FREDERICTON (GNB) – More than 900 educators registered to participate at in-person summer learning sessions this week after a two-year hiatus due to COVID-19. The sessions are free and taking place at the Wu Conference Centre at the University of New Brunswick’s Fredericton campus.

“It is wonderful seeing so many teachers show their dedication to providing our students with high-quality learning by voluntarily taking advantage of this professional development opportunity during their summer vacation,” said Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Dominic Cardy. “Teachers have told us these summer learning sessions are a great way to learn new skills, improve their own knowledge, expand their teaching methods and resources and develop connections with one another by sharing best practices and their own creative and innovative ideas.”

A total of 48 sessions were made available to teachers, educational assistants, principals, school district staff, bachelor of education students and department staff within the anglophone sector. Topics included:

  • First Nations teachings;
  • trauma invested schools;
  • outdoor education;
  • supporting multilingual language learners;
  • non-violent crises intervention;
  • first aid;
  • culturally responsive purposeful play; and
  • mental health support for both teachers and students (in partnership with the New Brunswick Teachers’ Association).

The sessions featured 60 presenters from across the country and the United States. Jody Carrington, author of Teachers these days and Kids these days, was the keynote speaker. Her session was sponsored by the department, the New Brunswick Teachers’ Association, and the New Brunswick Teachers’ Federation.

“Teachers work so hard to provide the best education and future for their students,” said Cardy. “Their dedication to their teaching truly shows, especially when participating in events such as the Summer Learning Sessions. We could not ask for better educators to help shape the minds of young New Brunswickers.”

Sessions ran from Aug. 8 to 12. Other professional learning and development opportunities will be made available to educators throughout the coming weeks. District staff are encouraged to contact their local school district for more information.

12-08-22