What do you think of when you hear the words, “public education?” What do you think your students think of? How about their parents? District staff? Community members? Our audiences are many and diverse, and every individual has an idea of what “school” means to them – and therefore what schooling should be today. So what’s your story? A critical part of school leadership is cultivating an accurate narrative about the state of public education, and sometimes that can be challenging given the range of audiences and perspectives. Let’s take some time this spring and reflect on the stories of success, the opportunities provided by a system that is accessible to all, and the great presence of our schools in communities across Minnesota. Let’s celebrate public education!
Highlights
Arriving Wednesday evening? All are welcome to gather for refreshments and conversation at a casual reception from 8 – 10 pm in the Fireside Room at the Marriott. We will have snacks and a cash bar.
Thursday morning, we will kick off the conference by recognizing our MASE and MASE award recipients.
We are pleased to announce that MDE Commissioner Mary Cathryn Ricker will be with us to highlight her vision for E-12 education in our state.
Be sure to attend the three rounds of Breakout Sessions to customize your learning and bring home great resources to address your specific areas of interest.
The Exhibit Fair is a convenient way to visit with representatives of companies offering the latest products and services. Sign up for the drawings! One lucky participant’s district will win a door prize – sign up at each booth to increase your chances. Our Dessert Reception after lunch on Thursday is a great event in the exhibit area, a chance to visit with our friends in business and sample delicious treats.
Participate in our spring fundraiser for the MASA Foundation. You can donate via our convenient app, or in person at the conference registration area. Again this year, we will have a guessing game with a wonderful prize — visit the Foundation table and you may win a Duluth Getaway Package including lodging, concert tickets for the band Chicago, and attraction passes.
On Friday morning, we will recognize our colleagues who are recipients of the awards below and our retirees, and we will hear from the MASA and MASE officer candidates.
If you would like your retirement to be recognized at this event, please visit the link on the registration page or by going to https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/DTPYYZR.
Our Friday program will also feature short (think TED Talk) presentations by the MASA Regions that received major professional development grants last year. When receiving major grant support, regions agree to present the outcomes of their initiatives to the general membership at the conference. These presentations not only impart useful learned content, but also provide ideas for other regional teams.
The final keynote speaker on Friday is Shane Safir presenting, “The Listening Leader ~ Creating the Conditions for Equitable School Transformation.”
