Dear Colleagues,

On behalf of the entire Boston 2012 host committee, I would like to welcome you to Connect, Engage, and Learn with each of us and with each other in the great city of Boston! With hundreds of colleges and universities scattered throughout the region, Boston truly is the hub of learning. What better place than Boston to connect with colleagues from across the country and to engage with our fields' most respected thought leaders as we work together to ensure that every educator engages in effective professional learning every day so that every student achieves.

This year's conference, to be held at various venues within Copley Square, including the Sheraton Boston Hotel and the Hynes Convention Center, will feature opportunities to learn with Kim Marshall, Robert Garmston, Charlotte Danielson, and Michael Fullan, among others. Come explore issues related to teacher and leader effectiveness and effective teaching, as well as strategies for school reform and turnaround to address persistent gaps in achievement among students. In addition, you will have the opportunity to engage with practitioners from across the country in hundreds of concurrent sessions and roundtable discussions.

Following a day of engaging and learning, take advantage of the opportunity to connect with friends and colleagues to explore the sights and sounds of Boston and the surrounding region. Whether you choose to explore the cherished historic sites along the Freedom Trail; browse in the shops along Newbury Street, Quincy Market, and Faneuil Hall; enjoy the sounds of the Boston Symphony Orchestra or the Boston Pops, hop on the famous Duck Tour; or take in a Boston Bruins or New England Patriots game, you are sure to enjoy your stay in Boston! No trip to Boston would be complete without taking advantage of the many restaurants located throughout the city. Whether you choose to sample the signature New England seafood specialties, pop into an Irish pub, or visit the infamous Cheers, you are sure to be satisfied!

So, where do you plan to be in December 2012? I hope you will plan to join us in Boston, as together we Connect, Engage and Learn!

Sarah Barzee, Conference Chair
Boston Host Committee