The Alberta Teachers’ Association

Veterans’ Week and Remembrance Day resources

Alberta schools will recognize Veterans’ Week from Nov. 5 to 11. This week is an opportunity for students to learn about national history and express their gratitude for the sacrifices of Canadian soldiers. The Alberta social studies program includes a strong focus on teaching and learning history, as well as emphasizing Canada’s origins and our role in significant world events. To access a wide variety of resources to assist in observing Veterans’ Week and Remembrance Day, check out
www.education.alberta.ca/veteranss. 

Project Heroes

A new military history project opened its doors on Nov. 3.

Project Heroes is an exhibition of portraits and stories with soldiers’ photos, letters, poetry and videos accessed via smartphones. Organized by three Edmonton-area artists, the exhibition displays a history of Canada’s military involvement over the last 100 years and delves into the impact of war on soldiers and their families.

The exhibit will operate until Dec. 31 at the Prince of Wales Armouries Heritage Centre at 10440 108 Ave. in Edmonton. The exhibition is free and open to class groups during the centre’s hours of operation: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Monday and Thursday, and 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Wednesday.

More information is available at www.projectheroes.ca or by calling Cindy Revell at 780-974-3044.

Media Literacy Week

Media Literacy Week is an annual event that takes place every November. Co-led by MediaSmarts and the Canadian Teachers’ Federation, the week puts a spotlight on the importance of digital and media literacy as a key component in the education of children and young people.

Working with Canadian schools, libraries, and educational associations and organizations, Media Literacy Week participants seek to inspire a leap in Canadians’ thinking toward media education as an important — and innovative — approach creating thoughtful, engaged and informed young people.

This initiative provides Canadians with a focal point for media-related activities and, at the same time, showcases the creative ways that digital and media literacy are being integrated into classrooms and communities across the country. The Media Literacy Week website (www.medialiteracyweek.ca) includes a calendar of upcoming events across the country; ideas and suggestions for getting involved; and a press kit of news, articles and promotional materials.

Stories and photos wanted

The ATA News is always on the lookout for interesting articles, photos and cartoons. Articles should not exceed 500 words and should be accompanied by a short byline, stating where you work and what you teach. Photos of teachers or students participating in interesting activities are welcome, as are cartoons. Don’t forget to include photo captions. Please note: Receipt of material does not guarantee its publication. Send your submissions to Managing Editor, the ATA News, 11010–142 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5N 2R1 or submit electronically to cory.hare@ata.ab.ca.