Report from Last Year's Convention

MORE THAN 800 supervisors, parents, teachers, policy makers and educators attended NYCESPA’s 76th Convention on Jan. 31, 2009

EVENTS ON conference day began early; by 8 a.m. people were streaming through the doors of the Brooklyn Marriott, filling their convention bags with goodies from the 100 exhibitors in Vendors’ Galleries. Others gathered over coffee and breakfast. President Jermaine Garden hosted a breakfast for new members.

BY FIVE AFTER nine, the professional development program was in full swing. In all, 14 workshops provided a vast assortment of opportunities in two strands that bracketed the keynote speech of Dr. Pedro Antonio Noguera, noted education theorist and professor. Through humor, real-life stories and a video presentation, Dr. Noguera’s vision sprang to life and the packed ballroom was able to take away strategies that could be implemented on Monday morning.

PRIOR TO THE GALA luncheon, NYCESPA honored its 5, 10 and 20 year Jubilarians. Click here to view/download photos. Chancellor Joel Klein joined CSA President Ernest Logan and NYCESPA President in presenting certificates to the honorees. A last minute addition to the luncheon program was Mayor Michael Bloomberg who spoke passionately about the looming budget crisis and asked the audience for its support in ensuring that the legislature in Albany delivered NYC its fair share of the stimulus funds.

OTHER DAIS GUESTS included Chancellor Joel Klein, NYSED Associate Commissioner, Shelia Evans-Tranumn, Regents Geraldine Chapey, Betty Rosa and Lester Young, Jr., NAESP President Nancy Davenport, as well as NYCESPA President Jermaine Garden, President-Elect Mitra Lutchman and Convention Vice-President Liza Caraballo.

THE REGENTS each received the NYCESPA Leadership in Education Award and in their remarks praised the Principals in attendance for the leadership they provide on a daily basis. Students from Brooklyn's PS 26 and 243 provided entertainment that brought standing ovations from the packed ballroom.