Investing in relationships: Supporting student well-being and learning through professional learning

Foothills School Division teachers came together at École Secondaire Foothills Composite High School | Alberta High School of Fine Arts (ÉSFCHS | AHSFA) on April 17, 2026, for a professional learning day focussed on one of the most important foundations of student success: emotional well-being, relationships, and safe learning environments.

The day began with a keynote by Hannah Beach, author, educator, and internationally recognized speaker, titled The Emotional Roots of Aggression and Anxiety: Supporting Change and Building Resilient Kids. The session set the tone for a day of reflection, collaboration, and practical learning as teachers explored how understanding what lies beneath student behaviour can strengthen classrooms and support every learner to thrive. 

In her keynote, Beach shared research-informed insights into why children and youth today are experiencing higher levels of anxiety, aggression, and emotional shutdown — and what educators can do to address these challenges within the framework of learning in the classroom. Drawing on developmental science and attachment-based practices, the session emphasized the critical role of strong, trusting relationships and emotional safety in learning. 

For students, this learning translates into classrooms where adults are better equipped to:

• Respond to challenging behaviour with understanding rather than punishment
• Create environments where students feel safe to take risks, ask questions, and be themselves
• Use relationship, play, and connection to reduce stress and build resilience

When students feel emotionally safe, they are more engaged, more open to learning, and better able to manage challenges — academically and socially.

Following the keynote, FSD teachers worked within their school-based teams and learning communities to reflect on the ideas and consider this perspective as they focussed professional learning and school improvement to their own school context. 

"It was inspiring to witness our teachers deeply connect with Hannah Beach’s message and collaborate on practical strategies that foster meaningful connections between students and staff" said Chase Ellis, Director of Professional Learning & Community Partner Relations for FSD. "Simple yet effective adjustments in our classrooms will make a positive difference for every student, reinforcing the power of ongoing professional learning and the value of strong relationships at the heart of education." 

 Kelli Graham, Vice Principal at ÉSFCHS | AHSFA reflects, “She was so good. There were wonderful reminders, and insight on how we have exchanged play for digital entertainment. Play helps to regulate emotions, and emotions impact behaviour. If we remove play out of the equation, we only have emotions regulating behaviour. We have experienced a shift and as educators we can influence how play is incorporated in the classroom and throughout the day to support healthy regulation of emotions, and therefore, behaviour.”

This dynamic approach ensures that professional learning is not a one-time event, but part of an ongoing cycle of growth and improvement. Teachers left the day with a shared language and practical strategies they can apply immediately — from strengthening daily connections with students to intentionally designing classrooms that foster belonging and emotional regulation. 

For families, this work means knowing that FSD schools are committed not only to academic achievement, but also to the well-being of the whole child. Students, and their families, benefit from classrooms where adults understand how stress, anxiety, and unmet emotional needs can affect behaviour — and where learning environments are intentionally designed to support well-being alongside learning.

By deepening understanding of student behaviour and emotional development, Foothills teachers are better positioned to support inclusive classrooms where every child feels seen, valued, and capable of success. 

Ongoing professional learning is a strategic goal of Foothills School Division, which is grounded in the shared vision of Engagement, Support, and Success for each learner. Enhancing the understanding of building resilience and belonging within the classroom advances the Division’s commitment to creating safe, caring, welcoming, and respectful learning environments, supporting student well-being as a foundation for learning, and investing in staff learning and collaboration to strengthen teaching and leadership.

Foothills School Division offers a professional culture that values learning, reflection, and care. Investing in high-quality professional learning, like the work with Hannah Beach, demonstrates a commitment to supporting staff so they can, in turn, support students with confidence and compassion.

Placing students at the centre of a flourishing learning community, professional learning reflect a shared belief: when we invest in our educators, we strengthen our classrooms, our schools, and our communities — and our community benefits. 

Learn more about Hannah Beach at https://hannahbeach.ca/

Media Contact:

Sara Fox
 Manager of Communications and Community Engagement
 communications@fsd38.ab.ca