Summer Conference provides programs that support Association leadership development and training for members who are actively involved or are interested in becoming involved in the work of the Association.
Local association programs
Local associations may send representatives to attend the following programs. Representatives must (1) be an Association member, (2) obtain sponsorship from their local and (3) meet eligibility requirements. Contact your local for eligibility requirements. Course and seminar entitlements vary by local.
Diversity, Equity and Human Rights Seminar
Develop a deeper knowledge of topics related to diversity and inclusion
This seminar offers DEHR chairs opportunities for networking and collaborating between local representatives; working on shared projects with multiple locals; strategic action planning; support for communications; strategies for program evaluation; connection to Association supports and services; and education on various dimensions of diversity.
Eligibility
DEHR chair (or designated local DEHR committee member)
Initiatives in Leadership Course
Learn about leadership opportunities in your professional association
This course will examine the work of the Alberta Teachers’ Association and build leadership skills through a variety of interactive activities, networking, and discussion. Critical reflective activities will help participants identify their leadership styles, strengths, and weaknesses to consider their leadership for the coming school year and beyond.
Eligibility
Members who are as interested in becoming involved in the work of the Association.
Introduction to Collective Bargaining Course
Help advance teachers’ economic and social welfare
This course will cover big-picture topics such as working conditions and the duty of fair representation. Participants will explore the dynamic world of collective bargaining, including an introduction to negotiation theory and a review of basic negotiation practices. Participants will review collective agreement provisions and participate in an introductory bargaining simulation.
Eligibility
Members who have little or no previous experience with local bargaining
Local Communications Officers’ Seminar
Improve your local’s public and media relations
This seminar offers professional development opportunities in areas of communications, public relations, publicity and media relations. A variety of course content allows for the diverse needs of both rural and urban locals. The seminar provides a rich environment for networking and exchanging ideas and materials.
Eligibility
Local communications officers
Local Presidents’ Seminar
Identify local issues and initiatives
Local presidents will examine current Association issues, share information about local initiatives and meet with Provincial Executive Council.
Eligibility
Local presidents or designate
Specialist council and convention association programs
Specialist councils and convention associations may send two representatives to attend these programs. Representatives must (1) be Association members, (2) obtain sponsorship from their specialist council or convention association and (3) meet eligibility requirements.
Convention Seminar
Learn about Association convention requirements
This seminar provides convention association personnel with an opportunity to develop leadership skills, share ideas and develop strategies to address issues that can arise in organizing teacher conventions.
Eligibility
New members of the convention executive and those members new to their role on the executive.
Specialist Council Seminar
Plan and lead effective professional development for members
This seminar is designed to help specialist council executives develop the competence and confidence to organize impactful in-person and online workshops, symposia and conferences. Participants will engage in a series of collaborative and interactive activities to develop knowledge and skills related to needs assessment, program planning, venue and speaker selection, contract management, communication and promotion, and member engagement.
Eligibility
Two representatives per council, preferably conference directors or PD chairs.
Association corps programs (by invitation only)
The Association Instructors’ Seminar is open only to Association members designated as Association Instructors. This invitation only program forms part of the ongoing training for Association corps members. This program will be held off-site.
Association Instructors’ Seminar
Details and registration information will be forwarded to local associations, specialist councils and convention associations in early May. Information on registration will be also posted to the ATA website at that time.
Preliminary information may be obtained by contacting Marianne Moffatt at Barnett House. E-mail: marianne.moffatt@ata.ab.ca. Telephone: 780-447-9427 (from Edmonton) or 1-800-232-7208 (from elsewhere in Alberta).