1. technology and computing

Spring Conference 2015
APRIL 10, 2015
CONFERENCE
PROGRAM
• Keynote
• Workshops
• Itinerary
Sheraton on the Falls Hotel
5875 Falls Avenue
Niagara Falls, ON
L2G 3K7
KEYNOTE PRESENTATION
Alvin Law
Alvin’s Laws of Life: 5 Steps to Successfully Overcome Anything!
Alvin is one of Canada’s most sought-after
inspirational speakers.
He was inducted into the Canadian Association
of Professional Speakers Hall of Fame, has
spoken on five continents to over 2,000,000
people, and has written the bestselling book
“Alvin’s Laws of Life...5 Steps to Successfully
Overcome Anything”.
Alvin’s message has special significance for
educators supporting the needs of diverse
learners.
WORKSHOP DESCRIPTORS
SESSION A (10:35 – 11:45)
A1. LEARNstyle's "PULSE": Gamified Learning Styles Identification Tool and
Resource
DJ Cunningham, Judy Sackville & Chris Clark
PULSE (Personal Use Learning Style Evaluation) is a new, exciting, web-based and gamified
learning style inventory tool. Within a game-based learning environment, PULSE helps students
discover their preferred learning style and provide s solutions and resources for success at both
the student and teacher levels. Find out how the Halton District School Board and the DufferinPeel Catholic District School Board are using PULSE to empower students and teachers.
DJ Cunningham, LEARNstyle CEO, has a significant learning disability and has faced the issues of those
with hidden disabilities: feelings of inadequacy and stupidity. At Trent University, he discovered assistive
technologies and a door to independence and academic success opened. DJ has been a user of
assistive technologies for the past 10 years and has trained hundreds of students and led numerous
training workshops. PULSE is a tool from LEARNstyle.
Judy Sackville is an Itinerant Resource Teacher in HDSB and Chris Clark is Academic Coordinator,
Digital and Emerging Technologies in DPCDSB. Both Judy and Chris recognize the power of technology,
accessibility and inclusion.
A2. Workshop Unavailable
A3. Accessible Lollipops, Apples and Windows
Geoff Courneya
In an ever changing technology design landscape where companies like Apple have paved the
accessible road into their software for decades, companies like Android and Windows continue to
play catch up in some regards as well as invent their own unique flavors for accessibility in
others. When considering a SEA, ADP or Personal purchase in the mobile device category (phone,
tablet, iPod, etc.) understanding what the device can do from the inside (software) out is far more
important to some learners than any app store will ever be. IThis presentation will compare and
contrast platforms (iOS 8, Android Lollipop, Windows 8/10) from an "out of the box" accessibility
point of view and provide an in-depth look at identifying the key players for students with specific
and multiple exceptionalities.
Geoff has been working in Special Education for the duration of his teaching career, with a focus of
integrating mobile technology into the hands of students of all abilities. He has led several ministry
projects looking at iDevices within the lives of students with developmental disabilities. More recently he
has been coordinating the services in his school board for students who are blind or have low vision and
been able to expand his knowledge and implementation of technology to an even broader audience.
A4. Using iPad Technology for Special Education Students
Erica Glover
In this session aimed at beginners, participants will explore a wide variety of iPad apps that
support learners in the areas of academics, personal development and communication.
Participants will gain an understanding of how such technology can enhance the classroom,
facilitate student success and improve student motivation/self-esteem. Participants will leave the
workshop ready to implement such technology on Monday!
Erica is a Special Education Teacher with the Peel District School Board, with 15 years of teaching
experience. She holds a Specialist in Special Education and recently completed an AQ course on Autism.
For the past 7 years, she has taught in a contained class setting for students with significant learning
disabilities, and is presently teaching a contained class for students with an ASD. Her students have a 1:1
ratio of iPads so that they can use supporting apps for all of their academic, personal and communicative
needs.
Bilingual Presentation:
A5. Briser la barrière bilingue avec de nouvelles technologies de lecture et
d'écriture
Megalie Beauchamp
L’apprentissage de la littératie CUA et les besoins d'enseignement ne cessent d'augmenter, ainsi
que la demande pour le soutien divers (plateforme agnostique, BYOD, l'utilisation à domicile),
cette présentation bilingue vous fera découvrir les technologies les plus récentes
d'alphabétisation. Ces technologies brisent non seulement les obstacles d’accessibilité, mais
aussi la barrière entre l'anglais et le français.
De nouveaux produits seront présentés et aussi de nouvelles fonctionnalités dans les logiciels
déjà connus, y compris: SymWriter Online, SymWriter 2, Kurzweil 3000 Version Canadienne
(bilingue), Kurzweil 3000 Mobile et Kurzweil 3000 v. 14.
Pour Windows, iPad, Chrome et d'autres plates-formes, les participants repartiront avec la
possibilité de choisir une solution bilingue approprier pour leur environnement éducatif:
l'enseignement du français dans les écoles françaises avec anglais de base, Instruction en
anglais avec le français de base dans les écoles anglaises, les écoles d'immersion, FLS / ESL etc.
A5. Breaking the Bilingual Barrier with New Reading and Writing AT
Megalie Beauchamp
UDL literacy learning and teaching needs keep increasing as well as demand for supports
available anywhere (platform agnostic, BYOD, home-use). This bilingual presentation will explore
the latest UDL literacy technology that breaks down not only accessibility barriers but the barrier
between English and French.
Supports like text-to-speech, symbols, word prediction, word lists and more are available ondemand, on-the-fly for truly Canadian bilingual UDL solutions.
Completely new products will be presented and new features in familiar software too, including
SymWriter Online, SymWriter 2 and Kurzweil 3000 Version Canadienne (bilingue), Kurzweil 3000
Mobile and Kurzweil 3000 v. 14.
For Windows, iPads, Chrome and other platforms, attendees will leave with the ability to choose
an appropriate bilingual solution for their educational environment: French Instruction in French
Schools with Core English, English Instruction with Core French in English schools, French
Immersion, FSL/ESL etc.
Magalie’s time is divided between two Bridges teams. On the Sales Team, Magalie is the French Product
Specialist, travelling from coast-to-coast promoting French technology tools that support individuals in
classrooms and the community. On the Professional Learning Team, Megalie supports the use of AT for
Instruction. Magalie Beauchamp joined Bridges in 2009, and is our French products expert.
Her work with Bridges is complimented from prior experiences and accomplishments in education as a
teacher in the French school board, Viamonde. Magalie has worked closely with AT suppliers in the
translation and recommendations of features to serve French customers.
A6. Supporting Students with Special Needs through Technology
Bea Meglio & Heather Touzin
How can the provincially licensed Virtual Learning Environment (vLE) meet special learning
needs? Hear from both classroom educators and e-Learning Ontario as they share how to support
all learners with personalized, interactive and engaging online tools. Explore how to leverage the
suite of tools in the vLE (such as news, calendar, dropbox, conditional release widgets, and more)
to support student achievement and success. Examine how to integrate a range of ministry
licensed assistive technology software. Bring your device and get a first-hand look at this safe
and secure online environment.
Bea Meglio, with over 25 years of classroom experience, is a passionate advocate for empowering
teachers and students to always strive to reach their potential. Currently as an Education Officer with eLearning Ontario, she works towards supporting digital opportunities for all learners. Bea, a media studies
specialist and former e-Learning Contact, is able to ground digital learning pedagogy in authentic and
practical classroom applications. Heather Touzin has served on the Assistive Technology Team at the
Lambton-Kent District School Board in 2014, supporting secondary students and teachers with their SEA
hardware and software needs.
A7. Supporting Student Learning of Mathematics using Assistive Technology
Tools and Strategies
Todd Sniezek and Rose Wong
The focus of this session is to share practical lesson and activity examples of how a variety of
assistive technology software can support special education students to demonstrate their
learning during Math lessons and activities. A variety of examples will be shared on ways to put
technology into the hands of students so they are able to comprehend and communicate their
mathematical thinking during the three-part Math lesson. Junior and Intermediate level Math
examples will shared within the context of differentiated learning include activities using
interactive whiteboard tools and peripherals, SMART Notebook, Frames 5, Google Drive, and
Geometer's Sketchpad. There will be limited hands-on opportunities for participants. This session
is appropriate for beginners.
Todd Sniezek has been the IT 4 Learning Consultant at the District School Board of Niagara for the past
6 years. He is passionate about technology in education, striving to support all teachers with all platforms,
in all areas of education, K-12. As a high school math and science teacher, Todd always tried to
incorporate technology into his classroom to enable and enrich all student experiences.
Rose Wong is an Educational Assistant with Child and Youth Worker background. She has worked for the
Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District Board for eighteen years and presently works with students in the
Technology Learning Centre. As part of her duties, she is responsible for creating the Self Advocacy
program and for supporting students in the use of technology to assist in learning.
A8. SEA Contacts/Issues
Donald Millward & Rosemary Kitts
SEA contacts will meet to discuss with other board contacts to create/update a larger SEA contact
list that would help to facilitate transfers in September. The group will discuss whether it makes
sense to transfer computers when they use different computers such as Dells vs Toshibas. In
addition, they will problem solve some issues that similar size boards face. The group may break
into similar size discussion groups, time permitting.
Donald is currently a Learning Support Consultant (Special Education) with the OCDSB, and has been
involved in Special Education for over 20 years. He has been an acting VP at one of Special education
centres, and has used and assisted students in using a variety of technologies and SEA equipment.
SESSION B (12:45 – 1:55)
B1. Bringing Free AT to Your Classroom
Dina Moati
Web and computer-based learning systems are becoming more common in today’s classrooms.
With this shift, educators are looking for innovative AT tools to help enable students’ learning and
overcome challenges they might face due to their disability.
This session will focus on exploring different FREE Assistive Technology tools that help empower
students and enable them to become independent learners. Come explore different AT tools with
special emphasis on browser extensions that provide equal learning opportunities for students
with disabilities and allow them to organize their time and ideas, read, write, and create.
Dina Moati has over 12 years of experience in the field of education, which spans across K-12,
vocational, and postsecondary settings. Her career portfolio includes extensive experience of using
technology in the classroom and empowering students through incorporating tools that implement
Universal Design for Learning and ignite creativity. She holds a Master’s degree in Education and is a
certified Assistive Technologist, Learning Strategist, as well as Adult Education Facilitator.
Dina believes in the value and uniqueness of each learner and her work is grounded by the core value of
the right of each person to have the opportunity to realize his/her fullest potential through enhancement of
strengths and empowerment to reach goals. She is currently a professor of Education in the Educational
Assistant Program at Sheridan College and teaches multiple AT and Edtech Classes.
B2. iPad-Apple TV Mirroring and Group Based Learning
Dragan Pausak
Over the past two years Dragan has identified the positive effects that the iPad mirroring function
through an Apple TV has had on teenagers with developmental disabilities. Using a Group-Based
Learning approach, Dragan has seen students become more engaged participants and leaders in
the classroom drastically improving their speaking and self-advocacy skills. This presentation
explores how iPad educational apps have facilitated a fun, engaging and accessible classroom
environment. Participants will see how effective these approaches can be for students with
identified special needs.
Dragan has been teaching individuals with developmental disabilities for ten years. Dragan has always
incorporated the latest technological advancements to help students. Dragan has made a point of making
make sure that students are not left behind in this rapidly changing technological age. Dragan is a firm
believer in sharing resources and ideas with colleagues, while engaging students.
B3. Assistive Technology Accessible to All
Chris Johnstone and Daniel Feilchenfeld
In this workshop, participants will be exposed to, and encouraged to explore, internet
applications, Google Extensions, and freeware software. Many of these tools are available to all
users without cost. Tools include speech-to-text, text-to-speech, word prediction, study skills, and
organization applications. These target applications, software, and extensions have proven
invaluable to providing accommodations that are essential for some and beneficial to all learners.
Daniel and Chris are Technology Resource Teachers with the York Region District School Board
providing services to staff and students in 50 schools each. The role of a Technology Resource Teacher
is to build capacity for the use of assistive technology with staff and students to improve student
achievement and well-being.
B4. Assistive Technology SharePoint
Tracy Bardell & Cas McGeown
The Peel District School Board's Assistive Technology SharePoint was updated in September
2014. The purpose of modernizing the site was to provide Peel staff with a central location to
access current resources, answers to FAQ's and up to date announcements.
The integration of social media allows us to communicate information about Assistive Technology
to a large audience (PDSB has over 240 schools). During our presentation we will display our
school board SharePoint, introduce our public site for parents and review how social media tools
can be used to create one stop shopping for staff and parents.
Tracy Bardell is a Special Education Consultant for Assistive Technology at the Peel District School
Board. Cas McGeown is a Special Education Resource Teacher supporting the use of assistive
technology in PDSB.
B5. Drawing Kids into Mathematics with Scratch & Turtle Art
Peter Skillen
Do your students learn differently? Let them amaze you with their mathematical minds as they
program/code with Scratch & Turtle Art!
Programming? Coding? Don’t worry! These tools are designed to be easy enough for children and
yet powerful enough for all ages.
Many students have difficulty understanding & enjoying mathematics. As they create art, students
will come to understand coordinate geometry, angles, operations, variables, and distances as
they draw their way into being mathematicians.
Scratch & Turtle Art let you make images with your computer. A turtle follows a sequence of
commands that you specify by snapping together puzzle-like blocks. The turtle then draws lines
and arcs, goes to a specific place on the screen, etc. Some blocks let you repeat or name
sequences. Other blocks perform logical operations.
Learn the basics of Scratch & Turtle Art. Understand the fit with elementary & middle school
mathematics curriculum. No experience required.
Peter focuses on helping students to become intentional learners. His love for theories of knowledge
building and constructionism means that he likes to see students in charge but understands the
scaffolding required for that to be realized! Peter has been involved in technology supported, projectbased learning since the 1970s. A teacher since 1970, Peter stays current through his leadership as cofounder of Minds On Media, serving iEARN-Canada, Teacher Learning & Leadership Program (TLLP),
Educational Computing Organization of Ontario (ECOO), International Society for Technology in
Education (ISTE) as global ambassador, and teaching online & face-to-face with the Ontario Teachers’
Federation. http://peterskillen.org
B6. iPads: Reading and Writing Workflows
Mike Adam and Jon McFadden
The Lambton Kent District School Board will launch a 1:1 iPad Technology Enriched Learning
Plan. Supporting specific reading and writing difficulties poses unique challenges in the
implementation of iPads in a 1:1 environment. The key to success with this model, from the
assistive technology perspective, is linking features of apps into effective workflows, sometimes
referred to as “app synergy” or “app smashing.” Selective assistive apps and built-in accessibility
features can provide a core A.T. solution. The challenge is how to support and transition from
traditional assistive technology tools into a tablet-based learning environment while maintaining a
functional and usable workflow. Traditional reading and writing supports must now be available in
“the cloud” so that students can collaborate with teachers and peers using a tablet. This beginner
session will showcase a number of workflows used to support the access of reading materials
and scaffolding of the writing process.
Mike Adam is the Team Lead for the LKDSB Assistive Technology Team. During his 20-year teaching
career, he has integrated a variety of technologies to support his pedagogy and the learning needs of his
students. Jon McFadden has worked in the resource role for the past six years and recently joined the
Assistive Technology Team in 2013. Together with a dedicated team of enthusiastic professionals, they
provide support to students who require assistive technologies to access the Ontario curriculum. They
also provide training and strategies for classroom teachers by modelling workflows, software and
instructional strategies.
B7. ATST (Assistive Technology Software Toolbox)
Melissa Oliver
Need to learn how to use more software tools? Want to know what software could help with IEP
accommodations? Know Google? Come into my Google classroom. This session will provide you
with an Assistive Technology Software Toolbox (ATST) to use in your classroom. The web-based
software can be used on any laptop with web accessibility, Chromebooks included! The toolbox
was created to take away the stigma of the SEA equipment that some of our IEP students have, by
making AT software available to everyone. Coming to this session, you will experience hands-on
learning and find out how software can connect to the accommodations on an IEP. General
understanding of Google Apps would be an asset. (Int/Sr focus).
Melissa is striving to encourage the use of computers in order to change students' perspectives so that
they can say “I am able, not disabled”. Teaching Skills for Success, she gained a personal interest in
dealing with students with exceptionalities. Working on various PD projects, her focus has always been
on students who have IEPs and those in at risk situations. She is currently a SERT, which has given her
the ability to apply some of the skills learned in her projects into other subject areas. She hopes to inspire
teachers to utilize technology as a tool for student learning.
B8. Finally! A Single Set of Learning Tools for Chromebooks, iPads, Computers
and Tablets
Ian McVicar
The technology environment for education is more complex than ever with PC’s, Macs,
Chromebooks, iPads, and tablets. Due to different operating system architectures, a single
software application, historically, does not function on ALL of these platforms.
Premier now makes it possible for literacy software to run on ANY DEVICE, ANY PLACE, with just
an Internet connection. With Premier’s multi-platform architecture, there is no requirement to
install any software. Using powerful, full-featured technologies mean that essential core skills
necessary for reading, writing and studying are at your fingertips everywhere on all types of
devices.
In this presentation, attendees will see live demonstrations of Premier Literacy’s multi-platform
offerings on: Chromebooks, iPads, Android tablets/devices, PC’s/Macs
The concepts of BYOD (“bring your own device”) and UDL (“universal design for learning”) are
converging like never before!! This presentation is intended for all users.
Ian McVicar has dedicated much of his working career to finding solutions through the use of technology.
He was responsible for the first Career Resource Center in Atlantic Canada – an award-winning initiative
that represented the first time career information and job search skills were integrated with user-friendly
technology for those needing assistance in obtaining and maintaining employment. Ian continued this
work, branching into the field of assistive technology and ability assessment.
The passion and commitment he brings to everything he tackles made him a perfect fit with the Premier
Assistive Technology family.
SESSION C (2:05 – 3:15)
C1. Reduced Frustration + Self-Regulation = iPads/iPods
Tina Mandal and Jeff Tran
Current research is beginning to point to the use of the iPad/iPod to reduce frustration and assist
with Self-Regulation. Time will be spent exploring how the device and apps reduce task
complexity, improve accessibility and provide structure. Apps will be explored in the following
areas: (1) self-awareness; (2) zones of regulation (3) mood regulation (4) calming and sensory (5)
physical activity (6) Apps to support transitions.
An overview of the best apps and resources to support reduction of frustration and self-regulation
will be given. We will also provide helpful tips and tricks on how to search for and find the best
apps using blogs, twitter and related websites.
Jeff Tran and Tina Mandal are teachers that work as Special Education Facilitators in the areas
of Advanced Technology for the Durham District School Board. They support teachers and students in
integrating technology into their everyday teaching and learning. They also work collaboratively with
support services to ensure that hardware and software that best meets the needs of students is
recommended and supported.
C2. Addressing Assistive Technology Equipment Abandonment in the Secondary
Classroom
Heather Touzin and Timothy Molyneaux
Come hear how Lambton-Kent District School Board is tackling the issue of secondary SEA
laptop/computer abandonment. Learn how we coordinate Resource Teachers, Classroom
teachers and students to effectively use their SEA equipment in the secondary classroom. Topics
include: our coaching model, OSSLT preparation, integration of SEA software and OSAPAC
software in the classroom, and transitioning to iPads for AT.
Heather Touzin and Tim Molyneaux joined the Assistive Technology Team at the Lambton-Kent District
School Board in 2014, supporting secondary students and teachers with their SEA hardware and
software needs.
C3. Using GAFE and Chrome Extensions as Alternative Accessibility Tools
Bryan McMillan and Jeff Cummings
Wellington Catholic District School Board is in the process of investigating whether the wholeclass integration of Google Apps for Education (GAFE) and D2L increases meaningful student use
of available accessibility tools on laptops, Chromebooks and iPads.
If meaningful student use does increase this could have a powerful impact on students with SEA
equipment. When all students within a class begin to make use of accessibility tools available
through Chrome and Google this de-stigmatizes assistive technology use.
This workshop will showcase resources, tools and devices that have been used across the
district. Preliminary results around device and tool preference will be shared with participants.
Bryan McMillan has been both a Grade 7 & 8 classroom and Special Education Resource Teacher with
Wellington CDSB for 9 years. At Trillium Demonstration School, for students who have severe learning
disabilities, technology played a critical role in student success and Bryan brings this knowledge to his
new role with WCDSB as Digital Learning Coach.
Jeff Cummings is the Digital Learning Resource Teacher with WCDSB. His roles include E-learning and
District E-learning Contact. Jeff was a classroom teacher for 15 years using Desire2Learn extensively in
Social Science, Law and History courses.
C4. Mathematics Interactive Electronic Tools: Leveraging Strengths and
Responding to Needs for Students with Learning Disabilities
Connie Quadrini and Connie Gray
Come and explore the Ministry of Education's freely accessible mathematics interactive electronic
learning supports as seen on “mathies” (www.mathies.ca)! During this interactive session,
participants will unpack several research-informed activities and newly developed learning tools
through the lens of the cognitive processes, identifying features of the tools that leverage student
strengths and respond to needs. Bring your own device and be prepared to consider assistive
technology for mathematics in a whole new light!
Connie Quadrini is a K-12 Provincial Mathematics Lead, currently on assignment for collaborative inquiry
with the Ministry of Education from the York Catholic DSB. Connie is supporting the development of the
Ministry of Education's mathematics interactive electronic supports that have the power to leverage
student strengths and respond to needs.
Connie Gray is an Integrated Technology Consultant in Special Education with the Simcoe County DSB.
Along with the school board SEA team, she oversees the SEA claims process, professional development
and training. She has worked at both the Elementary and Secondary level for more than twenty years
always with an interest in assistive technology or "inclusive technology".
C5. Building a Collage of Vocab Lists and Word Clouds with Read/Write Gold
Rayne Tunley
This session addresses creative approaches with Read/Write Gold’s (RWG) Vocab Lists & Word
Clouds for use in classroom activities, such as merging visual arts, creative writing and
technology.
The new Word Cloud feature provides a visual representation of Word Banks or it can present
selected text in list or word cloud format. This is also great for creative writing, vocabulary
support, fill in the blanks or help when completing assignments.
Students will be more likely to remember the definition of a word if they have had to learn the
meaning through a visual exploration.
Through the use of Highlighters, words, definitions and images are extracted for an editable
Vocabulary List. Original drawings/paintings can be scanned to represent a definition of a word.
Using simple Paint Programs, we will manipulate RWG’s image library and images from the web.
Using this process, students can take pride in ownership of their words.
Rayne Tunley (AOCAD, CSPWC) has been with Microcomputer Science Centre as Training Coordinator
& AT Trainer since 2005. Rayne was an instructor/professor at numerous institutions, including Sheridan
College, where she taught for 20+ years. She has brought with her a myriad of expertise and knowledge
from art to teaching to computer. Rayne is also a certified trainer in many Assistive Technology software
programs. Rayne works and trains both children and adults with various special needs (Vision: Blind/Low
Vision, Learning Disabilities, Physical and Mental challenges).
C6. Improving Executive Functions through Technology
Ashima Rastogi
The impact of executive functions on learning is widely accepted. There has been growing interest
in new technologies to help students plan, organize, strategize, pay attention and remember
details. The development of new technologies and apps has often focused on compensating for
diverse executive functions abilities.
Based on neuroplasticity, it is known that our brain is malleable. Thus, in addition to strategies,
students can develop connections to improve these functions by actively training executive
functions.
This workshop will focus on a technology that brings executive function exercises to the
student’s device. Supported by decades of gold-standard research and work of a well-renowned
neuroscientist, it will be shown how students can develop cognitive skills to become better
planners, organizers, initiators, and be more attentive and detail-oriented.
Ashima M. Rastogi (@AshimaRastogi) is an Assessment Consultant with Pearson Clinical Assessment.
She has a passion for neuroplasticity and education, and is an innate technology enthusiast. With her
background in psychology, she is engaged in integrating evidence based psycho-educational programs in
the classroom. In her role at Pearson Clinical Assessment, she works closely with school districts to train
and support educators and clinicians to improve students’ cognitive capacities.
C7. Beyond Engagement: Utilizing Personal Devices as Assistive Technology in
the Classroom
Martin Smit, Anne Truaisch
As a Provincial Demonstration School for students with LD, we continually revise our practice to
find innovative ways for students to access the curriculum. Sagonaska has been participating in
the 21st Century CODE Project for the past five years by exploring personal device use for
assisting learning. The main goals of our involvement are discovering ways to connect the world
to the classroom and keeping parents informed, transitioning from consuming social media to
creating collaborative digital products, and the transformational use of technology by teachers
and students. Most recently, staff and students at Sagonaska have been exploring the use of
social media to leverage teaching and learning opportunities. We will share the evolution of our
experience, key findings and examples of classroom work. From this session, you will have the
knowledge and skills to enhance your professional practice, as well as increase ALL student
participation and achievement.
As one of three Provincial Demonstration Schools for Students with Learning Disabilities (LD), Sagonaska
provides specialized educational instruction and residential services and programs for students, as well
as teacher training and consultation services to school boards who have similar services and programs
serving the needs of LD students in their local community. Martin Smit has been the Principal at
Sagonaska for the past three years. Anne Truaisch has been a Resource Consultant at Sagonaska for
three years. Both educators are seconded from the Hastings and Prince Edward District School Board.
C8. Making Math Accessible
Dianne LaFortune
Making math accessible requires that teachers develop an understanding of the learning needs of
all students in a classroom, especially those students with exceptionalities. Using assessment to
identify the needs of students with LD, anxiety, developmental delay, and autism requires that
teachers recognize the possible impact of exceptionalities on developing math concepts and
knowledge. By integrating technology in math, students are able to access and participate in
activities that facilitate the development of math concepts and skills. Technology allows teachers
to provide individualized and small group opportunities to develop skills, as well as provide rich
and authentic tasks or activities. The use of videos (including real world problems), gaming, and
other web-based tools will be discussed, as well as the use of these tools to provide a variety of
learning opportunities in mathematics for all students.
Dianne is a Grade 6/7/8 teacher and ITC. Using her background in special education, she applies UDL
principles to make education accessible to all learners. She has lead collaborative-inquiry projects,
working with teachers at ALCDSB, as well as leading parent reach-out projects. Dianne has been the
recipient of TLLP, MISA, Speak-Up, Michael Carty, Learning Technology, and PRO Grants. She holds a
MEd from Queens University, has presented at various conferences in Ontario, and recently published an
article in Leaders and Learners.
Be sure to stay for the Prize Draw!! CONFERENCE ITINERARY
THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2015 6:00 -­‐ 8:00 Vendor Showcase and Registration 8:00 -­‐ 12:00 Meet ‘n Greet FRIDAY, APRIL 10, 2015 7:30 -­‐ 8:45 Registration and Breakfast 8:45 -­‐ 8:55 Welcome & O Canada 8:55 -­‐ 9:05 Greetings from the Ministry 9:05 -­‐ 10:20 Keynote: Alvin Law 10:20 -­‐ 10:35 Break 10:35 -­‐ 11:45 Session A 11:45 -­‐ 12:45 Lunch 12:45 -­‐ 1:55 Session B 2:05 -­‐ 3:15 Session C 3:15 -­‐ 3:30 Prize Draw