workshop2016-logoBoard members, school administrators and other educational professionals have an opportunity to share their knowledge by presenting a program at Workshop 2016.

The Workshop 2016 call for program proposals is now open. NJSBA is 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 this fall from Tuesday through Thursday, Oct. 25-27. This year’s theme, “Recognizing the Value of Every Student,” highlights the importance of working together to ensure that every student has the tools he or she needs to achieve,  and every student is valued for his or her unique contributions.

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:

  • Sessions with in-depth content;
  • Sessions that focus on best practices;
  • Sessions that provide strategies that can be easily implemented;
  • Sessions designed to engage and educate attendees;
  • Sessions with differentiated content for new and veteran school leaders; and
  • Sessions that showcase 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 the 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 up to 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.

NJSBA Integrative STEAM Command Center

Located on the Exhibit Floor, the NJSBA Integrative STEAM Command Center will have demonstration stations that will focus on an integrative approach to STEAM education. It provides resources and experts to help schools to start STEAM programs or enhance existing ones.

NJSBA Sustainable and Healthy Schools Center

Located on the Exhibit Floor, the NJSBA Sustainable and Healthy Schools Center features a variety of government agencies and non-profit organizations that showcase their programs and resources that lead to sustainable and healthy environments at lower operational costs. The center will also feature demonstrations by schools that are exemplifying best practices in sustainability.

The 21st Century Classroom

Due to popular demand, the 21st Century Classroom is now a mainstay at Workshop. This room is a model 21st Century Classroom 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. 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. Every effort will be made to accommodate requests. There are limited presentation slots available for this room. If there are any questions about the classroom and its technology, please contact Dan Burger, director, emerging technologies, Promedia Technology Services at (973) 253-7600, ext. 2256 or Adam Scarzafava, senior marketing coordinator, Promedia Technology Services, at (973) 253-7600, ext. 2311.

All Workshop program submissions will receive equal consideration. The deadline for receiving completed forms is April 1, 2016. Those submitting proposals will be notified of the Associations’ decision by mid-June. Submit the Workshop Program Proposal Form today! For more information, contact this email address.