ABOUT THE CONFERENCE

#OwnyourEd 2017
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Spend The Day With Us!

The #OwnYourEd Conference grew out of the experimental inquiry projects of the students from multiple years of the #HSB4U Society, Challenge and Change course at Clarington Central Secondary School. The class wanted to re-create some of the class conditions, mainly the freedom to learn and share what you are passionate about, for the greater school community... voila, the seeds for the #OwnYourEd Conference were born. After unbelievable feedback from attendees and presenters alike from our first year (2016), the small but ever growing team of committed volunteers is back to create a day that reflects our core beliefs that everyone wants to learn, has passions they want to share, and that learning is most meaningful when the individual gets to choose their learning path.
See the Alphabetical Speakers List below for information on each speaker and their session (Master Conference Timetable at the bottom of the page).  When you are ready please fill out the Session Sign Up Form to save your spot.  If you have any questions please contact brock_baker@kprdsb.ca 
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All Conference Events & Activities 

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Food Drive - we are hoping to collect at least one food item per attendee to help restock the Clarington East Food Bank .
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Tooney Lunch & Entertainment - bring in $2 to participate in our communal lunch (hotdogs, fruit & veggies) and take in the wonderful sounds of the Bowmanville Older Adult Association Choir 
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​Day Schedule
Key Note 8:30 AM
P1 9:45:00 AM - 10:20:00 AM
P2 10:20:00 AM- 10:55:00 AM 
P3 10:55:00 AM - 11:30:00 AM 
P4 11:30:00 AM - 12:05:00 PM 
P5 12:05:00 PM - 12:40:00 PM 
P6 12:40:00 PM - 1:15:00 PM 
P7 1:15:00 PM - 1:50:00 PM
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Keynote - Syd Birrell F.R.C.O, G.R.S.M., A.R.C.M. (@SydBirrell)
The life of Syd Birrell is a coat of many colours. Syd was born in Sarnia, Ontario, and began his musical career as a young chorister at St. George’s Anglican Church, Montreal. He studied at the Royal School of Church Music in London, England, and the Royal College of Music, winning a Sawyer Prize in Organ performance. Returning to Canada in 1975, he took the post of Organist and Choirmaster at St. John’s Anglican Church in Peterborough until 1984, and then held the post of Director of Music at Murray St. Baptist Church until 2008. Syd returned to the organ bench in 2015 as Organist and Choirmaster at All Saints’ Anglican Church, Peterborough. He is a Fellow of the Royal College of Organists and has been organist at Lakefield College School for 32 years, where the Friday morning “Sing With Syd” has become a much loved tradition for generations of students. Syd is the founder and conductor of the Peterborough Singers, one of Canada’s top-ranked choral societies. A talented entrepreneur, Syd has interests in real estate, church organ sales, and is a published writer and a motivational speaker. Syd is also active in providing innovative in-home care for the brain injured. Syd and his wife Pamela, herself a cancer survivor, launched the James Fund for Neuroblastoma Research at Sick Kids Hospital in Toronto while their young son James was still fighting cancer. Since James’ death, the James Fund has raised over $6,000,000 and become a major force in the search for a cure for the childhood cancer neuroblastoma, in great part due to the drive and commitment Syd pours into the Fund as an ongoing testament to the courageous life of his son. Syd is the author of “Ya Can’t Let Cancer Ruin Your Day.” Syd and Pam continue their adventures in living with their surviving children Rebecca and Ben. ​

Key Note - Sometimes Life Deals You Bad Cards
Syd and Pam Birrell were the proud parents of three young children when Pam was diagnosed with aggressive breast cancer. But worse was to come a year later, when four year old James was diagnosed with a rare childhood cancer called neuroblastoma. The story of a young boy battling cancer will inspire you to seek life, love, laughter and adventure. The story of this boy showed the world how to live life to the fullest against all the odds.

Curing Cancer 
This session will explore Syd's experience trying to help cure cancer. 

Open Forum on Important Questions 
Can you make a difference? Can you make the world a better place? -Growing up in Bangladesh -Publishing your own book -Following your dreams: the soap box derby race -Death. Why does our society never talk about dying? Should you tell a dying kid that he is dying? -Grief. Can you get over it? -Bereaved parents: how do you reconstruct your life -Raising money for a cause: what does it take?


Let's Build a Floating Solar Sculpture Together!
We have taken up the call from artist Tomás Saraceno to engage and join the multi-national “Museo Aero Solar” group and are going to create a flying museum/solar sculpture made from ordinary plastic bags.  
  • Bring in a handful of clean plastic bags (no holes) - best to bring your food donation in one of you bags:) 
  • Add your own designs/messages to your bags
  • If you could pre-cut into squares/rectangles that will speed things up
  • Get involved into the taping assembly any time on the back patio during the day!  
Take a look at the video below and learn more at Museo Aero Solar​

The Speakers

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Kendra Allison (@kendraallison), graduated from CCSS in 2012 with a SHSM in Social Justice, from there she went on to complete a Bachelor of Arts in International Development with an emphasis in Women and Development at the University of Guelph. As a recent UoG alumni (2016), she has spent the last year working to complete a Post Grad in International Development in the Business School at Humber College. She is currently in the midst of applying to internships and jobs in my field while finishing up some final courses.
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So... What are you studying? What does that even mean? Can you even get a job in that?  
Come listen to me attempt to answer the questions most grandparents, friends, and people I am dating have asked for the last five years.

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Ms. Arnott's Math Class has spent this semester torturing her class by forcing them to do hands on activities that have math embedded within in them.

Who knew that making goo could relate to math?
​Come by and see how math is in everything and how making goo can help to reduce stress and allow your creativity to shine. You will get to make your own goo and take it with you at the end of the session.

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Les Lee Bell, is a Certified Master Hypnotherapist (CMH), a Certified Consulting 5th PATH Hypnotherapist, and 7th path self Hypnosis Teacher.  Over the years, she has studied many modalities of self healing.  Her love of yoga, meditation, healing modalities and helping others has turned into her passion and launched a fulfilling career path working with women’s groups and youth.  She ran her own businesses teaching many stress management techniques, breath-work and meditation. Most recently discovering the huge benefits for Hypnosis for the safest, quickest forms for treatment of psychological and emotional issues.  Her resolve and dedication to introduce and continue these modes of healing in everyday life stems from her experiences and lessons learned with the non-for-profit sectors, private business and as an owner of two businesses for the last two decades. Throughout these experiences, she has practiced meditation as a mode to keep a life balance of body, mind, and spirit.

​We Meditate Not to Bet Better and Meditating but to Get Better at Life
Please join us as we learn powerful techniques to enhance your learning journey with meditation. What to expect: Calmness, mindfulness, better memory retention and recall, improved sleep, helps you organize, diminishes stress, anxiety, fear and depression, improves focus and memory. ​

MY WAY- Mentoring Young Women
Mentoring Young Women to authentically say YES to navigating through school on their terms. Choosing your future and make it easy to make the right decision around your education path. Come join us for a guided meditation to your future self, see what life has in store for you as you imagine your dream life ten years into the future.


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The Construction Zone
Come to the Construction Zone in the Library and let your creativity soar as you engage in a variety of challenges, activities, projects, contests and play.  Some activities you can expect to find... Origami, Lego, Design Challenges (bridge/tower build, paper airplane), Coding Challenges, Six Word Story, and more... check back for updates,  :)  Get your phone ready to share your creations via Instagram and Twitter #OwnYourEd

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Crystal Baird, is a CCSS alumni, and has since gone on to study both fine art and social work. She prides herself on her community involvement and her work with youth.

​Queer Culture and Not Fitting In
In this session we will look at queer culture and what it feels like when you don't fit.

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Ms. Bingham, is currently a Visual Arts teacher at CCSS. She has a healthy passion for material art and design (including textiles, jewelry, home fashion and industrial design) -- but goes particularly ga-ga over ceramic art in all its forms.
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Ever wanted to have your very own CHIA PET?
In this multi-session workshop, participants will learn the basic techniques of traditional ceramic hand-building while making a functional and fun garden friend -- their very own chia pet! Finished student pieces will be kiln-fired and ready to pick up (along with a chia seed package and care instructions) in the first week of June. This session has a limited number of spaces to allow for greater student-instructor interaction.

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Rebecca Birrell, having lost a younger brother to childhood cancer when she was nine, Rebecca has spent her teens and early adulthood coping with mental illness as well as the echoes of grief while journeying towards healing. Rebecca is a graduate of the University of Waterloo with a B.A in Theatre and Performance Studies and minors in Psychology and Women's Studies. She recently completed a six month intensive acting course at Rose Bruford College of Theatre and Performance in London, England. She will be returning to Rose Bruford in the fall for a Masters in Ensemble Theatre.
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Grief, Mental Illness, and Healing

Through no choice of her own, Rebecca is an expert on grief, loss, and mental illness courtesy of the school of life, I now speak honestly and openly about my recovery journey. It's time to work together to end the stigmas around grief and mental illness so we can all have better futures.

Theatre Workshop

Rebecca is currently studying theatre at the Rose Bruford College of Theatre and Performance in London, England. Rose Bruford College is London’s International Drama School and currently has students from over 40 different countries.  Join her for a session that will include a combination of q&a, drama games, and workshopping monologues (theatre students are invited to bring in-progress monologues).

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Nader Bokaee, I learned chess when I was 6 years old. My late brother taught it to me. I remember when I was 12 years old in grade 6, the school principal found out that I knew how to play chess. One day towards the end of school year, he offered me to play chess with him in the main office. I accepted and we did our very first game. I remember clearly that I was able to make a draw (stalemate) on that game! I continued playing with my school principal over the years when we had a chance. Even after I moved to high school, I used to drop by at my elementary school mostly in summer time and we were playing chess.

​THERE IS CHESS AND NOTHING ELSE!!!

Simultaneous Chess: Mr. Bokaee will play chess simultaneously with 5 volunteer players....think you can beat him?  Here is your chance - if you dare!  

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BoardGameGeeks Unite!
Low tech yet modern strategy and collaborative board games!! Bring your own or play some new games... a good attitude, critical thinking and analysis skills are all you need - no cell phone required!! MTG players bring an EDH deck! 

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Paul Burns & the CCSS Band

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What is a Dress Rehearsal?
Hey Music lovers...Come join us for any part of our open and interactive dress rehearsal in the CCSS cafetorium for this semester's Music Night tomorrow night (May 25 at 7 pm)... learn about the dress rehearsal process, see what CCSS has to offer in the area of music. Feel free to ask questions throughout and maybe even join us up on stage for a bit - no previous experience required :)

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Gwen Cadman, is thrilled to share her love of Canadian step dancing and yoga. She brings 30 years of experience in teaching step dance to all ages and has bee leading yoga classes for 3 years.

Learn To Step Dance
Learn the basics of Canadian Step Dancing, fun, energetic, low impact steps. Wear tap shoes or a hard sole shoe to 
join in the fun and fitness to Celtic music.

​Yoga and You
Yin Yoga has the same goals and objectives as any other yoga; however, it directs the stimulation normally created in the postures of the practice deeper than the superficial or muscular tissues. Yin Yoga targets the connective tissues, such as the ligaments, bones, and even the joints 
of the body that normally are not exercised very much. Come out and give it a try!

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Clarington Museums (@ClarMuseum), illuminate Clarington and its heritage through lasting and meaningful experiences with artifacts, exhibitions and programmes that inspire future generations and enliven our community.
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Sharing Stories: A Clarington Oral History Project
The Museum is embarking on a new project to gather YOUR stories. Working with CCSS students and the Bowmanville Older Adult Association we will be interviewing members of the community who recall the days gone by and want to share their stories of what they remember about our wonderful community. Do you remember shopping at Rickaby's? Do you remember the fire that destroyed those downtown buildings? These are the kind of stories we are hoping to hear
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Jennifer Carmelo is a CCSS Alumnus, an emerging multidisciplinary artist and designer based in the GTA and Paris, France. She has experiences in the film industry and environmental activism. Her self-designed degree is from York University - Glendon college in multidisciplinary studies on topics in humanistic linguistics and environmental representations. She is interested in print culture through an academic perspective and in her artistic practice. Her goals are to develop her artistic signature and migrate to Paris with her partner - a former musician turned cryptographer.
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Can't decide what to study?
Worry about being fickle in your interests? Jen is here to reach out to learners coordinating themselves in the midst of several disciplinary directions. If you find yourself caught in this challenge, this dialogue may show you how to develop mindfulness in choosing educational experiences. She hopes to reach out to those who can identify with her working perspective and help recognize successful multidisciplinary practice.

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Allan Chapman,  is retired and hasa wife Clara and 3 children live in Bowmanville I am active outdoor person amateur naturalist wilderness camping and enjoy sharing my experiences and leading groups people to enhance our live.
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Bird Watching 101
Learn how to identify birds in the field with an experienced birder.

Urban Poling
Get all the added benefits of walking with poles (burn 
far more calories, tone your shoulders and core, improve posture, take stress off joints, knees and hips). 

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Chris Clarke I am a proud father, teacher and life-long learner. I am passionate about history and where things come from. To that end, I love collecting retro materials, specifically those related to video games.

​Classic Video Games
Just like any other form of media or literature -- modern day video games are inspired by those generations that came before. Come explore some of the oldest home-consoles and explore the titles that inspired today's modern adventures. These existed before the internet - so how did people learn cheat codes? Included are: The Magnavox Odyssey (1972), Colecovision, Intellevision, Coleco Telstar, Atari 2600, and more!

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Kaitlin Clay, is a grade nine here at Clarington central and I am very passionate about my art. I am interested in all forms of art such as painting, photography, graphic design, and sculpting. Most of my artistic abilities have been passed down to me from my family. My grandfather was a sculptor and a carpenter, my father was a graphic designer, and my grandmother is an excellent painter. Along side of being an artist i ride horses, and have been for almost ten years now. It has definitely inspired a lot of my art pieces!

​How to Make an Effective Silhouette Painting 

During my session i am going to be demonstrating painting techniques i use, showing some of my art pieces, and teaching a class on how to make an effective silhouette painting. This will give you a chance to really show your creative side! most of the session will be hands on, meaning you will get lots of time to do your own paintings.

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Jake Courtney, is a current CCSS student who is really passionate about Lgbtq+ issues and supporting fellow members in our queer community, and I want to be able to teach people how to be better allies to the sexuality and gender diverse community. i'm also really into art, music and cream soda :)

Be a (Better) Ally​

In this session you will be learning how to be an ally or a better ally for the Lgbtq+ community. Through a multimedia presentation and interactive learning activities you will find yourself immersed in our culture and you will be given the tools to love and support your queer siblings in ways that you may never thought possible.

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Dianne Darch, was born in Bowmanville and grew up on a farm in Enniskillen surrounded by nature. She turned to art as a source of relaxation from a busy hospital career. Dianne has studied extensively with pen and ink artist Claudia Nice and watercolour artist Karen Richardson to refine and bring realism to her work.  Dianne’s art combines ink techniques with watercolour and reflects a love of nature and her rural heritage. She starting showing and selling her artwork in 1999 when she was asked to be part of the Millennium Group solo exhibitions at the Bowmanville Town Hall. Joining the Oshawa Art Association in 2000, she is a regular participant in their Art Festival show and sale at Camp Samac.   A BOAA member since 2010, Dianne enjoys the choir and her other volunteer duties at the BOAA. After numerous requests, Dianne started teaching pen and ink in 2014 and looks forward to passing on her love of art and nature to her students.
Pen and Ink Session ~ Canada Celebrating 150 Years
This pen and ink session is suitable for beginners. Participants will be guided through the process of creating with pen and ink using various strokes to create texture and form. The drawing outline (themed around Celebrating Canada's 150 years as a nation) will be provided so you have time to concentrate on the inking process.

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Natasha Dias, is a current Grade Eleven student at CCSS who loves learning about many topics, including psychology and sociology. After high school, I am hoping to go to university and eventually become a pediatric surgeon. I am doing this presentation partially to share my learning, and partially to get some some experience presenting in front of a crowd. I look forward to sharing my research with you!.

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Have you ever wanted to learn about cults?
I'm going to be sharing what I learned during my research project on cult conformity. Some of the topics that I will be covering include brainwashing techniques used by cults, how to spot a cult, and what characteristics are typical of cult leaders. Come and learn what's really going on with this extreme psychological phenomenon!

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Daemon and Jarrett, are passionate about lots of different things which we might tell you about, but we are excited to share our passion for forensic science.

Blood Spatter Crime Scene
​There will be an interactive hands on live demonstration of blood spatter and it will teach important factors that forensic scientists use to finalize their forensic cases!

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Julie Ditta, started drumming with the West African djembe nine years ago. Julie is a trained drum facilitator and performs with the “Dare to Drum” music collective. Julie shares her passion for drumming by facilitating drum circles and teaching, both privately and at the Whitby and Bowmanville Senior Centres.  Julie is a Hawaii Reiki Master, certified in Therapeutic Touch and Relaxation Therapy. She facilitates the Diva Dances, offers meditation classes, teaches Improv and gives Intuitive Tea Leaf Readings. When Julie is not drumming, meditating or facilitating, she can be found at the euchre table!

​Recreational African Drumming

This course is a basic introduction to recreational drumming with the West African djembe. The Djembe drum is a versatile instrument that transcends culture, ethnicity, and age. Instruction will include basic technique, learning a variety of lively rhythms and how to “jam” with others. No previous experience is necessary. Learning to drum results in an increased sense of self-esteem and is a great outlet for musical expression and community building. Being part of a drum circle offers a sense of personal accomplishment and lets you express your own natural rhythms, be creative and have FUN!

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Adam Duke (@FlamongoMusic), is a CCSS Alumnus and Music Producer/Composer.  He released his first full length EP last year, has two releases under Universal Music Group (check out the singles Drifting, Insensitive, & Cry of the Wolf), composed multiple short film scores, scored an award winning documentary (with a fellow CCSS Grad), hosted raves & has played music festivals across Canada).  Adam is also passionate about music, skateboarding, yoga, meditation, reading, and living life to its fullest. 

​Finding Happiness: Creativity as a Necessary Ingredient

Adam will discuss his experience with music and why having a creative outlet is not only amazing for your health/well-being but a key for happiness in your everyday life. 


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Kat Farrell, is currently a hairstyling teacher at CCSS for the past 11 years.  She worked as a hairstylist for 8 years before.  She loves to share her passion for hair design and makeup with her students.
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​Mini Ethestic Work Shops

Grade 12 students will be running mini work shops - nail design, makeup, curling and braiding. Spend some time with us learning how to create the perfect wing liner, blended eyeshadows, nail art, beach waves or a variety of braids.


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Hi! My name is Rona Ghanbari  and I am a (very) recent law school graduate, which means I've been reminded (very) recently about how much there is to know in the world and how little of it I have come to know personally -- that being said, I absolutely love telling people about the things I've experienced and absorbing what they have to offer in return, and I am so excited to get the opportunity to do that through Own Your Ed! I graduated from CCSS in 2010, and then attended the University of Ottawa where I studied Political Science and Communications. I subsequently attended the University of Toronto's faculty of law and will be completing my articles at Stikeman Elliott LLP. Throughout my time in university I was lucky enough to have a series of incredible opportunities such as working as a Senate page at the Parliament of Canada, working at a human rights legal centre in South Africa, and working on a report/presentation for the United Nations Human Rights Council. I really adore Canada and I'm so passionate about human rights on both the international and national levels. Specifically, I am excited and motivated to play a small part in the project of making sure Canada is a global leader and best practice examples for human rights worldwide.

​Could you live without food? Water? Shelter? Without being able to express yourself or vote?
These are all examples of human rights. The term "human rights" is loaded with a variety of meanings that are difficult to fully unpack, but are important to engage with at all levels of education, and at all stages in life. Living in Canada makes each and every one of us exceptionally lucky and privileged; however, even Canadians have work to do in terms of ensusring everyone understands and can assert their basic human rights. In this session I'll discuss my various experience working human rights contexts and engage in discussion about how human rights work in Canada and around the world (as well as some key issues if there's time!)
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Jane Givens Kaszuba, is a French Immersion student in Peterborough who loves her dog, Maude and jumping on trampolines at her gymnastics club.  Jane’s first art class was when she was three and she has always embraced a resourceful, whimsical approach to creating in all mediums. Most recently, mini sweets in Model Magic with embellishments are her favorite, especially donuts!  She is excitedly counting down the days in anticipation of this workshop.  

​Awesomeness with Jane: Exploring the possibilities of Model Magic
What’s so great about Model Magic?  It’s a soft, light sculpture medium that dries overnight, comes in a rainbow of vibrant colours plus you can mix custom colours including nifty marbled effects.  Also, this versatile medium is non-toxic, not messy and it won’t stain your hands.  Stamping and pressing all kinds of textures into it is just the beginning! Join Jane to create some pretty cool miniature sculptures including tiny hedgehogs and monsters plus petite confections including sprinkle donuts and cakes inspired by Wayne Thiebaud.  Got other ideas?  Great! Jane can’t wait to see what wee Model Magic treasures you make in this relaxed, inspired atmosphere.  This hands-on workshop is suitable for learners of ALL ages and abilities.  Come and meet Jane, see her art and have fun making stuff together!

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We are a group of Grade 9 Tech Students, who are passionate about solving real-world through inventions, love music, and playing video games. The Grade 9 Tech course has enabled us to incorporate our interests in some interesting "inventions."
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Solving Real World Problems Through Inventions​

There is a lot of different ways to play games. Have you been tired of playing games with arrow keys? If so we have made the perfect controller(s) for you and it is huge! If that is not your cup of tea, perhaps you can play with the piano we made. How about a device that could save your life if you were ever lost or abducted?


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Ryan Green, graduated with honours from CCSS in 2012. I completed one year of Bachelor of Technology - Automotive at McMaster University before deciding that academia wasn't for me. I headed into the trades. After 3 years of in-class and on-the-job training I graduated from Centennial College with a Diploma in Heavy Equipment - Co-op. At the encouragement of professors at Centennial I participated in skilled trade competitions and won Gold at the Regional, Provincial and National levels. I made my way on to Team Canada 2015 and won Bronze at the World Skills Competition in Brazil. I am currently working for Toromont Cat as a Red Seal Heavy Equipment Mechanic and participating as a judge for heavy equipment competitions for Skills Ontario and Skills Canada. My work and judging has taken me across Canada.

Skilled Trades: Don't be Afraid of Using Your Hands and Getting a Bit Dirty 
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Just because you are in academic classes and your parents and teachers say you should go to university does not mean you have to. There is more to the skilled trades than getting dirty and working with your hands. There is more to school than just marks and pieces of paper.


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Farhan Islam, is a Grade 12 student who is passionate about philosophy and science. More specifically, he is interested in the human mind. Hopefully, he will be able to pursue this passion and study the mind while in university next year.
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​Evolutionary Perception
My session will be about how we as biological organisms have our perceptions of reality shaped by our evolutionary history.

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Melanie Hampson is a CCSS Alumnus (2012) and has a Bachelor of Commerce in Tourism Management from the University of Guelph. During her undergraduate career, Melanie completed a semester exchange at the Management Center Innsbruck in Innsbruck, Austria. This experience allowed her to live aboard, travel, and earn credits towards her degree simultaneously. After the four-month semester, Melanie spent 5 weeks backpacking through Europe with her friend. Today, she works with Clarington Tourism and Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada.
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​Ever thought about taking your education international?

As globalization increases, many universities have partner institutions around the world where you can earn credits toward your degree. In this session, Melanie Hampson highlights her personal experience of completing an exchange and things you should consider when studying abroad.

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Nicole Jenicek, the confluence of exercise and health, has always been an interest to her. This passion has been developed through many years of training and competing for Canada at a national and international level in Judo. In addition, her education at Sheridan College further cultivated her excitement for learning about sport and performance, exercise physiology, and evidence based research. She is eager to analyze different modes of physical activity, and how they affect long-term health from a physiological, biomechanical and motor control perspective. She aspires to complete my MSc in Applied Health Sciences at Brock University.
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Learn Judo from a Canadian Champ​

Judo can increase mobility, cardiovascular fitness, and strength all while learning judo for both self-defence, enjoyment or competition. Through this session, students will learn about the sport, and basic movements such as: throws, pins and safe falling technique.

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Lindsey Jeremiah (@FastStartDC), is the Entrepreneurship Coordinator at Durham College, I was a Marketing Strategist for a Profit 500, I taught in Switzerland, and I love helping students start their own business ventures!
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​Like a BOSS: Exploring Youth Entrepreneurship with FastStart Durham College 
Be introduced to the idea of entrepreneurship, and learn how community programs can help students BECOME entrepreneurs. This is Entrepreneurship 101 with Durham College's FastStart Program!  
Student companies will fill the second half of the hour with a ‘pitch’ about their companies, treating the audience like potential investors (Dragon’s Den style), and the college students could discuss their experiences as young business founders/owners. Then the floor will be opened up to questions from the audience!

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Jerm IX, is a rapper, street artist, urban explorer, photographer and graffiti artist repping RAC.
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​Graffiti and street art saved my life. A redemption story.

The artist, blogger and urban explorer better known as Jerm IX - the familiar stickers and stencil paintings of the pseudonym can be found across the city of Peterborough, province and beyond - has moved further into the public eye than ever before in the past year.  Now, he's sharing his story - including how the graffiti many see as vandalism created just the outlet he says he needed to connect with a world he disengaged at a very young age.



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Owen Jackson (@curledupcat) is a comedian, a writer and CCSS Alumnus.  He just graduated from the Humber College comedy program and intends to keep working in comedy and TV and movies.  Owen has done stand up at Yuk Yuks, several conferences, and at multiple venues in the GTA.

​Life as a Comedian: Jokes, Stories and Q & A
This session will include some of my standup, what to expect when entering the comedy and entertainment industry, my experiences in the industry, and a Q&A session. 

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Eric Osborne & Ehren Kassam, are CCSS Alumni, actors, musicians, writers and filmmakers.  

​Life as an Actor: a Q & A with Degrassi Actors
This session will try to answer everything you ever wanted to know about what it is like to be a working actor - agents, press, filming, directing, celebrity, etc. 

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PFLAG, is a national charitable organization that provides a voice for a more accepting Canadian society by providing support, information and education to anyone in Canada with questions or concerns about sexual orientation or gender identity issues. PFLAG Durham Region is one of Canada's largest and most active chapters

PFLAG Durham Region: How to be an ally?
How can you be an ally to your trans friends and classmates? By learning more about trans identities and the experiences of trans people in your schools. Learn about the language, the lives, and the fears of trans people and how to stand with them to counter transphobia.
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Bernard Pegutter, is a Guidance counsellor and Student Success teacher at Clarington Central.

Show Me the Money -Funding Post-Secondary Education

Ever wondered how you are going to pay for College/University? With estimates of post-secondary education costing anywhere from a few thousand dollars to twenty thousand dollars or more it pays to come and find out your options. Let me show you some of the ways you can pay for college and university without incurring all kinds of debt, or at least keeping it to a minimum. Your parents will thank you for attending this information session!

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Jessie Posthumus, (@jessieposthumus) is a CCSS Alumnus, an award-winning writer and filmmaker working out of Toronto. Her films have appeared in festivals in Canada and the United States, as well as on TVO and Bell Fibe TV (check out the powerful White Lines). Her experience spans a number of genres in both fiction and non-fiction, and she tends to make films that tell sentimental stories of her real-life experiences.
Adam Craveiro, is a 27 year old Ryerson University graduate with experience writing, directing, and producing short films. He is also an alumnus from the University of Toronto, where he obtained a major in psychology and double minor in history and political science. He has been teaching English to adults for the past six years and has a penchant for writing.

Filmmaking Workshop 

In Jessie and Adam's session they will talk about their personal experiences with film school and short filmmaking, as well as offer workshops on both narrative and documentary filmmaking.

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Karleen Pendleton Jiménez, is a writer and professor of Education at Trent University. She is a butch/trans dyke of white and Mexican heritage.  She has written short stories, essays, books, and a couple of little movies.  She teaches and writes to connect deeply with people, and to motivate learning and activism for social justice.
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Tomboys and Other Gender Heroes 

What does gender mean to you? When does it offer you joy, or burden you with hurt? How does your experience of gender relate to the activities you appreciate, or the people you love? In this workshop you will have the opportunity to watch a cartoon, see how students describe their experiences of gender in local research, and have the opportunity to express your own.

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Lindsey Keene (@lindseynkeene), is a current CCSS student who is passionate about the arts, politics, and law.  She's done a lot within the school and would like to continue doing so! I don't exactly know where my future is going but I'm along for the ride now, and it's too late to go back.
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​Change the World: Youth Involvement in Government
A non-partisan political that won't have you snoring; the reality of youth involvement in government from a student who experienced it all first-hand. 

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Nigel Klemencic is a current CCSS student who is really passionate about languages and linguistics.  Nigel hopes to learn Norwegian, Icelandic, and Dutch.  Nigel also loves writing, film making, and Harry Styles.

​Where did English come from?

This is a presentation on the history of English, touching on its origins, Anglo-Saxon, old alphabets (including runes), how English used to sound, its connections to other languages, and more. It's more fun than it sounds...

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Austin Locke, is a current CCSS student who will be attending Carleton University next fall in the to acquire his Bachelor of Humanities Degree, and with it he hopes to push himself to the extreme to grow into something better than what he is currently.

What?...That Can't Be True!

The presentation will primarily examine cognitive dissonance - the feeling created from believing one thing to be true then only to have it be disproved - and the potential psychological consequences of its affects on the brain and philosophical ideas rooted in the nature of knowledge.

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Paige McLaughlin, graduated from CCSS four years ago and has done a couple neat things since then. After beginning a degree at UOttawa, she decided it wasn't the right time for university and booked a one way flight to Paris. She ended up backpacking around Europe for a year and Australia for a year after that. Paige now attends Trent University for Environmental Science/Studies and is hoping to move into a medical field afterwards, but who knows. Meeting new people is her favourite hobby followed closely by winging it.

​Finding Your Own Path

Using the personal story of travelling and my experience with university, to discuss the importance of finding your own path within the competing voices in your life.

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Lori McCluskey, is passionate about curling! Lori has qualified for Provincials for the last 5 years and won it in 2014 and is looking to get more people involved in the sport!

​Hurrrrry Haaaard!

Hurrrry Haaard and come give curling a try! Participants can come play in a short tournament of floor curling to learn the basics of the game and get a feel for the strategy. No experience necessary! 

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Tracey McDonald, is a movement Coach and Yoga Therapist. She helps people move through life one perspective at a time, by teaching them tools and techniques to pause in the moment, look at their options and choose the direction that inspires their authentic self the most.

Learn to MOVE & Laughter Yoga
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Learn to MOVE through stressful situations with curiosity, creativity, and compassion for yourself and for others. In this workshop we will discuss being where you are at and learn tools to help you feel safe and comfortable in the experience of unfamiliarity. Sometimes life provides us with situations that challenges our limits, I will help you to stay grounded and to shift perspective, making each situation an opportunity to learn and grow. ​   Laughter Yoga... yep, that about describes it!  Get ready to laugh, smile and stretch!

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Keagan McGibbon, is an enthusiastic musician looking forward to sharing his passion and expertise.

Strumming and Shredding - Learn Guitar Today

Get your fingers warmed up and come out and learn the basics of guitar
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Brigha Meech, is back at CCSS this year and has been included meditation practice into her daily life over the past year and would like to share her passion and its benefits with you :)

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Anyone can Meditate!
I will share my beginnings with meditation and hope to dispel some of the myths that prevent people from trying it for themselves. After sharing my experiences and what I've learned about meditation, I will guide us through a group mindfulness activity.

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Tanner Mirrlees (@uoitcdms), is an Assistant Professor in and Director of the Communication and Digital Media Studies program at the University of Ontario Institute of Technology (UOIT). His teaching and research focuses on the economic, political and cultural drivers and impacts of communications and digital media technologies in society. 
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​Information "Super-Abundance": Is More Better?
We live in an "information super-abundant" society. More people have more access to more information than ever before. But is more always better ? What are some of the positives and negatives of living in an information super abundant society which digital media technologies and content are ubiquitous?

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Ashley Muir, (@DontDisMyAbili1)is a current Clarington Central student who is trying to spread acceptance throughout our community and have first hand knowledge of the effect of the topics we will be discussing.

DontDisMyAbili1
We would like everyone to understand that we need to respect others and remember that even if a person is differently abled, they are still abled and can be an active part of the community just like you and me.

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Matt Murchison (@Murch_Matt), is a 3D Game Artist and founder of Double M Digital, currently studying Game Design at Sheridan College.
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​From Making Games to Marketing Businesses
I will be talking about my experiences and lessons learned in the realm of business and self-employment. We'll cover everything from local resources you can use to kick start your company, what it takes to make your company work, and some of the lessons that you can use to avoid making my mistakes. This is a great talk to come to if you have trouble finding a job, are curious about entrepreneurs, or just want to know if the job is right for you!

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Heather Newton, I’m passionate about cats, kayaking, shoes, reading, learning new things and almost anything purple! I feel like teaching and being a mental health advocate for students is a calling not a choice; it’s who I am, not what I choose to do. What I have loved most about being a guidance counselor and now a resource teacher is helping students overcome obstacles and believe in their own dreams. I have been living with depression and anxiety for over 20 years and have recently been diagnosed with bipolar disorder. This has been a difficult journey, but I believe that along the way I have also learned how to be resilient and how to be truly compassionate. Living with mental illness is an ongoing challenge but can also be an opportunity.

​​Living with Depression, Anxiety & Bipolar
Choosing to disclose my struggle on the announcements to the entire School earlier this year wasn’t easy, but I felt it was an important step to take to help others who are struggling by opening myself to conversation about my experiences . That is what I am hoping this session will be - - a conversation between us about our experiences, our concerns and our hopes for the future. I will share some of my personal experiences and some of the strategies and therapies I have found helpful, including medication. Bring your questions! I will have a question box where you can anonymously submit questions that I will answer during the session. Maybe you are worrying about having suicidal thoughts, or wondering what will happen if you tell a guidance counselor, see the crisis intervention team at the hospital, or go to a psychiatrist. Maybe you’re just wondering how you’re going to get through the next day without anxiety overwhelming you, or how you will be able to reach your post-secondary goals. Whatever it is, let’s talk about it
!

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Michele Nowick, is a teacher in the Learning and Life Skills Program. We have one karaoke class at the end of each week to celebrate our achievements of the week. It was originally started to encourage reading and socialization. Since then it has become an opportunity for others to interact, relax, de-stress and to reach outside of our classroom. Everyone is welcome!

Integrated Karaoke
​​This is karaoke with no pressure and no stress, just socializing - meet your friends or make new ones. Hear your favorite or hear some that other people like.. There is no sign up so drop by when it is convenient.

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Meaghan O'Reilly,  I'm 22 years old and am currently working in retail. If you've been to the O.C. lately we've probably crossed paths. My parents tried to raise me to be a strong woman and I think they succeeded in many ways but I'm not sure if anything they did or didn't do, could have prepared me for the strength and endurance required to battle an eating disorder. We need to change the way we view ourselves. That means change in education, politics and the media to name a few. We need to learn to be individuals without an outside entity telling us what that is. The pressure to achieve a "look" based on some unrealistic standard so corporations can sell us products is damaging to all. The consequences can be particularly devastating to young girls desperate to meet a fabricated concept of beauty. I hope my story can help educate others.
​​My Life with Anorexia
I barely remember my life before anorexia. When I could enjoy a meal without wondering how the food would engorge and inflate me. I don't remember a time when I could look in the mirror and see anything but fat and ugly. How did this happen to me? Who is to blame? How do I learn to live my life and love myself?

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Kiera Royle, is a CCSS Alumnus and is currently a Bachelors of Social Work and Women and Gender Studies student in her final year of study at the University of Windsor with aspirations of pursuing her Masters of Social Work in International and Community Development.  During her undergrad, Kiera has been featured at conferences for her meta-analytical research works on Domestic Violence: A Health Crisis in Canada, Post World War Two Masculinity and its Effects on Foreign Policy, and Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women in Canada and the Governmental Response and is currently working on the publishing of her work The Effectiveness of Wilderness Therapy With At-Risk Adolescent Girls. Kiera is an active leader and participant in community activism with food security, anti-racism, human trafficking prevention and intervention, political efforts, and advancing social work practice. Kiera’s activism and advocacy work began with her passion in mental health as a student at CCSS and has been recognized by the Ontario Provincial Government and Canadian Federal Government for her efforts as a young adult with work in mental health.

​Mental Health and Self Care
This interactive presentation will encompass perceptions of mental illness, exploration of the concepts of mental health, mental illness, and self-care, and ways individuals can be allies as presented through discussion and interactive activities.

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Bruce Sargent (@farmboyprod), a CCSS Alumnus was born and raised on his family's dairy farm north of Bowmanville. Bruce started his own business during his first summer at the University of Guelph where he studied Marketing Management. Farm Boy Productions produces media for the marketing and communications of farms and agricultural business all across Canada. Specializing in online video advertising and commercial photography, Farm Boy Productions is now entering its 8th year of operation and continues to spread its reach deeper into Western Canada.

​Start a business at 19. Sell it at 22. Win two national marketing awards at 23.
Hear about the journey of Bruce from humble beginnings as co president at CCSS to nationally recognized agricultural marketing professional.  High definition Drone video, Virtual Reality tours - all in a days work at Farm Boy Productions.

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Ms. Smith, is a current teacher at CCSS and is an avid gamer

Hearthstone Tournament!
Come join a friendly tournament of Hearthstone (download on Android or Apple to get ready or laptops provided). Come to a fireside gathering to compete face-to-face with your peers.

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Lauren South (@southiee_),  is a grade 12 student at CCSS.  She is most passionate about horseback riding which she has doing since I was three years old.  She started teaching my own riding lessons to children six years ago.  She lives on a farm and has many animals.  After high school, she plans on starting to take the steps toward becoming a veterinarian for large animals. If her original plan doesn't work out, her backup plan is to become a farrier.

Pet Potbellied Pig and Rabbit Jumping

My life style has given me a chance to experience animals/activities with animals that aren't in the social norm. By going to school in a town as big as Bowmanville and living in the country, the social standards are different. I have been bullied and teased about some of the animals that I own but that didn't stop me from experiencing new activities with them. For my session I want everyone come and experience my Potbellied pig, Louie and learn more about what a great pet Potbellied pigs can be. Also, I want to give everyone the opportunity to get to know about an activity done with rabbits called "rabbit hopping".

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Sydney St-Aubin (@sydneystaubin), is currently in Grade 12 at CCSS. She is passionate about business and is an entrepreneur, as she is the Founder and Program Director/Instructor of, AIM Girls Club.  AIM is a bilingual after school program designed to give young girls the opportunity to work through intellectual games and activities together while strengthening their skills such as communication, initiative, etc., at the same time. The current program runs every Thursday night from 3:30-6:00pm and offers after school snacks as well as homework help.  Sydney is currently working on registrations for the AIM Girls Club: Summer Camp Program and is hoping to speak about what drove my passion to this step and what obstacles she endured along the way.

​Empowering Young Girls to be our Future Leaders
This is my story about how I made my passion a reality- Empowering Young Girls to be our Future Leaders.

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3 Alarm Choir, is modeled after Toronto’s Choir! Choir! Choir! and has been delighting crowds in the Peterborough area for years.  The choir gives everyone who loves to sing the chance to come out to a one-time high energy event. You learn a well known pop tune, in three part harmony, on the spot. You get a lyrics sheet, but no sheet music. Everything is taught by ear.  Check out U2's Pride (In the Name of Love) 

​Get Ready to Sing and Smile! 
You get lyrics (no sheet music) & sing the low, medium or high part, your choice
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Alan Tibbles, has been playing racket sports for about 60 years. A few years back he came to the realization that he needed to find something a little less strenuous but also something that was enjoyable, challenging and would keep him fit. He found Pickleball and it ticks all the boxes!.

​Learn to Play Pickleball

Pickleball was named after the inventor’s dog, Pickle, who kept grabbing and running off with the ball. However, and with all due respect to the inventor (and Pickle) it should have been called Tensquabadping because it combines the qualities of tennis, squash, badminton and table tennis. So, stop by for a quick tutorial on Tensquabadping.

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Josh Touw and Turab Rizvi, are big sports enthusiasts and want to share some of their research about the benefits of physical activity.

The Effect of Sports on the Brain
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Veronica Vargas, was born in Mexico City and started dancing at the age of 5.  Since then her love of dance has taken her around the world to perform and teach.  Since moving to Canada in 2004 she has been teaching Cardio Salsa, Tap, Latin Dance, Zumba ® , Zumba Gold ® Aqua Zumba ® Kindernastics Salsa Babies and Salsa Tots in Whitby, Oshawa and Bowmanville.

Latin Dance Party Lesson
​Learn the basic and safe way to do Latin steps, put them 
in dancing drills to finish with a Dance Routine.

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Cameron Wilson (@ForMaggyD), is a CCSS Alumnus, graduate of the Richard Ivey School of Business, and is currently a Digital Marketer, Independent Game Developer, Tech Enthusiast and avid Side Project-er working in Toronto.

​Don't Quit Your Day Job 
What I've learned from two failed start-ups, one lacklustre video game launch, and teaching myself to code the hard way. All while building a career in digital advertising, and falling face-first into more and more interesting opportunities.

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Chelsea Wolf, after graduating from the University of Waterloo with a Bachelor of Arts & Business in Social Development Studies with a Specialty in Aging & Wellness, Chelsea moved on to accept a full time position from her previous Summer Student employment. Chelsea, Bowmanville resident, works in the non-profit world as a Marketing Manager for the Bowmanville Older Adult Association. By continuing her education and enriching her passion for helping others, learning about human behavior and projecting a positive social media network base for BOAA members and stakeholders has become an important part of Chelsea’s career. She has a particular interest in the area of assisting and teaching older adults in encouraging leisure and assisting them with social media skillsets. Chelsea’s work involving the creation and development of a positive social media network at the BOAA drives her to share her knowledge and message of positivity with seniors, youth and the world!

Presenting Positivity in Social Media​
It is easy to blame media for everything that ails society today, but is media really the cause? Before you decide to pull the plug on all social media networking sites, learn how the media can influence us in a positive and useful way. Participate in activities and interactive training that puts the emphasis on establishing and promoting the impact of affirmative social media. In this workshop, you will learn how to interact comfortably and positively online, exercise sound judgement, inspire others and develop positive-specific media awareness.

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Logan Willoughby, is a current student in Mrs. Moore's class.   

Learn To Sign 
Come and learn the basics of Sign Language

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Jack Wylie, is a Grade 12 student at CCSS who just won Gold at Skills and will be representing Ontario at the National Competition in Winnipeg. 

​How To Make Your Pictures Not Suck 
A quick and easy to understand demo in photography using different lighting techniques and a lesson in how to properly edit your pictures so they aren't dull and boring. I'll also show you how to take a profile picture so you can look really cool on the Internet!

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Beata Zeranska, was born in Warsaw, Poland and moved to Canada to live with her father in 1986 after the nuclear disaster in Chernobyl, Ukraine. Coming from a medical family and being surrounded by medical professionals while growing up, she was always interested in healing. It wasn't until she came to Canada, that she was exposed to alternative healing modalities. Beata took Reiki level I in 1987 in Belleville. Her father was a big influence in her life. He was a healer and an inventor/innovator of many healing devices based on crystal therapy, gem elixirs, colour therapy, sound therapy and pyramid energy therapy. Under his tutelage, she began exploring and expanding his research as well as doing some of her own. She also observed her stepmother, a registered nurse, augmenting her professional repertoire with reflexology, iridology and homeopathy, which showed Beata the importance for merging of the traditional and alternative medicines. She inherited all her father's research and devices and decided it was time to complete her Reiki training. In 2012 she was certified as Reiki Master/Teacher. She also holds a certificate in all 4 levels of Violet Flame Reiki, as well as Animal Reiki. In 1995 she graduated from Ryerson University in Toronto in Landscape Architecture, which is her 2nd passion in life. She not only treats people with Reiki, but also plants, animals, gardens, nature in general and the planet.

​Working in the Dirt .... An Introduction to Gardening 

If you are into flowers and gardening but have no idea were to start this is the place for you.

Share all your learning using the #OwnYourEd hashtag.  Check out what everyone is sharing..
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