2026 ATEC - Supporting Minds: Teaching in Today’s Classrooms

This session is intended for the tasks of ONLY the planning and hosting team(s) of the Professional Association.

9:00-10:15 - Session #1 How’s Your Root System?: Keeping Connected and Inspired in Education (hybrid)

In this presentation, you will experience shared laughter, hear recent research on workplace health, and take away some practical approaches that can be integrated into personal wellness.

Patrick will explore three key questions:
• Is mental wellness given the same consideration as physical wellness?
• How can educational teams find meaningful ways of handling setbacks and stressful situations?
• What are some practical strategies we can personally adopt to handle information overload?

“Patrick’s presentation on Workplace Mental Health was highly entertaining with great messages. His use of humour mixed well with the topic and clearly demonstrated the need for humour in the workplace and life in general. These messages are so relevant in the world we live in today.”
Judy Hughes, President, Canadian Mental Health Association PEI

About the Presenter:

Patrick Ledwell is a comedian and writer, featured regularly on CBC Radio’s hit show The Debaters. He is also an educator and designer, with a diverse background in new media teaching. Sometimes, those mindsets stay on their own side. Sometimes, they work closer together.

Since 2020, he has been serving as an Instructional Designer with the Curriculum Services team at Holland College. At Holland College, he collaborates with teachers to design learning in changing and supportive ways.

 Ledwell holds a Masters in English Literature from Dalhousie, and received his Masters in Information Design and Technology from Georgia Tech.

He works every day with the hope that learning and laughter don’t need to happen separately.

10:45-12:00 - Session #2 Walk a Mile in my Shaky Shoes: How the Education System Can Be More Inclusive and Support All Students (hybrid)

Matthew Corkum shares his personal journey of living with cerebral palsy, offering crucial insights for educators on effectively supporting all students, particularly those with disabilities. The talk emphasizes that a 'one-size-fits-all' approach to student accommodations is ineffective. By providing tailored, appropriate accommodations, the education system can empower every student to achieve their highest level of learning.

About the Presenter:

Adventurer, Disability Advocate and Meteorologist Matthew Corkum is a dynamic and passionate keynote speaker who fearlessly tackles difficult topics. Hailing from Bridgewater, Nova Scotia, he embodies a lifelong drive to excel in diverse settings, despite living with cerebral palsy. He brings a wealth of professional experience, including a PhD in atmospheric science and 13 years as head meteorologist at a leading Calgary Hedge fund. Beyond his technical expertise, Matthew speaks candidly about his personal experiences with exclusion, bullying, and discrimination. Matthew is actively involved in advocacy and community leadership. His roles include past membership on the City of Calgary’s Advisory Committee on Accessibility, President of Rocky Mountain Adaptive (RMA), and Community Advisory Member for Calgary Adapted Hub. With a contagious smile and a knack for one-line jokes, Matthew often lightens the mood as he shares stories of learning to ski, including becoming a park skier who performs jumps and tricks. He is not a typical disability advocate. Drawing on his 13 years in the corporate world, Matthew Corkum helps businesses see the tangible advantages of hiring people with disabilities, repositioning it as an asset rather than a burden. He also offers critical insights into the education system, discussing his challenges with writing and providing actionable advice for educators to better support all students. Finally, he shares real-life examples of how the healthcare system has both succeeded and failed him, offering practical recommendations for healthcare professionals on how to best support individuals with disabilities in their healthcare journey. 

1:30-2:45 - Session #3 Music, Movement & Mindfulness (hybrid)

Music, movement and mindfulness are powerful regulating tools for both children and their caring adults. This interactive presentation will include practical tips for using music, movement and mindfulness to connect with students of all ages, as well as for teachers' own self care. The presentation will weave music throughout, blending Anna’s songs with Heather’s traditional fiddle playing, and include a mix of upbeat and playful tunes, along with some more mindful and therapeutic songs. Teachers will learn simple activities and strategies for incorporating bite-sized music, movement & mindfulness into their classrooms, as well as experience how engaging in these activities themselves makes them (the teachers) feel. No musical or movement experience necessary!

About the Presenters:

Anna Plaskett, BMus, CMT, MTA Anna is a musician and music therapist based in Punamu'kwati'jk/Dartmouth. She has played and sung backup with numerous recording artists over the past 20 years and released her debut solo children’s album “To the Moon and Back” in 2017. In addition to her training as a Certified Music Therapist, Anna has completed a Level 1 Certification in ‘Adapted Spiral Praxis’ - a motor program for working with children with physical disabilities based on holistic body-mind principles, and is a Certified Facilitator of the ‘Yogapalooza’ Kids Yoga, Music & Mindfulness Program. In her practice, Anna works towards helping people of all ages and levels of ability to experience the power of music and movement to tap into the wellness that exists within themselves.

Heather Cameron, BA, CMT, MTA Heather was brought up surrounded by music in Pictou County. The fiddle, guitar, bagpipes and piano became her constant companions, and early on she developed a beautiful, soulful voice. Heather knew well the power of music to reach people, which led her to study music therapy. This brought her out west where she further developed her musicianship, and professional skills as a creative arts therapist. In the last decade, Heather returned home with her passion for music therapy in check, creating work, both independently and with Nova Scotia Health; and has established herself as a professional performing and recording artist.

Session Description:

Music, movement and mindfulness are powerful regulating tools for both children and their caring adults. This interactive presentation will include practical tips for using music, movement and mindfulness to connect with students of all ages, as well as for teachers' own self care. The presentation will weave music throughout, blending Anna’s songs with Heather’s traditional fiddle playing, and include a mix of upbeat and playful tunes, along with some more mindful and therapeutic songs. Teachers will learn simple activities and strategies for incorporating bite-sized music, movement & mindfulness into their classrooms, as well as experience how engaging in these activities themselves makes them (the teachers) feel. No musical or movement experience necessary!

About the Presenters:

Anna Plaskett, BMus, CMT, MTA Anna is a musician and music therapist based in Punamu'kwati'jk/Dartmouth. She has played and sung backup with numerous recording artists over the past 20 years and released her debut solo children’s album “To the Moon and Back” in 2017. In addition to her training as a Certified Music Therapist, Anna has completed a Level 1 Certification in ‘Adapted Spiral Praxis’ - a motor program for working with children with physical disabilities based on holistic body-mind principles, and is a Certified Facilitator of the ‘Yogapalooza’ Kids Yoga, Music & Mindfulness Program. In her practice, Anna works towards helping people of all ages and levels of ability to experience the power of music and movement to tap into the wellness that exists within themselves.

Heather Cameron, BA, CMT, MTA Heather was brought up surrounded by music in Pictou County. The fiddle, guitar, bagpipes and piano became her constant companions, and early on she developed a beautiful, soulful voice. Heather knew well the power of music to reach people, which led her to study music therapy. This brought her out west where she further developed her musicianship, and professional skills as a creative arts therapist. In the last decade, Heather returned home with her passion for music therapy in check, creating work, both independently and with Nova Scotia Health; and has established herself as a professional performing and recording artist.

Session Description:

Discover how the University of Florida Literacy Institute (UFLI) can transform reading instruction and intervention in your classroom. In this session, presenters will explore UFLI’s key components and demonstrate practical strategies for integrating them into daily instruction and targeted interventions for struggling readers. Participants will also examine various types of assessments and learn how they support the collaborative problem-solving model to meet the needs of all learners. The session features real classroom examples and dedicated time for interactive discussion and questions. 

About the Presenters:

Christine Gillis Christine has been an educator for 24 years in lower elementary. She taught Grade 1 for 23 of those years and most recently started working as an Elementary Literacy Support Teacher. She works primarily with students in grades primary and 1 who have been identified as experiencing reading difficulties. Christine has a Masters degree in Curriculum and Planning and has recently completed a Masters of Literacy with a focus on the Science of Reading at Mount Saint Vincent University.

Erin Mosher Erin has been an educator for 20 years. She has been a Resource Teacher for the past 12 years. Erin has a Masters degree in Curriculum Studies and has recently completed a Masters of Literacy with a focus on the Science of Reading at Mount Saint Vincent University. She is passionate about teaching young children how to read.

Session Description:

You won’t walk away with a lesson plan or a new acronym, but you will hopefully leave with deeper understanding, greater empathy, and the desire to make compassionate, lasting connections, thanks to the power of storytelling. Mothers parenting Autistic children are at particular risk of developing broken-trust relationships with the school system, leading them to withdraw from their children’s educational journey, to the detriment of the students in our care. Throughout her research, the presenter spent many hours listening to the stories of women in this very situation. She also has a few stories of her own. The common themes that emerge from these narratives, which will be shared in this presentation, serve as a roadmap from which we as educators can ensure that all families feel valued and understood.

About the Presenter:

Carly Sutherland is a classroom teacher and recent graduate of Memorial University, where her thesis explored family-school relationships for mothers of Autistic children. She is the parent of an autistic teenage son and brings both lived experience and research-based insight to her work. A former Advocate of the Year (although she was too overwhelmed and tired to accept the award in person), she has spent countless hours listening to the stories of women who have felt let down by the school system. In her presentation she uses storytelling to build empathy and practical guidance, sharing common themes from those narratives as a roadmap for educators to create compassionate, trusting partnerships with families.

Session Description:

Matthew Corkum shares his personal journey of living with cerebral palsy, offering crucial insights for educators on effectively supporting all students, particularly those with disabilities. The talk emphasizes that a 'one-size-fits-all' approach to student accommodations is ineffective. By providing tailored, appropriate accommodations, the education system can empower every student to achieve their highest level of learning.

About the Presenter:

Adventurer, Disability Advocate and Meteorologist Matthew Corkum is a dynamic and passionate keynote speaker who fearlessly tackles difficult topics. Hailing from Bridgewater, Nova Scotia, he embodies a lifelong drive to excel in diverse settings, despite living with cerebral palsy. He brings a wealth of professional experience, including a PhD in atmospheric science and 13 years as head meteorologist at a leading Calgary Hedge fund. Beyond his technical expertise, Matthew speaks candidly about his personal experiences with exclusion, bullying, and discrimination. Matthew is actively involved in advocacy and community leadership. His roles include past membership on the City of Calgary’s Advisory Committee on Accessibility, President of Rocky Mountain Adaptive (RMA), and Community Advisory Member for Calgary Adapted Hub. With a contagious smile and a knack for one-line jokes, Matthew often lightens the mood as he shares stories of learning to ski, including becoming a park skier who performs jumps and tricks. He is not a typical disability advocate. Drawing on his 13 years in the corporate world, Matthew Corkum helps businesses see the tangible advantages of hiring people with disabilities, repositioning it as an asset rather than a burden. He also offers critical insights into the education system, discussing his challenges with writing and providing actionable advice for educators to better support all students. Finally, he shares real-life examples of how the healthcare system has both succeeded and failed him, offering practical recommendations for healthcare professionals on how to best support individuals with disabilities in their healthcare journey.

Hybrid Session Description:

In this presentation, you will experience shared laughter, hear recent research on workplace health, and take away some practical approaches that can be integrated into personal wellness.

Patrick will explore three key questions:
• Is mental wellness given the same consideration as physical wellness?
• How can educational teams find meaningful ways of handling setbacks and stressful situations?
• What are some practical strategies we can personally adopt to handle information overload?

“Patrick’s presentation on Workplace Mental Health was highly entertaining with great messages. His use of humour mixed well with the topic and clearly demonstrated the need for humour in the workplace and life in general. These messages are so relevant in the world we live in today.”
Judy Hughes, President, Canadian Mental Health Association PEI

About the Presenter:

Patrick Ledwell is a comedian and writer, featured regularly on CBC Radio’s hit show The Debaters. He is also an educator and designer, with a diverse background in new media teaching. Sometimes, those mindsets stay on their own side. Sometimes, they work closer together.

Since 2020, he has been serving as an Instructional Designer with the Curriculum Services team at Holland College. At Holland College, he collaborates with teachers to design learning in changing and supportive ways.

 Ledwell holds a Masters in English Literature from Dalhousie, and received his Masters in Information Design and Technology from Georgia Tech.

He works every day with the hope that learning and laughter don’t need to happen separately.

Session Description:

An Indigenous path to Decolonization - The 5 steps to Decolonization infused with the 7 sacred teachings. How can we work together to learn and share a path forward? Sharing teachings of our ancestors in balance of today’s Pedagogy. A deeper understanding of the Medicine wheel and the colors of elements versus today’s colors and teachings. How to seek balance and respect for Spiritual teachings.

About the Presenter:

 Jeff Ward is the General Manager, Membertou Heritage Park and experienced in the field of Indigenous administration Management for over 25 years. Former Band Manager, Director of Crisis Center, First Nation Policing and Director of Community Culture and Heritage. Jeff is a Mi’kmaq Knowledge keeper. He is a leader in the White Eagle Sundance. A Lodge keeper, drum keeper/maker, conductor of ceremonies, talking circles and justice circles with over 30 years of experience. Jeff enjoys a Bachelor of Arts degree in Community Studies from Cape Breton University. He is a graduate of the Holland College Police Science Cadet Program and Regina Depot of the R.C.M.P., as well numerous certificates and training. Jeff is a training Partner with the Canadian Red Cross and an Instructor of First Aid - CPR.

Session Description:

In this session, we will quickly review the UDL 3.0 guidelines and explore the vertical and horizontal frameworks. From there, we will explore the Top 10 UDL Tips to use in your learning environment (aligned with UDL considerations). We will finish off with time to review a Padlet toolbox; something to do, something to read, something to watch, and something to listen. Please bring your choice of tech- headphones/earbuds and tablets/ laptop or mobile phone.

About the Presenter

Heather Avery, (she/her), is a Learning Specialist in Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and Interventions Instructional Support for the Education Support Services Branch of the Anglophone Sector, Department of Education and Early Childhood Development, for the Government of New Brunswick. Heather holds a degree in education, a Master of Education in Exceptional Learners and a postgraduate certificate in UDL. With over twenty years of experience spanning kindergarten through post-secondary education, she has served in various roles in New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, including classroom teacher, resource teacher, accessibility advisor, and learning strategist. Heather is deeply committed to fostering inclusive education where all learners can thrive. Her work is driven by a passion for inclusion, accessibility and the belief that every learner deserves meaningful opportunities to succeed.

Session Description:

Drawing on a multi-year Atlantic Canadian research project examining tuition waivers and post-secondary pathways for care-experienced youth (see more here), this session translates findings into practical implications for K–12 educators. While tuition waivers remove financial barriers, the project highlights that funding alone is not enough. Students also need inclusive educational experiences that create the conditions for pursuing future educational opportunities through belonging, relationships, coordinated supports, and meaningful opportunities to participate. Inclusive learning environments are strengthened when educators recognize how child protection and other intersecting systems shape students’ educational experiences. Building on this understanding, the session highlights practical ways educators can foster belonging, reduce barriers, and help open pathways to futures that reflect students' strengths, interests, and aspirations. 

• BIO - Kristyn Anderson (she/her) holds master’s degrees in Child and Youth studies, Social Work, is a Registered Marriage and Family Therapist, and a PhD in Health candidate at Dalhousie University.   She is currently the SchoolsPlus Integrated Services Regional Coordinator for the Western Zone, completes emergency mental health assessments at the IWK, and is a resident of Kwesawatqek.  Over the past 20 years, she has had the privilege of learning from and working with youth developing in a variety of environments; from community, to school, to hospital, to custody.  A firm believer in integrated, child-centred approaches to practice, she uses her rich frontline, response driven experiences to advocate for early intervention, implementation, and evaluation of national and international promising practices for priority Nova Scotian youth.   On evenings and weekends, she actively explores and enjoys her community with family, friends, and her perfect dog😊
  
  
• Dr. Ellen Carter is an Assistant Professor in the Faculty of Education at St. Francis Xavier University. Her teaching and research centre inclusive education, with a focus on asset-based, trauma-informed, healing-centered, and neuro-affirming approaches that nurture relationships and meaningful learning. She brings classroom experience from a range of educational contexts across Nova Scotia, and is a dedicated advocate for children and youth in care. Ellen is also a parent, foster caregiver, and foster caregiver trainer with the Federation of Foster Families of Nova Scotia. Her professional and personal experiences reflect a deep commitment to communities in which every child is known, valued, and supported to grow.

Session Description:

This professional development workshop introduces educators to Light in the Forest, a multi-faceted well-being initiative that supports emotional health through the intersection of art, nature, and self-care. The session is designed to be inspiring, practical, and immediately applicable in classroom settings. The workshop begins with a brief overview of the Light in the Forest project and its companion resource, the Light in the Forest/ Comfort Tree Digital Guide. Grounded in well- researched approaches to self-care and emotional well-being, the guide offers 30 art and nature-based activities, including 5 creative art games and 25 low-skill, high-impact projects that are accessible to both educators and students. While the activities are primarily designed for Primary to Grade 3 learners, they can be easily adapted for older students and diverse learning contexts. During the session, I will discuss practical strategies for modifying the activities to suit various age groups. The guide is structured around five key areas of self-care, supporting emotional awareness, self-soothing, creativity, and connection to the natural world. Educators will explore how these practices can be integrated into daily classroom routines, wellness programming, and cross-curricular learning. The session concludes with a live, interactive art experience, drawn directly from the digital guide, allowing participants to engage firsthand in the creative process. Educators will also be introduced to the Light in the Forest App, which further supports well-being through art- and nature-based engagement. Both the digital guide and the app are provided at no cost to all participants. The presentation is visually rich and engaging, featuring colourful animations inspired by nature, live art creation, and a positive, inclusive tone.

About the Presenter

Holly Carr is a nationally acclaimed visual and performance artist known for her distinctive silk painting practice and immersive, large-scale installations. She has exhibited extensively in solo and group exhibitions across Canada and has designed sets for theatre productions and major public art installations. In 2019, Holly received a Theatre Nova Scotia Merritt Award for Outstanding Set Design for Half Cracked, a Neptune Theatre and Eastern Front collaboration. Her performance practice includes live painting with orchestras and musicians, including Symphony Nova Scotia, the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, the Toledo Symphony Orchestra, the National Arts Centre Orchestra and a cross Canada tour with Stuart McLean and the VinylCafe. Holly has toured internationally, exhibiting, teaching, and performing in Peru, Hong Kong, and Singapore. Her most ambitious installation to date, Light in the Forest, is a larger-than-life environment constructed from painted silk. Originally created for the Acadia University Art Gallery, the work has since evolved into a multimedia emotional well-being production that Holly toured throughout Nova Scotia. Light in the Forest is also an award-winning children’s book and companion app. Holly has partnered with the Nova Scotia Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions to create a permanent touring Light in the Forest exhibit, which was presented at the Nova Scotia Museum of Natural History in fall 2024 and at the Acadia University Art Gallery in fall 2025. In collaboration with the Portapique Community and the Canadian Mental Health Association (Nova Scotia Division), she created The Comfort Tree, a story trail Project in Portapique. It is being developed as a live production and has been published as a children’s book, selected by the Canadian Children’s Book Centre as one of the Best Children’s Books of Spring 2025. Holly has been piloting the Light in the Forest/Comfort Tree Digital guide with 200 youth in Kings County. In recognition of her work with youth and mental wellness, Holly was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal in November 2024. Her work is held in numerous public and private collections. Holly has a B.F.A and B.A.Ed. from NSCAD University www.hollycarr.com; www.lightintheforest.ca

Session Description:

Music, movement and mindfulness are powerful regulating tools for both children and their caring adults. This interactive presentation will include practical tips for using music, movement and mindfulness to connect with students of all ages, as well as for teachers' own self care. The presentation will weave music throughout, blending Anna’s songs with Heather’s traditional fiddle playing, and include a mix of upbeat and playful tunes, along with some more mindful and therapeutic songs. Teachers will learn simple activities and strategies for incorporating bite-sized music, movement & mindfulness into their classrooms, as well as experience how engaging in these activities themselves makes them (the teachers) feel. No musical or movement experience necessary!

About the Presenters:

Anna Plaskett, BMus, CMT, MTA Anna is a musician and music therapist based in Punamu'kwati'jk/Dartmouth. She has played and sung backup with numerous recording artists over the past 20 years and released her debut solo children’s album “To the Moon and Back” in 2017. In addition to her training as a Certified Music Therapist, Anna has completed a Level 1 Certification in ‘Adapted Spiral Praxis’ - a motor program for working with children with physical disabilities based on holistic body-mind principles, and is a Certified Facilitator of the ‘Yogapalooza’ Kids Yoga, Music & Mindfulness Program. In her practice, Anna works towards helping people of all ages and levels of ability to experience the power of music and movement to tap into the wellness that exists within themselves.

Heather Cameron, BA, CMT, MTA Heather was brought up surrounded by music in Pictou County. The fiddle, guitar, bagpipes and piano became her constant companions, and early on she developed a beautiful, soulful voice. Heather knew well the power of music to reach people, which led her to study music therapy. This brought her out west where she further developed her musicianship, and professional skills as a creative arts therapist. In the last decade, Heather returned home with her passion for music therapy in check, creating work, both independently and with Nova Scotia Health; and has established herself as a professional performing and recording artist.

Session Description:

Discover how the University of Florida Literacy Institute (UFLI) can transform reading instruction and intervention in your classroom. In this session, presenters will explore UFLI’s key components and demonstrate practical strategies for integrating them into daily instruction and targeted interventions for struggling readers. Participants will also examine various types of assessments and learn how they support the collaborative problem-solving model to meet the needs of all learners. The session features real classroom examples and dedicated time for interactive discussion and questions.

About the Presenter:

Christine Gillis Christine has been an educator for 24 years in lower elementary. She taught Grade 1 for 23 of those years and most recently started working as an Elementary Literacy Support Teacher. She works primarily with students in grades primary and 1 who have been identified as experiencing reading difficulties. Christine has a Masters degree in Curriculum and Planning and has recently completed a Masters of Literacy with a focus on the Science of Reading at Mount Saint Vincent University. Erin Mosher Erin has been an educator for 20 years. She has been a Resource Teacher for the past 12 years. Erin has a Masters degree in Curriculum Studies and has recently completed a Masters of Literacy with a focus on the Science of Reading at Mount Saint Vincent University. She is passionate about teaching young children how to read.

Session Description:

You won’t walk away with a lesson plan or a new acronym, but you will hopefully leave with deeper understanding, greater empathy, and the desire to make compassionate, lasting connections, thanks to the power of storytelling. Mothers parenting Autistic children are at particular risk of developing broken-trust relationships with the school system, leading them to withdraw from their children’s educational journey, to the detriment of the students in our care. Throughout her research, the presenter spent many hours listening to the stories of women in this very situation. She also has a few stories of her own. The common themes that emerge from these narratives, which will be shared in this presentation, serve as a roadmap from which we as educators can ensure that all families feel valued and understood.

About the Presenter:

Carly Sutherland is a classroom teacher and recent graduate of Memorial University, where her thesis explored family-school relationships for mothers of Autistic children. She is the parent of an autistic teenage son and brings both lived experience and research-based insight to her work. A former Advocate of the Year (although she was too overwhelmed and tired to accept the award in person), she has spent countless hours listening to the stories of women who have felt let down by the school system. In her presentation she uses storytelling to build empathy and practical guidance, sharing common themes from those narratives as a roadmap for educators to create compassionate, trusting partnerships with families.

Session Description:

In this presentation, you will experience shared laughter, hear recent research on workplace health, and take away some practical approaches that can be integrated into personal wellness.

Patrick will explore three key questions:
• Is mental wellness given the same consideration as physical wellness?
• How can educational teams find meaningful ways of handling setbacks and stressful situations?
• What are some practical strategies we can personally adopt to handle information overload?

“Patrick’s presentation on Workplace Mental Health was highly entertaining with great messages. His use of humour mixed well with the topic and clearly demonstrated the need for humour in the workplace and life in general. These messages are so relevant in the world we live in today.”
Judy Hughes, President, Canadian Mental Health Association PEI

About the Presenter:

Patrick Ledwell is a comedian and writer, featured regularly on CBC Radio’s hit show The Debaters. He is also an educator and designer, with a diverse background in new media teaching. Sometimes, those mindsets stay on their own side. Sometimes, they work closer together.

Since 2020, he has been serving as an Instructional Designer with the Curriculum Services team at Holland College. At Holland College, he collaborates with teachers to design learning in changing and supportive ways.

 Ledwell holds a Masters in English Literature from Dalhousie, and received his Masters in Information Design and Technology from Georgia Tech.

He works every day with the hope that learning and laughter don’t need to happen separately.

Hybrid Session Description:

Matthew Corkum shares his personal journey of living with cerebral palsy, offering crucial insights for educators on effectively supporting all students, particularly those with disabilities. The talk emphasizes that a 'one-size-fits-all' approach to student accommodations is ineffective. By providing tailored, appropriate accommodations, the education system can empower every student to achieve their highest level of learning.

About the Presenter:

Adventurer, Disability Advocate and Meteorologist Matthew Corkum is a dynamic and passionate keynote speaker who fearlessly tackles difficult topics. Hailing from Bridgewater, Nova Scotia, he embodies a lifelong drive to excel in diverse settings, despite living with cerebral palsy. He brings a wealth of professional experience, including a PhD in atmospheric science and 13 years as head meteorologist at a leading Calgary Hedge fund. Beyond his technical expertise, Matthew speaks candidly about his personal experiences with exclusion, bullying, and discrimination. Matthew is actively involved in advocacy and community leadership. His roles include past membership on the City of Calgary’s Advisory Committee on Accessibility, President of Rocky Mountain Adaptive (RMA), and Community Advisory Member for Calgary Adapted Hub. With a contagious smile and a knack for one-line jokes, Matthew often lightens the mood as he shares stories of learning to ski, including becoming a park skier who performs jumps and tricks. He is not a typical disability advocate. Drawing on his 13 years in the corporate world, Matthew Corkum helps businesses see the tangible advantages of hiring people with disabilities, repositioning it as an asset rather than a burden. He also offers critical insights into the education system, discussing his challenges with writing and providing actionable advice for educators to better support all students. Finally, he shares real-life examples of how the healthcare system has both succeeded and failed him, offering practical recommendations for healthcare professionals on how to best support individuals with disabilities in their healthcare journey.

Session Description:

An Indigenous path to Decolonization - The 5 steps to Decolonization infused with the 7 sacred teachings. How can we work together to learn and share a path forward? Sharing teachings of our ancestors in balance of today’s Pedagogy. A deeper understanding of the Medicine wheel and the colors of elements versus today’s colors and teachings. How to seek balance and respect for Spiritual teachings.

About the Presenter:

 Jeff Ward is the General Manager, Membertou Heritage Park and experienced in the field of Indigenous administration Management for over 25 years. Former Band Manager, Director of Crisis Center, First Nation Policing and Director of Community Culture and Heritage. Jeff is a Mi’kmaq Knowledge keeper. He is a leader in the White Eagle Sundance. A Lodge keeper, drum keeper/maker, conductor of ceremonies, talking circles and justice circles with over 30 years of experience. Jeff enjoys a Bachelor of Arts degree in Community Studies from Cape Breton University. He is a graduate of the Holland College Police Science Cadet Program and Regina Depot of the R.C.M.P., as well numerous certificates and training. Jeff is a training Partner with the Canadian Red Cross and an Instructor of First Aid - CPR.

Session Description:

In this session, we will quickly review the UDL 3.0 guidelines and explore the vertical and horizontal frameworks. From there, we will explore the Top 10 UDL Tips to use in your learning environment (aligned with UDL considerations). We will finish off with time to review a Padlet toolbox; something to do, something to read, something to watch, and something to listen. Please bring your choice of tech- headphones/earbuds and tablets/ laptop or mobile phone.

About the Presenter:

Heather Avery, (she/her), is a Learning Specialist in Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and Interventions Instructional Support for the Education Support Services Branch of the Anglophone Sector, Department of Education and Early Childhood Development, for the Government of New Brunswick. Heather holds a degree in education, a Master of Education in Exceptional Learners and a postgraduate certificate in UDL. With over twenty years of experience spanning kindergarten through post-secondary education, she has served in various roles in New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, including classroom teacher, resource teacher, accessibility advisor, and learning strategist. Heather is deeply committed to fostering inclusive education where all learners can thrive. Her work is driven by a passion for inclusion, accessibility and the belief that every learner deserves meaningful opportunities to succeed.

Session Description:

Drawing on a multi-year Atlantic Canadian research project examining tuition waivers and post-secondary pathways for care-experienced youth (see more here), this session translates findings into practical implications for K–12 educators. While tuition waivers remove financial barriers, the project highlights that funding alone is not enough. Students also need inclusive educational experiences that create the conditions for pursuing future educational opportunities through belonging, relationships, coordinated supports, and meaningful opportunities to participate. Inclusive learning environments are strengthened when educators recognize how child protection and other intersecting systems shape students’ educational experiences. Building on this understanding, the session highlights practical ways educators can foster belonging, reduce barriers, and help open pathways to futures that reflect students' strengths, interests, and aspirations. 

• BIO - Kristyn Anderson (she/her) holds master’s degrees in Child and Youth studies, Social Work, is a Registered Marriage and Family Therapist, and a PhD in Health candidate at Dalhousie University.   She is currently the SchoolsPlus Integrated Services Regional Coordinator for the Western Zone, completes emergency mental health assessments at the IWK, and is a resident of Kwesawatqek.  Over the past 20 years, she has had the privilege of learning from and working with youth developing in a variety of environments; from community, to school, to hospital, to custody.  A firm believer in integrated, child-centred approaches to practice, she uses her rich frontline, response driven experiences to advocate for early intervention, implementation, and evaluation of national and international promising practices for priority Nova Scotian youth.   On evenings and weekends, she actively explores and enjoys her community with family, friends, and her perfect dog😊
• Dr. Ellen Carter is an Assistant Professor in the Faculty of Education at St. Francis Xavier University. Her teaching and research centre inclusive education, with a focus on asset-based, trauma-informed, healing-centered, and neuro-affirming approaches that nurture relationships and meaningful learning. She brings classroom experience from a range of educational contexts across Nova Scotia, and is a dedicated advocate for children and youth in care. Ellen is also a parent, foster caregiver, and foster caregiver trainer with the Federation of Foster Families of Nova Scotia. Her professional and personal experiences reflect a deep commitment to communities in which every child is known, valued, and supported to grow.

Session Description:

This professional development workshop introduces educators to Light in the Forest, a multi-faceted well-being initiative that supports emotional health through the intersection of art, nature, and self-care. The session is designed to be inspiring, practical, and immediately applicable in classroom settings. The workshop begins with a brief overview of the Light in the Forest project and its companion resource, the Light in the Forest/ Comfort Tree Digital Guide. Grounded in well- researched approaches to self-care and emotional well-being, the guide offers 30 art and nature-based activities, including 5 creative art games and 25 low-skill, high-impact projects that are accessible to both educators and students. While the activities are primarily designed for Primary to Grade 3 learners, they can be easily adapted for older students and diverse learning contexts. During the session, I will discuss practical strategies for modifying the activities to suit various age groups. The guide is structured around five key areas of self-care, supporting emotional awareness, self-soothing, creativity, and connection to the natural world. Educators will explore how these practices can be integrated into daily classroom routines, wellness programming, and cross-curricular learning. The session concludes with a live, interactive art experience, drawn directly from the digital guide, allowing participants to engage firsthand in the creative process. Educators will also be introduced to the Light in the Forest App, which further supports well-being through art- and nature-based engagement. Both the digital guide and the app are provided at no cost to all participants. The presentation is visually rich and engaging, featuring colourful animations inspired by nature, live art creation, and a positive, inclusive tone.

About the Presenter

Holly Carr is a nationally acclaimed visual and performance artist known for her distinctive silk painting practice and immersive, large-scale installations. She has exhibited extensively in solo and group exhibitions across Canada and has designed sets for theatre productions and major public art installations. In 2019, Holly received a Theatre Nova Scotia Merritt Award for Outstanding Set Design for Half Cracked, a Neptune Theatre and Eastern Front collaboration. Her performance practice includes live painting with orchestras and musicians, including Symphony Nova Scotia, the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, the Toledo Symphony Orchestra, the National Arts Centre Orchestra and a cross Canada tour with Stuart McLean and the VinylCafe. Holly has toured internationally, exhibiting, teaching, and performing in Peru, Hong Kong, and Singapore. Her most ambitious installation to date, Light in the Forest, is a larger-than-life environment constructed from painted silk. Originally created for the Acadia University Art Gallery, the work has since evolved into a multimedia emotional well-being production that Holly toured throughout Nova Scotia. Light in the Forest is also an award-winning children’s book and companion app. Holly has partnered with the Nova Scotia Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions to create a permanent touring Light in the Forest exhibit, which was presented at the Nova Scotia Museum of Natural History in fall 2024 and at the Acadia University Art Gallery in fall 2025. In collaboration with the Portapique Community and the Canadian Mental Health Association (Nova Scotia Division), she created The Comfort Tree, a story trail Project in Portapique. It is being developed as a live production and has been published as a children’s book, selected by the Canadian Children’s Book Centre as one of the Best Children’s Books of Spring 2025. Holly has been piloting the Light in the Forest/Comfort Tree Digital guide with 200 youth in Kings County. In recognition of her work with youth and mental wellness, Holly was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal in November 2024. Her work is held in numerous public and private collections. Holly has a B.F.A and B.A.Ed. from NSCAD University www.hollycarr.com; www.lightintheforest.ca

Session Description:

Discover how the University of Florida Literacy Institute (UFLI) can transform reading instruction and intervention in your classroom. In this session, presenters will explore UFLI’s key components and demonstrate practical strategies for integrating them into daily instruction and targeted interventions for struggling readers. Participants will also examine various types of assessments and learn how they support the collaborative problem-solving model to meet the needs of all learners. The session features real classroom examples and dedicated time for interactive discussion and questions. 

About the Presenter:

Christine Gillis Christine has been an educator for 24 years in lower elementary. She taught Grade 1 for 23 of those years and most recently started working as an Elementary Literacy Support Teacher. She works primarily with students in grades primary and 1 who have been identified as experiencing reading difficulties. Christine has a Masters degree in Curriculum and Planning and has recently completed a Masters of Literacy with a focus on the Science of Reading at Mount Saint Vincent University. Erin Mosher Erin has been an educator for 20 years. She has been a Resource Teacher for the past 12 years. Erin has a Masters degree in Curriculum Studies and has recently completed a Masters of Literacy with a focus on the Science of Reading at Mount Saint Vincent University. She is passionate about teaching young children how to read.

Session Description:

You won’t walk away with a lesson plan or a new acronym, but you will hopefully leave with deeper understanding, greater empathy, and the desire to make compassionate, lasting connections, thanks to the power of storytelling. Mothers parenting Autistic children are at particular risk of developing broken-trust relationships with the school system, leading them to withdraw from their children’s educational journey, to the detriment of the students in our care. Throughout her research, the presenter spent many hours listening to the stories of women in this very situation. She also has a few stories of her own. The common themes that emerge from these narratives, which will be shared in this presentation, serve as a roadmap from which we as educators can ensure that all families feel valued and understood. 

About the Presenter:

Carly Sutherland is a classroom teacher and recent graduate of Memorial University, where her thesis explored family-school relationships for mothers of Autistic children. She is the parent of an autistic teenage son and brings both lived experience and research-based insight to her work. A former Advocate of the Year (although she was too overwhelmed and tired to accept the award in person), she has spent countless hours listening to the stories of women who have felt let down by the school system. In her presentation she uses storytelling to build empathy and practical guidance, sharing common themes from those narratives as a roadmap for educators to create compassionate, trusting partnerships with families.

Session Description:

In this presentation, you will experience shared laughter, hear recent research on workplace health, and take away some practical approaches that can be integrated into personal wellness.

Patrick will explore three key questions:
• Is mental wellness given the same consideration as physical wellness?
• How can educational teams find meaningful ways of handling setbacks and stressful situations?
• What are some practical strategies we can personally adopt to handle information overload?

“Patrick’s presentation on Workplace Mental Health was highly entertaining with great messages. His use of humour mixed well with the topic and clearly demonstrated the need for humour in the workplace and life in general. These messages are so relevant in the world we live in today.”
Judy Hughes, President, Canadian Mental Health Association PEI

About the Presenter:

Patrick Ledwell is a comedian and writer, featured regularly on CBC Radio’s hit show The Debaters. He is also an educator and designer, with a diverse background in new media teaching. Sometimes, those mindsets stay on their own side. Sometimes, they work closer together.

Since 2020, he has been serving as an Instructional Designer with the Curriculum Services team at Holland College. At Holland College, he collaborates with teachers to design learning in changing and supportive ways.

 Ledwell holds a Masters in English Literature from Dalhousie, and received his Masters in Information Design and Technology from Georgia Tech.

He works every day with the hope that learning and laughter don’t need to happen separately.

Session Description:

Matthew Corkum shares his personal journey of living with cerebral palsy, offering crucial insights for educators on effectively supporting all students, particularly those with disabilities. The talk emphasizes that a 'one-size-fits-all' approach to student accommodations is ineffective. By providing tailored, appropriate accommodations, the education system can empower every student to achieve their highest level of learning.

About the Presenter:

Adventurer, Disability Advocate and Meteorologist Matthew Corkum is a dynamic and passionate keynote speaker who fearlessly tackles difficult topics. Hailing from Bridgewater, Nova Scotia, he embodies a lifelong drive to excel in diverse settings, despite living with cerebral palsy. He brings a wealth of professional experience, including a PhD in atmospheric science and 13 years as head meteorologist at a leading Calgary Hedge fund. Beyond his technical expertise, Matthew speaks candidly about his personal experiences with exclusion, bullying, and discrimination. Matthew is actively involved in advocacy and community leadership. His roles include past membership on the City of Calgary’s Advisory Committee on Accessibility, President of Rocky Mountain Adaptive (RMA), and Community Advisory Member for Calgary Adapted Hub. With a contagious smile and a knack for one-line jokes, Matthew often lightens the mood as he shares stories of learning to ski, including becoming a park skier who performs jumps and tricks. He is not a typical disability advocate. Drawing on his 13 years in the corporate world, Matthew Corkum helps businesses see the tangible advantages of hiring people with disabilities, repositioning it as an asset rather than a burden. He also offers critical insights into the education system, discussing his challenges with writing and providing actionable advice for educators to better support all students. Finally, he shares real-life examples of how the healthcare system has both succeeded and failed him, offering practical recommendations for healthcare professionals on how to best support individuals with disabilities in their healthcare journey.

Hybrid Session Description:

Music, movement and mindfulness are powerful regulating tools for both children and their caring adults. This interactive presentation will include practical tips for using music, movement and mindfulness to connect with students of all ages, as well as for teachers' own self care. The presentation will weave music throughout, blending Anna’s songs with Heather’s traditional fiddle playing, and include a mix of upbeat and playful tunes, along with some more mindful and therapeutic songs. Teachers will learn simple activities and strategies for incorporating bite-sized music, movement & mindfulness into their classrooms, as well as experience how engaging in these activities themselves makes them (the teachers) feel. No musical or movement experience necessary!

About the Presenters:

Anna Plaskett, BMus, CMT, MTA Anna is a musician and music therapist based in Punamu'kwati'jk/Dartmouth. She has played and sung backup with numerous recording artists over the past 20 years and released her debut solo children’s album “To the Moon and Back” in 2017. In addition to her training as a Certified Music Therapist, Anna has completed a Level 1 Certification in ‘Adapted Spiral Praxis’ - a motor program for working with children with physical disabilities based on holistic body-mind principles, and is a Certified Facilitator of the ‘Yogapalooza’ Kids Yoga, Music & Mindfulness Program. In her practice, Anna works towards helping people of all ages and levels of ability to experience the power of music and movement to tap into the wellness that exists within themselves.

Heather Cameron, BA, CMT, MTA Heather was brought up surrounded by music in Pictou County. The fiddle, guitar, bagpipes and piano became her constant companions, and early on she developed a beautiful, soulful voice. Heather knew well the power of music to reach people, which led her to study music therapy. This brought her out west where she further developed her musicianship, and professional skills as a creative arts therapist. In the last decade, Heather returned home with her passion for music therapy in check, creating work, both independently and with Nova Scotia Health; and has established herself as a professional performing and recording artist.

Session Description: An Indigenous path to Decolonization - The 5 steps to Decolonization infused with the 7 sacred teachings. How can we work together to learn and share a path forward? Sharing teachings of our ancestors in balance of today’s Pedagogy. A deeper understanding of the Medicine wheel and the colors of elements versus today’s colors and teachings. How to seek balance and respect for Spiritual teachings.

About the Presenter:

Jeff Ward is the General Manager, Membertou Heritage Park and experienced in the field of Indigenous administration Management for over 25 years. Former Band Manager, Director of Crisis Center, First Nation Policing and Director of Community Culture and Heritage. Jeff is a Mi’kmaq Knowledge keeper. He is a leader in the White Eagle Sundance. A Lodge keeper, drum keeper/maker, conductor of ceremonies, talking circles and justice circles with over 30 years of experience. Jeff enjoys a Bachelor of Arts degree in Community Studies from Cape Breton University. He is a graduate of the Holland College Police Science Cadet Program and Regina Depot of the R.C.M.P., as well numerous certificates and training. Jeff is a training Partner with the Canadian Red Cross and an Instructor of First Aid - CPR.

Session Description:

In this session, we will explore Ludia, a GenAI tool. Ludia was created in accordance with UDL 3.0 guidelines and can be used to explore how to implement and sustain your UDL practice as a thought partner. Time will be provided to explore Ludia and check out the LiveBinder. Please bring your choice of tech- headphones/earbuds and tablets/ laptop or mobile phone to explore the AI tool.

About the Presenter:

Heather Avery, pronouns she/her, is a Learning Specialist in Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and Interventions Instructional Support for the Education Support Services Branch of the Anglophone Sector, Department of Education and Early Childhood Development, for the Government of New Brunswick. Heather holds a degree in education, a Master of Education in Exceptional Learners and a postgraduate certificate in UDL. With over twenty years of experience spanning kindergarten through post-secondary education, she has served in various roles in New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, including classroom teacher, resource teacher, accessibility advisor, and learning strategist. Heather is deeply committed to fostering inclusive education where all learners can thrive. Her work is driven by a passion for inclusion, accessibility and the belief that every learner deserves meaningful opportunities to succeed.

Session Description:

Drawing on a multi-year Atlantic Canadian research project examining tuition waivers and post-secondary pathways for care-experienced youth (see more here), this session translates findings into practical implications for K–12 educators. While tuition waivers remove financial barriers, the project highlights that funding alone is not enough. Students also need inclusive educational experiences that create the conditions for pursuing future educational opportunities through belonging, relationships, coordinated supports, and meaningful opportunities to participate. Inclusive learning environments are strengthened when educators recognize how child protection and other intersecting systems shape students’ educational experiences. Building on this understanding, the session highlights practical ways educators can foster belonging, reduce barriers, and help open pathways to futures that reflect students' strengths, interests, and aspirations. 

• BIO - Kristyn Anderson (she/her) holds master’s degrees in Child and Youth studies, Social Work, is a Registered Marriage and Family Therapist, and a PhD in Health candidate at Dalhousie University.   She is currently the SchoolsPlus Integrated Services Regional Coordinator for the Western Zone, completes emergency mental health assessments at the IWK, and is a resident of Kwesawatqek.  Over the past 20 years, she has had the privilege of learning from and working with youth developing in a variety of environments; from community, to school, to hospital, to custody.  A firm believer in integrated, child-centred approaches to practice, she uses her rich frontline, response driven experiences to advocate for early intervention, implementation, and evaluation of national and international promising practices for priority Nova Scotian youth.   On evenings and weekends, she actively explores and enjoys her community with family, friends, and her perfect dog😊
  
  
• Dr. Ellen Carter is an Assistant Professor in the Faculty of Education at St. Francis Xavier University. Her teaching and research centre inclusive education, with a focus on asset-based, trauma-informed, healing-centered, and neuro-affirming approaches that nurture relationships and meaningful learning. She brings classroom experience from a range of educational contexts across Nova Scotia, and is a dedicated advocate for children and youth in care. Ellen is also a parent, foster caregiver, and foster caregiver trainer with the Federation of Foster Families of Nova Scotia. Her professional and personal experiences reflect a deep commitment to communities in which every child is known, valued, and supported to grow.

Session Description:

This professional development workshop introduces educators to Light in the Forest, a multi-faceted well-being initiative that supports emotional health through the intersection of art, nature, and self-care. The session is designed to be inspiring, practical, and immediately applicable in classroom settings. The workshop begins with a brief overview of the Light in the Forest project and its companion resource, the Light in the Forest/ Comfort Tree Digital Guide. Grounded in well- researched approaches to self-care and emotional well-being, the guide offers 30 art and nature-based activities, including 5 creative art games and 25 low-skill, high-impact projects that are accessible to both educators and students. While the activities are primarily designed for Primary to Grade 3 learners, they can be easily adapted for older students and diverse learning contexts. During the session, I will discuss practical strategies for modifying the activities to suit various age groups. The guide is structured around five key areas of self-care, supporting emotional awareness, self-soothing, creativity, and connection to the natural world. Educators will explore how these practices can be integrated into daily classroom routines, wellness programming, and cross-curricular learning. The session concludes with a live, interactive art experience, drawn directly from the digital guide, allowing participants to engage firsthand in the creative process. Educators will also be introduced to the Light in the Forest App, which further supports well-being through art- and nature-based engagement. Both the digital guide and the app are provided at no cost to all participants. The presentation is visually rich and engaging, featuring colourful animations inspired by nature, live art creation, and a positive, inclusive tone.

About the Presenter:

Holly Carr is a nationally acclaimed visual and performance artist known for her distinctive silk painting practice and immersive, large-scale installations. She has exhibited extensively in solo and group exhibitions across Canada and has designed sets for theatre productions and major public art installations. In 2019, Holly received a Theatre Nova Scotia Merritt Award for Outstanding Set Design for Half Cracked, a Neptune Theatre and Eastern Front collaboration. Her performance practice includes live painting with orchestras and musicians, including Symphony Nova Scotia, the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, the Toledo Symphony Orchestra, the National Arts Centre Orchestra and a cross Canada tour with Stuart McLean and the VinylCafe. Holly has toured internationally, exhibiting, teaching, and performing in Peru, Hong Kong, and Singapore. Her most ambitious installation to date, Light in the Forest, is a larger-than-life environment constructed from painted silk. Originally created for the Acadia University Art Gallery, the work has since evolved into a multimedia emotional well-being production that Holly toured throughout Nova Scotia. Light in the Forest is also an award-winning children’s book and companion app. Holly has partnered with the Nova Scotia Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions to create a permanent touring Light in the Forest exhibit, which was presented at the Nova Scotia Museum of Natural History in fall 2024 and at the Acadia University Art Gallery in fall 2025. In collaboration with the Portapique Community and the Canadian Mental Health Association (Nova Scotia Division), she created The Comfort Tree, a story trail Project in Portapique. It is being developed as a live production and has been published as a children’s book, selected by the Canadian Children’s Book Centre as one of the Best Children’s Books of Spring 2025. Holly has been piloting the Light in the Forest/Comfort Tree Digital guide with 200 youth in Kings County. In recognition of her work with youth and mental wellness, Holly was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal in November 2024. Her work is held in numerous public and private collections. Holly has a B.F.A and B.A.Ed. from NSCAD University www.hollycarr.com; www.lightintheforest.ca