The Chiefs of Ontario Education Sector invites submissions for interactive workshops for the 2026 Education, Languages and Special Education Forum, taking place November 3–5, 2026, in Thunder Bay.

We are seeking innovative, engaging workshop proposals that highlight effective strategies, promising practices, and demonstrated successes that positively impact First Nations students, families, Education Authorities, and communities. Education, Languages, and Special Education will be fully integrated across all three days of the Forum, reflecting a lifelong learning approach that supports learners at every stage.

Key Topics May Include
  • Language preservation, revitalization, and advocacy strategies – community-based and within schools
  • Cultural and land-based teaching approaches
  • Data use in strategic planning and to inform instruction and programming
  • Student mental health and well-being
  • Community strategies and best practices in adult education
  • Innovative special education strategies and service delivery
  • First Nation curriculum and resource development
  • School food programs
  • Successful intervention strategies to close gaps in student education outcomes
  • High-impact practices using technology and/or AI in the classroom
  • Addressing the specific needs of First Nations students in provincial schools to improve student outcomes
  • Moving from surface-level cultural inclusion to meaningful integration of First Nations culture, history, and values in the provincial school system
Submission Guidelines
  • All presentations require an abstract and presenter bios
  • Abstracts will be assessed based on originality, timeliness, and relevance to First Nation education and First Nation languages
  • Presentations will be 45 minutes, followed by 15 minutes for Q&A
  • Presenters must indicate any internet or technical needs (e.g., videos)
  • Final electronic versions of slides and materials must be submitted to:
Important Dates
  • Deadline for abstract submissions: May 15, 2026
  • Successful applicants will be notified by June 5, 2026

Submit your workshop proposal here:

https://survey.alchemer.com/s3/8734457/2026-Call-out-for-Presenters-and-Abstracts-COO-FNELFSpecEd

Don’t miss this opportunity to share your knowledge, elevate community-led solutions, and contribute to the advancement of First Nation education and language revitalization.