25th Annual K-12 Character Education Conference
July 8-10, 2009 - Sarasota, FL

Featured Speakers
Cathryn Berger Kaye, M.A. "Making the Service-Learning Connection"
Dr. Kris Bosworth "Culture, Climate, Connectedness, and Resiliency"
Click here to view the workshops at a glance.

 

2009 National Conference Slideshow

 

Reflection from a conference attendee:

This conference was an example of the culture that can exist within an educational community wherein the mission of the community and the behaviors of the stakeholders are aligned. This example was demonstrated on two levels throughout the conference. These levels were both formal (structured) and informal (unstructured).  I believe that this conference can simultaneously provide two essential areas of learning. These two levels could be provided through the workshops and keynote presentation (formal) and through modeling how a community can interact and learn from the attendees during unstructured times (informal).

I was most encouraged by attending a conference where the expressed purpose for those attending was focused on improving the educational environment for the students and all stakeholders. Interacting with educators from various sections of the country that shared beliefs regarding school improvement and personal responsibility was exhilarating. 

These shared beliefs were made evident in formal and informal situations throughout the conference. On several occasions I had the pleasure to experience the willingness of the participants to share the activities and vision for their school communities during meals or in the lobby. Within workshops, there were conversations of sharing, support, and learning among friends who share a common bond.

These behaviors are crucial manifestations of the culture within the community of caring.  I had the opportunity to meet many attendees (like myself) for which this was their first experience at a community of caring conference. I intend to return again and again and again to learn and experience the culture and climate of caring and respect that is present. 

For those who attended as well as those unable to attend, this conference was a shining example of the culture that can exist within a school that is focused on transforming their school environment into a community that cares.

 

2009 National Conference Awards

2009 Community of Caring Outstanding School Award
Northfield Middle School, Northfield, NJ

2009 Community of Caring Outstanding School Award
Sarasota Middle School, Sarasota, FL

2009 Building Bridges: Including More Children in a Community of Caring Award
Venice Middle School / Oak Park South, Venice, FL

2009 Community of Caring Outstanding Lead Teacher Award
Betsy Galbraith
Mount Ogden Junior High School, Ogden, UT

2009 Community of Caring Outstanding Student Award                            
Crystal Coluzzi
Venice Middle School/Oak Park South, Venice, FL

2009 Community of Caring Outstanding Administrator Award
Dr. Carol Ferguson
Northfield Middle School, Northfield, NJ

2009 Community of Caring Lifetime Achievement Award                             
Dr. Karen Geller
Upper Merion Area Middle School, King of Prussia, PA

2009 Community of Caring Outstanding Partner Award       
Gulf Coast Community Foundation of Venice, Venice, FL