Loading…
This is the Sched site for the uLead 2026. 

Welcome to uLead 2026.  We are thrilled you will be joining us at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel for our annual school leadership conference hosted by the Council for School Leadership of The Alberta Teachers’ Association.

If you have any questions during the event, we will have uLead team members throughout the venue wearing red and black plaid. The registration desk will also have our team available throughout the conference. This table can be found just outside of the Van Horne Ballroom, where all of our keynote presentations are taking place.

If you need a digital map of the facilities, you can click here

In order for our team to best determine room allocations for breakout sessions would ask that delegates log in (top right corner of this page) and select sessions that they are interested in attending.

Finally, if you are interested in earning University credits for attending uLead, please visit the uLead website
arrow_back View All Dates
Sunday, April 19
 

9:00am MDT

ULEAD CONFERENCE REGISTRATION
Sunday April 19, 2026 9:00am - 12:45pm MDT
Van Horne Foyer (Conference Centre)
Sunday April 19, 2026 9:00am - 12:45pm MDT
Van Horne Foyer (Conference Centre)
  Registration

11:15am MDT

Breakout Speaker Orientation Session (For Breakout Speakers Only)
Sunday April 19, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm MDT
Sir Edward Beatty (Conference Centre)
Sunday April 19, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm MDT
Sir Edward Beatty (Conference Centre)
  Alberta Teachers' Association

12:45pm MDT

Conference Opening and Welcome
Sunday April 19, 2026 12:45pm - 1:00pm MDT
Van Horne Ballroom (Conference Centre)
Sunday April 19, 2026 12:45pm - 1:00pm MDT
Van Horne Ballroom (Conference Centre)
  Keynote

1:00pm MDT

Keynote - Your Brain, Your Life - Foundations of Thinking
Sunday April 19, 2026 1:00pm - 2:15pm MDT
Van Horne Ballroom (Conference Centre)
You've seen it before: you say one thing, and your colleagues hear something else entirely.  You point out what feels obvious, yet somehow everyone still misses it.  Why is meaningful change so hard to achieve, even among intelligent, well-intentioned educators?
 
The answer often has less to do with leadership techniques and more to do with how the human brain actually works to make sense of reality.  In this engaging and interactive session, we will explore the counter-intuitive foundations of thinking, the power of stories to shape perception, the essential role of error in building understanding, and how these forces quietly determine whether leadership succeeds or stalls.
 
Buckle in - here's where things get real.

Speakers
avatar for Jared Cooney Horvath

Jared Cooney Horvath

Director, LME Global
Jared Cooney Horvath (PhD, MEd) is a neuroscientist, educator, and author of the best-selling book Stop Talking, Start Influencing: 12 Insights from Brain Science to Make Your Message Stick. He has conducted research and lectured at Harvard University, Harvard Medical School, the... Read More →
Sunday April 19, 2026 1:00pm - 2:15pm MDT
Van Horne Ballroom (Conference Centre)
  Keynote

2:15pm MDT

TRANSITION
Sunday April 19, 2026 2:15pm - 2:45pm MDT
TBA
Sunday April 19, 2026 2:15pm - 2:45pm MDT
TBA
  Transition

2:45pm MDT

Off Script with the Alberta Teachers Association President
Sunday April 19, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT
Oak Room (Main Building)
Join ATA President Jason Schilling for an open and engaging discussion focused on key provincial issues influencing Alberta schools and school leaders. Designed as a conversation rather than a presentation, the session offers school leaders the opportunity to ask questions, share concerns, and reflect on the broader context in which their work is unfolding. This is a valuable opportunity to connect provincial perspectives with on the ground leadership experience and to engage directly in dialogue about the future of public education in Alberta.
Speakers
avatar for Jason Schilling

Jason Schilling

President, Alberta Teachers' Association
Jason Schilling (he/him) was re-elected president of the Alberta Teachers’ Association in 2023, following four years of service as president, two years of service as vice-president and more than eight years of service as district representative for South West. As vice-president, Schillingchaired... Read More →
Sunday April 19, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT
Oak Room (Main Building)
  Alberta Teachers' Association

2:45pm MDT

Mission Possible- Stories of Witness and Faith Formation in Catholic Education
Sunday April 19, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT
Ivor Petrack Room (Main Building)
Catholic teachers are more than instructors — they are evangelizers through their witness and relationships. In this TED Talk–style session, educators will share powerful stories of how they live their vocation as a calling from God. These short, impactful talks will challenge participants to see their daily practice as an opportunity for evangelization.
Speakers
avatar for Stefan Johnson

Stefan Johnson

Stefan Johnson is the Director of Student and Staff Formation for Elk Island Catholic Schools, serving in the areas of Curriculum, Faith, and Wellness. This is the most recent posting in a twenty-five year career in which Stefan has served as high school teacher, English department... Read More →
avatar for Darby Murphy

Darby Murphy

Darby Murphy has served as both a teacher and administrator with Elk Island Catholic Schools for the past decade and is currently the Principal of St. Martin's Catholic School in Vegreville, Alberta. Growing up in and eventually aging out of Foster Care shaped Darby's deep passion... Read More →
Sunday April 19, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT
Ivor Petrack Room (Main Building)
  Catholic

2:45pm MDT

Deepening a Culture of Belonging
Sunday April 19, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT
New Brunswick Room (Main Building)
Research highlights the crucial role of cultivating a culture of belonging in schools, particularly for BIPOC students. It speaks to the significance of the role of school leaders to intentionally nurture and create inclusive environments, which can positively impact attendance, student well-being, and achievement. We know that a culture of belonging can have a positive impact on overall student wellbeing, but how do we create classrooms that embrace belonging as a connection to learning and to how students see themselves as learners? How do we know that we are making a difference for all students in our buildings, both socially and academically? This presentation will look at the impact of student voice and how one school worked to deepen their understanding of how belonging impacts learning.
Speakers
avatar for Cori Fraser

Cori Fraser

Principal, EPSB
Cori Fraser has been a principal with Edmonton Public Schools for the past ten years. Since September 2020, she has been the principal at Westmount Jr High, where she leads a diverse learning community.
uLead 2026 Belonging Pt 2 pptx
Sunday April 19, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT
New Brunswick Room (Main Building)
  DEHR

2:45pm MDT

Story as Pedagogy: Leading for Justice, Wellness, and Reconciliation
Sunday April 19, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT
Norquay Room (Main Building)
In a time when educational systems are being called to confront their complicity in systemic inequities, storytelling emerges as a transformative leadership strategy—one that reclaims voice, restores humanity, and reimagines what it means to lead. This session invites school leaders into a powerful provocation: to recognize story not just as pedagogy, but as a call to action. Drawing from the lived experiences and doctoral research of three education leaders, this session weaves together narratives of anti-racist leadership, trauma-informed practice, and Indigenous ways of knowing. These stories challenge dominant paradigms and offer frameworks for culturally responsive, distributed, and transformative leadership. Participants will encounter real-world examples of how school leaders can name and confront systemic racism, embed wellness and healing into school culture, and center Indigenous leadership approaches in response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action. This is not a presentation of theory alone—it is a collective offering grounded in relational accountability and ethical storytelling. Through personal and professional reflection, participants will be provoked to consider how their own stories—and those of their communities—can become tools for justice, resilience, and renewal. School leaders will leave with a deeper understanding of how storytelling can build capacity, shift culture, and sustain meaningful change in pursuit of equity and belonging.
Speakers
DJ

Dr. Jamila Maliha

Dr. Jamila Maliha brings over 26 years of experience in public education, marked by a strong commitment to student achievement, equity, and inclusive leadership. Her career has spanned diverse roles—from classroom teacher (elementary and secondary) and Science Department Head... Read More →
avatar for Dr. Shelly Hopper

Dr. Shelly Hopper

Dr. Shelly Hopper is a member of the Manitoba Metis Federation and the Red River homeland. She lives and works in Treaty 1 territory where she presently serves as an Anti-Racism Education Professional Learning Coordinator with the Community Education Development Association, working... Read More →
avatar for Dr. Erin Van De Wiele

Dr. Erin Van De Wiele

Ontario Principal, Queen's University - Adjunct Professor
Dr. Erin Van De Wiele is a seasoned educational leader, having served as an Elementary Principal in Ontario for 20 years. Her scholarly interests centre on belongingness, trauma-informed leadership, and staff and student well-being. She serves as an Adjunct Professor at Queen's University... Read More →
Sunday April 19, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT
Norquay Room (Main Building)
  Indigenous

2:45pm MDT

Enhancing Math Learning through Leadership Moves
Sunday April 19, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT
Alberta Room (Main Building)
The presenter will describe the importance of principals, district teachers, coaches, and supervisors taking the lead in using a whole school approach to improve the mathematics learning of their students. The presenters will provide participants with a better understanding of what the changes should look like, along with key "look fors" and a proven list of actions to take in order to achieve that improvement.
Speakers
avatar for Marian Small

Marian Small

Author and Consultant, One Two... Infinity Ltd.
Marian Small has authored more than 100 resources for teachers and students at the K- 12 level. She writes and speaks about K-12 math around the world. Her focus is on building high level teaching capacity in mathematics to ensure that a broader range of students are comfortable and... Read More →
ULEAD Marian Small pptx
Sunday April 19, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT
Alberta Room (Main Building)
  Instructional Leadership

2:45pm MDT

Navigating the Transition from Teacher Leader to School Leader
Sunday April 19, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT
Sir Edward Beatty (Conference Centre)
Stepping into a school leadership role is an exciting new chapter — but it can also feel like uncharted territory. Was the transition what you expected? Did you feel ready to lead instructionally alongside the colleagues you once taught beside? In this interactive session, we'll take time to reflect, share experiences, and uncover the skills and mindsets that make this transition both successful and fulfilling. Together, we'll explore practical strategies for building trust, strengthening relationships, and leading with confidence as you grow into your new role.
Speakers
NB

Nancy Brady

Nancy has been an educator for over 28 years, serving as an educational assistant, secondary teacher, vice-principal and 18 years as a principal at both the elementary and secondary level, with the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board. She has also been a principal of M.F. McHugh... Read More →
VS

Vicki Shannon

Vicki has worked with leadership in education for much of her career at local, provincial and international levels. A principal for over 20 years, Vicki also served as the President of the Ontario Principals' Council (OPC), the Americas representative for the International Confederation... Read More →
Transitioning into a New Leadership Role Handout pdf
Sunday April 19, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT
Sir Edward Beatty (Conference Centre)
  Outside Alberta

2:45pm MDT

Lead in the Water: 5+1 Strategies for Leaders in Difficult Times
Sunday April 19, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT
Baron Shaughnessy Room (Conference Centre)
If you spend your days wrestling with an uncertain future on behalf of someone else, you're already leading. And if we're honest, you're probably doing it while trying to keep your own head above water. In this session, we'll name the truth of leadership in times marked by conflict, crisis, and complexity. We'll explore practical, sustainable ways to care for ourselves and the people we serve. And together, we'll sketch a roadmap for building communities that don't just make it through the storm — but learn how to move, breathe, and even thrive in the water.
Speakers
avatar for Brian Miller

Brian Miller

MS Principal, Great Falls School District
Brian T. Miller is a middle school principal, writer, and co-host of the Schurtz & Ties Podcast. He's known for his honest reflections on leadership, culture, and the everyday work of helping teachers and students thrive.
Sunday April 19, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT
Baron Shaughnessy Room (Conference Centre)
  School Culture

2:45pm MDT

The Emotional Roots of Aggression and Anxiety
Sunday April 19, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT
Van Horne Ballroom (Conference Centre)
Children are more anxious, aggressive, and shut down than ever. We were seeing these shifts before COVID 19 and now it is only intensified. Faced with this epidemic of emotional health crises and behavioural problems, teachers are asking themselves how they can create the conditions for change. Based on her best-selling book, , this workshop will support educators with trauma-sensitive strategies for how to build, nurture, and protect the student-teacher relationship, even with the most difficult students. We will address why children are displaying more challenging behaviours than ever, and what we can do to address these issues at their root. We will explore how we can help our students to shift their identity as the “problem student” or “bad kid.”
Join Hannah for an engaging and powerful workshop that will re-energize you as an educator and help you understand the vital importance of your leadership, needed now more than ever.
Speakers
avatar for Hannah Beach

Hannah Beach

Hannah Beach is an award-winning educator, author, emotional health consultant, and keynote speaker who speaks about the power of relationship and play worldwide. She is the co-author of the best-selling book Reclaiming Our Students: Why Children Are More Anxious, Aggressive, and... Read More →
Sunday April 19, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT
Van Horne Ballroom (Conference Centre)
  School Culture

2:45pm MDT

Transforming School Culture Through Intentional Leadership: Insights from an Apple Distinguished School
Sunday April 19, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT
D C Coleman (Conference Centre)
Innovation doesn’t scale on ideas alone, and most leaders don’t need another session on vision, collaboration, or partnerships. The ideas are familiar. The challenge is identifying the “small ideas” that actually move a school culture forward.

Join leaders from Anglophone North School District as they share practical insights from their participation in the Apple Leading Innovation Project, focusing on the intentional leadership moves that amplify the value of technology investments and quietly shape whether innovation gains traction—or stalls.

You’ll explore three critical conditions of connection: coherence on agenda—how leaders identify when goals truly align and recognize when a partner’s “support” is driven by a different agenda; connecting people—the intentional practices that build trust and create the relational infrastructure innovation depends on; and the X factor—how the right partnerships can amplify impact and scale promising work across schools and systems.

Designed for school, system, and program leaders, this session focuses less on big platitudes and more on the practical signals, questions, and decisions that help leaders connect people, priorities, and partnerships in ways that move innovation forward.
Speakers
JO

Jamie O’Toole


Jamie O’Toole is an education leader from New Brunswick focused on improving teaching and learning through effective use of technology. He designs and delivers sustained professional learning that builds teacher capacity and supports long-term school improvement. Jamie works wit... Read More →
JW

Judson Waye

Principal, Dr. Losier Middle School
Judson Waye is the Principal of Dr. Losier Middle School in Miramichi, New Brunswick, and is currently on secondment with Anglophone North School District to lead a special project focused on alternative education and Tier 3 behaviour systems. His post-secondary research focuses on... Read More →
avatar for Patrick McLaughlin

Patrick McLaughlin

Principal, ASD-N

Patrick McLaughlin is an educator of 19 years who has served as a classroom teacher, literacy specialist, vice principal, and now principal, currently in his third year in school leadership. His work is grounded in a commitment to fostering strong school communities and ensuring eve... Read More →
avatar for Shawn Lennie

Shawn Lennie

National Lead: Strategic Iniatives, Research and Leadership Enablement, Apple
Apple Education Some of the most powerful opportunities for technology are realized in the hands of students and teachers. Apple designs technology that empowers every individual, no matter how they learn and what they love to do. And Apple Education is dedicated to helping schools... Read More →
Sunday April 19, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT
D C Coleman (Conference Centre)
  School Culture

2:45pm MDT

Jared Cooney-Horvath Book Signing
Sunday April 19, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT
uLead Book Store

Speakers
avatar for Jared Cooney Horvath

Jared Cooney Horvath

Director, LME Global
Jared Cooney Horvath (PhD, MEd) is a neuroscientist, educator, and author of the best-selling book Stop Talking, Start Influencing: 12 Insights from Brain Science to Make Your Message Stick. He has conducted research and lectured at Harvard University, Harvard Medical School, the... Read More →
Sunday April 19, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT
uLead Book Store
  uLead Book Signing

2:45pm MDT

The Well Principal: Balancing Leadership, Wellness, and School Culture
Sunday April 19, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT
Cascade Room (Main Building)
In today's fast-paced and ever-evolving educational landscape, School Administrators are expected to lead with strength, compassion, and resiliency, often at the expense of their own well-being. The Well Principal explores the vital interconnection between School Administrator health, effective leadership, and the cultivation of a positive school culture. This presentation will offer practical strategies to support personal wellness, foster sustainable leadership practices, and highlight how a "Well Principal" may positively influence the entire school community. Because when leaders are well, schools thrive.
Speakers
avatar for Justin Noseworthy

Justin Noseworthy

School Principal, NL Schools / Newfoundland Labrador Teachers Association
Justin Noseworthy is an educational leader currently serving as the Principal of a small rural Elementary School in Newfoundland and Labrador. Justin has been a Principal since 2018. With experience leading Elementary and K-12 All-Grade schools, Justin brings a broad perspective to... Read More →

The Well Principal Systemic Literature Review (Presentation Supporting Document) pdf
Sunday April 19, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT
Cascade Room (Main Building)
  Wellness

2:45pm MDT

Women in Leadership: Evolving Perspectives in a Changing Educational Landscape
Sunday April 19, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT
Theatre (Conference Centre)
This session explores the evolving landscape of Women in educational leadership. Kathryn Olson through the lens of a woman who has served in the Calgary Catholic School District for nearly three decades. Drawing from her experiences across classroom, school, and district-level leadership, this session will examine how the role of women in education has continued to be shaped by changing societal, organizational, and pedagogical expectations Participants will engage in a reflective and forward-looking conversation about what it means to lead with empathy, adaptability, and resilience in an ever-changing educational context. Through storytelling, case studies, and collaborative discussion, the session will highlight how a female perspective in leadership brings unique insights
Speakers
avatar for Kathryn Olson

Kathryn Olson

Kathryn Olson has served with the Calgary Catholic School District for 28 years and is currently Supervisor of Arts & Culture in Learning Services. She fosters inclusive, faith-filled environments that celebrate diversity and support smooth transitions for students and families. Her... Read More →
Sunday April 19, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT
Theatre (Conference Centre)
  WIL

2:45pm MDT

Multi-Faith Space (open and available to all)
Sunday April 19, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT
Robert Ritchie Room (Conference Centre)
Sunday April 19, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT
Robert Ritchie Room (Conference Centre)
  Zero Stimulation Zones

2:45pm MDT

Quiet Work Space
Sunday April 19, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT
David Obrien Room (Conference Center)
This space is set aside for school leaders who may need to make a phone call, send an email, or sit an think.  No programing is in the room.
Sunday April 19, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm MDT
David Obrien Room (Conference Center)
  Zero Stimulation Zones

3:45pm MDT

TRANSITION
Sunday April 19, 2026 3:45pm - 4:00pm MDT
TBA
Sunday April 19, 2026 3:45pm - 4:00pm MDT
TBA
  Transition

4:00pm MDT

AI for School Leadership: Supporting Meaningful, Ethical, and Practical Change
Sunday April 19, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Alberta Room (Main Building)
Leading a school community through digital change isn't just about learning the newest tools; as leaders, we also need a deliberate focus on culture, skills and collaboration. In this session, we will discover practical ways to use AI tools, develop ethical AI practices, and explore strategies to lead AI implementation in your school community. 
Speakers
avatar for Nancy Luyckfassel

Nancy Luyckfassel

Coordinator, Professional Development, The Alberta Teachers' Association
Nancy Luyckfassel is an educational leader from Alberta. She holds a Bachelor of Education from the University of Alberta and two master's degrees: one in secondary education and another in school counselling, with a focus on teacher wellness. Nancy’s career began in the classroom... Read More →
AI for School Leaders 2026 04 19 uLead Share pdf
Sunday April 19, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Alberta Room (Main Building)
  Alberta Teachers' Association

4:00pm MDT

Navigating the World of Professional Regulation-From an Alberta and Global Perspective
Sunday April 19, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Oak Room (Main Building)
Educational regulators have statutory authority to impose disciplinary and certification decisions with legally binding consequences for teachers and teacher leaders. While these processes are essential to maintaining public trust and professional standards, they can be complex, disruptive, and high-stakes for the educators involved. Even highly competent teachers may become subject to complaints or regulatory scrutiny due to the sensitive and demanding nature of classroom and school environments.
This session is designed for school and system administrators and examines regulatory disciplinary processes through a leadership lens. Participants will gain insight into how these processes affect teachers’ professional performance and wellbeing, why preparedness and informed responses matter, and how administrators can provide appropriate guidance and support while upholding accountability and organizational responsibilities.
Speakers
avatar for Tim Jeffares

Tim Jeffares

Associate Coordinator, Regulatory Affairs, The Alberta Teachers' Association
Tim Jeffares is the Association's associate coordinator responsible for regulatory affairs. Prior to being hired by the Associaiton, Tim was the director of investigations and as a senior manager in leadership excellence with Alberta Education, and worked as a teacher and school leader... Read More →
Sunday April 19, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Oak Room (Main Building)
  Alberta Teachers' Association

4:00pm MDT

Women in Catholic Leadership: Journeys of Faith and Service
Sunday April 19, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Ivor Petrack Room (Main Building)
Description: This panel of Division Leadership staff will share their journey in Catholic Educational Leadership. They will share their experiences of moving from the classroom to school leadership to Division leadership and how faith served as the common thread. The key takeaways include: a personal witness from women in Catholic leadership roles, strategies for mentoring and empowering women leaders, and insights into balancing leadership and vocation.
Speakers
avatar for Victoria Cornick

Victoria Cornick

Superintendent, Holy Family Catholic Regional Division
Victoria Cornick is the Superintendent of the Holy Family Catholic Regional Division (HFCRD), serving approximately 2,000 students across the communities of Peace River, Grimshaw, Manning, Fairview, High Prairie, Valleyview, and McLennan. Over her more than 20 years with HFCRD, she... Read More →
avatar for Lisa Hilsenteger

Lisa Hilsenteger

Deputy Superintendent-HR, Fort McMurray Catholic Schools
Lisa Hilsenteger serves as the Deputy Superintendent of Fort McMurray Catholic Schools, specializing in Human Resources. A proud graduate of the University of Alberta,Lisa returned to Fort McMurray, embarking on a 37-year career dedicated to Fort McMurray Catholic Schools..
Her professional journey began in the elementary classroom before she discovered a profound passion for teaching students in Grades 7 and 8. She successfully served as Vice Principal and Principal across both the elementary and high school levels prior to assuming her current position... Read More →
avatar for Chantel Axani

Chantel Axani

Chantel Axani is the Chief Superintendent of Holy Spirit School Division, where she leads 16 schools and one outreach centre that support approximately 5700 students across the region. She approaches her role with a deep commitment to modeling the Catholic faith and to fostering excellence... Read More →
avatar for Dr. Andrea Holowka

Dr. Andrea Holowka

Superintendent for Christ The Redeemer (CTR) Catholic Schools, serving approximately 10,500 students in Okotoks, High River, Brooks, Strathmore, Canmore, Drumheller, and Oyen. Since 1995, she has led as teacher, principal, associate and chief superintendent, including system leadership... Read More →
Sunday April 19, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Ivor Petrack Room (Main Building)
  Catholic

4:00pm MDT

Embedding Human Rights and Equity into Leadership
Sunday April 19, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Baron Shaughnessy Room (Conference Centre)
Leadership is about decision making. This session will be focused around the phrase 'centering the needs of the under-represented and under-served' and will examine who school leaders centre in decision making and how school leaders can navigate the challenges of honouring human rights, competing human rights and facing resistance.
Speakers
avatar for Irfan Toor

Irfan Toor

Social Justice and Anti-Oppression Advisor, Ontario Principals' Council
Irfan Toor (he/him) has been an educator for over 30 years in many different roles and locations. Irfan has spent time as a teaching assistant, a classroom teacher, a school based Vice-Principal and Principal and also as a system based Principal. He is currently the Social Justice... Read More →
ULead (Apr 2026) Centering Human Rights pdf
Sunday April 19, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Baron Shaughnessy Room (Conference Centre)
  DEHR

4:00pm MDT

Tous ensemble : Accompagner, Collaborer, Réussir — En Action Concertée
Sunday April 19, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Norquay Room (Main Building)
Cet atelier propose une exploration stratégique du continuum de soutien collaboratif du Service aux élèves du Conseil scolaire FrancoSud, un modèle conçu pour relever le double défi du milieu minoritaire : assurer la réussite scolaire et renforcer l'identité francophone. Le modèle, qui place le bien-être de l'élève au centre de sa mission, est fondé sur la conviction que chaque adulte de l'école est un accompagnateur. Nous détaillerons comment ce système parvient à moduler l'intervention, assurant une cohérence parfaite de l'universel au spécialisé. L'accent est mis sur des leviers concrets, tels que le Carrefour des savoirs comme pivot de la collaboration pédagogique et laboratoire pour renforcer l'autorégulation, ainsi que le Programme Projet Appartenance (PPA) pour bâtir une culture proactive de résilience en salle de classe.
Speakers
avatar for Isabelle Trottier

Isabelle Trottier

Conseillère pédagogique en inclusion, Francosud
Isabelle Trottier œuvre dans le domaine de l’éducation depuis 25 ans et occupe présentement le poste de conseillère pédagogique en inclusion. Les différentes fonctions exercées au cours de sa carrière lui ont permis de bien comprendre la réalité et les défis des milieux... Read More →
avatar for Céline Tassé

Céline Tassé

Superviseure du Service aux élèves (inclusion), Conseil scolaire FrancoSud
Originaire du Québec, Céline s’est établie en Alberta en 2007 avec sa famille. Comptant plus de 33 ans d’expérience en éducation, elle occupe actuellement le poste de superviseure en inclusion au Service aux élèves du Conseil scolaire FrancoSud, où elle collabore avec... Read More →
avatar for Monique Baker

Monique Baker

Superintendent, FrancoSud School Division
Monique Baker est une éducatrice chevronnée et directrice générale comptant plus de 37 ans d’expérience en éducation. Francophone fière de ses racines manitobaines, elle détient des diplômes en arts et en éducation ainsi qu’une maîtrise en administration et leadership... Read More →
avatar for Monique Landry

Monique Landry

Enseignante accompagnatrice
Originaire du Nouveau-Brunswick et établie en Alberta depuis 2023, Monique Landry cumule plus de 22 ans d’expérience en éducation, dont 15 ans en inclusion scolaire. Titulaire d’un certificat 6 en inclusion scolaire et d’un certificat d'intervention en autisme de niveau 2... Read More →
avatar for Annie Gauthier Desrochers

Annie Gauthier Desrochers

directrice, École des Hautes Plaines
Passionnée d'éducation et d'inclusion scolaire, mère d'un enfant autiste, elle cumule plus de 30 ans d'expérience comme enseignante de mathématiques dont 17 ans en administration scolaire. Détentrice d'une maîtrise en éducation axée sur l'inclusion, son parcours est profondément... Read More →
avatar for Marilyn Houde

Marilyn Houde

Gestionnaire de projet, FrancoSud
Madame Marilyn Houde a une formation en éducation spécialisée et en intervention en délinquance, et détient un certificat en toxicomanie de l’Université de Montréal. Forte d’une expérience auprès des jeunes mères adolescentes et des enfants ayant des besoins particuliers... Read More →
Sunday April 19, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Norquay Room (Main Building)
  Francophone

4:00pm MDT

Walking with Wisdom: Leading Professional Learning Through Indigenous Pedagogy
Sunday April 19, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Theatre (Conference Centre)
This session invites school leaders to explore how Indigenous Pedagogy (centered on the 8 Ways of Aboriginal Learning framework) can transform professional learning into a practice of connection, storytelling, and collective growth. Participants will engage with strategies that honor Indigenous ways of knowing, leading, and teaching while deepening their role as lead learners. Walk away with practical tools to create inclusive, respectful, and culturally grounded professional learning environments that foster deeper engagement and equity for all.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Denise Heppner

Dr. Denise Heppner

Associate Director, Professional Learning, Saskatchewan Teachers' Federation
Denise Heppner (PhD) leads professional learning for educators across the province of Saskatchewan. She has also presented at both national and international conferences.
RH

Rob Heppner

Class Complexity Teacher, Prairie Spirit School Division
Rob Heppner (MEd) has a wealth of experience as an educator and Administrator. He has shared his expertise at a variety of local and national conferences.
Sunday April 19, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Theatre (Conference Centre)
  Indigenous

4:00pm MDT

Making It Stick - How To Ensure Sustained Change
Sunday April 19, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Van Horne Ballroom (Conference Centre)
After most professional learning sessions, teachers leave energized; excited to return to the classroom and begin implementing the promising new ideas they've just encountered.  Yet, almost inevitably, a week later they are back to doing what they've always done - now wondering why they were ever so excited in the first place.
 
Why do new ideas and professional learning so often fail to translate into sustained practice?  And more importantly, what can leaders do to help ensure change actually sticks rather than quickly evaporates?  In this practical breakout session, we examine how the brain processes new information, how skill and knowledge development interact, and what is required to translate novel ideas into practical action.
 
A better understanding of how learning progresses can dramatically increase the likelihood of durable change.
Speakers
avatar for Jared Cooney Horvath

Jared Cooney Horvath

Director, LME Global
Jared Cooney Horvath (PhD, MEd) is a neuroscientist, educator, and author of the best-selling book Stop Talking, Start Influencing: 12 Insights from Brain Science to Make Your Message Stick. He has conducted research and lectured at Harvard University, Harvard Medical School, the... Read More →
Sunday April 19, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Van Horne Ballroom (Conference Centre)
  Instructional Leadership

4:00pm MDT

Culture, Compassion, and Excellence: The Triple Threat of Transformational School Leadership
Sunday April 19, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Cascade Room (Main Building)
Creating a thriving school community requires more than policies and procedures! It demands intentional leadership that fosters a culture of trust, compassion, and instructional excellence. In this dynamic session, we'll explore how leaders can cultivate meaningful connections between staff and students, strengthen collaboration among colleagues, and build a supportive school community where everyone thrives to push excellence in learning.
Speakers
avatar for Heather Kaup

Heather Kaup

Principal, Edmonton Catholic Schools
Heather has served as an Administrator for 18, the past 11 as Lead Learner/Principal. During her tenure as Principal, Heather's key focus has been to build and cultivate school culture where learning is at centre, communities are inclusive and staff are valued and appreciated so they... Read More →
Tranformational Leadership Handout ULead 2026 pdf
Sunday April 19, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Cascade Room (Main Building)
  School Culture

4:00pm MDT

Reimagining Leadership - Lead Learners to Ignite a Collective Impact
Sunday April 19, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Sir Edward Beatty (Conference Centre)
What happens when school leadership is no longer about hierarchy, but about trust and shared responsibility? In this session, we'll share our journey growing as lead learners - leaders who coach, reflect, and grow alongside their peers. Grounded in our school's motto, Ignite Your Flame, this work redefined leadership as a collective process rooted in listening, vulnerability, and mutual respect.
Speakers
DF

Darren Fleischhacker

Darren has 34 years of experience in education, including five as a high school vice principal. With a background in drama and outreach, he now focuses on instructional leadership and student-centered learning.
DE

Dianne Enyedy

Vice-Principal, Wm E Hay Stettler Secondary Campus
Dianne is a vice principal with 26 years of experience in education. She is dedicated to student success and building strong school communities, and is also a proud mother of three.
avatar for Rachelle Campeau

Rachelle Campeau

William E Hay High Composite
Rachelle has been an educator for 17 years, but is an artist at heart. She brings her passion for art in all forms to her students. Rachelle is the team leader of a vibrant and varied Fine Arts department.
BF

Brittaney Fankhanel

Brittaney has taught at Wm. E. Hay for 15 years and has served as Vice Principal for the past ten. She values relationships, leads with empathy, and is deeply passionate about math and professional growth.
SF

Sandy Foster

Sandy is a veteran educator with 38 years of experience, teaching Math, Science, and Physical Education. As MathTeam Leader, she is passionate about student engagement and collaborative teaching, and loves spending time with her family.
CM

Charisse McDonald

Charisse has been an educator for 30 years, spending most of that time in the gym during school, after school and on weekends. Charisse is Wm. E. Hay's Athletic Director and Phys Ed Team Leader, focusing on building student success and confidence through sport.
BN

Brett Nixon

Teacher
Brett has worked with junior high students for 20 years and currently leads the Social Studies Team. He brings energy to the classroom and to the rink, where he enjoys coaching hockey in his free time.
DM

Dave Morris

Dave has taught a range of technology-based CTS courses for 24 years and is in his fourth year as CTS Department Head. He is committed to hands-on, practical learning that prepares students for real-world success.
ME

Michael Enyedy

Mike has been an educator for 30 years at Wm. E. Hay and currently serves as the Science Team Leader. He is passionate about fostering curiosity in the sciences and values time outdoors with his family.
KB

Karen Belland

Karen is a 29 year veteran teacher and the Inclusive Education lead teacher and team leader at Wm. E. Hay. She is committed to supporting the success of all learners by building authentic relationships, earning students' trust, and designing engaging, accessible learning experien... Read More →
avatar for Myranda Shepherd

Myranda Shepherd

Myranda is an accomplished educator with 20 years of experience, having served as a teacher, vice principal, principal, consultant for Alberta Education’s High School Redesign, and Assistant Superintendent. A dynamic and visionary leader, she is deeply committed to advancing student... Read More →
CP

Christine Peterson

Christine is a passionate leader and a dedicated lifelong learner, having spent 26 years in education with 6 of those being in Administration. She operates on the core conviction that every student deserves to be deeply engaged in their learning and possesses the potential to achieve... Read More →
DA

Darren Arbeau

Darren is entering his 19th year of teaching. You will find him in his English classroom, his Social Studies classroom, and in the Theatre teaching Drama as well. Darren's most precious things are his family and traveling the world in the summer!
avatar for Stu Henry

Stu Henry

After a 33 year career in the education field with 29 years in leadership roles, Stu is now semi-retired, operating a successful Executive Coaching and Consulting company. He has been successfully coaching clients and facilitating their self-growth and has over 5000 hours of experience... Read More →
Sunday April 19, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Sir Edward Beatty (Conference Centre)
  School Culture

4:00pm MDT

Advancing Education with Evidence of Impact - Methods for Measuring the Impact of Technology
Sunday April 19, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
D C Coleman (Conference Centre)
School systems around the world are navigating a complex set of priorities—from addressing unfinished learning and retaining exceptional educators to ensuring students develop the digital skills needed for an evolving future. These challenges require thoughtful, intentional approaches. While there may not be a single solution, equipping schools with the right tools is an important first step.

In this context, many leaders are making significant investments in technology with the promise of transforming learning. But one critical question remains: How do we know it’s working?

This session supports school and system leaders in moving beyond assumptions of impact toward a clear, evidence-informed understanding of how technology shapes teaching and learning. Grounded in Apple’s approach to innovation in education, participants will explore how to capture meaningful evidence at the point of learning, connect that evidence to shifts in pedagogical practice, and identify patterns of impact across classrooms and systems.

Leaders will leave with a practical framework to measure what matters—aligning technology investments with student experiences, instructional priorities, and system goals—and the tools to communicate a clear, compelling story of impact to stakeholders.

When leaders start with the question of impact, technology becomes more than a tool—it becomes the foundation for meaningful, measurable change in learning.
Speakers
avatar for Shawn Lennie

Shawn Lennie

National Lead: Strategic Iniatives, Research and Leadership Enablement, Apple
Apple Education Some of the most powerful opportunities for technology are realized in the hands of students and teachers. Apple designs technology that empowers every individual, no matter how they learn and what they love to do. And Apple Education is dedicated to helping schools... Read More →
Sunday April 19, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
D C Coleman (Conference Centre)
  Technology

4:00pm MDT

Hannah Beach Book Signing
Sunday April 19, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
uLead Book Store

Speakers
avatar for Hannah Beach

Hannah Beach

Hannah Beach is an award-winning educator, author, emotional health consultant, and keynote speaker who speaks about the power of relationship and play worldwide. She is the co-author of the best-selling book Reclaiming Our Students: Why Children Are More Anxious, Aggressive, and... Read More →
Sunday April 19, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
uLead Book Store
  uLead Book Signing

4:00pm MDT

Who Takes Care of the Leaders?
Sunday April 19, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
New Brunswick Room (Main Building)
There is a robust conversation in schools and school divisions across Canada about mental health and wellbeing, and this is necessary. Our schools, systems and teams need to continue this conversation to support our students in their challenges and in their wellness, and in supporting our staff alongside them. As system leaders, we champion this work and support it fully; but we have also identified a gap: Who takes care of the leaders?
Speakers
avatar for Nadia Delanoy

Nadia Delanoy

Assistant Professor- Leadership, Policy, and Governance and Learning Sciences, University of Calgary
Nadia Delanoy (PhD) has her roots in K-12 from an educator, department head, educational technologist and director. In post-secondary, Dr. Delanoy's research focuses on how people lead and learn in complex and dynamic systems. Her doctoral research examined the use of big data and... Read More →
avatar for Christopher Fuzessy, PhD

Christopher Fuzessy, PhD

Superintendent of Schools/Chief Education Officer, Foothills School Division
Dr. Chris Fuzessy joined the Foothills School Division team as Superintendent of Schools in June 2019. Since that time, the division has benefited from his commitment to excellence in serving students and their families, and his expertise in developing initiatives aimed at enhancing... Read More →
avatar for Stephen MacGregor

Stephen MacGregor

Assistant Professor | Director, Experiential Learning, University of Calgary
Dr. Stephen MacGregor is an Assistant Professor at the University of Calgary's Werklund School of Education, where he works closely with schools and communities to strengthen leadership and teaching practice. His research focuses on how educators and leaders can work together to share... Read More →
Sunday April 19, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
New Brunswick Room (Main Building)
  Wellness

4:00pm MDT

Multi-Faith Space (open and available to all)
Sunday April 19, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Robert Ritchie Room (Conference Centre)
Sunday April 19, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Robert Ritchie Room (Conference Centre)
  Zero Stimulation Zones

4:00pm MDT

Quiet Work Space
Sunday April 19, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
David Obrien Room (Conference Center)
This space is set aside for school leaders who may need to make a phone call, send an email, or sit an think.  No programing is in the room.
Sunday April 19, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
David Obrien Room (Conference Center)
  Zero Stimulation Zones

5:00pm MDT

DUELING PIANOS SOCIAL AND REFRESHMENTS
Sunday April 19, 2026 5:00pm - 8:00pm MDT
Alhambra Room (Main Building)
Come and Go through out the evening.  This event is free for conference delegates.  If you would like to bring a guest, there will be a $20 charge at the door.  Debit and Credit card will be accepted as forms of payment.
Sunday April 19, 2026 5:00pm - 8:00pm MDT
Alhambra Room (Main Building)
  Social
 

Get help with the event

Contact event planner Event login
View support guides Find upcoming events
Create an event you'd love to attend!
Explore why organizers choose Sched • Success stories
Event App • Event scheduling • Event registration • Event ticketing • Sched forms • Call for papers • Badges • Conferences
© 2026. SCHED LLC - All rights reserved - Helping events since 2008
Event Planning Software • Privacy • Terms
Share Modal

Share this link via

Or copy link

Filter sessions
Apply filters to sessions.
Filtered by Date - 
Clear filter
Saturday, April 18
Sunday, April 19
Monday, April 20
Tuesday, April 21
Alberta Room (Main Building)
Alhambra Room (Main Building)
Baron Shaughnessy Room (Conference Centre)
Cascade Room (Main Building)
D C Coleman (Conference Centre)
David Obrien Room (Conference Center)
Hotel Lobby
Ivor Petrack Room (Main Building)
New Brunswick Room (Main Building)
Norquay Room (Main Building)
Oak Room (Main Building)
Riverview Lounge (Main Building)
Robert Ritchie Room (Conference Centre)
Sir Edward Beatty (Conference Centre)
TBA
Theatre (Conference Centre)
uLead Book Store
Van Horne Ballroom (Conference Centre)
Van Horne Foyer (Conference Centre)
  • AGM
  • Alberta Teachers' Association
  • Catholic
  • DEHR
  • Francophone
  • Indigenous
  • Instructional Leadership
  • Keynote
  • Meals and Breaks
  • Outside Alberta
  • Registration
  • School Culture
  • Social
  • Technology
  • Transition
  • uLead Book Signing
  • Wellness
  • WIL
  • Zero Stimulation Zones
  • Company
  • Apple