Shawnda is passionate about the outdoors and appreciates the unique opportunities and strengths that Northwestern Ontario communities offer, both inside and outside the classroom.

B2: What? You want me to do a foreign evaluation?

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B2: What? You want me to do a foreign evaluation?

This workshop offers PLAR assessors a helpful approach to foreign and out-of-province high school transcripts and documents. While some secondary school transcripts from individual countries are unique, there are many countries that follow a similar system or standard of education. The presenters can offer their years of wisdom and experience in how they approach the most common foreign transcripts. The presenters will have a variety of samples to learn from as a group and then participants will have an opportunity to practice using the tips and tricks learned during the presentation.

Presenters:

Michelle Whyte has worked for Durham District School Board Continuing Education as a Guidance Counsellor/PLAR assessor since 2009.  Prior to that, she worked 10 years for the City of Toronto Social Services and five years at Ontario Tech University where she evaluated foreign documents for admission to undergraduate programs and the Teacher Education program.

 

Heidi Devitt started her teaching career with the Waterloo Region District School Board in 2004 in an adult and alternative teaching environment, with a brief stint in a regular high school in Elmira, Ontario. She later moved into the Durham District School Board area in 2014 and found work at Durham Continuing Education, first as an English teacher, then a teacher of a specialized program for remote learners. She moved into her current Guidance role in 2022 and thinks it's the best job in the whole world!

B3: Leveraging Technology to Support Adult Learning

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B3: Leveraging Technology to Support Adult Learning

Unlock and harness the power of technology to transform adult ESL education! We will explore how digital tools can enrich language instruction and meet learner's needs. Learn to create engaging, inclusive lesson plans and startup packages that support adults with literacy and complex needs. Discover how to personalize learning, maintain accuracy through human oversight, and foster equitable access for all learners in today’s dynamic digital learning landscape.

Presenter:

Trained at Western University as a Second Language Teacher and with over 30 years of experience, Monica Zacharias brings expertise to her role as a Learning Support Lead. She develops orientation content, Chromebook training, PD resources, instructor support packages, assessments, and grammar/writing guides. Monica also trains new instructors and volunteers, and provides specialized support for those working with literacy-level and complex-needs learners in diverse educational settings.

B4: Continuing Education Funding: Tips of the Trade

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B4: Continuing Education Funding: Tips of the Trade

This workshop will provide a general overview of Ministry of Education funding for Adult & Continuing Education.  Participants will learn how to understand the Continuing Education Enrollment Registers and how to report data to OnSIS and EFIS.

Presenters:

Deborah Cook is the Continuing Education Technology Administrator at the York Region District School Board and has worked in the Continuing Education world for more than 15 years.  Her main responsibility is Ministry reporting using both OnSIS AND EFIS reporting. She also supports Student Information Systems for Continuing Education board programs.

 

Namita Aggarwal is a Program Manager, Administrative Services in Continuing Education at the Toronto District School Board. She has extensive experience responding to questions related to Ministry funding and supports departments across the TDSB on the needs of Continuing Education programs.

B5: Employment Training Programs (School to Work)

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B5: Employment Training Programs (School to Work)

There is a growing need for school-to-work and employment training programs throughout Ontario. This offers an opportunity to build partnerships with various Continuing Education Programs so that we can support the implementation and growth of these opportunities for our students and communities. Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre (Durham Catholic District School Board) and Our Lady of Hope Catholic Continuing Education School (Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board) will share information about their Employment Training Programs, including Custodial Training, Education Assistant Apprenticeship, Child Care Worker, and Health Care Aid. As part of this presentation and information session, other expert Continuing Education boards will be invited to present their Employment Training Programs.

Presenters:

Brad Shoreman, Principal of Our Lady of Hope Catholic Continuing Education School, Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board

 

 

 

 

Andea Ellsworth, Program Leader of Archbishop Anthony Meagher Catholic Continuing Education Centre, Durham Catholic District School Board

 

B6: From Planning to Practice: Leveling Up Your IILE Program

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B6: From Planning to Practice: Levelling Up Your IILE Program

Ready to take your IILE programming to the next level? This follow-up to our introductory session dives deeper into the practical side of implementing and expanding Indigenous, International, and Language Education (IILE) in Ontario's continuing education school boards.

In this interactive session, CESBA members will explore:

• Tried-and-tested resources to support IILE learners and educators
• Successful program models from across Ontario
• Tools for culturally responsive curriculum design and community engagement
• Strategies for staffing, outreach, and sustaining partnerships
• A facilitated discussion on challenges and innovations in IILE delivery

This workshop will emphasize collaboration and sharing of practices between boards. Participants are encouraged to bring their questions, tools, and stories to contribute to a growing network of IILE practitioners.

Whether you’re refining an existing program or expanding into new territory, this session will equip you with concrete tools and peer insight to strengthen your work.

Intended audience: Program Managers and Coordinators, Principals and Vice Principals, Superintendents.

Presenter:

Christine Mink-Hiles, Supervisor, International and Indigenous Languages Elementary, Simcoe-Muskoka Catholic District School Board