Education Now & in the Future:

Proven Tools for Successful Schools

Pressing education issues—from improving math and science teaching to creating smaller learning communities and reaching English language learners—are among the hot topics that will be explored at NWREL’s Education Now and in the Future (ENF) conference, scheduled for February 9–10, 2004, at the Portland Hilton. The professional development event features more than 70 training sessions and workshops for educators at all stages in their careers.

"ENF is the Northwest’s most comprehensive professional development event, designed to provide solutions to the questions that are most relevant to educators today," according to NWREL’s Chief Executive Officer Carol Thomas. She notes that the annual conference allows teachers, administrators, counselors, and others to take advantage of NWREL’s nearly 40 years of turning research into techniques proven to increase student achievement.

In addition to sessions offered by NWREL staff and outside experts, the conference features two motivational and entertaining keynote speakers. Sister Anne Bryan Smollin, a family counselor and author, examines the role of humor in enhancing learning and reducing stress. Elementary teacher Rafe Esquith will also inspire ENF participants with his troupe of young Shakespearean actors from Los Angeles. These fifth-graders, many of whom are English language learners, demonstrate young people’s remarkable capacity to learn.

A networking reception, continental breakfasts to connect with colleagues in attendance, and an on-site bookstore are other conference highlights. Those attending ENF also can earn continuing professional development and graduate credit.

People working for NWREL member institutions receive reduced registration fees. There’'s an additional discount for early registration. The cost is $160 for members who sign up before January 10, 2004 ($180 for nonmembers). After January 10, the fee is $200 for members and $220 for nonmembers.

To learn more about the conference and to register, go to www.nwrel.org/enf or call 503-275-9187. E-mail your name and address to enf@nwrel.org to request a catalog.