Leading the Future

May 29th & 30th, 2026
Indigenous Languages Conference
Chief Atahm School

Day Two Morning Session 5A & 6A: Pumín Room in High School

Workshop Title: Language Success
in the Language Nest

Laura Michel

Laura has a B.A. from TRU with a Major in Theatre and a Secwépemc Language Proficiency Diploma from R Stselxméms r Secwépemc. As Language Nest Coordinator, Laura creates an immersive language environment. She is also a playwright, known for her play “Echoes of the Homesick Heart”, created in partnership with Western Canada Theatre, that brings the nuances of language, identity, and community to light.

Sarah Michel

Sarah works at Chief Atahm School in curriculum development and as a language teacher at Kyé7e’s House Language Nest. Through her passion for digital art and technology and her skills in language she has produced many e-books and language resources for the school and community. Sarah is currently taking a Bachelor of Secwépemc Language Fluency through UBCO.

Kathryn Michel

Dr. Kathryn Michel has worked extensively in the area of community language revitalization and Indigenous language immersion education. She is one of the founding parents of Chief Atahm School, a Secwépemc language immersion program in 1991 on the Adams Lake Reserve near Chase, BC. Dr. Michel holds a Doctorate in Education from UBC and a Master of Arts in Education degree from SFU. One of her greatest loves is working with the babies in the language nest where she now proudly takes the role of “Kyé7e”.

About the Workshop:

This interactive workshop explores effective strategies for fostering full immersion in a Language Nest. This session highlights how consistent, meaningful use of the target language can support natural acquisition, cultural connection, and learner confidence.

Emphasis will be placed on creating supportive, language-rich environments where children acquire language through interaction, routines, and play.

  • Explore techniques for maintaining target language use throughout daily activities
  • How to maximize opportunities for staff to increase their language skills
  • Share challenges and solutions for sustaining immersion in real-world settings