Laurier event to focus on increasing diversity in teacher education

Oct. 14, 2022
For Immediate Release

WATERLOO — The Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Indigenization Coalition within Laurier’s Faculty of Education will host a “Teacher Diversity Event” Tuesday, Oct. 18 on the university's Waterloo campus.

The event – focused on increasing diversity in teacher education – will bring together approximately 50 secondary school students from equity-deserving groups who attend schools within the Waterloo Region District School Board and Waterloo Catholic District School Board. The students will spend the day learning, connecting and interacting with members of the Laurier community as part of the event, which aims to inspire secondary students to pursue a career in education.

The day is also considered an important learning experience for Laurier Bachelor of Education students, who have worked diligently planning the event. Students will participate and assist with presentations, panels, tours and workshops. The main location for the event is Laurier's Senate and Board Chamber.

Laurier's Faculty of Education formed the Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Indigenization Coalition, including students, staff and faculty, in 2020. The coalition strives to address systemic issues and create positive change.

Teacher Diversity Event schedule:

9 to 9:30 a.m. – Welcome, opening remarks and icebreaker

9:30 to 10:15 a.m. – Panel of minoritized teacher candidates shares experience in the Faculty of Education

10:15 to 10:30 a.m. – Break

10:30 to 11:15 a.m. – Healthy lifestyle activities with Laurier’s Department of Kinesiology (Athletic Complex)  

11:15 to noon – Lunch

Noon to 1 p.m. – Tour of campus and EDI affinity groups, support services

1 to 2 p.m. – Human library

2 to 2:15 p.m. – Wrap up and concluding remarks