Outdoor Learning Conference 2026: Full Schedule

Welcome to the 2026 Outdoor Learning Conference

3:15pm MDT

Thursday May 7, 2026 3:15pm - 4:30pm MDT

This interactive workshop introduces educators to Indigenous mindfulness that nurtures balance, presence, and connection within classroom environments. Drawing from traditional teachings and the cycles of nature, participants will explore how Indigenous worldviews understand mindfulness as a way of being one rooted in respect, gratitude, and relationship to the land, one another, and self.

Through stories, reflection, and experiential activities, teachers will learn practical ways to bring Indigenous mindfulness into daily classroom routines. Simple yet meaningful practices such as gratitude circles, mindful breathing with natural elements, and moments of quiet observation can help students develop emotional regulation, empathy, and a sense of belonging.

The session also emphasizes the importance of land-based awareness and relational teaching, helping educators create learning spaces that are calm, inclusive, and culturally responsive.

Speakers

Sherelle Anderson

Launa Purcell

Co-Director, Rise Up Indigenous Wellness

Launa Payne is a member of Xa'xtsa First Nation. She is an Indigenous Educator with a focus on outdoor education. Launa teaches yoga and mindfulness in addition to Indigenous outdoor camps. Launa is the proud mother of two adult children. She has published 2 books on Indigenous teachings... Read More →

Thursday May 7, 2026 3:15pm - 4:30pm MDT
Deer

Indigenous Knowledge, Intermediate

3:15pm MDT

La Petite Robe Rouge : écouter, comprendre, agir pour le changement : Découvrez comment le récit, le dialogue et les activités créatives peuvent inspirer la compassion et encourager l’action en faveur de la justice

Thursday May 7, 2026 3:15pm - 4:30pm MDT

Chickadee

Joignez-vous à la conteuse mi’kmaq Julie Pellissier-Lush et à l’éducatrice Julie Gagnon, coautrices de La Petite Robe Rouge, pour un atelier interactif et émouvant de 75 minutes inspiré de cet album trilingue (français, mi’kmaq, anglais).
À travers le récit, la poésie et le chant, les participant·e·s sont invité·e·s à explorer le puissant symbolisme des robes rouges suspendues à travers le Canada, rappels des femmes, des filles et des personnes bispirituelles autochtones disparues et assassinées. L’expérience tisse des perspectives mi’kmaq et acadienne, ouvrant un espace de réflexion, d’empathie et de dialogue. Les participant·e·s découvriront également comment des élèves de l’École Saint-Augustin sont devenus des agents de changement grâce à un projet collaboratif de courtepointe de robes rouges, reliant justice sociale et engagement envers l’environnement.
Plus qu’un atelier, La Petite Robe Rouge est une invitation à se souvenir, à agir et à bâtir un monde plus compatissant et plus juste, une histoire à la fois.

Speakers

Julie Gagnon

Kindergarten teacher and vice principal, École Saint-Augustin

Julie Gagnon is an educator from Québec who grew up on the North Shore and has made Prince Edward Island her home for nearly 30 years. Her educational approach is deeply rooted in nature, social justice, and respect for diverse cultures. She believes we have much to learn from Indigenous... Read More →

Julie Pellissier-Lush

Knowledge Keeper, L'nuey

Julie Pellissier-Lush is a Mi’kmaw storyteller, photographer, actor, drummer, knowledge keeper, best-selling author and the first Indigenous Poet Laureate from Prince Edward Island.

Deeply committed to sharing her culture, she uses stories, poetry, and song to bring people together and to celebrate the strength and beauty of Mi’kmaw identity. The multi-talented, heart-centred artist’s contributions to the Mi’kmaw community and PEI have not gone unnoticed... Read More →

Thursday May 7, 2026 3:15pm - 4:30pm MDT
Chickadee

Indigenous Knowledge, INT - people who are somewhat comfortable with outdoor learning

3:15pm MDT

Land Based Education Guide

Thursday May 7, 2026 3:15pm - 4:30pm MDT

Butterfly

Land Based Education Guide , the ins and outs of land-based education, how to safely take your students out on the land. Will provide helpful tips and some take away lesson plans to help get you started as a homeroom teacher.

Speakers

Naomi Marchand

Teacher-instructor, Alaqsitew Gitpu School

I am Mi’gmag First Nation teacher for over 20 years ,I teach grade one and teach land based education .I have my Masters in Education on Land based Education, I also presented at ANTEC in Elsipogtog First Nation,NB. I graduated from McGill , I also received the leadership award... Read More →

Thursday May 7, 2026 3:15pm - 4:30pm MDT
Butterfly

Indigenous Knowledge, Beginner

3:15pm MDT

Math Lives Here: Exploring Shape, Space, and Story on the Land

Thursday May 7, 2026 3:15pm - 4:30pm MDT

Turtle

This hands-on session invites educators to explore math through the lens of ethical space, a concept introduced by Cree scholar Willie Ermine, where Indigenous and Western worldviews meet in mutual respect. Participants will engage in land-based activities that connect Shape and Space outcomes with Indigenous knowledge systems and Treaty education. Together, we will reflect on how land teaches us, how math supports truth and reconciliation, and how to embed Indigenous perspectives authentically without appropriation. Educators will leave with practical strategies, planning tools, and a deeper understanding of how to honour both worldviews in their classrooms.

Speakers

Jeff Cappo

Coordinator of Indigenous Education, Regina Public Schools

Jeffery Cappo is a respected and active leader known for his impactful contributions within and beyond the Indigenous Community. Holding a Master of Indigenous Education from the University of Regina, Jeff has been passionate about cultural awareness since a young age. His dedication... Read More →

Amanda Brace

Teaching and Learning Coordinator, Regina Public Schools

Amanda Brace is an educational leader with over a decade of experience advancing equitable, impactful learning across diverse communities and contexts. She holds a Master of Education in Teaching, Learning, and Leadership, as well as a Master’s Certificate in Educational Technology... Read More →

Thursday May 7, 2026 3:15pm - 4:30pm MDT
Turtle

Indigenous Knowledge, Intermediate

3:15pm MDT

Traditional Games in the Classroom

Thursday May 7, 2026 3:15pm - 4:30pm MDT

Eagle

This is a hands on interactive workshop on how to incorporate Indigenous Games in the Classroom. Some concepts like numeracy, core strength, balance and eye hand coordination will be covered. It will be a fast paced presentation as there are so much to cover and learn from.

Speakers

Lamarr Oksasikewiyin

Councilor, Sweetgrass First Nation

Lamarr is originally from Sweetgrass First Nation and has been in the education career since graduating from U of S. He has presented on Traditional Games since 2007 all over canada as well as in New Zealand in 2025. He also does land based learning in his middle grade classroom... Read More →

Thursday May 7, 2026 3:15pm - 4:30pm MDT
Eagle

Indigenous Knowledge, Intermediate

3:15pm MDT

Ways of the Bison: learning from tatâga through a two-eyed seeing perspective

Thursday May 7, 2026 3:15pm - 4:30pm MDT

Bee

The grasslands and slopes of Mînî Rhpa (Banff) were once home to the area’s largest land mammal, tatâga (Bison). Yet the pressure from the National Park system and Western hunting practices attempted to disconnect the animal as well as the Îyethka Nakoda people from the landscape. As tatâga are reintroduced to Banff National Park, so too are their lessons of resilience, respect, reciprocity and community.

Join Tracey Stevens, proud member of the Îyethka Nakoda Nation, and Heidi Widmer (Biosphere Institute of the Bow Valley) as they share lessons of tatâga from both an Indigenous and Western science perspective. The pair of presenters look forward to sharing their message: we are stronger together.

In this workshop, Tracey and Heidi will share stories from their experiences teaching children about tatâga, lead you in an outdoor game, make a necklace craft and engage you in conversations revolving around the collaborative, resilient, connected and generous animal teacher.

Speakers

Heidi Widmer

Education Coordinator, Biosphere Institute of the Bow Valley

Raised by the Bow River and the surrounding summits within Treaty 7 territory, Heidi is deeply committed to educating on behalf of this place that shaped her. As the Environmental Educator for the Future Leaders program, Heidi both coordinates and delivers K-12 curriculum-connected... Read More →

Tracey Stevens

Knowledge Keeper, Member of Îyethka Nakoda Nation

Tracey Stevens is a proud member of the Îyethka Nakoda (Stoney Nakoda) Nation. She lives in Mînî Thnî and continues to practice and teach her traditional îyethka language, ceremony and culture. She is a Knowledge Keeper in the community and visits local schools to share about... Read More →

Thursday May 7, 2026 3:15pm - 4:30pm MDT
Bee

Indigenous Knowledge, Intermediate

11:00am MDT

Indigenous Ways of Knowing: connecting traditional harvesting teachings to Indigenous Games delivery in your classroom

Friday May 8, 2026 11:00am - 12:15pm MDT

Raccoon

Participants will receive teachings on the importance of protocol when harvesting from Mother Earth. Protocol can differ from nation to nation, area to area. When a teacher is wanting to create their own collection of Indigenous games, harvesting materials/supplies from Mother Earth will be necessary. This session will outline some basic teachings, then participants will be introduced to and play as many Indigenous games as time permits. Come prepared to be active and have lots of fun with your fellow colleagues!

Speakers

Terry Lakey

First Nation, Metis and Inuit Learning Services: Lead Techer, Red Deer Pubic Schools

Terry Lakey is currently working with First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Learning Services in Red Deer Public Schools. Prior to joining Red Deer Public Schools in 1999, he taught with Northlands School Division. Since joining Red Deer Public Schools, he has taken on several roles. As... Read More →

Friday May 8, 2026 11:00am - 12:15pm MDT
Raccoon

Indigenous Knowledge, INT - people who are somewhat comfortable with outdoor learning

11:00am MDT

Learning From the Land: Dene Ways of Knowing

Friday May 8, 2026 11:00am - 12:15pm MDT

Squirrel

This workshop offers participants a unique opportunity to engage directly with land-based learning through the lens of Dene ways of knowing. Participants will gain hands-on experience in traditional skills such as rabbit snaring, moose and duck calling, log cabin building, fire-starting outdoors, and other land-based activities that are central to life on the land.

Each activity is guided by cultural teachings, demonstrating not only the practical skill but also the values and worldviews that underlie them. For example, while learning rabbit snaring or calling techniques, participants will also explore observation, patience, and respect for animals and the land. Fire-starting and shelter-building exercises teach resourcefulness, safety, and survival skills, while connecting participants to the rhythms of nature and the lessons embedded in every action.

Speakers

Ashton Janvier

Educator

My name is Ashton Janvier, and I am a Dënesųłiné First Nations educator from Clearwater River Dene Nation in northern Saskatchewan. I am a fluent speaker, reader, and writer of the Dënesųłiné language, and my work in education is deeply rooted in supporting Indigenous language... Read More →

Britney Macdonald

Friday May 8, 2026 11:00am - 12:15pm MDT
Squirrel

Indigenous Knowledge, BEG - People new to outdoor learning!

11:00am MDT

Par où commencer: trucs et idées pour enseigner à l’extérieur

Friday May 8, 2026 11:00am - 12:15pm MDT

Turtle

Envie de sortir de la classe, mais vous ne savez pas par où commencer? Cet atelier interactif vous donnera les outils pour oser faire vos premiers pas en enseignement en plein air. À travers des discussions, des jeux et des exemples concrets, nous explorerons comment intégrer l’éducation à l’extérieur dans les différentes matières scolaires. Vous repartirez également avec des trucs et astuces pour la gestion des comportements, l’horaire, l’organisation et le matériel de base à avoir sous la main. Nous ferons aussi un lien avec le jardinage scolaire comme porte d’entrée inspirante vers l’apprentissage par la nature. Venez semer des idées, partager vos expériences et repartir avec une foule d’outils pratiques!

Speakers

Karine Cere

Author - Outdoor Learning & Indigenous Education Curriculum Consultant, School District 93 - BC

Karine is the co-author of The Everyday School Garden/ Jardiner à l’école and a K to 12 teacher who specializes in outdoor learning and Indigenous education. She has worked as a classroom teacher, a teacher librarian, curriculum consultant, and university instructor. She is passionate... Read More →

Marie-Pascale Brown

Teacher, School District 93

Marie-Pascale is the co-author of The Everyday School Garden/Jardiner à l’école and an elementary school teacher with experience in Quebec, Alberta, and British Columbia. She focuses on outdoor education and multi-grade classrooms, with a passion for place-based learning and classroom... Read More →

Friday May 8, 2026 11:00am - 12:15pm MDT
Turtle

Indigenous Knowledge, Beginner

11:00am MDT

Shared Roots, Different Branches: Interconnected Histories of Survival and Resistance

Friday May 8, 2026 11:00am - 12:15pm MDT

Coyote

How does identity impact our relationship with nature and the land? How can we ensure as educational leaders that we bring our stories together, we model the kind of solidarity and intersectional leadership needed to transform education.
Using the First People’s Principles of Learning as a guide, we will invite leaders to see that Indigenous, Black and Racialized experiences are distinct yet intertwined. Both were shaped by colonialism, displacement, land theft, enslavement, and systems designed to dehumanize and erase.
‘Prior to colonization, education was relationship driven and connected to the land.

Speakers

Melissa Stacey

Elementary Principal, Waterloo Region District School Board

Melissa Stacey is a bi-racial educational leader. Her split identity includes her mother’s Sri Lankan culture and her British father’s family influences, mixed into that of living as a first generation immigrant family in Canada. She continues to explore and heal within this identity... Read More →

Bobbie Jo Lovell

System Administrator -Indigenous Education, Waterloo Region District School Board

Dr. Bobbie Jo Lovell is a Mi’kmaq educational leader whose work is grounded in Two-Eyed Seeing, relationship, and reciprocity. She brings forward lived experience, intergenerational resilience, and a belief that leadership begins in relationship, with story, community, and one another... Read More →

Friday May 8, 2026 11:00am - 12:15pm MDT
Coyote

Indigenous Knowledge, ADV - people with a high level of expertise in Outdoor Learning

11:00am MDT

The Kapabamayak Achaak Healing Forest, a sacred outdoor space for learning and healing

Friday May 8, 2026 11:00am - 12:15pm MDT

Porcupine

Kapabamayak Achaak Healing Forest (KAHF) is a living memorial to Indigenous children lost to or affected by the residential school system as a gathering place for families and communities for learning outdoors. In this place, land-based learning, and intergenerational learning programs, connect people to their histories and cultivate sustainability.

The presenters will provide a brief history of the project and provide examples of land-based practices shared with many visitors to the site such as Indigenous ways-of-knowing and methodologies, environmental sustainability and wellness on the land. The presenters will discuss the collaboration between a diverse group of people who are First Nations, Metis, White, religious and secular, all with a common goal. Despite our varied perspectives, KAHF was created through mutual respect and a shared sense of place.

Friday May 8, 2026 11:00am - 12:15pm MDT
Porcupine

Indigenous Knowledge, Beginner

11:00am MDT

The Waivers We Are Not Signing: Risk, Responsibility, and Decolonizing Our Approaches to Outdoor Learning

Friday May 8, 2026 11:00am - 12:15pm MDT

201 (Indoor Space)

Outdoor educators often navigate the tension between what they know fosters meaningful
learning and the risk-averse, liability-focused expectations of their institutions. Policies, consent
processes, and cultural perspectives on risk and safety can limit play, challenge, and
exploration, creating hidden costs for both educators and participants, including diminished
curiosity, resilience, and connection. This workshop invites participants to examine “the waiver
we are not signing,” the silent agreements we make each time we avoid uncertainty. Through
discussion, reflection, and experiential exercises, participants will explore the risks of action and
inaction. Together we will consider how risk management practices can be reimagined to
include diverse cultural perspectives and to support more reciprocal, relational, and
decolonizing approaches to outdoor learning.

Speakers

Dr. Sarah Brown

Mount Royal University

Dr. Sarah Brown is a settler of European descent who is grateful to live and work in Treaty 7
territory. She strives to embody kinship, respect, and reciprocity with the people and beings with
whom she shares this land. Sarah is an Associate Professor at Mount Royal University an... Read More →

Dr. Lindy Henderson

Instructor, Faculty of Education; Interim Director of Education Bimose Tribal Council, University of Winnipeg, Bimose Tribal Council

Taansi, Boozhoo! I'm Lindy :) The land that knows me is in Treaty 3 Territory where I live with my beautiful family. I've enjoyed over twenty years in public education as a classroom teacher, forest school educator, and Indigenous Language Lead. More recently, my journey has brought... Read More →

Friday May 8, 2026 11:00am - 12:15pm MDT
201 (Indoor Space)

Indigenous Knowledge, Intermediate

11:00am MDT

Traditional Games in the Classroom

Friday May 8, 2026 11:00am - 12:15pm MDT

Kinnear Patio Firepit 1

Speakers

Lamarr Oksasikewiyin

Councilor, Sweetgrass First Nation

Friday May 8, 2026 11:00am - 12:15pm MDT
Kinnear Patio Firepit 1

Indigenous Knowledge, Intermediate

2:00pm MDT

Indigenous Mindfulness in the Classroom

Friday May 8, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT

Deer

Speakers

Sherelle Anderson

Launa Purcell

Co-Director, Rise Up Indigenous Wellness

Friday May 8, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Deer

Indigenous Knowledge, Intermediate

2:00pm MDT

Indigenous Ways of Knowing: connecting traditional harvesting teachings to Indigenous Games delivery in your classroom

Friday May 8, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT

Beaver

Speakers

Terry Lakey

First Nation, Metis and Inuit Learning Services: Lead Techer, Red Deer Pubic Schools

Friday May 8, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Beaver

Indigenous Knowledge, INT - people who are somewhat comfortable with outdoor learning

2:00pm MDT

Swampy Cree Total Physical Response (TPR) Moswa-moose teachings

Friday May 8, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT

Moose

Calling all moswa, calling all moswa! This session is all about the moose. It is hosted by two Swampy Cree women from northern Saskatchewan who are willing to share their Traditional Knowledge, lands-based and Swampy Cree language teachings about how education is our moose-moswa. You will put your hands together for a Total Physical Response (TPR) teaching that involves singing, crafting and moose calling.

Speakers

Laura Chaboyer

Librarian and Cree language instructor, Ministik Community School

Laura Chaboyer is a fluent Swampy Cree language speaker in the historic community of Cumberland House, Saskatchewan, better known in Swampy Cree as Kamininistikminhagoskak (Spruce Island). She has dedicated 13 years of service with the Northern Lights School Division #113 as an Educational... Read More →

Mika Carriere

High School Teacher & Vice-Principal, Ministik Community School

Mika Carriere is a semi-fluent Swampy Cree language learner from the historic community of Cumberland House, Saskatchewan, better known in Swampy Cree as Kamininistikminhagoskak (Spruce Island). She currently works with the Northern Lights School Division #113 as a high school teacher... Read More →

Friday May 8, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Moose

Indigenous Knowledge, INT - people who are somewhat comfortable with outdoor learning

2:00pm MDT

The Little Red Dress: Listening, Understanding, Acting for Change - Discover how storytelling, discussion, and creative activities can inspire compassion and action toward justice. (English)

Friday May 8, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT

Porcupine

Join Mi’kmaw storyteller Julie Pellissier-Lush and educator Julie Gagnon, co-authors of The Little Red Dress, for a moving 75-minute interactive workshop inspired by this trilingual album (French, Mi’kmaw, English).

Through story, poetry, and song, participants are invited to explore the powerful symbolism of the red dresses that hang across Canada, reminders of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit people. The experience blends Mi’kmaw and Acadian perspectives, opening a space for reflection, empathy, and dialogue.

Participants will also discover how students from École Saint-Augustin became agents of change through a collaborative red dress quilt project that linked social justice and environmental care.

More than a workshop, The Little Red Dress is an invitation to remember, to act, and to build a more compassionate and just world, one story at a time.

Speakers

Julie Gagnon

Kindergarten teacher and vice principal, École Saint-Augustin

Julie Pellissier-Lush

Knowledge Keeper, L'nuey

Friday May 8, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Porcupine

Indigenous Knowledge, INT - people who are somewhat comfortable with outdoor learning

2:00pm MDT

The Waivers We Are Not Signing: Risk, Responsibility, and Decolonizing Our Approaches to Outdoor Learning

Friday May 8, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT

Bear

Speakers

Dr. Lindy Henderson

Instructor, Faculty of Education; Interim Director of Education Bimose Tribal Council, University of Winnipeg, Bimose Tribal Council

Dr. Sarah Brown

Mount Royal University

Friday May 8, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Bear

Indigenous Knowledge, Intermediate

2:00pm MDT

Walking With Story: Integrating Indigenous Literature, Foraging, and Outdoor Science Inquiry

Friday May 8, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT

Outside Kinnear Centre Front Door

"This workshop demonstrates how children’s literature can prepare students for meaningful outdoor science learning. Using A Day With Yayah, participants will explore how Indigenous perspectives build understanding of local ecosystems and respectful foraging practices. Attendees will then work in groups to locate and identify native plants, mirroring an inquiry experience students can use in their own communities.
After sharing observations, we will shift to A Peek at Beaks to explore structure and function. Participants will design simple “beak tools” to gather model seeds, highlighting how adaptations support survival. The session models how literacy, Indigenous knowledge, and hands-on outdoor investigations can work together to deepen learning. Educators will leave with practical strategies for connecting books, science, and land-based experiences in the classroom."

Speakers

Amy Miller

Outdoor Education Coordinator & High School Science Instructor, Burris Laboratory School

With over 26 years of experience in education, Amy Miller has taught middle and high school students, collaborated with elementary educators, and contributed to the development of K-12 science curricula. As a graduate of Ball State University holding a degree in Biology with a focus... Read More →

Stefanie Onieal

Assistant Lecturer of Elementary Education, Ball State University

Throughout her distinguished career spanning over thirty years, Stefanie Onieal has held numerous impactful roles in education. She has been a dedicated classroom teacher, working primarily with first and
second grades, and has also served as an assistant principal, special education teacher, math coach, library and literacy specialist, and Reading Recovery instructor. In 2020, her commitment to innovative and creative teaching was recognized with the Ball Brothers Excellence in Teaching... Read More →

Friday May 8, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Outside Kinnear Centre Front Door

Indigenous Knowledge, Intermediate

2:00pm MDT

Ways of the Bison: learning from tatâga through a two-eyed seeing perspective

Friday May 8, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT

Kingfisher

Speakers

Heidi Widmer

Education Coordinator, Biosphere Institute of the Bow Valley

Tracey Stevens

Knowledge Keeper, Member of Îyethka Nakoda Nation

Friday May 8, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Kingfisher

Indigenous Knowledge, Intermediate

3:30pm MDT

Land Based Education Guide

Friday May 8, 2026 3:30pm - 4:45pm MDT

Coyote

Speakers

Naomi Marchand

Teacher-instructor, Alaqsitew Gitpu School

Friday May 8, 2026 3:30pm - 4:45pm MDT
Coyote

Indigenous Knowledge, Beginner

3:30pm MDT

Learning Through the Land: Traditional Métis Games and Movement Pedagogy

Friday May 8, 2026 3:30pm - 4:45pm MDT

Eagle

This land-based workshop invites educators to experience traditional Métis games and movement practices as pathways for learning and community building. Facilitated by Grade 8 students, the session centers on the teachings of the land and the Métis way of knowing through movement and cooperation. Participants will explore how simple, nature-based activities can nurture physical literacy, social-emotional growth, and cultural understanding. By the end of the workshop, participants will leave not only with a deeper understanding of Métis games and teachings. This workshop embodies the spirit of Métis learning: collaborative, grounded, and connected to both culture and place. Through the leadership of Grade 8 students, educators will be reminded that the outdoors is not a supplement to education…it is the classroom.

Speakers

Jen Meikle

Principal, Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools

Jennifer Meikle lives in Martensville with her husband. Her two grown children live nearby. She spends her days enjoying time at the lake with friends and family, always seeking an outdoor adventure. She enjoys being active, dreaming about school life, and creating new ways to engage... Read More →

Ashley Shaw

Classroom Complexity Teacher, Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools

Ashley's Metis roots stem from Batoche, Duck Lake, and Prince Albert. She lives in Saskatoon with her spouse and two sons. They enjoy spending time at the lake, travelling, winter activities in the mountains, and outdoor adventures.

Ashley is a graduate of the Saskatchewan Urban Native Teacher Education Program (SUNTEP) in Saskatoon. She has held various roles in education, teaching grades 1-5, and serving as an academic advisor and faculty member at the Gabriel Dumont Institute and SUNTEP Saskatoon at the University... Read More →

Friday May 8, 2026 3:30pm - 4:45pm MDT
Eagle

Indigenous Knowledge, INT - people who are somewhat comfortable with outdoor learning

3:30pm MDT

The KAIROS Blanket Exercise (KBE)

Friday May 8, 2026 3:30pm - 4:45pm MDT

203 (Indoor Space)

The KAIROS Blanket Exercise (KBE) is an experiential teaching tool that explores the historic and contemporary relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples in the land we now know as Canada. The Blanket Exercise is based on using Indigenous methodologies and the goal is to build understanding about our shared history as Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples in Canada by walking through pre-contact, treaty-making, colonization and resistance. Everyone is actively involved as they step onto blankets that represent the land, and into the role of First Nations, Inuit and later Métis peoples. By engaging on an emotional and intellectual level, the Blanket Exercise effectively educates and increases empathy. (https://kairoscanada.org)

Speakers

Jacenta Marina

Indigenous Education Support, Mckim/SD6

As a passionate and experienced Indigenous educator, who is a member of the Blood tribe, of the Blackfoot nation, I believe in establishing and maintaining respectful relationships, with Elders and knowledge keepers, indigenous families, students, parents, and school staff. I have... Read More →

Friday May 8, 2026 3:30pm - 4:45pm MDT
203 (Indoor Space)

Indigenous Knowledge, BEG - People new to outdoor learning!

3:30pm MDT

Walking With Story: Integrating Indigenous Literature, Foraging, and Outdoor Science Inquiry

Friday May 8, 2026 3:30pm - 4:45pm MDT

Otter

Speakers

Amy Miller

Outdoor Education Coordinator & High School Science Instructor, Burris Laboratory School

Stefanie Onieal

Assistant Lecturer of Elementary Education, Ball State University

Friday May 8, 2026 3:30pm - 4:45pm MDT
Otter

Indigenous Knowledge, Intermediate

3:30pm MDT

We Are All Gifted: Culturally Grounded Strategies for Holistic Learning

Friday May 8, 2026 3:30pm - 4:45pm MDT

Deer

Recognizing and nurturing the natural gifts of children and youth can transform educational spaces into places of belonging, growth, and cultural affirmation. Grounded in Indigenous knowledge systems and holistic approaches to learning, participants will engage with strategies that honour each learner's unique strength, whether through storytelling, land-based activities, creative expression, or relational teaching.

Facilitators will share examples from community-based programs and personal practice, highlighting how culturally responsive methods can support emotional, spiritual, physical, and intellectual development.

Through reflection, dialogue, and experiential activities, educators will leave with tools to foster inclusive environments that celebrate identity, build relationships, and empower learners to thrive. Ideal for educators, program leaders, and anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of holistic, strength-based approaches rooted in Indigenous Ways of Knowing.

Speakers

Tammy Cayer-Dokis

Indigenous Land-Based Educator / ELCC Quality Improvement Project Manager, Anishinabek Nation

Tammy Cayer-Dokis is a proud Algonquin woman from Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg, located in the traditional Algonquin territory near Ottawa, who lives in North Bay with her family and maintains a deep connection to the land and waterways of Nipissing and Dokis First Nation along the French River. Her work is grounded in Indigenous knowledge systems and guided by a commitment to the holistic well-being of children, youth... Read More →

Norm Dokis

Indigenous Nature Interpreter and Storyteller, Camp Petawachaun

Norm Dokis is an Indigenous nature interpreter and storyteller with over 30 years of experience sharing traditional knowledge and fostering meaningful connections between peoples and the land. A respected cultural educator, Norm specializes in bringing communities together through... Read More →

Friday May 8, 2026 3:30pm - 4:45pm MDT
Deer

Indigenous Knowledge, Intermediate

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