School leaders from across the province gathered on January 19 and 20 for Leadership Essentials and the Educational Leadership Academy, a professional development event hosted by the Alberta Teachers’ Association. Designed for both school-based and central office leaders, the conference provided a vital space for professional learning and collaboration.
This event was uniquely structured to support educational leaders at every career stage. It featured two distinct streams: Leadership Essentials was for those new to administrative roles, and the Educational Leadership Academy offered experienced leaders the opportunity to deepen their practice.
While sessions covered a wide range of operational strategies, the conference focused on the well-being of the people behind the titles. Keynote sessions centered on compassionate leadership and leader mental health, acknowledging the significant emotional weight carried by school leaders in today’s educational climate.
During the event, participants were also able to customize their experience through a diverse selection of breakout sessions tailored to specific leadership challenges. The event balanced intensive learning with intentional community building, creating an opportunity for participants to connect with and learn from fellow leaders across Alberta.
As these leaders return to their schools and offices, they bring with them new frameworks for leading with empathy and refreshed strategies for maintaining healthy, sustainable school environments for staff and students alike.
