Description

The Languages Without Borders (LWB) pre-conference is an interactive professional learning event for the people who shape, support, and sustain language learning in their schools and communities.

It will connect research, practical experience, peer dialogue, and land-based learning across diverse language education contexts. Participants will explore the practical realities of leading strong, responsive, and sustainable language programs.

Purpose

Strong language programs depend on intentional leadership, well-supported teachers, and meaningful connections among schools, families, communities, and systems.

The pre-conference will create space for participants to consider the following:

• What effective leadership looks like in language-learning settings
• How to recruit, support, and retain strong language teachers
• How to respond to the day-to-day challenges educators encounter in language classrooms
• How to build professional and community relationships that help language programs thrive

Audience

Leadership in language education includes educators, coordinators, consultants, department heads, instructional leaders, and school leaders who support additional language learning – including official languages, Indigenous languages, international languages, and other language learning contexts.

Note: Participants do not need to oversee a “formal” language program to benefit. The pre-conference is also relevant for those supporting language acquisition in schools and communities where learners’ language needs are a central focus.

Format and Structure

Following an opening panel, participants will choose between two learning pathways: focused breakout sessions on key aspects of language program leadership or the Walk to The Confluence.

The walk will invite participants to connect with the land and reflect on how Indigenous perspectives, pedagogies, relationships, and place can inform leadership in language education. More details to come!

Languages Without Borders 2027