Stimulating pre-conference workshops ... general sessions featuring inspiring keynote speakers ... breakout sessions on successful evidence-based practices from some of Oregon's leading educators ... countless opportunities to network with colleagues from around the state ... fun-filled social and family events -- all are on tap for the 36th Annual Professional Development Conference at Seaside, June 23-25.

The pre-conferences, set for June 23, include an amazingly-affordable opportunity for sought-after communication training: “Communication is a Contact Sport" and "Made to Stick Strategies" presented by Kelly Decker, an official  trainer.  In this full-day session, educators will receive training on effectively communicating concepts in ways that students, staff, boards and parents will comprehend and remember.  This training sells out at venues around the country at a cost of $1,295 per participant … but COSA has negotiated for a price of just $179 per person.  Register today.

Other pre-conferences include “Doing What it Takes To Improve Writing Throughout Your School and District" with COSA favorite Janel Keating, and the annual Special Education Pre-Conference.  Register today .

Main conference keynotes include best-selling Switch and Made to Stick co-author Chip Heath on the topic of "Switch: How to change things when change is hard”; Bob Eaker on the topic of “Closing the Achievement Gap” and Paul Ruiz on “Learning from the Frontier: Achievement in America with a Special Emphasis on Oregon".

COSA members who have not yet used their 2009-10 professional development voucher can save $99 on a two-day main conference registration -- making the cost just $76 per person -- or a three-day pre-and-main conference package.  Register today.

Hotel space in Seaside is rapidly filling up, with another convention in town at the same time as the COSA Conference.  Conference rates are still available.  You will find lodging information at the bottom of this page.