The Workshop 2017 call for proposals is now open, and we’re looking for engaging, creative and thoughtful submissions. Proposals should reflect the best practices in education across the state.

Workshop will return to the Atlantic City Convention Center from Monday through Thursday, Oct. 23-26. This year’s theme, “Education for a Common Purpose,” is a reminder of the mutual driving force behind all school leaders in New Jersey, the nearly 1.4 million public school students.

Please consider the following session guidelines when shaping the proposal. These criteria will influence the selection of sessions to be presented.

What Workshop attendees want:

  1. Sessions with a greater depth of content.
  2. Sessions that focus on best practices.
  3. Sessions that provide tools that can be easily implemented.
  4. Sessions designed to engage and educate.
  5. Sessions with differentiated content for new and veteran school leaders.
  6. Sessions showcasing cutting-edge innovations in the education field.

NJSBA suggests presenters give thought to which program category best fits the proposed session and choose carefully. The available program categories are below:

Action Labs are 90-minute programs, limited to 48 attendees, which actively involve participants. The majority of the time must be devoted to hands-on tasks directed by the presenter(s). On your Program Proposal Form, please clearly describe the program, spell out the objectives, and include a general list of activities so that the selection committee will be able to assess how the participants will enrich their skills.

Group Sessions are 60-minute programs which allow the speaker to present information to as many as 200 attendees on an area of their expertise. At least one-quarter of the program should be devoted to questions and answers. In designing the program, consider using any one of the following formats: single speaker, panel, debate, or some other program structure. If there is more than one presenter, include all of the required information for each individual on the completed Program Proposal Form. These training opportunities are limited to three presenters. Please clearly describe the program and spell out the objectives so that the selection committee will be able to assess how the attendees will benefit.

The 21st Century Classroom The 21st Century Classroom is an exhibit floor destination featuring enhanced wireless networking with Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) support, a large interactive display, high definition video conferencing, a flexible furniture configuration, and work areas for participant collaboration with team displays. Successful proposals will demonstrate how technology can be effectively integrated into the learning environment and how participants will interact with the technology. Please include a vision for the technology on the Program Proposal Form.  There are limited presentation slots available for this room.

All Workshop program submissions will receive equal consideration.  The deadline for receiving completed forms is April 3, 2017. Those submitting proposals will be notified of the Associations’ decision by mid-June. Submit the Workshop Program Proposal Form today! For more information, email NJSBA.