Get ready for the Leading Forward conference: Your FAQs answered!

The registration deadline for NYSAWA’s Leading Forward conference is June 18, and we are excited to welcome all of our attendees to this exciting event on July 11-12.

As we prepare for the conference, we’ve put together a Q&A that may answer many of the questions you may have about the conference. If you have additional questions, please contact events@nysawa.org

Q: What is Leading Forward?

A: Leading Forward is the name of this year’s summer conference by NYSAWA. This year’s event will be held at the Woodcliff Hotel and Spa in Fairport, NY and will be an amazing opportunity to learn, grow, and connect with fellow educators from across New York State. 

With inspiring keynote speakers, engaging workshops, and plenty of networking opportunities, NYSAWA Leading Forward will leave you feeling energized, motivated, and ready to take on the challenges of the new school year.

This year’s conference feature a keynote address from the honorable Commissioner of Education and President of the State University of New York, Betty Rosa and the following speakers:

  • Shanai Lee, Rochester Education Fellow
  • Dr. Barbara Mullen, Superintendent, Rush-Henrietta Central School District
  • Dr. Vicma Ramos, District Superintendent, Wayne-Finger Lakes BOCES
  • Lynda Quick, Esq., Superintendent, Wheatland-Chili Central School District

Q: Where can I learn more about the speakers?

A:  Read more about our speakers here.

Q: Should I bring anything with me to the conference?

A: Yes! We recommend bringing something to write with, such as a notebook and pen or a laptop/tablet. You’ll want to take notes during the sessions and workshops to help you remember what you learned and to reference later. Also, don’t forget to bring your conference registration confirmation and ID for check-in and business cards if you’d like to exchange those with other attendees.

Q: Is the reception on July 11 optional?

A: Yes. The complimentary welcome reception on July 11 is an optional chance to meet and greet other attendees.

Q: What time should I arrive at the conference on July 12?

A: Breakfast will be available 7:30-8:30 a.m. The conference will begin at 8:45. We recommend arriving 15-30 minutes before the conference starts to allow for check-in and to get settled. You don’t want to miss out on any of the exciting sessions or keynotes!

Q: Will there be food and drinks at the conference?

A: Yes, we will be providing meals and refreshments throughout the day. We will be sending a Google Form to conference attendees to ensure we know of dietary needs.

Q: Will there be a discounted hotel rate for conference attendees?

A: Yes. The hotel is honoring a nightly rate of $159 for anyone attending the conference. Upon registering, attendees will receive hotel reservation information and instructions.

Q: Is the conference eligible for Continuing Teacher and Leader Education (CTLE) credits?

A: Yes, the NYSAWA Leading Forward Conference is eligible for 6 hours toward CTLE credits. 

Q: What should I wear to the conference?

A: Dress comfortably and casually! We want you to be able to focus on learning and networking without worrying about what you’re wearing. We recommend dressing in layers, as the temperature in conference rooms can vary.

Q: What is the last day to register?

A: Registration closes on Sunday, June 18. Click here to register.

Q: What funding sources are available to cover the costs of the conference?

A: Many districts have a conference code that administrators can use to fund registration, as well as travel and other costs of attending a conference. Additionally, Title II, Part A is a federal grant that most districts receive, which can cover the costs of leadership training and conferences as part of a larger school-wide plan or leadership training initiative. Click here for more information on Title II, Part A guidance. 

Q: To whom should checks be made payable?

A: Checks must be made payable to Capital Region BOCES, ATTN: Jerri Bayly, Capital Region BOCES, 900 Watervliet-Shaker Road, Albany, NY 12205. Please indicate the name of the event, “Leading Forward,” in the memo space.