OSCA / ACOSO
Conference
NOVEMBER 8-9, 2026
Countdown to the conference...
Network with over 400 Guidance and Career Educators across Ontario and connect with an additional 900 members online!
We invite you to the Hilton Mississauga/Meadowvale to be part of this year’s OSCA/ACOSO Conference.
This dynamic event brings together a diverse network of Guidance Counsellors and Career Educators committed to supporting students in their academic, emotional, and social growth. As educators, we are passionate about preparing students for evolving industries and career opportunities while fostering wellness and resilience in every aspect of their lives.
At OSCA/ACOSO, we prioritize high-quality, relevant, and engaging professional development—and to achieve this, we need YOU!
- We are looking forward to next year’s conference to reconnect with our guidance colleagues and to welcome new attendees.
- OSCA/ACOSO is incredibly grateful to all the Sponsors and Exhibitors who make our conference possible and to the delegates who invest their time to develop their practice as guidance educators.
CATHY CHAPMAN
Event Organizer
WHERE IS THE EVENT :
Hilton Mississauga/Meadowvale
750 Mississauga Rd, Mississauga ON L5N 2L3
WHEN IS THE EVENT :
Sunday November 8 &
Monday November 9, 2026
01.
IN PERSON NETWORKING
Share ideas and prepare for the ever-evolving landscape of guidance and career education with over 400 of your colleagues from across Ontario!
02.
OSCA AWARDS
Join OSCA in recognizing individuals and/or organizations that have made a significant contribution to Guidance and Career Education in Ontario.
03.
PREMIUM SPEAKERS
We carefully select keynote speakers whose expertise and insights are directly relevant to the needs of Guidance and Career Educators.
04.
ENGAGING WORKSHOPS
Each delegate tailors their conference experience to their own interests, leaving with new ideas and inspiration to bring back to their schools.
05.
SPONSOR OPPORTUNITY
Showcase your products, services, and resources, helping educators navigate ongoing changes in curriculum and pathway planning.
06.
EXHIBITOR OPPORTUNITY
All Sponsors and Exhibitors are provided ample opportunity to interact with Guidance Professionals from all across Ontario!
ATTENDEE REGISTRATION TO OPEN IN MAY 2026
BEST VALUE
OSCA / ACOSO Subscriber*,
Sponsor or Exhibitor Rate:
FULL CONFERENCE
$450 +HST
SUNDAY ONLY
$275 +HST
MONDAY ONLY
$375 +HST
NON-SUBCRIBERS
OSCA / ACOSO
Non-Subscriber
Rates:
FULL CONFERENCE
$500 +HST
SUNDAY ONLY
$325 +HST
MONDAY ONLY
$425 +HST
Purchase or renew your
OSCA / ACOSO Subscription
Your $55 subcription pays for itself with conference member rate, plus you will have access to FREE webinars, weekly OSCA news, a monthly magazine and more!
*Subscriptions must be renewed by October 1st for the 2025-2026 school year in order to receive the member rate. RENEW HERE
CHECK WITH YOUR BOARD FIRST in case you are part of their BULK SUBSCRIPTIONS!
Sunday, November 8th
Time | Event | Location |
10:30am-11:30am | Registration & Sponsor / Exhibitor Showcase | Graydon Ballroom/Foyer/Hallway and Hazel McCallion Ballroom |
11:30am-12:30pm | Networking Lunch and Sponsor / Exhibitor Showcase | Graydon Ballroom/Foyer/Hallway |
12:30pm-1:00pm | Sunday Conference Opening | Graydon Ballroom |
1:00pm-2:00pm | Session A Workshops | North Tower Rooms 1, 2,3, South Tower 1,2,3, Graydon Foyer/Hallway & Hazel McCallion Ballroom |
2:00pm-3:00pm | Sponsor / Exhibitor Showcase | Graydon Foyer/Hallway & Hazel McCallion Ballroom |
3:00pm-4:00pm | Session B Workshops | North Tower Rooms 1, 2,3, South Tower Rooms 1,2,3, Graydon Foyer/Hallway & Hazel McCallion Ballroom |
4:00pm-4:10pm | Travel Time | |
4:10pm-5:30pm | Celebrating our Award Winners: Refreshments and Conference Closing (First Grand Prize Draw) | Graydon Ballroom |
5:30pm | Dinner on your own |
Monday, November 9th
Time | Event | Location |
7:30am-8:30am | Registration, Hot Buffet Breakfast & Sponsor/Exhibitor Showcase | Graydon Ballroom/Foyer/ Hallway & Hazel McCallion Ballroom |
8:30am-9:00am | Monday Conference Opening | Graydon Ballroom |
9:00am-10:00am | Keynote Speaker: Sarah Wells, Olympian | Graydon Ballroom |
10:00am-11:00am | Sponsor / Exhibitor Showcase | Graydon Foyer/Hallway, Hazel McCallion Ballroom |
11:00am-11:10am | Travel Time | |
11:10am-12:10pm | Session C Workshops | North Tower Rooms 1, 2,3, South Tower Rooms 1,2,3, Patio Studio 1, Graydon Foyer/Hallway & Hazel McCallion Ballroom |
12:10pm-1:10pm | Networking Lunch & Sponsor / Exhibitor Showcase | Graydon Foyer/Hallway/Ballroom & Hazel McCallion Ballroom |
1:10pm-2:10pm | Session D Workshops | North Tower Rooms 1, 2,3, South Tower Rooms 1,2,3, Patio Studio 1, Graydon Foyer/Hallway & Hazel McCallion Ballroom |
2:10pm-2:20pm | Travel Time | |
2:20pm-2:35pm | Monday Conference Closing and Second Grand Prize | Graydon Ballroom |
Sarah Wells
Olympian | Expert on Individual and Organizational Excellence
Olympian Sarah Wells inspires audiences to embrace excellence without limits. Her philosophy centres on the idea that excellence isn’t about perfection — it’s about breaking free from limiting beliefs and constantly striving to outperform who you were yesterday. Renowned for her practical strategies, compelling storytelling, and high energy delivery, Wells empowers audiences to find their own excellence, transform challenges into opportunities for growth, and achieve lasting success.
Wells doesn’t just talk about overcoming adversity, she hurdled it on the world’s biggest stage. An Olympic hurdler for Team Canada, Wells made her Olympic debut at the London 2012 Games. She had remarkably qualified for the Games after being sidelined for nine months with
a stress fracture in her left femur. She went on to compete at the 2013 Summer Universiade, winning silver in the 4x400m relay. After being out for another six months with a reoccurrence of the stress fracture, she came back to capture her fourth Canadian title in 2015 and win a pair of medals at the 2015 Pan Am Games in Toronto.
Today, Wells is an in-demand keynote speaker. Through her Olympic journey, plus racing across deserts, mountains, and international airports on The Amazing Race, she has proven again and again that grit, adaptability, and a little bit of laughter go a long way. She believes that when you dare to break the blueprint, chase crazy ideas, and focus on doing the small things exceptionally well, excellence becomes contagious, elevating not just your life but those around
you.
- Sunday 8 Nov 2026
- Monday 9 Nov 2026
Sunday 8 Nov 2026
10:30 am – 11:30 am
WELCOME to OSCA/ACOSO’s 2026 Conference: CREATING A CULTURE OF EXCELLENCE – Guiding with Purpose!
REGISTRATION
As a first stop, please visit the registration desk in the hallway just past the Hazel McCallion Ballroom on your way to the Graydon Ballroom. Pick up your conference swag bag, lanyard and Sponsor/Exhibitor Passport. Hand in your passport to the registration desk immediately after your workshop today for your chance to win an exciting grand prize: a one night stay with breakfast for two at the Hilton! Make sure you hang on to your lanyard as it is your ticket into our venue rooms and for meals.
PARKING
Parking is complimentary to hotel guests and conference attendees. Please carpool, use public transit, or use Uber/taxi if you can. A PARKING QR CODE will be available the EACH MORNING of our conference. PARKING QR CODE signs will also be found at our event (conference registration desk and in conference rooms). YOU MUST USE THIS QR CODE BOTH SUNDAY AND MONDAY MORNING to register your vehicle and it EXPIRES 12 HOURS after you register your vehicle. There will be overflow parking Century Avenue but you MUST USE the QR CODE to be counted. If you are staying at the hotel overnight, use the process the hotel advises for that.
WIFI
WiFi is provided complimentary by OSCA/ACOSO to attendees ONLY. Connect to the SSID: HILTON-MEETING. The access code is: OSCAACOSO2026 Please do not share this with non-attendees as we have paid for the exact number of codes for attendees only.
WORKSHOPS
The workshops you selected are listed on your nametag. Please attend the workshops you selected. If workshops meet capacity limits, attendees will be checked in at the doors.
AWARDS CEREMONY, SUNDAY CLOSING and GRAND PRIZES
Meet us in the Graydon Ballroom after your last workshop today for drinks and appetizers as we celebrate your esteemed colleagues and student award winners. Attendees who RSVP’d for this session will have drink ticket tucked in with their nametag for a complimentary beverage. Hand in your Sunday Passport for a chance to win our first Grand Prize!
May today inspire and rejuvenate you!
Your OSCA/ACOSO Board of Directors
Registration & Sponsor / Exhibitor Showcase
Graydon Foyer/Hallway and Hazel McCallion Ballroom
11:30 am – 12:30 pm
Please join us in the Graydon Ballroom for a delicious Market Lunch Buffet. Take this time to re-connect with old friends and make new ones!
Networking Lunch & Sponsor / Exhibitor Showcase
Graydon Ballroom
12:30 pm – 1:00 pm
Our Conference Opening starts at 12:30 pm sharp in the Graydon Ballroom. Make sure you are settled at a table by this time to hear from our Gold Sponsors: Guelph Humber, George Brown Polytechnic and Centennial College. Our Conference Planning Team will review housekeeping items and logistics for the day.
Looking for further exemplary professional development? Consider joining the Board of Directors. We are looking for new members and this is an excellent opportunity for professional growth! Ask us for details – we will be available throughout the day in all of the various conference areas.
We are elated that you have joined us for this much anticipated event!
Sunday Conference Opening & Gold Sponsor Remarks
Graydon Ballroom
1:00 pm – 1:59 pm Session A Workshops Session A Workshops
Workshop A – 1 Comment appuyer les élèves qui se dirigent vers l’apprentissage d’un métier spécialisé
Caroline CarriereNorth Studio 3 (North Tower, Floor 1 – Main Floor)
Cet atelier vous permettra de mieux comprendre les étapes afin d’entamer l’apprentissage d’un métier spécialisé. Ces informations vous permettront donc de mieux guider et appuyer les élèves, ainsi que leurs parents, qui se dirigent dans cette voie après le secondaire. De plus, nous vous partagerons différentes ressources qui ont été développées au niveau provincial ou au niveau local par différents recruteurs du PAJO.
Workshop A – 2 AI in Education: Preparing Students for an Automated Future with InTempo SHSM
Taj SarinSouth Studio 2 (South Tower, Floor 1 – Main Floor)
In today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, artificial intelligence (AI) is at the forefront of innovation, transforming industries and redefining the skills required for future careers. This workshop is designed to empower guidance educators with the knowledge and strategies to integrate AI into their teaching and counselling practices.
A1 – Building Tomorrow: Strengthening the Skilled Trades Talent Pipeline
Adam Vanzella Yang, PhD (Signal49 Research)TBD
This session equips counsellors with tools to guide students toward rewarding careers in the skilled trades. Drawing on recent research conducted by Signal49 Research on behalf of the Future Skills Centre, the session explores why many skilled trade positions remain unfilled—and how counsellors can play a pivotal role in addressing this challenge. We will examine key barriers, including persistent stigma, limited exposure to modern trades, and outdated training pathways. Participants will leave with strategies to introduce students to high-demand careers that offer prospects of strong earnings, long-term professional growth, and meaningful contributions to Canada’s infrastructure, sustainability, and housing goals.
A3 – Leveraging Apprenticeship
Nolan Bechtel and Christy Sebastian (Landscape Ontario)TBD
Learn how to leverage the apprenticeship program throughout your career journey.
A – 5 Using AI in Undergraduate Admissions
André Jardin (University of Waterloo)TBD
As part of the application process to the University of Waterloo, some competitive programs require an Admission Information Form (AIF). This form allows applicants to share their interests, experiences, and abilities. Approximately 20,000 AIFs are read and scored as part of the admission review process. We will explore how AI works in tandem with trained volunteer alumni to support holistic assessment, reduce unintentional bias, and reimagine large scale admissions review through innovative, responsible, and transparent practices.
A2 – Valoriser la voie de l’apprentissage : outiller le discours en orientation (French Workshop)
Liane Van T’Wout-Avouac et Liz Lessard (CSC MonAvenir)TBD
Cet atelier outille les conseillers et conseillères en orientation à présenter la voie de l’apprentissage comme une option postsecondaire crédible, valorisante et accessible. À travers des données actuelles, des exemples concrets (MHS, PAJO, COOP, Niveau 1) et des stratégies de communication efficaces, les participants développeront un discours clair pour répondre aux perceptions, valoriser les métiers spécialisés et accompagner les élèves dans un choix éclairé. Des ressources prêtes à l’emploi et des pistes d’intervention avec les parents seront également partagées.
A4 – Best Practices with Course Selection – A Collaborative Panel
Brad Booker and Victoria Berkowits (MyBlueprint)TBD
Student pathway planning has significant implications for student lives and school operations. Course planning decisions open opportunities while driving key school processes such as sectioning, staffing, and timetabling. It is critical that students, families, and educators have access to the best tools to support informed decision-making.
This panel consists of counsellors and guidance leads from across Ontario sharing their best practices and insights for course selection and transition planning, including:
Planning the roll out:
- timelines, communications, and school-wide implementation
- Student-centred planning: streamlining selections and ensuring inclusive, equitable practice
- Transitions and special programs: supporting Grade 8–9 transitions, specialty programs, and packages.
A – 6 Creating Safety & Deepening Counselling Conversations
Jessica Zeyl (Toronto Counselling Centre for Teens)TBD
Do you want your conversations with students or parents to go deeper? This presentation will help orient you to the emotional and attachment needs of teens and parents. It will also offer some tools and approaches to set up emotional conversations well so that safety and trust are strengthened, and the stage is set for those conversations to deepen.
2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Make sure you visit the Sponsor/Exhibitor Showcase in both Graydon Ballroom Foyer and Hallway and in the Hazel McCallion Ballroom!
The map of Sponsors and Exhibitors is in your swag bag!
There is dedicated time each day to visit these showcases or you can choose to visit them as one of your Workshop Sessions.
There are MANY NEW AND EXCITING resources and programs to help you in your practice. Ask for an initial/stamp from the required number of Sponsors/Exhibitors on your passport while you visit them, to be eligible for amazing prizes at the end of each conference day. Please hand in your passport to the registration desk after the last workshop of the day.
Many Sponsors/Exhibitors have awesome giveaways when you visit their booths!
Sponsor / Exhibitor Showcase
Graydon Foyer/Hallway and Hazel McCallion Ballroom
3:00 pm – 4:00 pm Session B Workshops Session B Workshops
B4 – Supporting Successful Transitions for Every Student
Alison Parker (Regional Assessment and Resource Centre, Queen’s University)TBD
Transitioning from high school to adulthood can be complex for any student, but more daunting for those with disabilities, requiring coordinated planning, skill development, and knowledge of available supports. This session introduces an expanded Transition Resource Guide, developed with Ministry of Education funding, that supports planning across four key pathways: post-secondary education, apprenticeships and skilled trades, community participation, and employment. Participants will explore practical tools and strategies to support intentional, individualized transition planning. Emphasis will be placed on helping students build readiness, navigate systems, and align goals with appropriate supports, improving confidence, access, and successful outcomes across diverse post-secondary pathways.
B – 1 Comment appuyer les élèves qui se dirigent vers l’apprentissage d’un métier spécialisé (French Workshop)
Caroline Carrière (Conseil scolaire de district catholique de l’Est ontarien)TBD
Cet atelier vous permettra de mieux comprendre les étapes afin d’entamer l’apprentissage d’un métier spécialisé. Ces informations vous permettront donc de mieux guider et appuyer les élèves, ainsi que leurs parents, qui se dirigent dans cette voie après le secondaire. De plus, nous vous partagerons différentes ressources qui ont été développées au niveau provincial ou au niveau local par différents recruteurs du PAJO.
B – 2 Guiding Job-Seekers Into Careers and Apprenticeships with Clarity, Honesty and Support
Glenda Rahn and Sam Cowan (Merit Ontario)TBD
We know creating a culture of excellence means moving beyond promotion and toward purpose—guiding job‑seekers into careers and apprenticeships with clarity, honesty, and consistent support at every stage of the journey.
B – 3 Bringing Industry Into Schools: OCSB’s Elite Skilled Trades Academy Model
Brent Kaesler (Ottawa Catholic School Board)TBD
Learn how the Ottawa Catholic School Board is leveraging industry to bring Skilled Trades Apprenticeship training into a supportive school environment. This information session will explain how to overcome systemic issues that are keeping students from committing to an Apprenticeship, how to recruit more students currently on an Academic track to the Skilled Trades pathway, and how to convince parents that this option should be the preferred pathway for many more students in our system.
B – 6 Supporting Students’ Mental Health: Practical Strategies
Dr. Marina Heifetz and Angela Ventrice (Mindful Kids Psychology and Wellness Centre)TBD
During this workshop, I look forward to sharing how I’ve incorporated evidence-based therapeutic supports with children, youth, and their families. I will introduce various examples of ways these modalities can be incorporated to bring intentional awareness and presence and to help manage mental health. I will highlight how to practically use these techniques in the school setting and building resilience among the students and a culture of well-being.
B – 5 It all Starts Here: A Guide to College for New Counsellors
Chris Accardi, Allison Wells and Linda McNamara (OCAS)TBD
New to guidance? This session is designed to give you a closer look at the college pathway and how to confidently support students through the application process. You’ll explore trusted resources on the OCAS and Ontario Colleges websites, while building a practical understanding of the OCAS Partner Portal and the tools available to support your work. We’ll also share highlights on the breadth of college programs, hands-on learning opportunities, and the benefits of attending an Ontario college that you can pass on to your students as they explore their options.
Monday 9 Nov 2026
7:30 am – 7:30 am
REGISTRATION
WELCOME to OSCA/ACOSO’s 2026 Conference: CREATING A CULTURE OF EXCELLENT – Guiding with Purpose! If you weren’t here Sunday, as a first stop, please visit the registration desk in the hallway just past the Hazel McCallion Ballroom on your way to the Graydon Ballroom. Pick up your conference swag bag, lanyard and Sponsor/Exhibitor Passport. Make sure you hang on to your lanyard since it is your ticket into our venue rooms and for meals.
SPONSORS and EXHIBITORS
If you have time, please visit our many incredibly supportive Sponsors and Exhibitors, whose generous donations and participation make this conference possible for you. Visit their showcases in the Graydon Foyer and Hallway and Hazel McCallion Ballroom throughout the day…now, during their dedicated time, or as one of your Session Workshops. A map of their locations is found in your swag bag.
Get your Sponsor/Exhibitor Passport signed/stamped at the required number of booths in each area. Hand in your passport to the registration desk immediately after your last workshop today for your chance to win one our exciting Grand Prizes!
PARKING
Parking is complimentary to hotel guests and conference attendees. Please carpool, use public transit, or use Uber/taxi if you can. A PARKING QR CODE will be available the EACH MORNING of our conference. PARKING QR CODE signs will also be found at our event (conference registration desk and in conference rooms). YOU MUST USE THIS QR CODE BOTH SUNDAY AND MONDAY MORNING to register your vehicle and it EXPIRES 12 HOURS after you register your vehicle. There will be overflow parking Century Avenue but you MUST USE the QR CODE to be counted. If you are staying at the hotel overnight, use the process the hotel advises for that.
WIFI
WiFi is provided complimentary by OSCA/ACOSO to attendees ONLY. Connect to the SSID: HILTON-MEETING. The access code is: OSCAACOSO2026 Please do not share this with non-attendees as we have paid for the exact number of codes for attendees only.
WORKSHOPS
The workshops you selected are listed on your nametag. Workshops that are at capacity may have attendees checked in at the doors.
AGM
Please join us for our AGM online later in November! This is an excellent opportunity to learn about current and proposed projects, our Guidance and Career advocacy, and to review our annual budget. Consider joining us for the Board of Directors – speak to a director if you are interested – we will be attending your workshops with nomination forms.
May this day inspire your thoughts and open you to possibilities!
Registration, Hot Buffet Breakfast & Sponsor/Exhibitor Showcase
8:30 am – 9:00 am
Our Conference Opening starts at 8:30 a.m. sharp in Graydon Ballroom. Make sure you are settled at a table by this time to from our Platinum Sponsors: Laurentian University and Cambrian College, as well as our Conference Planning Team. Sit back and relax while you become inspired by our keynote speaker, Olympian Sarah Wells, who will inspire the leader in your to create a culture of excellence in your schools.
We are elated that you have joined us for this much anticipated event!
Monday Conference Opening Prize Draw & Platinum Sponsor Remarks
Graydon Ballroom
9:00 am – 10:00 am
Keynote Speaker: Sarah Wells (Olympian & Expert on Excellence)
Graydon Ballroom
Olympian Sarah Wells inspires audiences to embrace excellence without limits. Her philosophy centres on the idea that excellence isn’t about perfection — it’s about breaking free from limiting beliefs and constantly striving to outperform who you were yesterday. Renowned for her practical strategies, compelling storytelling, and high energy delivery, Wells empowers audiences to find their own excellence, transform challenges into opportunities for growth, and achieve lasting success.
Wells doesn’t just talk about overcoming adversity, she hurdled it on the world’s biggest stage. An Olympic hurdler for Team Canada, Wells made her Olympic debut at the London 2012 Games. She had remarkably qualified for the Games after being sidelined for nine months with
a stress fracture in her left femur. She went on to compete at the 2013 Summer Universiade, winning silver in the 4x400m relay. After being out for another six months with a reoccurrence of the stress fracture, she came back to capture her fourth Canadian title in 2015 and win a pair of medals at the 2015 Pan Am Games in Toronto.
Today, Wells is an in-demand keynote speaker. Through her Olympic journey, plus racing across deserts, mountains, and international airports on The Amazing Race, she has proven again and again that grit, adaptability, and a little bit of laughter go a long way. She believes that when you dare to break the blueprint, chase crazy ideas, and focus on doing the small things exceptionally well, excellence becomes contagious, elevating not just your life but those around
you.
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Make sure you visit the Sponsor/Exhibitor Showcase in both Graydon Ballroom Foyer and Hallway and in the Hazel McCallion Ballroom. The map of Sponsors and Exhibitors is in your swag bag. There is dedicated time each day to visit these showcases or you can choose to visit them as one of your Workshop Sessions.
There are MANY NEW AND EXCITING resources and programs to help you in your practice. Ask for an initial/stamp from the required number of Sponsors/Exhibitors on your passport while you visit them, to be eligible for amazing prizes at the end of each conference day. Please hand in your passport to the registration desk after the last workshop of the day.
Many Sponsors/Exhibitors have awesome giveaways when you visit their booths!
Monday Sponsor / Exhibitor Showcase
Graydon Foyer/Hallway, Hazel McCallion Ballroom
11:10 am – 12:10 pm Session C Workshops Session C Workshops
C – 1 Building Futures: Hands-On Skilled Trades Workshop
Mr. Anthony Gravis, Mr. Derek Sousa and Ms. Kaitlin Hefford (Skilled Trades College)TBD
.
This is a high-energy, tactile session where participants step out of the office and into the shoes of a tradesperson. We will bridge the gap between high school graduation and the workforce by showcasing STC’s 12-week intensive pre-apprenticeship model – a purpose-driven pathway for students who thrive in kinesthetic learning environments
C – 2 Beyond the Spotlight: Careers in Music & Audio
Kwame Boison and Melissa Johnston (Metalworks Institute)TBD
This workshop introduces guidance counsellors to the wide range of career opportunities in the music and audio industry beyond performing. Participants will explore roles across production, business, technology, and live events, along with practical pathways students can take to enter the field. Through real-world insights and an interactive exercise, counsellors will learn a simple framework to help students align their interests and strengths with viable career options. Attendees will leave with tools, resources, and increased confidence to support students pursuing creative careers in a rapidly evolving job market.
This workshop is designed to provide practical, transferable tools that guidance counsellors can immediately use in student conversations. It aligns with evolving pathway planning by highlighting future-ready careers and experiential learning opportunities within the music and audio industry. A visual career pathways resource will also be provided to support ongoing use in counselling settings.
C – 4 OSCA/ACOSO’s *NEW RESOURCES* – The Guidance Department Survival Guide: A Year At A Glance and GLC2O: Careers Studies
Jennifer Horst (Waterloo Region District School Board), Nicole Trotter (Peel School Board)TBD
The Guidance Department Survival Guide: A Year at a Glance
The role of the Guidance teacher counsellor is extremely complex and includes a significant array of tasks and responsibilities that follow a cyclical pattern through the course of a school year. Join us to explore OSCA/ACOSO’s NEW RESOURCE “The Guidance Department Survival Guide: A Year at a Glance” available to all subscribers on our website. Both new and experienced counsellors will benefit from this resource that includes a comprehensive list of monthly tasks for each grade (elementary and secondary), accompanied by appropriate links, tools and resources to support your work throughout the year.
Jennifer Horst
Nicole Trotter
GLC2O: Careers Studies
OSCA/ACOSO subscribers will now find GLC2O: Careers Studies unit and lesson plans on our website. Join us for a sneak peak of this new resource, available to subscribers, written by Careers teachers for Careers teachers!
C – 3 Equipping Counsellors to Guide Students into Aviation & Aerospace Careers
Eddy Atausi (Noble Consulting)TBD
Canada’s aviation and aerospace industries are facing a projected shortage of 42,000–55,000 workers by 2035. This session equips guidance counsellors with labour market insights, competency-based career pathways, and industry resources to support student career exploration. Participants will learn about high-demand roles, required skills, compensation, and opportunities for mentorship and industry exposure. The workshop also highlights strategies to expand access for underrepresented youth, including Indigenous students, enabling counsellors to confidently guide students toward rewarding careers in these growing sectors.
The Aviation & Aerospace Competence Program (AACP) helps K–12 students explore careers in aviation, aerospace, and defence, equipping guidance counsellors with the tools to support informed career planning. We provide labour market insights, competency-based career pathways, and industry exposure opportunities, including virtual sessions, employer-led briefings, and mentorship experiences. Our resources highlight the skills, roles, and career growth available in this high-demand sector. AACP also focuses on expanding access for underrepresented youth, including Indigenous students, ensuring all students can explore meaningful pathways into these industries. By connecting educators with actionable information, we bridge the gap between student potential and workforce opportunities.
C – 6 Person-Centered Guidance: Evidence-Based Strategies to Foster Student Learning and Well-being (Bilingual Workshop)
Jay Gosselin (Discover Year)TBD
This session will include a combination of inspiring storytelling, individual reflection and small group discussion to help you integrate a simple and effective framework for counselling. You will be introduced to foundational research from Person-Centred therapy that can be applied to your work as a guidance counsellor to build trust and help your students take risks, build resilience, and take ownership of their futures.
Key Takeaways
- Explore how these conditions create the psychological safety necessary for students to open up and take meaningful risks.
- Understand the core conditions for a trusting alliance that helps to unlock student potential.
C – 7 Student Financing 101: An Overview of Financial Support for Post-Secondary
Kailey Hawkins (Georgian College)TBD
Post-secondary education is one of the best investments that a student can make. This presentation offers an overview of financing for post-secondary in a general way and is applicable and relevant for both college and university bound students. We speak to budgeting, the cost of school, awards scholarships and bursaries, and an overview of the OSAP program and what to expect.
C – 8 Supporting With Care: Trauma-Sensitive Practice in Action Through Emotional Validation
Tali Aikenhead and Theresa Wilson (School Mental Health)TBD
Guidance educators are vital in fostering student mental health and well‑being, identifying early signs of concern, and connecting students, parents, and caregivers to appropriate supports. This session builds a shared understanding of trauma‑sensitive practice through six key principles and introduces emotional validation—a compassionate, trauma-sensitive approach that emphasizes listening without judgment and acknowledging students’ emotions rather than trying to change them. School Mental Health Ontario will share evidence‑based, identity‑affirming strategies and practical tools to strengthen guidance educators’ capacity to support student mental health and well-being in everyday practice.
C – 5 Bringing Electives to Grade 7/8 to Boost Engagement
Mollie Hickman and Sally Melo (Ottawa Catholic School Board)TBD
Bring the power of electives to your Grade 7–8 students. This session highlights a practical, school-based model that embeds choice-driven, small-group learning into the school day. Learn how this approach boosts engagement, strengthens belonging, and supports student well-being. Walk away with concrete strategies, scheduling ideas, and tools to help you adapt this model to your own school setting.
This session reflects a collaborative, cross-panel approach involving guidance, student success, and classroom teachers. The model has been successfully implemented in a 7–12 setting and is intentionally designed to be flexible and transferable across school contexts. Participants will leave with practical ideas, tools, and structures to support implementation in their own school contexts.
12:10 pm – 1:10 pm
Celebrate in the Graydon Ballroom with a delicious hot buffet lunch experience among industry professionals to build relationships and foster collaboration. Be treated to fabulous giveaways, generously donated by our sponsors and exhibitors, as a thank you for your support and participation and showcasing the value of partnerships nurtured through events like this. Don’t miss this opportunity for personal growth, professional development, and lasting connections in a memorable setting filled with culinary delights and stimulating conversation
Monday Networking Lunch & Sponsor / Exhibitor Showcase
Graydon Foyer/Hallway/Ballroom & Hazel McCallion Ballroom
1:10 pm – 2:10 pm Session D Workshops Session D Workshops
D – 1 Lived Experience-From Student-Parent-Apprentice-Journeywoman-Advocate and Mentor
Carrie O’Donnell (We Build a Dream and St. Clair College)TBD
Carrie O’Donnell shares her non-linear journey into the skilled trades while delivering a practical guide to apprenticeship pathways in Ontario. With over 30 years of experience, she breaks down clear entry routes—including high school programs like Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP), post-secondary, direct-to-work, and career change options. Attendees will gain step-by-step insight into how apprenticeship works, available supports, and how to navigate barriers. This interactive session empowers participants to explore skilled trades with confidence and ask the questions that matter most.
D – 5 The Do’s and Don’ts: OSCA’s UPDATED Ethical Guidelines – Les choses à faire et à éviter: Les lignes directrices en matière d’éthique de l’ACOSO (Bilingual Workshop)
Ereney Shenouda-Tortian (Peel District School Board), Marie Moftah (CSC MonAvenir), Martha Biagi, Cathy Isabella (OSCA/ACOSO)TBD
English
Join OSCA Governance for an engaging and interactive bilingual session unveiling OSCA’s updated Ethical Guidelines. As the landscape of education, counselling, and student support continues to evolve, ethical decision-making remains at the heart of professional practice.
This session will explore key updates, practical applications, and real-world scenarios that highlight both best practices and common pitfalls. Participants will gain a clearer understanding of their professional responsibilities, learn how to navigate complex ethical situations with confidence, and discover how these updated guidelines support integrity, accountability, and student well-being.
Whether you are new to the profession or a seasoned practitioner, this session will provide valuable insights, meaningful discussion, and practical takeaways you can immediately apply in your work. As an added bonus, attendees will have the opportunity to win hard copies of the NEW Ethical Guidelines through a special raffle draw during the session. Come ready to reflect, engage, and strengthen your ethical practice.
Francais
Joignez-vous au comité de gouvernance de l’ACOSO pour une séance bilingue dynamique et interactive présentant les lignes directrices en matière d’éthiques, mises à jour. Alors que les domaines de l’éducation, du counselling et du soutien aux élèves continuent d’évoluer, la prise de décisions éthiques demeure au cœur de la pratique professionnelle.
Cette séance explorera les principales mises à jour, leurs applications concrètes et des mises en situation réelles mettant en lumière les meilleures pratiques ainsi que les erreurs à éviter. Les participantes et participants approfondiront leur compréhension des responsabilités professionnelles, apprendront à gérer des situations éthiques complexes avec confiance et découvriront comment ces nouvelles lignes directrices favorisent l’intégrité, la responsabilisation et le bien-être des élèves.
Que vous soyez novice dans la profession ou une personne expérimentée, cette séance vous offrira des réflexions enrichissantes, des échanges significatifs et des stratégies pratiques que vous pourrez appliquer immédiatement dans votre lieu de travail. De plus, les participantes et les participants auront la chance de gagner des copies papier des NOUVELLES lignes directrices en matière d’éthiques grâce à un tirage au sort spécial pendant l’atelier. Venez réfléchir, participer et renforcer votre pratique éthique.
D – 2 Climate Crisis (Opportunity): Preparing Students For A Changing World
Phillip Craig (Education and Outreach Nuclear Innovation Institute)TBD
In this interactive workshop, participants will use the EN-ROADS climate modeling system developed by MIT to explore the challenges and possible solutions related to climate change. Teachers will have the opportunity to experiment directly with the simulator on their own computers.
From there, the session will examine the workforce opportunities connected to climate action, including careers in the nuclear industry, which provides roughly 50% of Ontario’s electricity, as well as opportunities across the broader energy and skilled trades sectors.
The workshop will conclude with a discussion on pathways into the skilled trades, including an opportunity for teachers to complete a portion of a union math entrance exam to demonstrate the level of skill required in today’s trades professions.
D – 3 The Requirements of an Entry into an Apprenticeship with Unionized Construction
Rick Townend (Provincial Building and Construction Trades Council of Ontario)TBD
Passing aptitude tests and interviews to a successful start in apprenticeship is challenging at best. This workshop will help you guides students with knowledge of requirements needed and the process to follow process for a successful entry . Plenty of inside information on how to connect with unions will be shared.
D – 4 Motivational Interviewing in Schools: Practical Conversations That Help Students Take Action
Angela Ventrice (York Region District School Board)TBD
Students often know what they should do—improve their grades, attend class, manage their time—but struggle to take action. In Ontario schools, guidance teacher/ counsellors (who are also teachers) have limited time and are often supporting students in brief, informal conversations rather than ongoing counselling.
This session introduces Motivational Interviewing (MI) as a practical, student-centred approach that helps students access their own motivation for change. Participants will learn how to use simple MI strategies to support students who feel stuck, resistant, or overwhelmed.
Grounded in real school-based examples, this workshop focuses on quick, effective conversations that can be used in guidance offices, hallways, and during everyday student interactions.
Learning Outcomes
Participants will:
Use 3 core Motivational Interviewing strategies to support student motivation
Apply simple conversation techniques to respond to resistance and ambivalence
Practice language that helps students move from “I know” to “I’ll try”
Adapt MI strategies to brief, school-based interactions
Key Takeaways
Participants will leave with:
Ready-to-use conversation prompts and scripts
A simple framework for structuring short student conversations
Examples of how to respond to common student statements (e.g., “I don’t care,” “I’ll do it later”)
Practical ways to integrate MI into everyday guidance interactions
Format
This session will include brief direct instruction, real-world school scenarios, and structured opportunities for participants to practice MI strategies through discussion and guided activities.
D – 7 Pathways to Ontario Colleges and Post-Secondary Mobility
Devin Robinson (North Region) plus College Representatives from the West, Central and East Regions (TBD)TBD
Pathways to Ontario Colleges and Post-Secondary Mobility Pathways into Ontario Colleges and mobility between post-secondary institutions continue to evolve. Join representatives from each College region for a presentation and discussion that will further equip you to have conversations with students and parents as they look to chart a course through the post-secondary ecosystem that works for their specific circumstances.
Each year Ontario College recruiters present across the province and host events where they speak with a variety of stakeholders and get asked thousands of questions. Take advantage of that collective knowledge as experienced representatives from each College region present on pathways into Ontario Colleges and Post-Secondary mobility.
If you have a question about Ontario Colleges, this is the place to ask it. We look forward to seeing you and having a great discussion.
D – 6 Settlement & Language Services: Supporting Schools, Empowering Families
Lori Breyer and Simrat Kaur (YMCA of Owen Sound and Grey Bruce)TBD
This presentation explores the role of Settlement Workers in supporting newcomer families and school communities. It highlights how services assist adult family members with integration, accessing resources, and navigating essential systems. Emphasizing a full wraparound approach, supports are designed to meet the needs of the whole person and family. The session also examines how Settlement Workers in Schools support students’ academic and social success while collaborating with educators and staff. Participants will gain insight into services provided, benefits to school personnel, and available newcomer supports through an open discussion.
D – 8 Trauma Informed Approaches in Classrooms and Schools
Jacqueline Khalil (Toronto Catholic District School Board)TBD
This workshop will provide educators with a deeper understanding of trauma and the effect it has on students. Participants will examine ways a trauma informed approach can be implemented and utilized to foster a safe, identity-affirming learning environment for all students. We will explore ways in which trauma responses can be masked by disengagement, withdrawal, classroom outbursts, aggression, and behavioral challenges. We will look at strategies that can be implemented within the classroom and school to gain a deeper understanding of students and improve student engagement, motivation, and behavior.
2:20 pm – 2:35 pm Monday Conference Closing & Second Grand Prize Draw Monday Conference Closing & Second Grand Prize Draw
Monday Conference Closing and Second Grand Prize
Graydon Ballroom
Hilton – Mississauga/Meadowvale
6750 Mississauga Road, Mississauga, ON L5N 2L3 (905)821-1981
Accommodation
The booking link for the conference rate is: 2026 OSCA ACOSO Conference Hotel Booking Link
*This special conference rate EXPIRES OCTOBER 16, 2026.
Parking
Parking is included in your conference rate for Sunday and Monday conference guests.
Meals, Swag and Prizes
Sunday delegates will enjoy a delicious market buffet lunch and beverage, a chance to win one of several amazing prizes (including an overnight Hilton stay with breakfast for two), and complimentary refreshments (beverage, appetizers) at the Sunday Conference Closing/Awards Ceremony. Monday delegates will enjoy a hot buffet breakfast, premium hot buffet lunch, and a chance to win a free 2027 conference registration (accommodation included), among other great prizes. Full conference attendees will enjoy all of these perks!
Cancellation Policy
Payment in full delegates is due upon registration. No refunds shall be given should cancellation be necessary, unless the conference is canceled by the OSCA/ACOSO, or unless the OSCA/ACOSO approves a replacement Delegate. If the event is cancelled by OSCA/ACOSO, a full refund will be issued. All communication regarding cancellations/registration changes must be made by email to the Conference Planner, Cathy Chapman (cathylihou@gmail.com) and the Administration Coordinator, Jennifer Boston (oscadesk@gmail.com).
Media Release Policy
The OSCA/ACOSO Conference is taking place in a public facility at which photos are allowed to be taken. This event is too large for us to be able to ensure that attendees are not included in photos. By registering for the conference, you acknowledge that you will be in a public place during the conference, and that your photo may be taken and used for marketing purposes.
Contact us with your questions
CONFERENCE DATES :
November 8-9, 2026
CONFERENCE VENUE :
Hilton Mississauga/Meadowvale
LOCATION ADDRESS :
6750 Mississauga Rd, Mississauga ON L5N 2L3
