The Arkansas Council for Exceptional Children (AR-CEC) will hold its three-day statewide Annual Fall Conference: “A World of Possibilities” on November 14-16, 2007, at the Hot Springs Convention Center, 134 Convention Boulevard, Hot Springs, Arkansas 71901. The first day is a pre-conference day with three options for participants, all sponsored by various AR-CEC sub-divisions. Choices include Dr. Luann Purcell presenting on the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and No Child Left Behind (NCLB); Dr. Dianne Zager presenting on approaches for Autism Spectrum; and, under separate registration, a pre-conference in the area of transition, 'How to start transition classes in your school.' Participants may choose to attend the Annual Conference from one to all three days.
A highlight of the Conference will be an appearance by the true “Rain Man,” Kim Peek, accompanied by his father, Fran Peek. Kim will participate in a book signing and will present the various Conference awards this year. Marcia Harding, Associate Director of Special Education from the Arkansas Department of Education (ADE), will provide an update on special education, including the status of the State’s promulgation of special education regulations. Behavior intervention consultants, Easter Seals consultants, faculty at institutions of higher education, teachers “in the trenches” and others will make up the program and will provide attendees with current, much needed information on best practices.
All school district special education teachers, general education teachers, administrators, consultants, parents, and others involved with or interested in the education of children with disabilities are encouraged to attend this Conference. Thursday the two-day conference begins with concurrent sessions, which are scheduled throughout the Conference. Participants may select sessions focusing on transition from Preschool to Kindergarten, Assistive Technology, Autism, Early Childhood education, Co-teaching, reading, math, and many more relevant topics. For more information, the Conference registration is posted on the Website http://cec.k12.ar.us.
A breakfast and luncheon are included in the Conference registration fee. There are also two fun-filled social events planned for the Conference. Attendees will have no problem obtaining at least nine (9) professional development hours in the two-day conference period, plus additional hours for any pre-conference attended. Participants may pre-register for only one pre-conference.
Hotel information is included on the registration form. The completed registration form must be sent directly to the Hot Springs Convention Center for processing. Advanced registration is encouraged. A check must accompany all registration forms submitted; no purchase orders, please.
The Conference will have more exhibitors than ever before and more give-aways, door prizes, and fun with the band, Legacy, again performing. So, join in the fun and educational opportunities while attending the Conference.
For more information, please go to the website or contact the conference chair, Chris Foley at chris.foley@rsdmail.k12.ar.us or by phone at 479-890-5733.