The Global, Environmental & Outdoor
Education Council
An Interdisciplinary Specialist Council of the Alberta Teachers Association.
GEOEC is your resource for teaching in the area of global, environmental, and outdoor education.
Become a member, take part in our conference and workshops, receive teaching ideas, and bring global, environmental and outdoor education into your classroom.
Our mission is to provide resources and venues for dialogue and networking, as well as to promote quality professional development for Alberta teachers. Members receive current news items, food for thought through our journal Connections, teaching ideas, and information about our workshop series.
We are also active on Facebook and Twitter, with up-to-date information
on PD opportunities and initiatives in Alberta.
Education Council
An Interdisciplinary Specialist Council of the Alberta Teachers Association.
GEOEC is your resource for teaching in the area of global, environmental, and outdoor education.
Become a member, take part in our conference and workshops, receive teaching ideas, and bring global, environmental and outdoor education into your classroom.
Our mission is to provide resources and venues for dialogue and networking, as well as to promote quality professional development for Alberta teachers. Members receive current news items, food for thought through our journal Connections, teaching ideas, and information about our workshop series.
We are also active on Facebook and Twitter, with up-to-date information
on PD opportunities and initiatives in Alberta.
NEW RESOURCE ANNOUNCEMENT
FIVE MINUTE FIELD TRIPS: VOLUME 2
Exciting NEWS!
Our latest edition of Five Minute Field Trips: Volume 2 is here!
Head on over to our Resource Section to check it out!
Exciting NEWS!
Our latest edition of Five Minute Field Trips: Volume 2 is here!
Head on over to our Resource Section to check it out!
2022 - GEOEC - AGM
We invite you to join us for our Spring Speaker Series 9:00am to 11:00am on Saturday, April 9th
Our 2022 Annual General Meeting (AGM), which will take place at 12:00pm MST via Zoom Call that same day!
To Register for both events follow the link below:
Our 2022 Annual General Meeting (AGM), which will take place at 12:00pm MST via Zoom Call that same day!
To Register for both events follow the link below:
UPCOMING EVENTS AND NEWS
SPRING 2022
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Around the Camp Fire
with GEOEC Tuesday, March 15th 7pm to 9pm We would love to chat with you about all of the AMAZING things going on in your classrooms. Like most campfire chats we are hoping to have a very open mic forum around outdoor education topics and format. We just want the chance to connect you & other incredible teachers around the province. Come join us for a few minutes or the entire campfire! We can guarantee you will leave the fire inspired! |
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GEOEC, HPEC & EverActive have teamed up for this incredible PD Series! This is a professional development opportunity ideal for those interested in a deeper, community-based learning experience. Through this interactive format, participants will join four virtual sessions on the same topic, allowing for greater exploration and discussion around practical application of the concepts. Scroll down our website more information under 'Upcoming Events' |
Members, Educators, and Outdoor Enthusiasts
First and foremost, we must acknowledge what a year this has been. I know I certainly felt anxious going into this year with so many unknowns, but at the same time was excited for the opportunity to see students again and the possibilities to adventure with them. Despite all of the challenges, hoops, roadblocks, and detours that you educators have had to navigate around this school year, you have managed to not only get through it but make an extremely impactful year for students. Once again, in the fall we had no idea what was ahead or what to expect, but classrooms became a place of learning, laughter, excitement, and inquiry. Some of you have made this look very easy, when we know very well, it has not been.
The Executive team for The Global, Environmental & Outdoor Education Council has been working hard this year to help support teachers across the province. From workshops to webinars, speaker series, and conventions, GEOEC has had a great year despite all the challenges faced during this ongoing pandemic. Hosting multiple events each month, our executive team worked extremely hard to provide a wide variety of experiences and opportunities for all members across the province. We even took our Virtual Campfires nationwide by teaming up with Take Me Outside! We hope that you were able to attend one or more of the events and we look forward to having you attend more this year!
I encourage you to be in touch with our executive team if you need any form of professional development in your school division. We would love nothing more than to host an event in your area and provide support on the topics of global, environmental, and outdoor education.
I personally am thankfully that our schools were once again able to capitalize on taking kids on off-site experiences and field trips throughout the province. Getting to the mountains, adventuring again has been beyond uplifting for the students and teachers, such as myself. Not to mention the ever so important benefits to our mental health. It really was strange last year, not being off exploring and take our students out of the city. I have seen this year that our students and parent community appreciate even more what these off-site opportunities can provide. The students were devouring opportunities and adventures and just wanted to be connected. Getting students to believe in themselves, their communities, and one another can be a tough lesson to teach, but one that pays off in unmeasurable ways.
What does the second half of this year hold? (Yes, I am actually writing this in January as we are working from home awaiting the in person/online decisions from our government). Many unknowns for sure, but one thing I do know, is that no matter what these final months throws at us, educators will continue to work extremely hard to make memorable experiences, adventures, and lessons within the constraints that are pushed our way. We can all do this together and will continue to be the best teachers we can for our students. It’s who we are!
I would like to take this time to thank each and every Executive Member of our council for all their time, dedication, and effort put forth to help inspire and support teachers across this province. This council would be nowhere near our target today if it wasn’t for this inspiring team! Surround yourself with inspiring, hardworking, and amazing people, and you won’t be surprised at the incredible results that are produced. I could not ask for a better team of educators to work with on a day-to-day basis. Our team would love to help your school, community, and teachers further with resources and professional development. If there is a need for Global, Environmental & Outdoor Council sessions at a convention, conference, or PD event near you, please contact us so we can set something up for the future.
Please keep up to date by following us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Do not hesitate to send us a note with any questions you may have. A huge thank you to all teachers across the province for your amazing work in your communities. Best of luck with all your adventures and hopefully we will see you on the trails very soon.
Court Rustemeyer
GEOEC President
First and foremost, we must acknowledge what a year this has been. I know I certainly felt anxious going into this year with so many unknowns, but at the same time was excited for the opportunity to see students again and the possibilities to adventure with them. Despite all of the challenges, hoops, roadblocks, and detours that you educators have had to navigate around this school year, you have managed to not only get through it but make an extremely impactful year for students. Once again, in the fall we had no idea what was ahead or what to expect, but classrooms became a place of learning, laughter, excitement, and inquiry. Some of you have made this look very easy, when we know very well, it has not been.
The Executive team for The Global, Environmental & Outdoor Education Council has been working hard this year to help support teachers across the province. From workshops to webinars, speaker series, and conventions, GEOEC has had a great year despite all the challenges faced during this ongoing pandemic. Hosting multiple events each month, our executive team worked extremely hard to provide a wide variety of experiences and opportunities for all members across the province. We even took our Virtual Campfires nationwide by teaming up with Take Me Outside! We hope that you were able to attend one or more of the events and we look forward to having you attend more this year!
I encourage you to be in touch with our executive team if you need any form of professional development in your school division. We would love nothing more than to host an event in your area and provide support on the topics of global, environmental, and outdoor education.
I personally am thankfully that our schools were once again able to capitalize on taking kids on off-site experiences and field trips throughout the province. Getting to the mountains, adventuring again has been beyond uplifting for the students and teachers, such as myself. Not to mention the ever so important benefits to our mental health. It really was strange last year, not being off exploring and take our students out of the city. I have seen this year that our students and parent community appreciate even more what these off-site opportunities can provide. The students were devouring opportunities and adventures and just wanted to be connected. Getting students to believe in themselves, their communities, and one another can be a tough lesson to teach, but one that pays off in unmeasurable ways.
What does the second half of this year hold? (Yes, I am actually writing this in January as we are working from home awaiting the in person/online decisions from our government). Many unknowns for sure, but one thing I do know, is that no matter what these final months throws at us, educators will continue to work extremely hard to make memorable experiences, adventures, and lessons within the constraints that are pushed our way. We can all do this together and will continue to be the best teachers we can for our students. It’s who we are!
I would like to take this time to thank each and every Executive Member of our council for all their time, dedication, and effort put forth to help inspire and support teachers across this province. This council would be nowhere near our target today if it wasn’t for this inspiring team! Surround yourself with inspiring, hardworking, and amazing people, and you won’t be surprised at the incredible results that are produced. I could not ask for a better team of educators to work with on a day-to-day basis. Our team would love to help your school, community, and teachers further with resources and professional development. If there is a need for Global, Environmental & Outdoor Council sessions at a convention, conference, or PD event near you, please contact us so we can set something up for the future.
Please keep up to date by following us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Do not hesitate to send us a note with any questions you may have. A huge thank you to all teachers across the province for your amazing work in your communities. Best of luck with all your adventures and hopefully we will see you on the trails very soon.
Court Rustemeyer
GEOEC President
GEOEC - UPCOMING EVENTS!
The first of four #InTheRound sessions is fast approaching!
WHAT EXACTLY IS IT?
This is a professional development opportunity ideal for those interested in a deeper, community-based learning experience.
Through this interactive format, participants will join four virtual sessions on the same topic, allowing for greater exploration and discussion around practical application of the concepts.
Members of the Health and Physical Education Council (HPEC) and the Global, Environmental and Outdoor Education Council (GEOEC) are eligible for discounts on In the Round virtual sessions.
Visit the website to learn more and access your unique registration code. Check your GEOEC Emails for the codes!
WHAT EXACTLY IS IT?
This is a professional development opportunity ideal for those interested in a deeper, community-based learning experience.
Through this interactive format, participants will join four virtual sessions on the same topic, allowing for greater exploration and discussion around practical application of the concepts.
Members of the Health and Physical Education Council (HPEC) and the Global, Environmental and Outdoor Education Council (GEOEC) are eligible for discounts on In the Round virtual sessions.
Visit the website to learn more and access your unique registration code. Check your GEOEC Emails for the codes!
PAST EVENT INFORMATION
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Virtual Nature Walk with GEOEC
Tuesday, November 30th Come walk with us as we feature a handful of Environmental and Outdoor Education educators and service providers with some incredible programs and resources to share with you! The 3 main highlighted presentations include: Rhonda Thygesen - Honey Bees Dan Johnson - The World of Small Biodiversity: Insects and Spiders Preston Huppie - Sacred Medicines We will have post some resources soon! |
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PROJECT WILD GEOEC is proud to sponsor the training & certification of Project Wild! Contact us for information on the next course! Project WILD is a wildlife-focused conservation education program for K-12 Educators and their students. GEOEC Members only pay the shipping of supplies ($100 in savings)!! SPOTS ARE LIMITED - 16 MAX |
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Alberta Outdoor Play-List with GEOEC Missed out on this amazing event? Here is a short summary on the evening and our presenters! Outdoor Play-List Summary |
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Around the Campfire with GEOEC & Friends!
**FREE Event** September 23rd | 7pm to 8:30pm (MST) Ok all you incredible Outdoor Education Teachers & Enthusiasts we want to hear from you! We would love to chat with you about all of the AMAZING things that you are planning this year. Join us and networking, storytell, vent or just listen :) Like most campfire chats we are hoping to have a very open mic forum around outdoor education topics and format. BUT we do have some very special guests that are going to make an appear! Take Me Outside, Outdoor Council of Canada and EverActive will be there! We just want the chance to connect you & other incredible teachers from many walks of life. Come join us for a few minutes or the entire campfire! We can guarantee you will leave the fire inspired! |
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GEOEC & HPEC Present SPRING EQUINOX | Outdoor Play: Nature's Vaccine Friday April 30th & Saturday May 1st We are extremely excited to host this amazing event and once again partner up with the Health & Physical Education Council! Join us Friday, April 30th, for our Keynote speakers & Saturday, May 1st, for a morning full of 12 different sessions, workshop and training opportunities. Keynote Speaker: Dr. Sean Lessard Introduction by Heidi Widmer First 100 registrations get a Spring Equinox t-shirt and swag pack! #Outdoorplay2021 |
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Connecting Our Well-being to the Land
Thursday, April 15th 7:00pm to 9:00pm EVENT CLOSED This event focuses on our mental health and using the land to lead our well-being. We have three incredible guest speakers lined up, that have insight, experiences and resources to share. Heidi Widmer - 2014 Canadian Olympian Fort McMurray Public School Division Land Based Learning Camp Cassandra Troughton - Educational Assistant - Edmonton Public Schools. We look forward to seeing you all at this event and wish you the best in your day to day teaching! |
Little Adventurers!
A K-5 Workshop and Networking Event!
Monday, March 1st 7:00pm to 9:00pm
We want to provide you with resources, support and navigation from some of the top experts in the field!
During this workshop we will have guest speakers and time for open sharing of resources and collaboration between participants.
We can not wait to meet you all!
A K-5 Workshop and Networking Event!
Monday, March 1st 7:00pm to 9:00pm
We want to provide you with resources, support and navigation from some of the top experts in the field!
During this workshop we will have guest speakers and time for open sharing of resources and collaboration between participants.
We can not wait to meet you all!
The Outdoor Playlist: Volume2
Presented by GEOEC Missed out on our Alberta Outdoor Play-List Webinar? Here is a PDF File that has all the incredible presenters contact information and how you can find out more! |
The Outdoor Playlist: Volume2
Presented by GEOEC Event is closed! Check out our information below for handouts The series will feature a handful of environmental and outdoor education service providers as guest speakers, acting as a one-stop-shop for educators to find out how they've adopted their programs and how teachers can get their classes involved. Not only will you hear from many of the top school service providers in Alberta, but we will be giving out FREE RESOURCES! |
Canadian Rockies Youth Summit
May 12th - 14th
A YOUTH LED, DESIGNED, AND ORGANIZED ENVIRONMENTAL SUMMIT. Designed to educate, elevate, and empower youth around the environmental issues affecting their shared mountain and wild spaces.
THE THEME OF THIS YEAR'S SUMMIT - 'Turning Hope into Action.' May 12, 6-9 pm is the opening ceremonies an a CAMPFIRE BENEFIT CONCERT. Wednesday evening is open to the public and designed to elevate youth voices, inspire, and kick off the Summit.
May 13-14, 9 am - 5 pm, is two full days of expert panels, inspiring keynote speakers, workshops, action projects, and nature breaks.
Events are designed to connect youth across Alberta on environmental issues. Youth will be empowered with the knowledge and skills required to take action and be environmental leaders in their communities.
May 12th - 14th
A YOUTH LED, DESIGNED, AND ORGANIZED ENVIRONMENTAL SUMMIT. Designed to educate, elevate, and empower youth around the environmental issues affecting their shared mountain and wild spaces.
THE THEME OF THIS YEAR'S SUMMIT - 'Turning Hope into Action.' May 12, 6-9 pm is the opening ceremonies an a CAMPFIRE BENEFIT CONCERT. Wednesday evening is open to the public and designed to elevate youth voices, inspire, and kick off the Summit.
May 13-14, 9 am - 5 pm, is two full days of expert panels, inspiring keynote speakers, workshops, action projects, and nature breaks.
Events are designed to connect youth across Alberta on environmental issues. Youth will be empowered with the knowledge and skills required to take action and be environmental leaders in their communities.
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Mark Your Calendar - MORE PD Opportunities!
Local Conventions Near You! Make sure you sign up as a GEOEC Member to get the latest information on upcoming Events!
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AWARD NOMINATIONS FOR 2021-2022
Do you know a Teacher or Educator who is has done some outstanding work in the field of Global, Environmental and Outdoor Education?
If you know someone who deserves recognition in their field please take the time to read through our award applications and submit one today!
If you know someone who deserves recognition in their field please take the time to read through our award applications and submit one today!
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For all the latest up to date information, resources and news from across Canada.
