3rd Annual Speak Out Conference 2011

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 3rd ANNUAL SPEAK OUT CONFERENCE
was held April 15 to 17, 2011
in Edmonton

The 3rd Annual Speak Out Conference was a huge success. Students, chaperones and educators from across Alberta attended this action packed weekend. The goal of the conference was to provide Alberta Education staff with the opportunity to gather student's feedback on initiatives and projects currently underway. There was also a concurrent conference for chaperones that highlighted educational programs and initiatives. From the feedback we have received, we accomplished that goal.

Thank you to everyone who attended! 

The 4th Annual Speak Out Conference will be held in Edmonton April 13 to 15, 2012.  Watch for the online applications to open October 3, 2011! 

 

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3rd Annual Speak Out Conference - What We Heard
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Session Name
Session Description
What We Heard Report
CALM Redesign
Have you ever read your cell phone contract, your gym membership contract, or the agreements you accepted on Facebook or iTunes? Do you understand the financial commitments of the future, such as car loans, student loans, mortgages or investments? If not, you need to attend this session. This workshop will discuss financial issues that you will face, if you haven’t already. You will learn about some of the financial decisions that affect young adults today, and more importantly, you will be asked to share in a conversation with Alberta Education about the future of financial education.
Competencies: Getting Ready for the Real World
Did you really learn everything you need to know in kindergarten? To learn about the skills required outside of the sandbox you would benefit from attending this workshop. It will focus on creating awareness of the competencies that are foundational to living, learning and working in the 21st century. You will discuss which competencies (such as problem solving, communication, and the ability to work in a team) you think are critical to transition to the real world. 
Designing School Facilities for the Future
If you’re the type that doodles ideas for school building designs on the front page of your calculus text book you need to be in this workshop. We want your input into what makes a good school design now and into the future. The team wants to know what you would include in your dream school. What are your must-haves? Bring your creativity and get ready to design the ultimate learning destination!
Diploma Exam Mythbuster
Have you ever asked the questions: Why are my diploma exams worth 50% of my final grade? Now’s your chance to find out the answer! Join us as we present this informative and riveting session answering your burning questions about the weighting of diploma exams. We will present the history of provincial exams from 1892 to present, and information on Alberta’s choice for the 50-50 split. Students will have the opportunity to offer suggestions on how issues from the current weighting may be addressed.
Healthy Schools: Engaging Students in Action
An apple a day keeps the doctor away…really? Does it? Agree or disagree and provide your insight into how students can be empowered to promote healthy schools. Learn about exciting projects underway, and what you can do to get involved with impacting the health of Alberta’s youth. 
High School Flexibility Project
Does your timetable make you cross-eyed? Do you want more control in your learning? Sixteen high schools from around the province are implementing innovative strategies to enhance student learning and engagement through the removal of the 25 hour per credit requirement. This workshop will review the notion of self direction and will seek your input on its importance to your learning. Get your debate tie ready and pick a side you are ready to fight for.
High School Funding
Did you know that your school gets $885 when you finish Math 30? Are you interested to know how else your school qualifies for funding? This session provides an overview of the current high school funding model, and will explain to you how funding is calculated and allocated to school jurisdictions. Students’ feedback on the current model will be solicited. Various funding models from provinces across Canada will be discussed.
High School Mentoring
Join the High School Mentoring Team as they reflect on the qualities of a significant mentor in their lives. Explore opportunities to be a mentor yourself, and check out a new online CTS mentoring course. The session will challenge you to action and highlight what you can do at your school to inspire others to get involved.
Locally Developed Courses
What do sports performance, advanced placement (AP), guitar classes or Polish all have in common? Join us for the answer to this question and many more as we discuss locally developed courses. You will learn what they are and why they are relevant to you. You will also be given the opportunity to provide your opinion about whether you think these classes are important.
So You Want to Be a Teacher
Learn the facts about why our generation needs to be the next “teacher” and why we’re positive it’s the best career choice for you. An interactive, eye opening experience awaits you!
Teaching Quality
“Teachers hold a special role in the life of young people. In our society the role of teacher is second in importance only to the parent” Supreme Court of Canada, 1996.”
Being a teacher is an important responsibility as the statement from the Supreme Court of Canada points out. So, given the high standards expected of a teacher, what role does the government play to ensure that teachers in Alberta’s classrooms are well prepared and current.  Join us in creating an ideal teacher. Share with the government the standards and skills you think teachers should have. Through an interactive workshop you will explore the qualities that make a good teacher.
Technology for Today’s Student
Do you have an opinion about using today’s newest technology in your classroom? Join us to use collaborative technology to voice your opinion on the technology you need for learning. Come discuss current topics such as student owned devices, access, challenges and barriers.

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Here's where our conference participants came from!
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3rd Annual Speak Out Conference 2011
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