We welcome you to register for SECA's Conference & Awards of Excellence Gala which will be hosted on Saturday, May 3rd, and Sunday May 4th in Saskatoon at Prairieland Park (503 Ruth St W, Saskatoon, SK S7K 4E4)
Saturday, May 3rd will begin with a welcome from SECA and Sharon Meyer followed by an hour long session by the Caring Society on Jordan's Principle, a child-first principle to ensure First Nations children get the services they need when they need them.
The morning will continue with five break out sessions. Please select ONE of the following for the morning breakout session. Descriptions of each session can be found in the informational booklet.
1. FASD Network
2. Loose Parts with Carla Ward
3. Leadership, Engagement, and Workforce Stability with Lisa Lalonde *This session is intended to individuals in leadership positions (directors, assistant directors, supervisors)
4. First Nation Traditional Family Lifestyle & Intergenerational Trauma
with Sharon Meyer
5. Neurodivergence with Cairis Counselling
After lunch, the afternoon will continue with five break out sessions. Please select ONE of the following for the afternoon breakout session. Descriptions of each session can be found in the informational booklet.
1. Metis Nation Saskatchewan
2. Emotional Regulation with Carla Ward *FULL - No Spots Available*
3. Centering Educators' Voices and Experiences with Lisa Lalonde
4. Neurodivergence with Cairis Counselling
5. Nurturing Little Food Explorers with Megan Wallace
Click here for the informational booklet.
We will end the day with Monica Madison speaking on The Weight of Words. An inspiring, neurodiversity focused session that prompts educator self-reflection and consideration of personal philosophy. The Weight of Words introduces the psychological application of adopting a growth mindset, explores why our language choices matter, and outlines the measurable outcomes of both for children within our care. Educators will deepen their understanding of inclusive education, learning not only how to strengthen their practice, but feeling excited, empowered, and equipped to do so.
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SECA's Annual Awards of Excellence Gala will be hosted in the evening of May 3rd, 2025. The evening will consist of cocktails, supper, the awards gala, and dueling pianos as entertainment to end the night!
This portion of the event is included in your registration fee.
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Sunday, May 4th will start off with a delicious breakfast before we welcome Kristen RB Peterson who will be bringing us two different topics in this morning session:
Press Pause & The Great Breakup.
In Press Pause, we take a step back from the rush of modern childhood and ask: What happens when we slow down? This keynote brings together stories, reflections, and insights on how play creates the magic that defines childhood. Through a combination of research and heartfelt narratives, we’ll explore the beauty of uninterrupted, child-led play and how it fosters creativity, problem-solving, and emotional well-being. If you’re an educator, parent, or advocate for children, this talk will inspire you to embrace a slower, more intentional approach to childhood—one that honors play as a vital part of growing up.
In The Great Breakup, it’s time to break up with outdated, developmentally inappropriate practices like calendar time, weather reports, criss-cross applesauce, and letter-of-the-week routines. In this transformative session, you’ll learn why letting go of these traditions will lead to a happier, calmer, and more enriching environment for both you and the children in your care. Backed by the latest research, this training provides evidence-based insights into how play based, child-centered approaches unlock deeper learning and foster creativity. But be prepared—this session invites you to reflect on current practices, and it may be uncomfortable at times as we challenge norms that are not developmentally appropriate. If you're ready for honest reflection and a classroom shift that puts children’s needs first, this session is for you!
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SECA is excited to be offering an addition workshop with Kristen RB Peterson
following our annual conference!
Kristen will be bringing her Cabinet of Curiosity for this optional afternoon session.
To register for An Afternoon with Kristen RB Peterson please click here
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If you are not local to Saskatoon and will require a hotel room please click here for a discounted booking rate through Prairieland Park. Only valid from May 3, 2025-May 4, 2025.
Here are a few other hotel options that are in the area: Sandman Signature South Hotel, Four Points by Sheraton Saskatoon, and Hampton Inn Saskatoon South. Please note there is not special rate available at these ones.
Perkopolis also offers SECA Members discounted rates at select hotels, click here for more information.
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Registration fees include the two day event and the awards gala.
SECA Membership Registration: $300.00
*to qualify for SECA's membership registration rate you must hold a Professional Membership*
Non Member Registration: $400.00
Registration Closes: Friday April 18th, 2025
*payments must be received or payment arrangements must made by this date*
*If you wish to register multiple members please click here to download the form. Please email the completed form to: pd@seca-sk.org and allow 1-3 business days for processing. You will receive a comprehensive invoice via email which you can pay via: cheque, credit card (3% credit card fee added), or e-transfer. Please include the invoice number in the memo of the cheque or e-transfer.
SECA does not offer refunds for professional development registrations. If you are unable to attend a professional development event that you have registered for, you can send someone in your place as a substitute. Please contact Melissa Carson at SECA at 306-842-0010 or pd@seca-sk.org. Substitutions must be made by noon the day prior to the workshop.
The Ministry of Education will support participation in the conference through the Professional Development grant. This conference will be an eligible event for 2025-26 PD grant funding.