Dear Friend:

Registration for the 2008 National Charter Schools Conference is officially open!

As you know, the conference is the only national gathering of the entire charter school community.  This year’s conference is June 22-25 in New Orleans, LA, and we’re expecting over 3,000 movers and shakers:  teachers, principals, policymakers, state leaders, funders, advocates, researchers.....every branch of our expanding charter-school family. 

“Still We Rise: Achieving Academic Excellence at Scale” is the conference theme, reflecting the growth of quality public charter schools across America.  Our theme has special resonance in New Orleans, which boasts the nation's largest percentage of public charter school enrollment.  New Orleans’ charter schools are not only spurring a new dawn of academic excellence, but are also providing a great boost to the growth and recovery of the Crescent City.

There will be something for everyone at this year’s conference, with over 100 breakout sessions, 50 peer-to-peer roundtable discussions, and an exhibit floor with the latest in products and services for charter schools. You'll see a model school building and classroom exhibits, and you'll have opportunities to visit – and volunteer -- in New Orleans’ charter schools and neighborhoods.  You won’t find a better opportunity to learn and grow in an atmosphere of camaraderie and fun.

In the meantime, please REGISTER by February 3, 2008 to get the Early Bird rates.  And check back often for updates on keynote speakers, session details, and special events which will highlight New Orleans traditions, food, and music.

We look forward to seeing you in June. Laissez les bon temps roulez! (Let the Good Times Roll!)

Sincerely,

Nelson Smith
President