LIGHTING THE FIRE CONFERENCE 2019

Honouring Our Heritage Celebrating the International Year of Indigenous Languages In Memory of Shirley (Malcolm) Fontaine

We are deeply saddened by the passing of our Associate policy paper endorsed by the Chiefs in Executive Director, Shirley (Malcolm) Fontaine, Kah beh zhi and the Assembly of First Nations, and, as Education Director gway dung pinehsee kwe (Thunderbird Who Speaks Once of the AMC Education Secretariat, Shirley was one of the Woman). She started her journey to the spirit world early in leaders who conceived and established MFNERC. the morning on April 26, 2019, supported by ceremony and Her work was governed by her deep belief in First Nations surrounded by friends and family. spirituality, culture, and love of the language. Shirley travelled Shirley began her career by working with Indian extensively to speak on First Nations education challenges Education Association and the Southeast Tribal Division for and successes and on her own academic research, including Schools, and was one of the youngest First Nations instructors presentations at the World Indigenous Peoples Conference at the University of Manitoba when she began teaching her on Education in New Zealand, Peru, and Australia. She Anishinaabe Language. She was a political force at the local, had an unwavering commitment to improving education regional, and national level. Her extensive knowledge of opportunities for First Nations children. federal and provincial governmental processes benefitted all who worked with her. She contributed to the development She will be missed. of the new First Nations Control of First Nations Education Honouring Our Heritage Celebrating the International Year of Indigenous Languages

The United Nations declared 2019 the International Year of through reclamation. Our workshop lineup will focus on language Indigenous Languages in appreciation for the rich contribution and culture, exploring the innovative strategies and solutions languages make to world-wide cultural diversity. Languages play of schools and communities to ensure the ongoing practice of a critical role in our lives, not only as a tool for communication, language reclamation. education, social integration, and development, but as a source for each person’s unique identity, cultural history, traditions, and MFNERC applauds the accomplishments of Manitoba’s First memory. Despite their fundamental value, languages around the Nations-operated schools in the areas of language and culture. world disappear at an alarming rate. Such work reflects the MFNERC Mission:

First Nations languages are the foundation of Anishinaabe, , To help First Nations improve education for all learners to achieve: Dakota, Dene, and Ojibwe-Cree cultures and frame First Nations mino-pimatisiwin (Cree/Ojibwe/Ojibwe-Cree); practices and teachings. Languages are the strength of each nation honso aynai (Dene); in an ever-changing global village and technological landscape. and tokatakiya wichoni washte (Dakota).

This year’s Lighting the Fire Conference (LTF) will highlight First As MFNERC enters its 20th year, we celebrate First Nations Nations languages of Manitoba and the richness that comes language—the foundation for all generations.

Taking pictures while attending the conference? Post them on social media using #LTF2019 and tag us @MFNERC Welcome Message Lorne C. Keeper Hello, Boozhoo, Aneen, Tansi.

The Manitoba First Nations Education Resource Centre (MFNERC) Lighting the Fire will provide meaningful First Nations-based is proud to host the 2019 Lighting the Fire Conference (LTF), which workshops and professional development. Over three days, is now in its 20th year. Not only is this a landmark conference for engaging educators and facilitators will showcase transformative MFNERC, but it coincides with the United Nations’ declaration teaching and research in language revitalization. Our ultimate that 2019 is the International Year of Indigenous Languages. goal is to reinforce that our languages are critical to strengthening Appropriately, our theme this year is: and sustaining First Nations cultures and identities.

Honouring Our Heritage—Celebrating the International Year of I wish everyone an enjoyable conference experience. Indigenous Languages Ekosani Our languages in Manitoba—Cree, Dakota, Dene, Ojibwe, and Ojibwe-Cree—carry distinct cultural values and principles. Traditions and customs are carried on from generation to generation with our living languages. As First Nations, we have the Lorne C. Keeper responsibility to retain and revitalize our languages so that future generations will be able to speak, hear, and understand the voices of our ancestors.

Thank you to our 2019 Lighting the Fire Conference Elders & Knowledge Keepers Don Robertson, Norway House Cree Nation Ruth Norton, Sagkeeng First Nation Kevin Tacan, Sioux Valley Dakota Nation Nelliane Cromarty, St. Theresa Point First Nation Conference Overview

Tuesday, May 7 6:00 – 8:00 pm Pre-Registration – Pick up your name tags and conference kits! Wednesday, May 8 8:00 am Pipe Ceremony (Tipi East Foyer) Registration (Centennial 5) Tradeshow (Wellington Room) 9:00 am Grand Entry (Centennial Ballroom) Opening Ceremonies Welcoming Remarks – Leadership Student Essay Winners Keynote Dr. Kevin Lewis 12:00 pm Banquet Lunch; Ivan Flett Memorial Dancers, Entertainment (Centennial Ballroom) 1:30 pm – 4:30 pm Workshops, Sessions 1 & 2

Thursday, May 9 8:00 am Pipe Ceremony (Tipi East Foyer) Registration (Centennial 5) Tradeshow (Wellington Room) 9:00 am Welcoming Remarks (Centennial Ballroom) Keynote Dr. Lorena Fontaine Keynote Dr. Onowa McIvor 12:00 pm Luncheon Beat of Our Nation Drum Group; Chance Paupanekis, Entertainment (Centennial Ballroom) 1:30 pm – 4:30 pm Workshops, Sessions 3 & 4

Friday, May 10 8:00 am Pipe Ceremony (Tipi East Foyer) Tradeshow (Wellington Room) 9:10 am – 12:00 pm Workshops, Sessions 5 & 6 12:00 pm Buffet Luncheon; Jason Chamakese, Entertainer 1:00 pm Closing Ceremonies Student Essay Contest Winners

With great pleasure we announce the winners of this year’s Lighting the Fire Student Essay Contest. Many entries were outstanding, and we are delighted to acknowledge each and every students’ writing potential, development as thinkers, and creative innovation within their communities.

Category 1 (grades 7–9) Category 2 (grades 10–12)

The first-place winner in this category The first-place winner in this category is 14-year-old Jersey Little, a grade 9 is 18-year-old Aidan Eskelund, student attending Miskooseepi School a grade 12 student attending in Bloodvein First Nation. Currently, Lawrence Sinclair Memorial School in Jersey is an archery equipment Kinonjeoshtegon First Nation. Aidan manager at the local archery club, comes from both a Cree and Danish and her favourite pastime is hanging background, and after doing some out with her many close friends. She research, he discovered he also has also enjoys spending time playing on some Scottish lineage. His hobby is her console. She has seven siblings and a mom and dad whom she writing, and he already has an idea for a book he would like to loves dearly. write in the future. He plans to attend university to study virology after recently experiencing success at the science fair. The second-place winner in this category is 12-year-old Hayley Wood, The second-place winner in this a grade 7 student attending George category is 18-year-old Joshua Knott School in Wasagamack First McLean, a grade 12 student attending Nation. Hayley has been blessed Lake Manitoba School in Lake with loving parents, one brother, two Manitoba First Nation. Joshua loves sisters, and two nephews. She enjoys music, especially the guitar and tuba. playing floor hockey, ice hockey, and He was very excited to participate volleyball. When she is not busy on in this year’s student essay contest the ice or the court, she is relaxing with a good book, poetry, or with the hope of being an inspiration quotes. Her goals are to graduate and attend university to become to his peers. He also wanted to make his mom and dad proud of a doctor in psychology. the effort he put into his writing. His greatest desire is to make a difference in everything he accomplishes.

We thank all contest participants for their good efforts. It is always a pleasure to read students’ creative ideas and opinions about education and what they believe the future could hold. We especially thank the teachers who are committed to ensuring our students are prepared for their future by providing them with the skills necessary for effective communication, and in particular, essay writing. MFNERC Celebrating 20 Years!

There have been positive, observable changes in First In the beginning, the organization was relatively smaller Nations education over the past 20 years, than it is today, and the services were limited. Today, we from my perspective. I believe that one of those have expanded the services into First Nations language changes is the amount of actual control First Nations and culture, special education, training initiatives, and have over education at the community level. For the Manitoba First Nations School System. We have also instance, in the earlier days of local control, many times I would hear the sentiment, “The only thing we really expanded on the capacity development within First have control over is buying mops and pails.” Today, First Nation schools. We now have more trained specialists Nations are performing their own recruitment, many with specialized degrees, master’s degrees, are implementing innovative programs with land- and doctorate degrees. based activities, and there are certainly more – Rebecca Ross, Research Facilitator, Research and Development First Nations teachers and principals. – Rab Subedar, Director of Programs

I think it is very easy to forget and assume that what MFNERC, to me, has been about being able to work and we have built over 20 years can be replicated. My collaborate with other staff, First Nations educators, mentor, the late Gwen Merrick, was the architect of Elders, and Knowledge Keepers in all areas of learning. this place, and one of the key factors that she taught It is about respect, kindness, honesty, truth, and about me, and that I always push back on to my staff, is applying these ancestral teachings in our everyday reminding them why we are here. She taught us that lives. [I believe in] “walking the talk in a professional we are here for the students first and foremost, and completed world.” It is about acknowledging the any decision that we make, we must ask ourselves, knowledge and skills of First Nations (and other “Is this going to improve the lives of the children that Indigenous Peoples) and about having control of our we’re supposed to be working for?” I also encourage First Nations education system. my staff to continually reflect upon that as they go through their day and make decisions. – Violet Okemaw, Director of Research and Development – Howard Burston, Director of Operations Conference Highlights

Language Lodges Ivan Flett Memorial Dancers Available throughout the Workshop Sessions of the Conference Wednesday, May 8 | Luncheon Performance | Centennial Ballroom Offered in the languages of the Cree, Dakota, Dene, Ojibwe, and The Ivan Flett Memorial Dancers have a Ojibwe-Cree Peoples. Come visit the lodges and begin to hear passion for dance, and not just any dance, and understand the richness of the First Nations languages of but the Red River jig and square dance; Manitoba. they love performing and providing entertainment for people everywhere. Giveaway Language T-Shirts! They like to consider themselves Wednesday & Thursday, 11 am | East Foyer inspirational dancers who enjoy Stop by with your name tag to our pop-up shop for your chance to spreading and sharing their Métis get an MFNERC language T-shirt! culture through the Red River jig. The jig was established in the late 1700s and has been carried down through generations of past dancers, and as a result, we have this Lighting the Fire Trade Show great group of young people carrying on the Métis tradition. Available throughout the Conference | Wellington Room The group was founded and led by Michael “Slick” Harris back in Visit over 20 vendors for First Nations 2010 and was formally known as the United Steppers. It is with inspired merchandise. Stock up with great sadness, but an honour, that they have renamed their group classroom resources and then treat the Ivan Flett Memorial Dancers. Ivan was a proud supporter and yourself with the latest apparel and took great pride in these dancers, and he was also the grandfather household items. to three members of the group. Every dance they perform is in honour of him; he will be greatly missed and never forgotten.

Chance Paupanekis Beat of Our Nation Drum Group Thursday, May 9 | Lunch Entertainment | Centennial Ballroom Thursday, May 9 | Lunch Entertainment | Centennial Ballroom This Warrior of Change is a student from It is our privilege to host at this year’s University of Manitoba and employee Lighting the Fire, the talented Beat of of Ndinawemaaganag Endaawaad Our Nation drum group. They are from Inc. Chance’s main social interests Chief Charles Audy Memorial School, focus around Indigenous language Wuskwi Sipihk First Nation. revitalization, land reclamation, water protection, student advocacy, and 2Spirit/Indigequeer resurgence. Meeting with the Canada-Wide Science Fair Finalists You are invited to meet, congratulate, and listen to the students representing Manitoba First Nations at the Canada-Wide Science Fair. The students will present their science fair projects in Fredericton, New Brunswick, on May 11–17, 2019. Jason Chamakese Friday, May 10 | Workshop Presenter & Lunch Entertainer Workshop Session 3, May 9, 1:30 – 2:45 pm | Carlton Room Jason Chamakese is from Pelican Lake “Soft Drinks with Bromine As a Risk Factor for In Vitro Streak First Nation, Saskatchewan, and is from Healing Assay,” Joey Harper, George Knott School, Wasagamack the Plains Cree Nation. He is a Cree fluent First Nation (Island Lake Regional Science Fair) speaker. “The Effect of Glucose on Mesenchymal Stem Cells in a Wound He began playing flute as a hobby in Healing Assay,” Loretta Flett, St. Theresa Point High School, St. 1998. He later began to compose his own Theresa Point First Nation (Island Lake Regional Science Fair) music and released an album entitled “Potential Nutrient Capture from Harvesting Cattails (Typha Midnight at Clearwater, Native American latifolia),” Wade Beardy, Chief Sam Cook Mahmuwee Education Flute Songs, Volume 1 in 2007. He later released the self-titled Centre, Tataskweyak – Split Lake, Manitoba (Keewatin Regional album Jason Chamakese, Native American Flute Songs, Volume Science Fair) 2 in 2010. He has been nominated for Best Flute player at the Native American Music Awards, Aboriginal Peoples’ Choice Music “Comparative Growth Analysis of Mung Bean Plants (Vigna Awards, and Canadian Aboriginal Music Awards. He won the Best radiata) Treated with Four Different Water Media,” Rhianna Spence Traditional Flute CD category at the 2011 Canadian Aboriginal and Denicka Spence, Otetiskiwin Kiskinwamahtowekamik School, Music Awards. Jason has travelled throughout North America and Nelson House (Keewatin Regional Science Fair) Scotland sharing his music and stories. Workshop Session 4, May 9, 3:15 – 4:30 pm | Carlton Room In May of 2015, Jason suffered a stroke and was in an induced “Black Cats: MCIR and FIV Retrovirus,” Aidan Hansen, Lawrence coma for nine days, placed on life support, and given a 30 per cent Sinclair Memorial School, Kinonjeoshtegon First Nation chance to live. Doctors notified his family that if he was to survive, “Determination of the Wound Healing Effect of Puffball Fungus he would suffer debilitating effects and require constant medical (Lycoperdon perlatum),” Julia Courchene, Sagkeeng High School, care. However, through prayer and knowing a second language, Sagkeeng First Nation his recovery has been miraculous. Moreover, he kept his ability to play Native American flute. His story is inspirational. “Soil Contamination in Oxford House,” Sarah Grieves, 1972 Memorial High School, Bunibonibee Cree Nation (Oxford House) He wishes to encourage First Nations youth to learn their respective languages, follow their culture as best as they can, and also to “Labrador Tea (Ledum groenlandicum) and Its Effect on In Vitro Cell embrace a positive alcohol- and drug-free lifestyle. He encourages Migration in Rat Bone Marrow Stem Cells,” Emmalee Anderson, youth to pursue their interests in sports, art, education, and Little Saskatchewan H.A.G.M.E. School, Little Saskatchewan First culture as an alternative to drugs and alcohol. Recently, he was Nation part of the history-making national broadcast of an NHL game on “The Effect of Light Reflectivity on the Reading Ability of Struggling APTN, where the Cree language was used for the first time, and he Students,” Kayla Anderson, Little Saskatchewan H.A.G.M.E. School, sat as a panellist and special guest. Little Saskatchewan First Nation (Manitoba First Nations Science Fair) Keynote Speakers

Dr. Kevin Lewis Dr. Lorena Sekwan Fontaine Wednesday, May 8 | Centennial Ballroom Thursday, May 9 | Centennial Ballroom

Dr. Kevin wâsakâyâsiw Lewis is Lorena Sekwan Fontaine a nêhiyaw (Plains Cree) instruc- (LL.B., LL.M., Ph.D.) is Cree- tor, researcher, and writer. Dr. Anishinabe and a member Lewis has worked with high- of the Sagkeeng First Nation er learning institutions in the in Manitoba. She is the Prairies—Manitoba, Saskatch- Indigenous Academic Lead ewan, and Alberta—where, his at the University of areas of practice focused on and an Associate Professor in Cree language development the Department of Indigenous and instructional methodolo- Studies. gies. His ongoing research in- Professor Fontaine has taught terests include language and for the First Nations University policy development, second of Canada and the School of language teaching methodologies, teacher education program- Public Policy Graduate Program at Queen’s University. She has ming, and environmental education. spoken both nationally and internationally and has authored articles on residential school issues and Indigenous language For the past 11 years, Dr. Lewis has worked with community schools rights in Canada. Her most recent publication “Our Languages to promote land- and language-based education. He is the founder are Sacred: Indigenous Language Rights in Canada” is contained of kâniyâsihk Culture Camps (www.kaniyasihkculturecamps. in a collection of essays that reflect the recommendations of com/), a non-profit land-based educational program focused on Indigenous legal scholars and policy leaders on how Canada can holistic community well-being. Dr. Lewis is currently Assistant braid together a new legal framework through the implementation Professor in Curriculum Studies at the University of Saskatchewan. of UN Declaration on the Right of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP). He is from Ministikwan Lake Cree Nation in Treaty 6 Territory. Her Ph.D. research was presented in a CBC documentary entitled “Undoing Linguicide” which was awarded the 2017 RTDNA Adrienne Clarkson Award for Diversity – Radio and Network. She has also worked with the Assembly of First Nations as an advisor on Aboriginal languages for many years. Professor Fontaine is also a strong supporter of equality rights. She was an Equality Rights Panel Member of the Court Challenges Program and has been involved with the Women’s Legal Education and Action Fund as a board member and subcommittee member. Currently, she is a National Steering Committee Member for National Association of Women and the Law. Guest Master of Ceremonies

Dr. Onowa McIvor Tina Keeper Thursday, May 9 | Centennial Ballroom Opening Ceremonies | Centennial Ballroom

Dr. Onowa McIvor is maské- Tina Keeper is Cree, originally kow-ininiw (Swampy Cree) from Norway House Cree and Scottish-Canadian from Nation, and is now a Winnipeg- Treaty 5 Territory but grew up based media producer. She is in Treaty 6 Territory (northern president of Kistikan Pictures, a Saskatchewan). Her Cree fam- partner company to Buffalo Gal ily is from kinosao sipi (Norway Pictures. Tina was formerly an House) and Pimicikamak (Cross actor, best known for her work Lake) in northern Manitoba. She on the hit Canadian series North currently resides in SENĆOŦEN of 60. Recent productions include the feature film Road of and Lekwungen speaking ter- Iniquity; the critically acclaimed , ritories in southern Going Home Star (2014), about the Indian residential school Island in BC. Onowa is a lifelong history in Canada; The REDress REdress Project (2013), a adult learner of her mother tongue nehinaw/nehiyaw/nehithaw short documentary on the issue of Murdered and Missing (learning across all three dialects at once!). Dr. McIvor is an Asso- Aboriginal Women in Manitoba; and the APTN drama series ciate Professor in the Department of Indigenous Education at the Cashing In (2014) which follows the high stakes gaming at University of Victoria and co-leads the NEȾOLṈEW̱ Research Part- North Beach Casino. Most recently, Tina produced a feature nership Grant, a six-year SSHRC project working to understand film production for Kistikan, Through Black Spruce, based on and enhance Indigenous adults’ contributions to reviving Indig- Joseph Boyden’s Giller prize winning novel. enous languages in Canada. However, her most important job is Tina currently serves as chairperson of the Board of Trustees raising two daughters with the help of her extended family. for the Helen Betty Osborne Memorial Foundation, member of the advisory committee to Urban Shaman Gallery, member of the advisory committee to Red Cross Manitoba, and Honourary Witness for the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. She is a member of the Order of Manitoba and Canadians for a New Partnership. Tina is a recipient of an Aboriginal Achievement Award, a Gemini Award, three American Indian Film Festival awards for acting and producing, a 2014 Canadian Civil Liberties Association award for Public Engagement, and she was named ACTRA’s 2017 Women of the Year. In June 2017, Tina received an Honorary Doctor of Letters from Wilfrid Laurier University. She is currently an MBA candidate. Twitter Workshop Contest Schedule

Enter our daily Twitter Contest to win some Wednesday, May 8 awesome prizes! Up for grabs are two Instax Session 1, 1:30 pm – 2:45 pm Mini 9 Instant Cameras with two packages of • Culturally Responsive Awareness to Enlighten Literacy Learning instant film. • Dakota Kinship: Male/Female Customs, Roles, and Traditions One lucky winner will win the grand prize • Dene Lodge • e-kiskinohamakosiwan ninehinowewin askihk – package, a one-night stay at the Victoria Inn Learning Cree on Land Hotel & Conference Centre featuring Dino • Heart Smart Kids: A Free Classroom Resource for K–6 Beach Water Park! • Island Lake Language and Culture Lodge • lniniwi Meskanaw: A Pathway to Sustain Our lninimowin • Psycho-Educational Assessments and Language Considerations All you need to do is the following: • Self-Regulation Room: Finding Your Calm • STEAM Outreach and Education at the University of Manitoba: 1. Follow us on Twitter @mfnerc. Building Connections and Opening Opportunities • A “Tipi”cal Dwelling Place for Math Teaching & Learning 2. After attending a workshop session, • Trauma-Informed Care – Building a Culture of Strength take a selfie and tweet it, along with something about the workshop. Wednesday, May 8 Use the hashtag #LTF2019. Session 2, 3:15 pm – 4:30 pm • American Sign Language for Communication – ASL Is a Language Retweet one of our posts from Twitter 3. • Celebrating Indigenous Ways of Knowing in Math through each day. Literature in the Early Elementary Classroom • Dakota Kinship: Male/Female Customs, Roles, and Traditions Once you have completed all three tasks, your • Dene Lodge • Heart Smart Kids: A Free Classroom Resource for K–6 name will be entered into a draw to win the • Island Lake Language and Culture Lodge daily and grand prizes. • JUMP Math Resources and Teaching Strategies: Daily winners will be announced at lunch the Perimeter Explorations across the Grades following contest day. • ka kisiwatisit opumistakiwuk – Love Me/Learning Our Identity Grand prize winner will be announced on and Using Our Voice/Energy-Healing Body Work • Mathletics Advantage Friday during the closing ceremonies. • Play Is the Work of Children The grand prize winner must be present to • Poplar River First Nation Jordan’s Principle: collect the prize. Working in a Multi-System Environment • Self-Regulation Room: Finding Your Calm Thursday, May 9 Thursday, May 9 Cont’d Session 3, 1:30 pm – 2:45 pm Session 4, 3:15 pm – 4:30 pm • Anishinaabemowin Lodge • Ininiwi Meskanaw: A Pathway to Sustain Our lninimowin • Anissininew Weentamakewin: • Meeting with the Canada-Wide Science Fair The People’s Sharing of Knowledge Finalists (group two) • Celebrating Indigenous Ways of Knowing in Math through • Nikaniwin: Exploring First Nations Leadership Literature in the Early Elementary Classroom • Self-Regulation Room: Finding Your Calm • e-kiskinohamakosiwan ninehinowewin askihk – Learning Cree on Land • Giving Residential School Survivors Friday, May 10 a Voice in a Classroom Setting Session 5, 9:10 am – 10:25 am • How Language Shapes Our Relationship to the Earth • Bounded Rationality: Collage Art Workshop • Learn to Code with Swift Playgrounds – • Civic Action Then and Now: Teacher Resources to Help Students Presented by Apple Canada Find Their Voice in Democracy • Mathletics Advantage • Elders Panel • Meeting with the Canada-Wide Science Fair • Ininew Achakosuk Finalists (group one) • Language Is Life • Poplar River First Nation Jordan’s Principle: • The New ELA Curriculum Working in a Multi-System Environment • Self-Regulation Room: Finding Your Calm • Psycho-Educational Assessments and Language Considerations • Tansi, Pitikwek, Pemocikitak (Cree Language Lodge) • Self-Regulation Room: Finding Your Calm • Teaching App Development with Swift • Understanding Challenging Behaviour – The ABCs of ABA Thursday, May 9 Session 4, 3:15 pm – 4:30 pm Friday, May 10 • Anishinaabemowin Lodge Session 6, 10:45 am – 12:00 pm • Anissininew Weentamakewin: • American Sign Language for Communication – ASL Is a Language The People’s Sharing of Knowledge • Bounded Rationality: Collage Art Workshop • Bringing Lessons to Life in Virtual Reality • Elders Panel • Civic Action Then and Now: Teacher Resources to Help Students Find Their Voice in Democracy • Giving Residential School Survivors a Voice in a Classroom Setting • How Language Shapes Our Relationship to the Earth • Indigenous Role Models in the Classroom: • Indigenous Role Models in the Classroom: Teaching Our History and Igniting Pride in Our Youth Teaching Our History and Igniting Pride in Our Youth • Ininew Achakosuk • Introducing the Schedule for Early Number Assessment (SENA 3 and 4) • Play Is the Work of Children • ka kisiwatisit opumistakiwuk – Love Me/Learning Our Identity • Self-Regulation Room: Finding Your Calm and Using Our Voice/Energy-Healing Body Work • Tansi, Pitikwek, Pemocikitak (Cree Language Lodge) Workshop Descriptions

American Sign Language for Communication – ASL Is a Language Session 2, May 8, 3:15 pm – 4:30 pm | Embassy C Session 6, May 10, 10:45 am – 12:00 pm | Embassy C Presenters: Vernon Jebb, Emil Easter, Signe Badger, Mary Lou Pierrard, MFNERC Audience: early years and elementary educators, resource teachers, educational assistants Discover the reason why teaching sign language to young children can help with communication. Access to communication for all children is vital for emotional and social development. Many children, not only those with additional needs, benefit from learning signs to support their communication at home and at school. American Sign Language (ASL) is recognized as a language and is being used throughout First Nations. MFNERC Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services supports all schools and communities that want to help children in learning to communicate with ASL. Presenters will share early years signs, stories, and some First Nations signs and provide a handout and links for resources and stories shared. Come and enjoy some active learning.

Anishinaabemowin Lodge Session 3, May 9, 1:30 pm – 2:45 pm | Centennial 1 Session 4, May 9, 3:15 pm – 4:30 pm | Centennial 1 Presenters: Zac Earley, Marcus Ammesmaki; Judy Doolittle, Olga McIvor, MFNERC Audience: educators, students, Elders Come learn about effective methods of language acquisition to help both adults and students gain fluency. The process of language acquisition includes reading fluency, oral fluency, and written fluency. Presenters will share strategies that educators can use in the revitalization of the Anishinaabemowin language. The Anishinaabemowin language and our way of life are the essence of our being as First Nations people. Our languages embody the worldview, philosophy, and spirituality of each of our nations, and this workshop will honour the language and culture of First Nations. The workshop includes discussion and hands-on activities. Presenters will share challenges of language acquisition along with tactics that have failed and succeeded.

Anissininew Weentamakewin: The People’s Sharing of Knowledge Session 3, May 9, 1:30 pm – 2:45 pm | Embassy C Session 4, May 9, 3:15 pm – 4:30 pm | Embassy C Presenters: Bobbie-Jo Leclair, Louis Riel School Division; Tania Munroe, Manitoba Education and Training; Tricia Manoakeesick, St. Theresa Point High School; Stephanie Wood, St. Theresa Point Early Years Audience: all The goal of Anissininew Weentamakewin, a partnership between St. Theresa Point Education Authority (STPEA) and Louis Riel School Division (LRSD), is to work together for reconciliation to honour friendship, peace, and harmony for all people. Together, STPEA and LRSD co-developed a sharing conference held February 19–20, 2019. During this conference, critical knowledge was shared about treaties, traditional parenting, community well-being, and Indigenous histories, cultures, and languages. In this workshop, the partners will provide their stories of this innovative strategy of communities coming together to ensure the ongoing practice of language reclamation. The sharing of these two schools have sown the seeds of true friendships and positive working partnerships. This is what reconciliation looks like today in a sharing and caring environment where support is evident and differences and similarities are celebrated. Bounded Rationality: Collage Art Workshop Session 5, May 10, 9:10 am – 10:25 am | Centennial 3 Session 6, May 10, 10:45 – 12:00 pm | Centennial 3 Presenters: Janell Henry, Liz Garlicki, Daina Warren, Urban Shaman Inc. Audience: art educators, educational assistants, grades 7–12 teachers In this presentation, we will showcase the Urban Shaman Gallery and talk to our new initiative Sacred Sounds: Legacy of Anishinaabemowin, a gathering celebrating individual and collective efforts to maintain and strengthen languages undertaken by Indigenous artists, linguists, and educators from North America (in the absence of federal legislative recognition). As part of this language initiative, [shooger-koht-ed] speaks to the emotional aspect of language revitalization.

When looking at a piece of art, we will all have our baggage, those intangible things such as feelings, beliefs, or circumstances. As we all look to an art piece with our baggage, we also do this with our interpretations of reality. Changing the language will change our minds.

Bringing Lessons to Life in Virtual Reality Session 4, May 9, 3:15 pm – 4:30 pm | Embassy E Presenter: Alberto Mansilla, MFNERC Audience: educators Google Expeditions VR kits enable teachers to bring students on virtual trips to places like museums, underwater, and outer space. Expeditions are collections of linked virtual reality content and supporting materials that can be used alongside existing curriculum. These trips are collections of virtual reality panoramas—360° panoramas and 3D images—annotated with details, points of interest, and questions that make them easy to integrate into curriculum already used in schools. Teachers are able to choose various trips (expeditions) to lead a class through a virtual field trip.

Celebrating Indigenous Ways of Knowing in Math through Literature in the Early Elementary Classroom Session 2, May 9, 3:15 pm – 4:30 pm | Centennial 2 Session 3, May 9, 1:30 pm – 2:45 pm | Centennial 2 Presenter: Kim Mastromartino, Pearson Canada Audience: math educators In this interactive and hands-on session, we will learn how to authentically embed Indigenous ways of knowing through a math and literacy lens. We will use new resources written for early math by Indigenous authors in Canada. These resources are part of Pearson Canada’s new K–8 math series Mathology, which supports the development of engaged young mathematicians in Canada. You will leave this session with a sampler of resources that you can use in your classroom on Monday! Civic Action Then and Now: Teacher Resources to Help Students Find Their Voice in Democracy Session 4, May 9, 3:15 pm – 4:30 pm | Centennial 5 Session 5, May 10, 9:10 am – 10:25 am | Embassy D Presenter: Joseph Péloquin-Hopfner, Elections Canada Audience: middle years/high school educators; social studies, geography, Canadian law, ELA teachers Elections Canada released a suite of lesson plans to empower high school and middle years educators to address democracy, civic education, and elections in a dynamic way while meeting curriculum expectations. Our pilot project in Manitoba involves partners like MFNSS and National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation to ensure a wide distribution of these resources and training in schools.

The connection to LTF’s theme, Honouring Our Heritage—Celebrating the International Year of Indigenous Languages, comes through helping students find their voice in democracy while exploring a story of Indigenous civic action, the Constitution Express, that had a large impact on Canada.

Culturally Responsive Awareness to Enlighten Literacy Learning Session 1, May 8, 1:30 pm – 2:45 pm | Centennial 2 Presenters: Gloria D. Sinclair, Evannah Braun, MFNERC Audience: classroom teachers As teachers, we must acknowledge children’s languages, cultures, dialects, gifts, and uniqueness to build a bridge between any differences. This session will explore, discuss, and expand our repertoire of cultural understandings with a culminating activity of one characteristic of First Nations. The primary intent of this workshop is to help foster successful literacy learning and student understanding.

Dakota Kinship: Customs, Roles, and Traditions Session 1, May 8, 1:30 pm – 2:45 pm | Centennial 6 Session 2, May 8, 3:15 pm – 4:30 pm | Centennial 6 Presenters: K. Dale McKay, Sandra McKay Audience: all This workshop will examine Dakota kinship, including customs, roles, traditions (e.g., relationships and male/female dialect).

Dene Lodge Session 1, May 8, 1:30 pm – 2:45 pm | Carlton Room Session 2, May 8, 3:15 pm – 4:30 pm | Carlton Room Presenters: Linda Dettanikkeaze-Patterson, Diane Powderhorn, Jessie Thomas, Lucy Antsanen, Agnes Carlson, MFNERC Audience: educators, parents, community members We invite you to immerse yourself in the language, culture, and customs of the Dene. In this lodge, we proudly present our Dene Creation Story, history, storytelling, traditional medicine and clothing, tools, and a dry meat making demonstration. Come and experience the everyday use of the Dene language in our interactive lodge—learn a word or two, learn a song, and learn to count! e-kiskinohamakosiwan ninehinowewin askihk – Learning Cree on Land Session 1, May 8, 1:30 pm – 2:45 pm | Regency Room Session 3, May 9, 1:30 pm – 2:45 pm | Kensington Room Presenters: Rhonda Cook, Neil Dennis Kematch Memorial School; Audrey Fourre, MFNERC Audience: teachers, educational assistants, language and cultural education instructors We know that our children are losing their first language at an alarming rate, as are other Indigenous Peoples around the world. The United Nations declared 2019 as the International Year of Indigenous Languages. As such, Neil Dennis Kematch Memorial School (Sapotoweyak Cree Nation) is working to reclaim their Cree language, traditions, and culture through land-based activities. Presenters will showcase how other schools can incorporate a similar project by connecting the six seasons to the curriculum. Participants will work on make-and-take posters for their classrooms and explore the hands-on materials made available at the workshop.

Elders Panel Session 5, May 10, 9:10 am – 10:25 am | Centennial 1 Session 6, May 10, 10:45 am – 12:00 pm | Centennial 1 Elders: Nelliane Cromarty, Ojibwe-Cree, St. Theresa Point; Ruth Norton, Ojibwe, Sagkeeng First Nation; Kevin Tacan, Dakota, Sioux Valley First Nation; Bertha Ross, Cree, Pimicikamak Cree Nation; Dene Elder TBA Audience: all Come hear Elders who are fluent in their languages—Cree, Dakota, Dene, Ojibwe, or Ojibwe-Cree—talk about the importance of reclaiming and revitalizing our languages. Listen to their understandings on language and the foundation it provides for First Nations traditions, customs, and ways of life. This panel will be facilitated by Rebecca Ross.

Giving Residential School Survivors a Voice in a Classroom Setting Session 3, May 9, 1:30 pm – 2:45 pm | Embassy D Session 6, May 10, 10:45 am – 12:00 pm | Centennial 6 Presenters: Elder Dave Rundle; Arlene Flatfoot, MFNERC Audience: K–8 educators, educational assistants Based on the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s (TRC) Calls to Action on education, participants will be given an overview of age- appropriate literacy materials to begin the discussion about Indian Residential Schools (IRS) in their classrooms. It is important to understand and share our history.

Elder Dave Rundle, a residential school survivor, will share his personal experiences about the IRS and the impact this system had on First Nations for more than a century in Canada. Heart Smart Kids: A Free Classroom Resource for K–6 Session 1, May 8, 1:30 pm – 2:45 pm | Embassy D Session 2, May 8, 3:15 pm – 4:30 pm | Embassy D Presenters: Amanda Nash, Heart & Stroke Foundation; June Montour, MFNERC Audience: physical education/health and science teachers for K–6, administrative staff, educational assistants Heart Smart Kids (HSK) is free classroom resource focused on enabling elementary school teachers to effectively promote awareness and educate students on holistic well-being through activities around the basics of healthy living, physical activity, and nutrition.

This free classroom support resource enhances health literacy in the school and home environment. Although it is only available in English and French, our resource encourages educators to use it as an opportunity to incorporate words from the five First Nations languages in Manitoba—Cree, Dakota, Dene, Ojibwe, and Ojibwe-Cree.

Together we will review the resource, educator training, and example activities resulting in each participant becoming a HeartSmart educator who can then order and use the free classroom resources. The session will end with discussion and recommendations for integration of HSK into Manitoba First Nations schools while promoting best practice for academics, languages, and cultures.

How Language Shapes Our Relationship to the Earth Session 3, May 9, 1:30 pm – 2:45 pm | Centennial 6 Session 4, May 9, 3:15 pm – 4:30 pm | Centennial 6 Presenters: Deb St. Amant, Queen’s University, Faculty of Education, Elder-in-Residence; Jennifer Davis Audience: all educators Research has proven many times that language shapes our thinking. This workshop will demonstrate how Indigenous languages— particularly Anishinaabemowin and Nehiyawewin—honour the land as sacred, encouraging relationship between the speaker and all seven directions, while, conversely, English phrases and metaphors tend to separate speakers from the land. Examples will be given as we explore the demonstrated effect of these languages on the formation of thought and worldview, especially in young children. Participants will have the opportunity to reflect upon how the purposeful study of Indigenous languages would influence the thinking of all school children, causing them to reconsider both their personal and communal relationships with the land, our first teacher. For example, what is the effect when the term grounding is used to signify punishment rather than a close relationship to the Earth?

This research exemplifies the richness of First Nations languages and the importance of recognizing their impact on the formation of thought and identity, specifically through the lens of examining land-based terms, metaphors, and common expressions.

Indigenous Role Models in the Classroom: Teaching Our History and Igniting Pride in Our Youth Session 4, May 9, 3:15 pm – 4:30 pm | Kensington Room Session 6, May 10, 10:45 am – 12:00 pm | Embassy D Presenter: Jenny Bone, Keeseekoowenin School; Donna Beyer, MFNERC Audience: all grade levels (K–12) Indigenous artist and activist Buffy Sainte-Marie is the focus of a new teaching resource by MFNERC First Nations Studies Facilitator Donna Beyer and piloted by teacher Jenny Bone. Come and hear an overview of Inquiry-Base Learning for Grades K-12: Buffy Sainte-Marie and learn of its successes in the classroom. Presenters will also demonstrate how inquiry-based learning (projects) can be a valuable approach to engage and motivate students in discovering more about the work of Indigenous role models and Indigenous history. Ininew Achakosuk Session 5, May 10, 9:10 am – 10:25 am | Centennial 5 Session 6, May 10, 10:45 am – 12:00 pm | Centennial 5 Presenter: Wilfred Buck, MFNERC Audience: administrators, educators, support staff, students, general This session will focus on Student Learning Objectives (SLOs) about observing the night sky, mythology, prediction, cultural perspectives, positioning, directional locators, identification of planets, stars moon phases, sun position, and constellations. Participants will be introduced to the depth of knowledge and intellectual thought inherent in the culture and languages of the Ininewuk, First Nations, and all Indigenous Peoples.

Ininiwi Meskanaw: A Pathway to Sustain Our lninimowin Session 1, May 8, 1:30 pm – 2:45 pm | Centennial 3 Session 4, May 9, 3:15 pm – 4:30 pm | Centennial 3 Presenters: Marsha Blacksmith, Charity Cooper, MFNERC Audience: educational assistants, teachers, early childhood educators This workshop will share the presenters’ experiences with teaching the lninimowin (Cree) language. Presenters will share what they have done successfully to capture student engagement using strategies such as games and hands-on activities. Participants will gain more traditional perspectives that lead to learning, while appreciating the teachings of language and culture. There will be a display of resources to share with participants.

Introducing the Schedule for Early Number Assessment (SENA 3 and 4) Session 4, May 9, 3:15 pm – 4:30 pm | Centennial 2 Presenter: Bonnie Monias, Brenda Delorme, MFNERC Audience: grades 4–8 teachers Participants will be introduced to SENA 3 and 4 and how it provides direction in conceptual learning of number. Participants will understand the importance of assessing for learning and the use of data as the guide for teaching. Participants will explore strategies that involve interaction, practise, and action by doing while promoting success in learning number in all languages.

These assessments will be shown as an alternative means of assessing that may be delivered in any First Nation language. Island Lake Language and Culture Lodge Session 1, May 8, 1:30 pm – 2:45 pm | Centennial 1 Session 2, May 8, 3:15 pm – 4:30 pm | Centennial 1 Presenters: Knowledge Keeper Ivan Harper; Doris Harper, language teacher; Elder Nelliane Cromarty Karen Taylor, David Flett, Lyle Wood, MFNERC Audience: all Eh kakweh pimajitooyang ni keesiwewinan ekwa meena akew pimaajihoowin kikinwamaakewinan eh aapajikaatek. Kijiyahaak kwansa nanathkawamin tathwaw kekoon kawkwake kikentamang, amsa oohooweti kaki eesi kikinoohamaakooyang. Noonkim, kawapantehikoonaawa otiskooneehiwek ka piminsanhaamowaj ekwa meena kaayapajitoowaj tathi aki. Otiskooneewek, okikinwamaakek, ekwa meena kijiyahaak kakee oonathinahamwaj. Peesaayook jiwaapantamek jikaatethijikanan ka isi kikinoohamowintaw awasisak tathi peethim. Otiskooneewek kawapantayhi koonaawah ookinaamakewinaa ekwa meena payatak jiweentamakoowek. Paskonakoseewi otiskooneehiwek oohooweni kaakee kwayahk maminwaakaajeekamowaj otanokeewinowa.

We revitalize our language and culture by following the teachings of our ancestors. One of our traditions and cultural practices is to include our Elders for their wisdom and guidance. In this session, we will show you what our Island Lake language teachers follow according to the Seasonal Calendar that was developed by our teachers, Knowledge Keepers, and Elders. Come and view our gallery of photos of students participating in monthly activities and participate in hands-on activities. Explore samples of strategies and plans that the presenters have developed with the guidance of our Elders. The work displayed at this culture lodge is the result of the dedication of Island Lake teachers.

JUMP Math Resources and Teaching Strategies: Perimeter Explorations across the Grades Session 2, May 8, 3:15 pm – 4:30 pm | Embassy E Presenter: Liz Barrett, JUMP Math Audience: math educators JUMP Math is an award-winning non-profit resource dedicated to helping teachers teach math. In this introductory workshop, we will share our teaching philosophy and how to access the teacher resources—mental math and confidence building units—which are available online at www.jumpmath.org. The ultimate lesson focus of this session is to explore the teaching of Perimeter across the grades, which is a great way to develop spatial thinking in students of all ages. Workshop demonstrations will be hands-on. ka kisiwatisit opumistakiwuk – Love Me/Learning Our Identity and Using Our Voice/ Energy-Healing Body Work Session 2, May 8, 3:15 pm – 4:30 pm | Centennial 4 Session 4, May 9, 3:15 pm – 4:30 pm | Centennial 4 Presenters: Diane Linklater, Christine Sawatzky, Terrance Tomas Audience: all Trying to live in today’s world—one that is so heavily influenced by rapid changes and differing worldviews—is sometimes challenging. Where do I come from? Where do I fit? Where can I go? These are the questions we might ask ourselves. Presenters will assist individuals in feeling empowered by knowing who they are by connecting them with their ancestors through language, stories, songs, and prayers. Language Is Life Session 5, May 9, 9:10 am – 10:25 am | Centennial 6 Presenter: Jason Chamakese Audience: all Jason Chamakese from the Pelican Lake First Nation in Saskatchewan shares his incredible story of overcoming a massive stroke in 2015. He credits his Plains Cree fluency and ceremony and prayer in his survival and ongoing recovery. In March of 2019, he became part of Canadian history when part of a broadcast on national TV. APTN and Sportsnet collaborated, and an NHL game was shown with Plains Cree play-by-play, commentary, and analysis. He is also an award-winning musician for his Native American flute music. He wishes to share the importance of language in our many nations throughout North America. He currently works as a language instructor at the University of Saskatchewan and as a self-employed musician/speaker.

Learn to Code with Swift Playgrounds – Presented by Apple Canada Sessions 3 & 4, May 9, 1:30 pm – 4:30 pm | Regency Room Presenters: Bob Bajwa; Michael Li, MFNERC Audience: grades 5–9 technology teachers Learn to Code with iPad! Coding is essential to help students thrive in a future driven by technology. When you teach coding, you inspire creativity and teach skills like critical thinking, problem solving, and teamwork. Learn how you can engage middle school and junior high students in the world of coding with Swift Playgrounds (iPad app) and Everyone Can Code resources designed for teachers. So whether your students are first-time coders or interested in programming robots and drones, you’ll have all the tools you need to teach coding in your classroom. Participants will explore lesson plans and teacher guides designed to bring coding into grades 5–9 classrooms.

Mathletics Advantage Session 2, May 8, 3:15 pm – 4:30 pm | Centennial 5 Session 3, May 9, 1:30 pm – 2:45 pm | Embassy E Presenters: Payal Agarwal, Pam Telen Audience: kindergarten to high school educators Learn how this online math program used worldwide can ignite learning in your Manitoba classroom. Over five million students across the world love learning with Mathletics. The program can inspire and motivate students to achieve better results and empower teach- ers in the classroom. Get a sneak peek into the future of Mathletics, and take a look at the successes of schools using Mathletics within MFNERC. We will introduce Mathletics for K–High School and highlight the program’s many resourceful tools for learning and teaching, such as printable e-books; targeted and adaptive activities aligned to Manitoba curriculum; and Manitoba diagnostic assessments for grades 2–9.

Meeting with the Canada-Wide Science Fair Finalists Session 3, May 9, 1:30 pm – 2:45 pm | Carlton Room Session 4, May 9, 3:15 pm – 4:30 pm | Carlton Room Presenters: science fair project finalists Audience: all You are invited to meet, congratulate, and listen to the students representing Manitoba First Nations at the Canada-Wide Science Fair. The students will present their science fair projects in Fredericton, New Brunswick, on May 11–17, 2019. The New ELA Curriculum Session 5, May 10, 9:10 am – 10:25 am | Centennial 2 Presenters: Randy Herrmann, University of Manitoba; Margaret Monias, Thelma Nice, Arlene Flatfoot, MFNERC Audience: all Participants will learn about the new ELA curriculum and experience the ease that this new resource allows for the integration of rich language and cultural learning in everyday classroom instruction. A planned activity will address the four ELA practices: language as sense making, language as a system, language as exploration and design, and language as power and agency. The new curriculum recognizes that languages and culture play a critical role in our lives, not only as a tool for communication, education, social integration, and development but as a source for each person’s unique identity, cultural history, traditions, and memory.

Nikaniwin: Exploring First Nations Leadership Session 4, May 9, 3:15 pm – 4:30 pm | Embassy D Presenters: George Ross, Ralph Arthurson, Sandy Robinson, Charles Fontaine, Donna Prince, MFNERC Audience: all This session will focus on First Nations leadership and will compare it to current research practices on mainstream leadership. We will explore the meaning of mino-pimatisiwin, nikaniwin, and nikanastamakewin in the workshop. The goal of the workshop is to establish the common threads of leadership from a First Nations perspective so that participants will leave with enriched knowledge of First Nations leadership.

Play Is the Work of Children Session 2, May 8, 3:15 pm – 4:30 pm | Centennial 3 Session 6, May 10, 10:45 am – 12:00 pm | Centennial 2 Presenters: Susan Janzen, Kelly Ring-Whiklo, MFNERC Audience: classroom teachers, principals, resource teachers, educational assistants Telling an epic adventure, describing the fight between good and evil, or learning the lessons of Nanabush or Wesakechak all involve elements of a good story. We often think of stories as being read or told, but an important component of learning stories is acting them out through play. How can we foster the development of narrative skills and a love of stories through play? This workshop aims to discuss the links between play and narrative skills, and it will also provide practical strategies to encourage the use of stories and oral literature in guided play. Poplar River First Nation Jordan’s Principle: Working in a Multi-System Environment Session 2, May 8, 3:15 pm – 4:30 pm | Regency Room Session 3, May 9, 1:30 pm – 2:45 pm | Centennial 5 Presenters: Mike Bear, Emile Mason, Joe Gacheru, Poplar River First Nation Audience: teachers, school administrators The Poplar River Jordan’s Principle developed a working resource model that is now incorporated into the First Nation’s school system. Jordan’s Principle child development workers see children referred to our program from the resource department of the school. Their interdisciplinary approach to children’s well-being and continued academic supports have proven to add to students’ success. Jordan’s Principle also implemented a land-based program that created the opportunity to expand on approaches to working with school-aged children. The land-based program is benefitted by a full-time family counsellor who works as part of our therapeutic team. Jordan’s Principle has also been exploring options for the creation of a land-based alternative education program with the administration from Poplar River School. The creation of a community-driven curriculum will be the foundation of the alternative education model. The idea of the alternative approach spawned from seeing the struggles that some of the children experience while in a traditional classroom environment.

Psycho-Educational Assessments and Language Considerations Session 1, May 8, 1:30 pm – 2:45 pm | Kensington Room Session 3, May 9, 1:30 pm – 2:45 pm | Centennial 5 Presenters: Alex Holt, Chantal Wiebe, Mark Lukes, MFNERC Audience: resource teachers, administrators, classroom teachers Psycho-educational assessments are a comprehensive and in-depth evaluation process used to better understand a student’s strengths and weaknesses in learning. Many students can benefit from this type of assessment, including those exposed to multiple languages in the home environment and those with a language other than English as their first language. The psycho-educational assessment process considers language to ensure a fair and accurate understanding of a student. Such assessment includes examining multiple informal and formal sources of information, including non-verbal measures, that place less emphasis on language use. This approach considers the cultural influence within the assessment tool to determine its appropriateness for each student. Presenters will provide practical strategies, in consultation with speech-language recommendations, for developing language within the classroom setting through games and activities.

Self-Regulation Room: Finding Your Calm Sessions 1–6, May 8–9, 1:30 pm – 4:30 pm & May 10, 9:10 am – 12:00 pm | Embassy A Presenters: Susy Komishin, Jessica Chisholm, Anne Rundle, Louise Cameron, Mindy Sinclair, Anderson Agbugba, MFNERC Audience: all According to Dr. Stuart Shanker, “When an individual’s stress levels are too high, various brain/body regulatory systems that support thinking, emotion regulation, social engagement, and even metabolic recovery are compromised. The signs of dysregulation can show up in the behaviour, mood, attention and physical well-being of a child, teen or adult.” As educators we experience stress, and it is important for us to recognize this stress and take time to calm ourselves, so we can, in turn, help children find their calm. This room is set up for your self-care for the duration of the conference, so if you are feeling stressed you can enter the room and find a few ways to calm yourself. “Calm begets calm.” STEAM Outreach and Education at the University of Manitoba: Building Connections and Opening Opportunities Session 1, May 8, 1:30 pm – 2:45 pm | Embassy C Presenters: Darja Barr, University of Manitoba; Alberto Mansilla, MFNERC Audience: STEAM teachers, administrators Learn of several current and upcoming STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Mathematics) initiatives that bring together faculty and students from the University of Manitoba with students and teachers from First Nations. These opportunities include Math Mania (for K–8 students), a summer Path2Math workshop running for its second summer (for grade 12 students to university level), and a Summer Workshop in Mathematics for in-service teachers. Presenters will discuss the opportunities for building connections in these STEAM outreach and education projects and will provide hands-on examples of some of the Math Mania games.

Tansi, Pitikwek, Pemocikitak (Cree Language Lodge) Session 5, May 10, 9:10 am – 10:25 am | Carlton Room Session 6, May 10, 10:45 – 12:00 pm | Carlton Room Presenters: Marsha Blacksmith, Charity Cooper, MFNERC; Kathleen McIvor, Knowledge Keeper Audience: language and classroom teachers, educational assistants, early childhood educators, pre-service teachers This session focuses on how teaching experiences, learning strategies of our ininimowin (Cree) language, can reach students eager to learn their mother tongue of Cree with interactive activities such as hands-on activities, games, puzzles, and other ideas on how these resources can be used in the classroom.

Teaching App Development with Swift Sessions 5 & 6, May 10, 9:10 am – 12:00 pm | Embassy E Presenters: Bob Bajwa; Michael Li, MFNERC Audience: grades 10–12 technology teachers Learning to develop apps can help your students solve problems, work together in creative ways, and bring their ideas to life. Join us at this introductory workshop to explore App Development with Swift, which is a free two-semester course designed to teach students with little or no programming experience how to build their first iOS apps. Learn why Swift is appropriate for all levels of coders; explore course materials, tools, and techniques; and get hands-on experience using Mac and Xcode project files. We’ll also discuss how one might use these resources in the schools and with other educators.

A “Tipi”cal Dwelling Place for Math Teaching & Learning Session 1, May 8, 1:30 pm – 2:45 pm | Centennial 5 Presenter: Chun Ong, MFNERC Audience: all Tipis (teepees) were the dwelling places of the North American Indigenous Peoples of the Plains and Great Lakes regions. They were the cradles of language and culture development and the formation of the Indigenous peoples of “Kanata” (Canada). This workshop explores some teachings and the math vocabulary, topics, concepts, and skills associated with these dwelling places, which are still relevant to the teaching and learning of students, along with being socially, academically, and intellectually engaging to them. Trauma-Informed Care – Building a Culture of Strength Session 1, May 8, 1:30 pm – 2:45 pm | Embassy E Presenter: Nathan Gerbrandt, CTRI - Crisis & Trauma Resource Institute Audience: introductory/intermediate level training on the value of trauma-informed workplaces Trauma is prevalent in our world and has an impact on many of the people we interact with, including our colleagues and students. Compassionate and trauma-informed care is essential to providing effective support and building sustainable services. This session explores how to build a trauma-informed culture in a setting that integrates knowledge throughout the organization.

Participants will develop an understanding of the pervasive impact of trauma on individual health and relationships. We will explore guiding principles for increasing emotional and physical safety, culturally sensitive empowerment, and resilience for all parts of an organization. Becoming trauma-informed creates a sustainable foundation in any setting that promotes strength, engagement, and recovery. Discover communication tools that can help you connect with your students or your colleagues who have experienced trauma in their lives.

Understanding Challenging Behaviour – The ABCs of ABA Session 5, May 10, 9:10 am – 10:25 am | Embassy C Presenters: Ryan Heckert, Brennan Foidart, St.Amant Audience: educators working with individuals who display challenging behaviour This session introduces and explains the main functions of challenging behaviour and outlines ways to understand such behaviour. By understanding why challenging behaviour occurs, one can develop appropriate strategies that allow those exhibiting behaviour issues to reach their full potential. Trade Show Vendors

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