CASLT Event 
Description
Why does learning another language matter, and how can we help families, colleagues, and decision-makers recognize its value? Drawing on CASLT’s Why Learn Languages? project and the Literature Review on the Impact of Language Learning, this session explores the cognitive, academic, social, and identity-building benefits of additional language (L+) learning. Designed for language teachers, school administrators, and central leaders, this interactive workshop will use discussion and scenarios to explore practical advocacy strategies for strengthening and sustaining enrollment in language programs. As well, the workshop leaders will debunk common myths about language learning. Participants will leave equipped with ready-to-use talking points and strategies to communicate the value of language learning whether at open houses, in casual conversations, or during family engagement moments. Join this session to discover new ways to build lasting support for L+ programs and help champion the role of multilingualism — opening doors and building connections in a rapidly changing global world.
Time & Date
November 17, 2025
7:00 p.m. - 8:15 p.m. EST
Location
Zoom
Presenters
Manager of EAL and Language Programs, Edmonton Catholic Schools
Sarah Fedoration
Dr. Sarah Fedoration is the Manager of English as an Additional Language (EAL) and Language Programs at Edmonton Catholic Schools. Dedicated to strong language programs in her school division, Sarah recognizes that creating thriving language programs requires vision and both strategic and systems thinking. Through collaboration with multiple departments and organizations, Sarah aims to have thriving language programs where all students receive strong linguistic and cultural experiences.
Program Coordinator, Edmonton Public Schools
Stephanie Jackson
Stephanie Jackson began her career as a junior high teacher of French as an Additional Language at Edmonton Public Schools (EPSB) and transitioned to central leadership as a consultant and program coordinator. In these roles, Stephanie worked to support local, provincial, national, and international educators and administrators in additional language and immersion programs. With a passion for educational technology and language learning, Stephanie helps teachers to see the potential for enriching their classrooms through technology integration and inclusive teaching practices. She is often asked to present on the topics of effective language teaching and assessment, technology integration, and leadership development. She has been a contributor, author, and/or project coordinator for many teacher and student resources through her work with EPSB and her volunteer role as Vice President of the Additional Languages and Intercultural Council of the Alberta Teachers’ Association.
Vice-Provost and Dean, Faculty of Graduate Studies, Simon Fraser University
Mary O’Brien
Mary O’Brien taught German at the university level and researched second language learning for over 20 years. Recently she and co-researchers have been working to understand and reduce accent bias. Together with an exceptional group of graduate students, she has worked closely with CASLT on several literature reviews, including the Literature Review on the Impact of Second-Language Learning (2017) and Facilitating Language Learning Through Technology: A Literature Review on Computer-Assisted Language Learning (2020).
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