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UGDSB educators ignite their practice at annual Learning Fair

August 29, 2016

GUELPH, Ontario – If the last few days in August have been any indication, it’s going to be a fantastic school year.

Last week, more than 400 educators gathered in Niagara for two days of inspiring talks and professional development sessions at the 2016 UGDSB Learning Fair.

The Learning Fair’s theme was IGNITE: Innovation, Growth mindset, Networking, Implementing practice, Thinking outside the box, and Ensuring success.

On Thursday, author Max Valiquette spoke to staff about connecting with students in the 21st century, the power of technology, and the need for change and evolution in education.

On Friday, Olympic gold medalist and host of the Amazing Race Canada Jon Montgomery spoke about building one’s self-efficacy value by celebrating small victories, learning to control your attitude, observing of others for inspiration, and surrounding yourself with a good support system.

Brent McDonald, Jon Montgomery and Director Martha Rogers at the 2016 Learning Fair

Pictured above (L-R): Superintendent of Education Brent McDonald, Olympic gold medalist Jon Montgomery and Director of Education Martha Rogers.

Guest break-out presentations included “What matters most in math” by Marian Small, the former Dean of Education at the University of New Brunswick, and a session on the role mathematics play in everyday life by Jason Brown, author and professor at Dalhousie University.

Staff attend a break-out session at the 2016 Learning Fair

Pictured above: Staff participate in the ‘Tongo Tower’ activity, which teaches the importance of asking ‘what’s possible?’ as educators work to maximize their abilities, resources and time while investing in the lives of their students.

UGDSB staff led their colleagues through more than 40 break-out sessions including:

The conference buzzed with excitement the entire two days as staff geared up for an engaging year ahead.

Staff attend a break-out session at the 2016 Learning Fair 2

Pictured above: Staff attend a break-out session on Technology in the 21st Century Classroom, which included hands-on learning with 3D printing, podcasting, green screen video, robotics and more.

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