The Arkansas Reading Association (ARA) and the International Reading Association (IRA) will host the 32nd Southwest Regional IRA Conference, “Celebrate Literacy: Land of Opportunity”, November 15-16, 2007. The conference will take place at the Statehouse Convention Center, Peabody Hotel and Doubletree Hotel in Little Rock.
Keynote speakers will be Linda Gambrell, International Reading Association President; Steven Lane, author and educator; and Kate KiCamillo, author of Because of Winn-Dixie. Other nationally known speakers and authors include Cris Tovani, Irene Fountas, Michael Bell, Margriet Ruurs and Patricia McKissack. Numerous outstanding presenters from across the United States will share literacy strategies in small group sessions throughout the day Thursday and Friday.
Educators are encouraged to attend this outstanding opportunity for professional development focusing on literacy research and best practices. The Arkansas Department of Education has approved professional development credit for conference sessions.
Glenda Nugent from Little Rock is the ARA President and conference program chair and Tanna Clark of Hot Springs is the conference chair. Information regarding registration, housing and a tentative schedule is available at www.arareading.org or by calling 501-228-0807.
Pre-registration must be received by October 25. Registration received after that date will be returned unprocessed; however, attendees may register on-site at a slight increase in cost. Registration will be confirmed by mail or email. Attendees are reminded to bring confirmations with them to exchange for registration materials.