AM – Centering Circle: Bringing Indigenous Ways of Knowing into Eng/Socials Classrooms with Kaya Leslie (AM only)

Presenter:  Kaya Leslie
Time:  11:00 – 12:15

Location:  Vanier TBD 
Max:  29  

Educators are encouraged to participate in this workshop to get a hands-on experience in integrating circle practices into classroom settings. The session will explore how incorporating circle can foster classroom community, strengthen belonging, and support assessment of learning through discussion and shared assignments. Participants will develop an understanding of how to establish circle protocol, set expectations, facilitate sessions while participating in First Peoples Principles of Learning. The workshop will also include example units demonstrating circle-based approaches, along with information about assessment tools for using circle as evidence of learning. 

Kaya Leslie is an Indigenous educator with a Bachelor of Arts, double minor in Indigenous Studies and Fine Arts and Secondary Teacher Certificate. Kaya spent 2 years working on reserve learning from valuable experiences in community and culture-centered education. Following this, her teaching practice expanded into English and Social Studies before transitioning into Indigenous student support. Kaya’s passion is grounded in cultural knowledge, relational approaches, and a strong commitment to fostering classroom community, belonging, and meaningful learning experiences for students.