Loading…
Welcome to the 2026 Outdoor Learning Conference
Type: Indigenous Knowledge clear filter
Thursday, May 7
 

3:15pm MDT

Indigenous Mindfulness in the Classroom
Thursday May 7, 2026 3:15pm - 4:30pm MDT
Deer
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
SA
avatar for Launa Purcell

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

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
avatar for Jeff Cappo

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 →
avatar for Amanda Brace

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
avatar for Lamarr Oksasikewiyin

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
avatar for Heidi Widmer

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 →
TS

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
 
Friday, May 8
 

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
avatar for Dr. Sarah Brown

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 →
avatar for Dr. Lindy Henderson

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
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
avatar for Lamarr Oksasikewiyin

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 →
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
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
SA
avatar for Launa Purcell

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 →
Friday May 8, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Deer
  Indigenous Knowledge, Intermediate

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
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
avatar for Dr. Lindy Henderson

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 →
avatar for Dr. Sarah Brown

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 →
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
AM

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 →
SO

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
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
avatar for Heidi Widmer

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 →
TS

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 →
Friday May 8, 2026 2:00pm - 3:15pm MDT
Kingfisher
  Indigenous Knowledge, Intermediate

3:30pm MDT

Walking With Story: Integrating Indigenous Literature, Foraging, and Outdoor Science Inquiry
Friday May 8, 2026 3:30pm - 4:45pm MDT
Otter
"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
AM

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 →
SO

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 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
avatar for Tammy Cayer-Dokis

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 →
avatar for Norm Dokis

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
 

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 App • Privacy • Terms
Share Modal

Share this link via

Or copy link

Filter sessions
Apply filters to sessions.
Thursday, May 7
Friday, May 8
Saturday, May 9
201 (Indoor Space)
203 (Indoor Space)
205
208
Banff Centre
Banff Centre Amphitheatre
Bear
Beaver
Bee
Butterfly
Chickadee
Cougar
Coyote
Deer
Eagle
Great Blue Heron
Jenny Belzberg Theatre (Bus Loop)
Kingfisher
Kinnear Centre
Kinnear Centre - Bear Sign
Kinnear Centre - Chickadee Sign
Kinnear Centre - Cougar Sign
Kinnear Centre - Moose Sign
Kinnear Centre - Otter Sign
Kinnear Centre - Owl Sign
Kinnear Centre - Raven Sign
Kinnear Centre - Snail Sign
Kinnear Patio Firepit 1
Kinnear Patio Firepit 2
MacLab Bistro
Main Plenary Room - Kinnear Centre
Moose
Otter
Outdoor Learning School & Store Exhibitor Booth
Outside Kinnear Centre Front Door
Owl
Porcupine
Raccoon
Raven
Snail
Squirrel
Toad
Tunnel Mountain Trailhead (Lower Parking Area)
Turtle
Various Locations - Check Individual Session
Vistas Dining Room
  • Break
  • Collaborative Learning Panels
  • Concurrent Sessions
  • Environmental & Climate Change Education
  • Free Optional Field Trip
  • Health & Wellbeing
  • Indigenous Knowledge
  • Meal
  • Optional Field Trip * additional cost associated*
  • Plenary
  • Social Event