In this episode of The Learning Curve, host and Assessment & Reporting Consultant Julia McLeod is joined by internationally renowned educator and author Rachel French, Director of Professional Learning International and co‑author of Concept‑Based Inquiry in Action.

Together, they explore how Concept‑Based Inquiry (CBI) aligns with and strengthens planning, instruction, and assessment within Alberta’s new curriculum framework. Drawing on Rachel’s global expertise and curriculum work within ECSD, the conversation offers clarity and practical insight for teachers navigating program redesign.

In this episode, Rachel and Julia discuss how Concept‑Based Inquiry supports teachers to:

• Plan for deeper understanding through concepts, generalizations, and transfer goals

• Design learning experiences that move beyond coverage and into meaning‑making

• Create performance‑based assessments aligned with Alberta’s learning outcomes

• Support student agency, curiosity, and intellectual engagement

• Build coherence across units and subjects using conceptual lenses

• Make inquiry manageable and accessible for teachers at all experience levels

This episode offers practical guidance, reassuring perspective, and concrete examples of how inquiry models can thrive within Alberta’s curriculum, and how teachers can confidently plan for powerful, concept‑driven learning.

🎧 Subscribe and listen to gain fresh tools and inspiration for designing learning that goes beyond the surface and empowers students to think conceptually.

Episode Description

In this episode of The Learning Curve, host and Elementary Math Consultant Amy Swinkels visits St. Teresa of Calcutta School to explore how a shared commitment to student success is transforming mathematics instruction.

Joined by Principal Tisa Haesch, Assistant Principal and Learning Coach Suzanne Campiou, Grade 5 teacher Erika Dubrule, and Inclusive Consultant Nick Freeman, the conversation highlights how data-informed decision-making and strong professional learning communities can create meaningful change for both students and educators.

Together, the team shares how they:

• Use MAST data to guide targeted and responsive instruction
• Strengthen teaching practice through collaborative response model meetings
• Build trust, clarity, and shared ownership across the school community
• Support new teachers through mentorship and collective learning
• Keep the focus on every child, every day, no exception

This episode is a powerful example of what’s possible when educators work together with purpose, faith, and a deep belief in student potential.

🎧 Subscribe and listen to be inspired by a school community growing together in learning and service.

Guests

Elementary Math Consultant, Amy Swinkels

Principal, Tisa Haesch

Assistant Principal and Learning Coach, Suzanne Campiou

Grade 5 teacher, Erika Dubrule

Inclusive Consultant, Nick Freeman

Producer

Julia McLeod, Assessment & Reporting Consultant

Music by Conor McLeod

Produced with Canva & Riverside

🎙️ In this episode of The Learning Curve, we welcome Dr. Douglas Fisher—professor of educational leadership at San Diego State University and co-author of The Teacher Clarity Playbook. Together, we explore how professional learning communities (PLCs) can serve as a powerful structure for sustaining meaningful assessment practices in schools.

Dr. Fisher shares insights on:

• Defining effective PLCs and their role in combating teacher isolation

• Using diverse forms of assessment evidence to inform instruction

• Building vertical alignment across grade levels

• Creating collaborative teams that support both student learning and teacher retention

Whether you're a classroom teacher, school leader, or instructional coach, this episode offers practical strategies and inspiration for building strong, sustainable learning communities.

🔗 Subscribe and listen now to join the conversation.

#TheLearningCurvePodcast #EdmontonCatholicSchools #DrDouglasFisher #PLCs #Assessment #TeacherClarity #CatholicEducation

Guest

Dr. Douglas Fisher, Professor at San Diego State University

Producer

Julia McLeod, Assessment & Reporting Consultant

Music by Conor McLeod

Produced with Canva & Riverside