Empowering Educators: OCSB’s STEM Professional Development Day
Over 250 educators from the Ottawa Catholic School Board (OCSB) gathered at Immaculata High School for an inspiring STEM Professional Development Day. This event, designed specifically for Grades 9 and 10 educators, focused on de-streaming Math, Science, and Technology. It celebrated hands-on learning and emphasized strengthening cross-curricular connections to bring real-world relevance into the classroom.
A Student-Led Showcase: STEAM in Action
The day began with a powerful student panel featuring students from Heather Kennedy’s class at Notre Dame High School. They presented their remarkable vertical garden project, an inspiring example of STEAM education making a tangible community impact. These students not only grow produce but also donate it locally, applying their learning to make a difference beyond the classroom walls.
Deep Learning in Action
Their project embodied the 6Cs—Citizenship, Collaboration, Character, Communication, Creativity, and Critical Thinking—demonstrating how interdisciplinary learning can come alive through sustainable design, teamwork, and innovation. From scientific inquiry and engineering design to digital technology and artistic expression, the students showcased how STEAM can be applied in meaningful ways.
Hands-On Learning: Workshops and Innovation
Following the panel, educators rotated through three workshop sessions, choosing from 16 engaging options per round. Organized by OCSB staff Jennifer Gauthier, Julian Daher, Heather Lindale, Steph Pearson, Carrie Clancy, Brett Jewitt, and Jennifer Wood, the sessions featured both community partners and OCSB presenters. Topics ranged from cutting-edge technologies like 3D printing and coding with micro: bits to innovative tools such as Lego Spike Prime, electricity, Mail Merge, and skilled trades.
These workshops equipped educators with hands-on tools and fresh ideas to bring back to their classrooms, ensuring that students receive the most engaging and relevant education possible. By combining the expertise of community partners with the passion of OCSB educators, the event fostered an environment where innovation and collaboration thrived.
Supporting Inclusive Practices
Later in the day, participants shifted focus to IEP training, emphasizing the importance of inclusive practices to ensure that every learner receives the care and attention they deserve. This training underscored OCSB’s commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment for all students.
Bringing the Ministry’s Vision to Life
By combining the energy of student voice, the expertise of community partners, and the passion of educators, the STEM PD day brought the Ministry’s vision of cross-curricular, real-world learning to life. It’s just one more way OCSB is helping students gain the transferable skills they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
