Empowering Educators
More than 250 educators from the Ottawa Catholic School Board gathered at Immaculata High School for an inspiring STEM professional development event focused on collaboration, innovation, and inclusive learning. Designed for Grades 9 and 10 educators, the day explored creative ways to de-stream Math, Science, and Technology while strengthening cross-curricular connections and bringing real-world relevance into the classroom.
The event highlighted the power of hands-on learning and the importance of helping students see how subjects connect. Educators shared best practices, explored emerging technologies, and discussed strategies to make learning more engaging, inclusive, and meaningful. By fostering collaboration among teachers, schools, and community partners, the day reflected the OCSB’s commitment to preparing students for success in a changing world.
A Student-Led Showcase: STEAM in Action
The day began with a student panel featuring learners from Heather Kennedy’s class at Notre Dame High School. They presented their vertical garden project, a remarkable example of STEAM education in action. Through sustainable design, innovation, and teamwork, students created a system that grew fresh produce while supporting the local community through donations. Their presentation demonstrated how learning could extend far beyond the classroom to make a real impact.
Deep Learning in Practice
The vertical garden project perfectly captured the six Cs of Deep Learning: citizenship, collaboration, character, communication, creativity, and critical thinking. Students combined scientific inquiry, engineering design, digital tools, and artistic expression to solve real-world challenges. Their work showed how interdisciplinary learning could build skills, spark curiosity, and inspire leadership.
Workshops that Inspired Innovation
Following the panel, educators participated in a series of interactive workshops led by OCSB staff and community partners. Organized by Jennifer Gauthier, Julian Daher, Heather Lindale, Steph Pearson, Carrie Clancy, Brett Jewitt, and Jennifer Wood, the sessions featured topics such as 3D printing, coding with micro:bits, Lego Spike Prime, electricity, Mail Merge, and skilled trades.
Each session gave teachers new tools and ideas to take back to their classrooms, promoting creativity and engagement in STEM education. By working alongside industry experts and peers, educators discovered innovative ways to help students connect learning with real-life applications.
Supporting Inclusive Practices
In the afternoon, the focus shifted to inclusive education through IEP training. This session reinforced the importance of meeting diverse student needs and ensuring that every learner received personalized support. It reflected the OCSB’s ongoing commitment to equity, inclusion, and student well-being across all areas of learning.
Bringing Vision to Life
By combining student voice, educator expertise, and community collaboration, the STEM professional development day demonstrated how real-world learning could empower both teachers and students. The event exemplified the OCSB’s dedication to fostering innovation, curiosity, and inclusion, ensuring that students were equipped with the transferable skills needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
