Broncos Staff Join Colleagues at SEATCA Convention
If you have noticed a flurry of educators heading toward Medicine Hat this Thursday and Friday, it is for a very good reason. The Bassano School teaching staff are currently joining approximately 1,100 of their colleagues from across the Grasslands School Division and the rest of Southeastern Alberta for the annual SEATCA convention.
While students are enjoying their time away from the classroom, our teachers have stepped into the role of students themselves. This annual event is a vital part of the professional year, serving as a dedicated time to share collective wisdom, stay current on the latest educational research, and sharpen the skills that our staff bring to Bassano every week. It is a time for educators to step back from the daily routine and focus on how to best serve the next generation of learners.
The 2026 program at Medicine Hat College is packed with forward-thinking sessions and workshops. This year’s keynote speakers, including specialists like Lisa Belanger, are helping teachers explore new ways to manage energy and focus in a high-speed world. Other sessions cover a wide range of modern classroom needs, from student wellness and "Finding Hope in Hard Times" to practical workshops on Beginner ASL and Algebra Tiles. There is also a strong focus on the future of learning, including how to smoothly integrate new tools like artificial intelligence so that technology acts as a partner in student success rather than just a shortcut.
Beyond the formal workshops, the convention is deeply rooted in networking and mentorship. It provides a bridge for our staff to catch up with friends and colleagues from across the region, swapping stories and strategies that have proven successful in other classrooms. It is a reminder that while Bassano is a close-knit community, our teachers are part of a massive, supportive network dedicated to Alberta’s youth.
Of course, being a dedicated professional requires a bit of sacrifice, especially with the Olympic women’s hockey gold medal match happening this week. There has been plenty of talk about having to strictly avoid spoilers and keep the PVRs ready at home so as not to miss a single minute of a session or the big game.
We look forward to having our teachers back next week, refreshed and loaded with new ideas and inspiration for our students. Way to go, Broncos staff, and enjoy the rest of the convention.