What a beautiful fall it has been. The changing colors, cool mornings, and shorter days remind us that change is happening all around us.

Alongside the turning leaves, we have also experienced a season of political conversation with the recent referendum. It was remarkable to see how many CALPs stepped forward to support their communities with plain-language resources. These materials were created not to persuade, but to help learners, clients, and community members understand the questions being asked of them.

This is the heart of our work.

Once again, CALPs showed how important they are to their communities. They helped make information easier to understand, reduced barriers, and made sure people had access to resources that were clear and respectful. It was a strong reminder of the important role CALPs play across Alberta.

No matter what is happening politically, our purpose remains the same. We are here to support learners. We are here to strengthen our communities. We are here to create welcoming and accessible learning spaces where people can build confidence, achieve their goals, and take the next steps that are right for them.

As we continue this work, it is important to remember that we are not doing it alone. While we invest so much energy in supporting learners, we also need to care for ourselves and stay connected to the supports available through the Community Learning Network. The CLN exists to strengthen CALPs, provide guidance, share resources, and help ensure every organization has access to the tools it needs to thrive.

This fall, there are some excellent professional development opportunities available, including new training, important refreshers, and sessions designed to deepen practice and foster connections with colleagues across the province. I encourage you to take some time to explore what is available and invest in your own learning just as intentionally as you invest in the learning of others.

Together, let's continue building strong, supportive communities where learning opens doors and creates opportunities for everyone.

Have you ever wondered how the breakout sessions are chosen?  

Every year Community Learning Network receives many submissions from those who would like to present a breakout session at the upcoming Symposium. 

Once the Call for Presenters is closed, the CLN Symposium Committee compiles all of the information from the submissions. The compiled information is shared with CLN Staff, along with a wide representation of PD Partners, CALP Staff, and other stakeholders. Each participant votes on their “top picks” from the submissions, followed by facilitated discussions related to the results of the voting. These discussions provide a second look at whether any results may need to be adjusted or whether any submitted sessions which received a “no” vote require a second consideration.

Once the final votes are tallied, the CLN Symposium Committee meets to assesses the feedback that was shared, as well as identify any gaps in professional development topics or content that need to be filled. By the end of November, the program sessions are finalized and presenters are notified as to whether their submission was chosen. 

This process results in a curated offering of sessions for Symposium attendees, so that everyone who comes is given the opportunity to choose the most relevant and timely sessions for their professional development and learning. 

Please contact:

Tanis Harms
PD & Events Specialist
Community Learning Network
pdevents@calp.ca  

Sixty years ago, UNESCO declared September 8th as International Literacy Day. Over the past sixty years literacy has moved beyond an educational need to a fundamental human right. Literacy now encompasses lifelong learning with expanding opportunities around the world which in turn enables people to more fully participate in their community, the economy, and the changing world.

What are you doing in your CALP to support literacy and lifelong learning? Watch for opportunities this year to share how you are meeting the literacy needs of adults in your community.

Check out ‘What is the literacy landscape in Alberta?” below.

Gathering in Circle

Celebrating Every Step: Honouring the Learning Journey

CALPs Are Already Building Mental Wellness—Here's How to Build on It