In the Loop - October 1, 2026

Sometimes one teacher

KEY RESOURCES IN LANGLEY

  • Guide to Key Websites and Resources: Here
  • Instructional Services Website: For all your district-vetted resources K-12! Check it out!
  • Aboriginal Resources vetted by the District: Here
  • TCS Sites: Key resources are still being placed in these Teams. If you need access to one of these Teams, please email dzurbuchenjonker@sd35.bc.ca.
    • TCS SS-Grade 3
    • TCS Grade 4-8
    • TCS Secondary

DISTRICT LEARNING COMMONS

The DLC is a lending library of classroom and teaching resources available to all school staff in the Langley School District. All of our items are available to view and book online through the Insignia Library system. We also deliver and pick up all the items you request through district mail twice per week (check with your admin assistant to see which days your deliveries are on).

Click here for more information, including login instructions: SD35 District Learning Commons

Featured DLC Resource:

Discover the Japanese Canadian Internment Collection | Available Through the District Learning Commons
Bring history to life with engaging, curriculum-connected resources that help students explore the experiences of Japanese Canadians before, during, and after the Second World War. Perfect for Grade 5 and Grade 10 Social Studies, English Language Arts, inquiry projects, literature circles, and cross-curricular learning. The kits in this large-scale collection can be booked separately or all together. This collection comes with digital resources available on staff share point. The kits in this collection can be booked separately or all together as a large-scale resource for your school.
Visit the DLC here and TCS Teams 4-8 and secondary to learn more!

HONOURING TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION

October Indigenous Education Newsletter | Read Here
Please be sure to check out the October Newsletter from our District's Indigenous Department. This newsletter is full of excellent information about what is happening in Indigenous Education in October. This includes information about upcoming events, important Indigenous days and connections, as well as resources for teachers at all different grade levels. You can access the newsletter at the link above.

Metis Nation - Passion for Teaching: Metis Voices in Education | More info
Métis Nation BC is proud to launch Passion for Teaching: Métis Voices in Education, a video series highlighting the journeys, experiences, and inspirations of Métis educators
across British Columbia. The series features Métis teachers Caren Nagao, Chelsea Craddock, Nicole Stewart, and Dave Lafontaine, who generously shared their stories and perspectives on teaching.

PROVINCIAL PRO-D DAY | FRIDAY OCTOBER 23, 2026

Pro-D at the Museum of Vancouver | October 23, 2026 | More info
 MOV is pleased to once again host the Provincial Pro-D Day at the Museum of Vancouver on Friday, October 23. This will be a rich day of learning, networking and professional development designed for educators. For details and registration, please visit the website at the link above.

BCAMT Mathematics Fall Conference: True North: Aligning Practice with Purpose | Register
Registration is now open for the annual BC Mathematics Conference which will be held at Gladstone Secondary on the Provincial Pro-D Day, Friday October 23! This year's keynote speaker is Dr. Peter Liljedahl, professor at SFU. In addition, the workshop options include Langley's very own Calvin Leung, who will be offering the workshop below at the conference:

Let’s Count On Math: Seeing Structure and Building Meaning From K-12 
 From K-12, students often make their way through a series of disjointed experiences causing a disconnect between students and math; resulting in weak numeracy and understanding of “what math means.” The easy to apply and understand structure of “counting” can be used in and between classrooms K-12 to make meaning and help students understand the procedures and algorithms we teach. The algorithms and processes remain unchanged, only a slight change in how we approach them makes them more accessible and relatable to students. With over 75% of instructional time spent covering: number concepts and operations, algebra, measurement, and probability, “counting" is the unifying framework that will allow students to see interrelationships between concepts, processes, and algorithms to make sense of and organize their math learning. Weaving this thread through the K-12 journey will help students have a greater understanding of how things are related and make concepts easier for teachers to teach and students to learn, retain, and apply.

Right Brain Reading Workshop | October 23, 2026 | More info
 Come for a day of learning that will transform how you support those struggling readers you have in your classroom or school.This workshop is for you if you are working hard with them, giving them extra practice and support, yet they still aren't working confidently or independently at grade level. Jennifer Hedican founded Right Brain Reading to work specifically with that group of students who, despite intervention and support, do not make the expected progress. I saw drastic improvements with this method and you will too. It is easy to use, fun to do, engaging for the student and successful - you and your students will love it! Learn all about the 6 fundamental steps of Right Brain Reading, do some hands-on learning, hear how neuroscience informs this practice and learn some tips and tricks for UDL and classroom use too.

PHE BC PSA Day Conference | October 23, 2026 | More info
The annual provincial Physical and Health and Education Conference will be taking place at Douglas College on the Provincial Pro-D Day on Friday October 23.  This year's theme is "Reimagining Physical Education & School Sport Experiences." To learn more about the conference and to register, please go the link above.

Building Safety Through Connection | Education Assistants of BC Society | October 23, 2026 | More info | Register
This year's conference focuses on "Building Safety Through Connection: Foundations of FASD - Relationship, Regulation, and the Brain-Body Connection to Learning."
Understanding Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) and nervous-system-aligned communication is essential for foster-based, relational, and trauma-informed support in today's classrooms. Trina Chivilo brings 14 years of teaching experience across challenging pre-K to 12 environments, 6 years in provincial outreach, and extensive community partnership experience. Participants will gain practical, evidence-informed strategies to help students co-regulate, surface essential strengths, and enhance learning through connection.

DISTRICT PROFESSIONAL LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES

A Conversation with the Nations: Matsqui, Kwantlen, Katzie & Semiahmoo| On-Demand Learning Feature
The Langley School District is situated on the traditional, ancestral, unceded territories of the Matsqui, Kwantlen, Katzie, and Semiahmoo First Nations. We are guided by the Aboriginal Education Enhancement Agreement (EA), a working agreement between a school district and all local Aboriginal communities to enhance the educational achievement of Aboriginal students.
The first step in establishing a trusting, respectful partnership is getting to know each other. The opening session of Odyssey is an opportunity to have a conversation with representatives from the local land-based Nations.

BC IEP & MyEd Training for Resource Teachers | October 7, 2026 | Register Today!
This Workshop is presented by members of our Inclusion Team. You will learn how to complete the key components of a Competency Based Individual Education Plan and how to enter these documents into MyEd. This workshop will be offered twice on October the 7th. A morning session running from 9:00am - 12:00pm. An afternoon session running from 12:00 - 3:00pm.

Ukeru Training 2026-2027 | Multiple Dates, 2026-2027 | Register Today!
Special Education Assistants (SEAs) in the Langley School District are expected to renew their Ukeru training every two years. Content of this session includes Trauma-Informed Care, De-escalation Strategies, and Personal Protective Skills. 
This is single-day training. Only register for one day. If you need to change the day you are attending, please reach out to Professional Services (thinklangley@sd35.bc.ca), and they will assist you. Questions regarding the teaching should be directed to Cathy Gracie. This training is open to all district staff to whom these practices may apply.

NEW! AAC In Every Classroom | October 21, November 4, & November 18, 2026 | Register Today!
This practical three-part series helps bridge the gap between AAC theory and classroom practice by giving educators the understanding, mindset, and tools to support communication access throughout the school day. This PD is for the whole team - classroom teachers, EAs, and support staff.
Session 1: Understanding AAC: What it is, who uses it, and why it matters
Session 2: Being a Strong Communication Partner: Practical strategies for everyday interactions
Session 3: Supporting AAC in the Classroom Environment: Routines, structures, and participation opportunities

NEW! MathUP! Tools for Teaching | October 23, 2026 | Register Today!
Explore the resources, routines, and instructional tools within MathUP! and discover how they can support or enhance K-8 mathematics instruction. Engage in hands-on learning that promotes numeracy, reasoning, and problem solving while exploring additional resources that compliment the program. Leave with practical strategies, classroom-ready ideas, and tools to support meaningful mathematics learning. 

NEW! ASD: Supporting Student Success | October 23, 2026 | Register Today!
Join us at the Langley Events Centre for a day full of practical tools and strategies to support student learning and success. The District Autism Team will provide hands-on learning and practice that will empower you to support students. Attendance at this all-day workshop will provide ASD credit to SEAs. Learn effective use of:

  • visual supports
  • preference assessments
  • picture creation
  • no demand play/pairing
  • universal de-escalation strategies

Connecting the Pieces: The Early Years Conference | October 23, 2026 | Register Today!
Connecting the Pieces: The Early Years Conference is our annual conference dedicated to professional development for Kindergarten - Grade 3 teachers, and early childhood educators. Our workshop line-up includes local and internationally recognized experts selected to share their innovative and practical ideas for working with young learners.

EXTERNAL PROFESSIONAL LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES

Professional Development for Educators | KPU | More info
Strengthen your teaching practice and spark student curiosity with these engaging, hands-on workshops for K-12 educators. 

  • AI Workshop for K-12 Teachers with Dr Daniel Anvari 
    Bring Artificial Intelligence (AI) into your classroom with practical tools, ethics guidance, and hands-on activities for any subject or grade with this one day workshop.
    • Nov 6 - Surrey
    • Nov 20 - Langley
    • Nov 23 - Richmond
    • Jan 22 - Surrey
    • Jan 25 - Richmond
  • Science of Fungal Identification with an intro to Mycology
    Dive into the science of fungi and develop microscopy skills to identify species with confidence.
    • Oct 23 - Nov 7, 2026
    • KPU Richmond
  • Food, Medicine & Cultivation with this new intro to Mycology
    Explore the fascinating world of fungi, from culinary and medicinal uses to cultivation basics.
    • Nov 13 - 27, 2026
    • KPU Richmond

Mental Wellness Supports & Interventions for Indigenous Children & Adolescents Supporting Indigenous | Nov 30 - Dec 1, 2026 | More info | Registration
This two-day event brings together Indigenous and non-Indigenous mental wellness and healing professionals, educators, community-based programs and services to share knowledge about the latest trends and strategies in mental wellness supports and interventions for Indigenous Children and Adolescents. The Workshop is sponsored by Aulneau Renewal Centre, Winnipeg, Manitoba and presented by W. Zarchikoff & Associates, Langley, BC. It is taking place at the Four Points Sheraton Edmonton International Airport in Nisku Alberta.

2027 CAC Spring Conference | April 8-9, 2027 | More info | Register
On April 8–9, 2027, the Canadian Assessment Centre will host its annual Spring Conference in Ottawa, ON, a national gathering focused on shaping the future of assessment in Canada. Built by Canadians, for Canadians, this experience is designed to inspire, challenge, and move practice forward in meaningful ways. You’ll hear from keynote speakers Tom Schimmer and Natalie Vardabasso, alongside breakout sessions from Josh Ogilvie, Karley Alleyn, and Danielle Paloposki, all of whom bring practical strategies, fresh thinking, and real classroom application. The detailed agenda will be announced in the fall, but here’s what you can expect: two days of bold ideas, actionable practices, and powerful conversations with educators from across the country. This isn’t just a conference; it’s a movement.
Now is the time to secure your spot for next year’s conference. Early Bird registration ends November 30, 2026.

LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES FOR STAFF/STUDENTS/CLASSES

BC STEM Opportunities | More info
Do you have students interested in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics and looking for opportunities and scholarships to enhance your learning in these areas?  Then be sure to direct them to the new BC STEM Opportunities website.  This is a website created by Langley students which is a one stop shop for all activities and opportunities that are STEM related - from upcoming STEM contests or events, to STEM related grants and scholarship opportunities.  The website is updated on an ongoing basis so be sure to check back regularly for new opportunities.  Students can access the website at the link above.

Remembrance Day | Historica Canada | Request  Speaker by October 3, 2026
Make Remembrance Day even more meaningful with a visit from a veteran or serving Canadian Armed Forces member. Request a free Memory Project speaker visit to learn more about the legacy of the Canadian military and the importance of Remembrance. Please note that visits are booked on a first-come, first-served basis. For priority consideration, please submit your request for this Remembrance season before October 3rd.

MiniEnterprize 2027 | February 13, 2027 | Early bird pricing until October 31, 2026 | More info | Students Registration | Teachers Registration
We are excited to officially announce the return of miniEnterprize 2027, Western Canada’s largest and oldest business case competition for high school students, hosted at the UBC Sauder School of Business. This year’s event promises an engaging experience designed to challenge students to think critically, analyze real-world business scenarios, and present innovative solutions. For those new to case competitions, they are dynamic events where participants work in teams to tackle complex business problems, then present their findings and strategies to a panel of judges. Through this process, students develop essential skills like public speaking, teamwork, and analytical thinking—all of which are valuable in both academic and professional settings.

Spark Curiosity with Royal BC Museum | Booking Information
Our educator resources bring together programs, activities, collections, and learning materials on a range of topics connected to the BC curriculum—from Kindergarten through Grade 12. Whether you’re planning a field trip, looking for an online experience, bringing the museum to your classroom, or seeking resources to support learning throughout the year, you’ll find it all in one place.
Programs are now available to book through June 2027. Explore some of our featured learning programs below, with options for in-person, online, and classroom-based learning.
  • New Learning Lab: Ancient Egypt | In-person 60 minutes | Grade 7 and up | More info
  • New Digital Field Trip: Ancient Egypt | Online 30 minutes  Grade 7 | More info
  • Free Resource | National Day For Truth and Reconciliation | Online | More info
  • In-Class Provocation Packs: Transform Your Classroom into a Mini Museum | In-Class Two Week Loan | Grade K-12 | More info
  • In-Class Outreach Kits: Transform Your Classroom into a Mini Museum | In-Class Two Week Loan | Grade K-10 | More info
  • Free Programs Connecting You with the Museum | Live Online Free | Grade K-7 | More info
  • Free Resource Learning Portal | Online | More info

LEARNING RESOURCES

Ingenium: Canada's Museums of Science and Innovation | More info
Looking for ready-to-use, curriculum-linked resources to support your teaching this year? Ingenium - Canada’s Museums of Science and Innovation has a Teacher’s Zone offering a growing collection of FREE bilingual lesson plans and classroom resources developed by educators and STEM specialists to help you bring science, technology, engineering, and math concepts to life. Resources are available for learners at every stage, with activities and lessons designed to support Kindergarten through grade 12 classrooms.
Explore the full collection and download free classroom materials today!

  • STEM Resources
    The Canada Agriculture and Food Museum, the Canada Aviation and Space Museum, and the Canada Science and Technology Museum offer a wide variety of lesson plans that bring STEM learning to life. Topics include agriculture, genetics, biotechnology, soil ecosystems, food production, climate change, aquatic sciences, remote sensing, flight and space. The popular Pumpkins lesson plan helps students explore one of fall’s most recognizable harvest crops through inquiry- and play-based learning. Students investigate the pumpkin life cycle, use math, science, and art to examine pumpkin characteristics and growth, and discover the important role pumpkins play in agriculture, culture, and seasonal traditions. Exploring Canada’s Energy Future, combines teacher guides, activities, and infographics to help students examine real Canadian energy data and consider the opportunities and challenges shaping Canada’s energy future.
  • Free Edukits from Ingenium
    For educators looking for ready-to-use teaching kits, Ingenium also offers FREE edukits that bring museum-inspired learning directly into the classroom. The Eyes on the Skies travelling edukit includes a teacher’s manual, lesson plans, source materials, equipment, props, and games. This comprehensive teaching tool introduces students to the evolution of air transportation in Canada, explores the cultural impact of air travel, and highlights exciting career opportunities in aviation and aerospace.
  • Free 3-D Resources from Ingenium
    You can also bring museum objects into your classroom with Ingenium’s collection of 3-D resources. Download free 3-D printing files for artifacts such as a butter churn, an anatomical model, and a zoetrope, along with accompanying lesson plans and activities. These resources give students the opportunity to explore science, technology, history, and innovation through hands-on, inquiry-based learning.

PROFESSIONAL AND PERSONAL READINGS

Assess That Podcast: 5 Assessment Decisions Every Teacher Should Make | Listen
In episode 38, Tom and Nat unpack five assessment decisions every teacher should make at the start of the school year: what learning actually matters, what evidence you’ll trust, what proficiency looks like, what happens when students aren’t there yet, and what role students will play in the assessment process. This isn’t about overhauling everything you do. It’s about making a few deliberate decisions now that can lead to more accurate assessment, more meaningful feedback, and more confident learners throughout the year.

TECH TIPS

Canva Resources |  Link
Did you know that Canva for Education has many ready-to-use and editable teacher resources on their platform? These templates include everything from planning and scheduling to morning slides to classroom communications, and more! Check out the pictured resource at the link above to explore the teacher template collections. 
If you want to explore on your own, sign into Canva for Education using your Microsoft log-in, then head to the Templates tab. In the search bar, search for resources to support your classroom! There are also student-friendly templates that they can edit to complete tasks – more to come on this in a future post! 

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