Over the course of my career, I’ve been fortunate to meet Olympians, musicians, professional athletes, successful entrepreneurs, individuals who have climbed Mt. Everest, and even people who’ve turned their lives around in meaningful ways. These experiences have reminded me how valuable it is for teachers to invite guest speakers into their classrooms.
– Chris McCullough, conference cochair, ATA Middle Years Council
Our favourite type of guest would be when leaders from our community come into the classroom. For example, our community of Fort McMurray has the Mayor's Advisory Council on Youth (MACOY) that seeks students from each school to help city council understand what the young people in our community are worried about or seeking. The speaker we had this year took her time with each student's question and really conveyed how much their voice matters.
– Victoria Holota, north representative, ATA Middle Years Council
Former students speaking with Grade 10s about strategies for success in high school.
– Shelley Kirkvold, past president, ATA Social Studies Council
One of our teachers created an animal rescue course for junior high students. She invited all kinds of speakers and their rescued animals (birds, dogs, cats) to interact with the students. The class organized various fundraisers so they could make a donation after their visit. The students were so engaged and positive about their impact.
– Carol Knott, conference codirector, ATA Council for Inclusive Education
One of the most memorable guests we’ve had was Ophelia the owl and her wildlife ambassador, who visited as part of an inquiry project on the birds of Alberta. During a one-hour session in the classroom, the ambassador shared engaging, age-appropriate information about Alberta’s wildlife.
– Meghan Clark-Jamieson, president, ATA Early Childhood Education Council
We have had First Nations members come in for storytelling and various projects for the students that they have loved and continue to ask for all the time.
– Jennifer Lacourse, president, ATA Council for Inclusive Education
We've had motivational speakers come into our school and speak in the gym to our students. These are great for school morale and the students and teachers enjoy them.
– Jeremy Spink, president, ATA Middle Years Council
