Interested in getting more information about the 2026 Collaborative Response Retreat?
When you join the Advance Network, you not only will receive email notification when registration opens BEFORE the general public later this year, you will also receive a bonus Planning for Fall Organizer and an early registration window where we are planning to offer some special extras to anyone in the Advance Network!
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"Thank you for the wonderful experience I had at the Collaborative Response Retreat. I felt taken care of and appreciated throughout the whole time I was part of the event. The thoughtfulness of the Jigsaw Learning team from when we arrived to when we left was very special. I am so glad this was the conference I chose to attend this year!"
- Bev Cotton, Director of Learning Supports - Northern Gateway Public Schools
"This was my third time attending the Collaborative Response Retreat, and each time I walk away with new insights and practical strategies, thanks to the inspiring sessions led by Kurtis, Lorna, and the breakout speakers. I feel incredibly fortunate to work in a school division that fully embraces Collaborative Response, it’s clear to see the positive impact it has had, even within my own school. Having a clear, structured plan to support and meet the needs of all students is both empowering and essential. I’m deeply grateful to the Hewson's for their dedication and passion. Their commitment to building supportive systems for students, staff, and families truly makes a meaningful difference."
- Melissa Rogers, Principal, École James S. McCormick School - Wolf Creek Public Schools
When and Where is the Retreat?
The 2026 Collaborative Response Retreat will be at the Lacombe Memorial Center in Lacombe, Alberta on May 1-2, with a Pre-Retreat Overview Workshop happening on the Thursday, April 30.
"Collaborative Response is something we are excited to begin to implement in our high school. Jigsaw Learning has made it accessible by sharing and communicating important information in a way that doesn't add to our already growing list of responsibilities as teachers and leaders. This framework will replace processes in our building that serve few, with a system that serves many. Knowing that Kurtis will be there to provide us with real-life solutions and recommendations that come from a place of understanding and experience, will make the process smooth I am sure."
- Jennifer Williams, Learning Resource Coordinator, Strathmore High School - Goldenhills School Division #75
Why Attend the Retreat?
In planning this event, we envision that the retreat will again be an opportunity to:
- Celebrate the diversity of individual contexts for schools and districts, different stages of implementation, and the flexibility of the Collaborative Response framework through an innovative grassroots approach to learning and sharing
- Network, share and celebrate the diverse and differentiated Collaborative Response practices happening across the province of Alberta and beyond
- Engage openly regarding the challenges and successes being experienced across the greater educational community, honouring honest and transparent conversation
- Share and access additional resources and supports from district leadership to classroom practices to support and extend Collaborative Response and related work
- Each team attending will have time dedicated to planning their next steps for implementing Collaborative Response
Explore Lacombe
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the Collaborative Response Retreat?
The Collaborative Response Retreat is a dedicated professional learning experience designed to provide educators with the time and space to reflect, collaborate, and plan for the future of Collaborative Response in their schools and districts. Unlike a traditional conference, this Retreat allows teams to step away from their daily responsibilities to focus on refining and strengthening their implementation of Collaborative Response. Through networking, sharing best practices, and engaging in meaningful discussions, participants leave with new insights, actionable strategies, and a renewed commitment to supporting student success. Whether new to Collaborative Response or looking to enhance existing practices, the Retreat offers an invaluable opportunity to learn, connect, and grow together.
Why is it called a Retreat and not a Conference?
This event is called a Retreat rather than a Conference because it provides a unique opportunity to step away from the day-to-day demands of school life and focus on reflection, collaboration, and planning for the road ahead in Collaborative Response. Unlike a traditional conference that primarily delivers information, the Retreat is intentionally designed to allow teams to engage deeply in meaningful discussions, share successes and challenges, and develop actionable next steps. With dedicated team planning time, networking opportunities, and a supportive atmosphere, the Retreat ensures that participants leave not only with new insights but also with a clear vision and renewed energy to enhance Collaborative Response in their schools.
What can I expect from a working Retreat? What does that mean?
A working retreat is a structured event where individuals or teams step away from their usual environment to focus on specific tasks, projects, or strategic planning while also benefiting from a retreat setting. Unlike traditional retreats focused solely on relaxation or team bonding, a working retreat balances work sessions with reflective or collaborative activities to boost productivity.
Who should attend the Retreat?
The Collaborative Response Retreat is an excellent opportunity for anyone who is looking to introduce, establish or deepen the way they respond to the needs of students in their school or division. This includes:
- Superintendents, Directors, Coordinators and others at the district level
- Principals, Assistant Principals and other members of the school leadership team
- Instructional Coaches, Learning Support Teachers, Department Heads and other school based leads
- Teachers
- Support Staff
- External Partners
Can I attend on my own or should I attend with my school/district team?
Attending the Retreat with your team is highly encouraged, as there is dedicated team planning time to strategize your next steps for implementing Collaborative Response. Bring your team to make the most of this opportunity for collaboration and action!
Do I need to know anything about Collaborative Response to attend?
No! The Retreat is a great opportunity to learn more about Collaborative Response and hear what the framework looks like in a variety of settings, through 15 different schools and divisions sharing their work in breakout sessions, as well as multiple opportunities for networking and facilitated discussions.
It would be highly advantageous, if new to Collaborative Response, to attend the May 1 Pre-Retreat, which will focus on providing an introductory overview for Collaborative Response.
Can I get a certificate of participation for the Retreat?
Yes! Following your attendance at the Retreat, you will receive an email asking if you’d like a certificate of attendance and how many participation hours it involved.
Why is the Retreat hosted in Lacombe?
The Retreat is hosted in Lacombe as it is a beautiful, picturesque community located in between Alberta’s largest cities of Edmonton and Calgary. Lacombe is a small community with many lakes, walking paths and unique businesses and many amenities.
Explore Lacombe here!