Thursday March 6, 2025

8:00 AM

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Ballroom

Breakfast

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ABOUT SESSION

9:00 AM

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Ballroom

Opening Ceremonies

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ABOUT SESSION

9:00 AM

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Strategic Planning

Katie Hughdie

Katie is an Ontario Certified Teacher with Specialist Qualifications in Special Education and Guidance. These qualifications, as well as her varied teaching experience throughout Northwestern Ontario, have sparked her interest and passion for helping students achieve academic success. When she is not teaching and learning, Katie spends a lot of time outside walking, running, cross country skiing and camping.

Stephanie Hogan

Stephanie was born and raised in Thunder Bay and has a passion for Education. She is a registered Early Childhood Educator with a degree in English and certification in Resource Teaching. These avenues led to her work with Matawa Education as the Education Coordinator. Over the past 5 years Stephanie has worked closely with the Executive Director of Education assisting in advising Matawa First Nations Management, Matawa First Nations political leadership, and Matawa First Nations Education Authorities on matters related to education, early learning, elementary, secondary and post-secondary levels. Outside of work Stephanie enjoys all seasons of our beautiful city through hiking, downhill skiing, fishing and camping with family.

Shelby Ch’ng

Shelby Ch’ng has been the Matawa Education Partnerships Program Liaison since February 2022. She is currently in her third term on Thunder Bay City Council and is a Master’s student at the University of Mount Saint Vincent in Halifax, Nova Scotia. She was previously a business owner for 9 years and holds a HBA in Political Science from Lakehead University. In her spare time, Shelby writes short plays for Magnus Theatre 10x10 production, paints landscapes, and hangs out with her cat. She is also a proud member of the 2SLGBTQ+ community.

ABOUT SESSION

10:15 AM

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Movement & Nutrition Break

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ABOUT SESSION

10:30 AM

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Session Block 1

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ABOUT SESSION

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Scandia

Connected North Feather Carving (#2)

Katie Burch

Katie Burch is an educator with over 20 years of experience, dedicated to supporting remote and Indigenous communities. As a leader with Connected North, she helps bridge cultural knowledge and education through virtual learning. Katie works closely with teachers and students, fostering meaningful connections and creating engaging, impactful learning opportunities tailored to diverse needs.

Priscilla Boulay

Born and raised in Tuktoyaktuk, Northwest Territories, Priscilla is the firstborn of Maryanne Taylor-Reid. Her journey into Inuvialuit art began at age 3 when her Uncle Derrald gave her a carving to sand and polish. Her unique carving style reflects Inuvialuit traditions like hunting, fishing, and Arctic wildlife. She balances urban life while passing her culture to her daughters.

ABOUT SESSION

Discover the possibilities of Connected North with Katie Burch and explore the art of feather carving with Inuit carver Priscilla Boulay. Learn how Connected North connects communities with virtual learning opportunities, then create your own carved feather while Priscilla shares carving techniques and the cultural significance of this beautiful Indigenous art form.

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Viking

Reducing Aggression & Bullying in Schools - A Self-Reg Approach to De-escalating and Managing Behaviour

Sheri Hopkins, Shannon Jessiman, Miranda Beare, Kelly McDougall

The Rapid Response Northern Schools Team is a small team of experienced educators and administrators who provides interim support to schools in First Nations communities during times of crisis so schools remain open as a safe, caring environment for students. When requested, the RRNST also offers educational support services to school staff to help foster student success and well-being.

ABOUT SESSION

Participants will learn the five steps to understanding and managing stress, including identifying hidden stressors that can cause disruptive and maladaptive behaviour in schools. Based on the work of Dr. Stuart Shanker and the Mehrit Centre, as well as the research behind Behaviour Management Systems, this session will offer school staff practical tools to help set all students up for success.

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Odin

Differentiated Instruction: Program Planning and Effective Instruction

Rita Mannella

As a teacher for SK-12, Adult Education, Language Lead and Literacy Consultant for over 30 years, my background is shaped by teaching and sharing experiences and knowledge with diverse education professionals. I’ve written curriculum, revised assessment policy documents, and presented workshops about literacy, student assessment, and curriculum design at the local, regional and provincial level.

ABOUT SESSION

It is presents research to understand learning preferences that students use to receive and process information, and includes discussion of three common learning styles: visual, auditory, kinesthetic. Participants recognizing and understanding a student’s cognitive capacity as a factor in the design and implementation of instruction, to meet student learning needs, is a key part of the workshop.

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Icelandic

Supporting Student Literacy through Structured Literacy

Annick Brewster

Annick Brewster is the Assistant Superintendent of School Effectiveness at Superior-Greenstone District School Board. A proud daughter, wife and mother to three boys, she is a passionate leader in literacy, special education, and student achievement. Annick supports inclusive practices and inspires educators and leaders to use data- informed strategies to meet the diverse needs of students.

ABOUT SESSION

Discover the transformative power of Structured Literacy! This session explores its evidence-based approach to improving reading outcomes, especially for struggling learners. Learn how to identify skill gaps, use targeted strategies, and access resources to close those gaps. Gain actionable tools to enhance literacy instruction and help every student succeed on their reading journey.

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Executive Boardroom

Planning for Your Future in Post-secondary Education

Ali Maunula

My name is Ali Maunula and I began working with Matawa Education in September 2024. My academic background is an Honours Bachelor of Outdoor Recreation, Education, and I will graduate in April with a Master of Education with specialization in Indigenous Education. I spent the last 4 years working as a high school teacher and then vice principal in Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation in northern Manitoba.

Rob Elliott

Hi there. My name is Rob Elliott, Post-Secondary Student Support Worker with the Matawa Post-Secondary program. My personal background is with Developmental and Social Services. I always try to support whomever we can, whenever we can, to promote positive outcomes for supported youth. Come check us out at the conference to learn more about the Matawa Post-Secondary program!

ABOUT SESSION

The Matawa Post-Secondary presentation will focus on the steps to success in post-secondary programs. What do you or your students need to know when applying to college and university? How do you apply for sponsorship? What are the requirements of a sponsored student? What types of programs are current Matawa post-secondary students taking? and What support services are there to support you through this process? This presentation will be interactive and allow for questions throughout.

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Boardroom 1

2Spirit and LGBTQQIA+ Histories and Experiences

Theodore Syrette

O-zha-wa A-nung Kwe/Yellow Star Woman (Teddy Syrette). Is from Rankin Reserve of Bat-che-wana First Nation of the Anishnabek. In 2021, they were honoured with the title of 2Spirit International Warrior. In 2023, Teddy’s business 2Spirit Anishnabe Storytelling & Advocacy was awarded the Indigenous Professional of the Year Award by the Sault Ste Marie Chamber of Commerce.

ABOUT SESSION

2Spirit and LGBTQQIA+ Histories and Experiences is a reflective exercise for allies and members of the community. Participants will review historical moments that have impacted the lives and generational experiences of Indigenous | 2Spirit and LGBTQQIA+ people. Information on how to build more awareness about the movement and how to be a more aware ally, will be shared within this presentation.

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Boardroom 2

Fire Safety

Morris Douglas

Matawa Fire Marshall

Monica Budiselic

Matawa Emergency Management Coordinator & Fire Marshall

ABOUT SESSION

Fire safety presentation outlining the responsibilities for Operations and Maintenance staff: keeping students, staff and visitors safe.

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Boardroom 3

JUMP Math

Elizabeth Barrett

Liz Barrett was awarded the 2016 award for Partner in Indigenous Education from INDSPIRE for her work in Indigenous communities in Canada.

Liz is a teacher, who emigrated from South Africa to Canada. Liz joined JUMP Math many years ago works and travels full time to support Math teaching across many communities in Canada. Her passion is supporting teachers and math education.

ABOUT SESSION

JUMP Math is an award-winning non-profit organization that supports outstanding Math Teaching. Our carefully planned lessons develop understanding and a love of math in students and educators. In this workshop learn how to access Ontario teacher materials at www.jumpmath.org. Build your confidence as a teacher with our easy to use lesson plans.

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Artisan Room

Birch Bark Canoes

John Ferris

My name is John Ferris. I’m a member of Constance Lake First Nation, and I have been artistically active most of my life. I have created a business Ed-Digenous Traditions that serves educational institutions with our Indigenous Learning kits which collaborates with curriculum and other programs learning Indigenous Culture.

ABOUT SESSION

Our Birchbark Canoe is a tribute to the intricate craft of Indigenous canoe-making, a skill that is becoming increasingly rare. This authentic replica, once a vital part of Indigenous life, serves as a poignant reminder of traditional methods overshadowed by modern manufacturing. It’s an excellent educational piece for teaching about Indigenous innovation and sustainability.

12:00 PM

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Lunch

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1:00 PM

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Session Block 2

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Scandia

Talking Together Program

Heather Napash

Hello to all, my name is Heather Napash and I reside in the city of Thunder Bay ON. I am also a: TALKING TOGETHER FACILITATOR/JOURNEY BACK HOME for clients living on and off reserve from NAN Communities services by NALSC. I have been employed with NALSC for about 13 years, got involved with NALSC as a placement student from Confederation College.

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William Shawanamash

Boozhoo, my name is William Shawanamash and I reside in the city of Thunder Bay ON. I am part of such a great organization; NALSC and have honorably accepted the position for: TALKING TOGETHER FACILITATOR/JOURNEY BACK HOME working the remote NAN First Nation communities. I have been employed with Tikinagan Child and Family Services 10+ years, KOSSS, Thunderbird Friendship Centre of Geraldton.

ABOUT SESSION

The Talking Together Program is an innovative method of Alternative Dispute Resolution based on Traditional Talking Circles. By bringing people together in a non-judgmental way, a plan will emerge which has the support of the family and community. This provides an alternative to the court process and returns control to First Nations concerning the planning and protection of their children.

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Viking

Learning Resources for Language and Tradition

Mary Ann Nawagesic

Mary Ann Nawagesic is Ojibway from Gull Bay First Nations. Mary Ann has dedicated her life goal to working with First Nations communities and promoting ‘Minobimaatisiiwin’. She is the Mental Health Lead at Matawa Education and Care Center. This role has given her many opportunities to promote Mental Health and Life Promotion Initiatives for the Matawa community schools. Proud highlights of programs she carries range from The Moccasin Curriculum Program, The Power of Story: Understanding Ourselves & Empowering Our Spirit Program, and the “SNAP’ in Schools Program” in our Matawa Schools. Mary Ann is also a co-facilitator with the Mental Health Champion Program that Nishnawbe Aski Nation and Kenora Patricia District School Board fund to train and support Mental Health workers for all our northern schools. Mary Ann received her education from Confederation College in Native Child and Family Services, Laurentian University in Native Human Services and completed her Master’s Degree in Indigenous Studies and Social Work with Wilfrid Laurier.

Danielle Mior

Danielle Mior is a proud member of the Red Rock Indian Band. Through her work, she advocates for Indigenous education and fosters cultural inclusion and holistic well-being. She collaborates with communities to develop curricula and resources that honour Indigenous knowledge, storytelling, and traditions.

ABOUT SESSION

This presentation will showcase resources designed for Matawa Education in collaboration with Learning Bird. These resources explore moccasins’ historical and cultural significance and Anishinaabe vocabulary development. We will look at the introduction and purpose behind these resources and how to best implement them.

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Odin

Tools for Teaching Science

Dave Fish

Dave has been a high school Physics teacher for over 30 years. He has played a leading role in the production of most of the classroom resources and programs developed by Perimeter. He has given workshops on teaching science at local, provincial, national and international levels. Dave is currently a Teacher in Residence at Perimeter Institute.

ABOUT SESSION

Interested in creative ways to make your classroom more active and effective? In this workshop, we will explore a variety of tools that will enhance student learning, based on Perimeter Institute’s resource Tools for Teaching Science. Come be a student and learn some Science while picking up some new strategies for your classroom.

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Icelandic

Cultivating Safe Spaces for Difficult Conversations

Emily Shandruk

Emily’s career spans across Canada, working in both non-profit and for-profit sectors, with a focus on philanthropy, conflict management, and employee relations. She founded Emily Shandruk Solutions in 2019, and then partnered to create Sociable Solutions in 2023. Emily specializes in non-profit consulting and employee relations.

ABOUT SESSION

We will explore how to create safe, inclusive spaces for feedback in educational and administrative settings. The goal is to learnhow to integrate four perspectives—wellbeing, inclusion, validation, and freedom; by addressing diverse needs and promoting respect, trust, and flexibility, attendees will enhance outcomes and foster a supportive environment for all.

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Executive Boardroom

New Teacher Induction Program

Wayne Mercer

35 years in education, 26 in school administration. Experience in First Nation and public schools. Member of the Ontario Principals Council, served on the provincial council and is currently the local district OPC president. Qualified Principal, Mentor coach and holds specialist in Special Education. Currently working with KPDSB and NAN to facilitate the New Teacher Induction Program.

ABOUT SESSION

This presentation will provide an overview of the NTIP program that is provided to new teachers in Ontario. Participants will explore the technical elements of the program as well as the associated teacher performance review process. The KPDSB in partnership with NAN, provides NTIP opportunities to teachers in First Nation Communities.

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Boardroom 1

Learning with Microsoft Excel: Using Macros, Formulas, and Functions to Increase Teaching and Learning

David Peddie

David Peddie has been teaching at John C. Yesno Education Centre since October 2020, with experience in intermediate, and high school. His expertise spans teaching, accounting, technology, research, and business. Holding an MBA in Management of Technology and Innovation and a bachelor’s in computer science, David is also active in his community, enjoying dancing, singing, and cooking.

ABOUT SESSION

Transform teaching with Microsoft Excel! Learn to automate tasks with macros, analyze data using PivotTables, and boost engagement with dynamic tools. Create progress dashboards, lesson plans, and real-time grading systems. Master formulas and best practices to tackle classroom challenges. Attendees get a digital guide, certificate, and bonus resources to elevate their skills in education! Participants must bring their own laptops with Excel to participate.

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Boardroom 2

Land-Based Learning at MECC

Kristen Stansell

Kristen Stansell, an OCT with 20 years of experience, recently joined the Land-Based team. Throughout her career, she has specialized in alternative, experiential, and outdoor education. Passionate about learning with students in natural settings, Kristen is dedicated to fostering growth and connection through hands-on, land-based experiences.

Eddy Baxter

Eddy Baxter, a land-based guide from Eabametoong First Nation, has a lifetime of experience in hunting, trapping, fishing, and harvesting. With four years at Matawa’s Land-Based Program, he shares his deep knowledge and skills with students, offering valuable insights rooted in his connection to the land. Eddy’s expertise and dedication are greatly appreciated by all.

ABOUT SESSION

This workshop provides an overview of the Matawa Education and Care Centre (MECC) Land-Based Program, which offers land- based learning through single and multi-day trips on Matawa territories. We’ll highlight harvesting and backcountry trips, discuss

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Boardroom 3

Reflecting Indigenous Ways of Knowing in the Provincial Curriculum

Deb McDougall

Deb McDougall, is the Curriculum Development Officer for the Matawa Education and Care Centre. Deb is constantly working with school staff, the Land-based & , Cultural Teams and the Elder’s to create reflective curriculum to support our students and educators. Deb has been an educator on the North Shore for 28 years with equity and student success as the primary focus in all she does.

Warren Woytuck

As well as his roles as a facilitator, senior editor and writer, Warren contributes to TC2 as a director. He has been a K-12 teacher and elementary principal for more than 20 years. Warren has leadership experience in government and not-for-profit organizations and co-led the development of a provincial secondary social studies curriculum. He has authored and edited several teaching and learning resources, bringing the practical experience of working with thousands of teachers to his project consultation.

ABOUT SESSION

Join us as we provide an overview of the Matawa Education and Care Centre’s work with the Critical Thinking Consortium (Tc2). Using collaboration and consultation, themes that are important to identify within a course that celebrate and strengthen Indigenous knowledge and culture are determined and integrated into course curriculum.

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Artisan Room

Birch Bark Canoes

John Ferris

ABOUT SESSION

2:30 PM

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Movement & Nutrition Break

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2:45 PM

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Ballroom

ENTERTAINMENT

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ABOUT SESSION

3:30 PM

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Ballroom

Closing Ceremonies

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ABOUT SESSION

Thursday March 6, 2025

agenda