First, the bad news...

During the past several months we have heard from many individuals who have attended previous conferences and found that many states, districts, and national organizations are experiencing travel freezes and budget restrictions. Based on this and the current economic downturn, we have opted not to hold a 2010 conference. We want to thank everyone for their interest and support.

Now, the good news...

We are currently in the process of finalizing the dates and location of the 2011 Conference! We anticipate the Call for Papers being posted early in 2010. Stay tuned for more information.

The U.S. Department of Education is offering $1.5 million for up to 10 Paraprofessional Pre-Service Program Improvement Grants. The purpose of the grant is to improve services and results for children with disabilities.

Last year, we posted a popular inspirational video of Dalton Sherman, a young man who reminded educators, "We need you now more than ever."

I don't know if that video can be matched, but here are a few more to help you get excited about a new school year:

Taylor Mali answers the question, "What do I Make?"

Consuelo Castillo Kickbusch was the Saturday keynote speaker at the National Conference this year as she shared her love, laughter and tears with us. If you ever get a chance to listen to Consuelo, do not pass it up!

Right after her Keynote address she had a table full of books in the hall that quickly sold out. For anyone who is still interested, her book is titled Journey to the Future: A Roadmap for Success for Youth.

Meet Jessica Dai (parent of a child with autism), Larissa Feng (social worker) and Sophie Xie (special educator), pioneers in promoting the important work of paraprofessionals in China.

Their presentation was highlight of the State Leadership Meeting last night. They told us about two organizations- the Childrens Palace and the Special Parents Club in Guangzhou who started a non-profit Paraeducator Program to provide training for paraeducators. Lacking government funding this training is actually paid for by the parents of childrens with disabilities. We congratulate them on the work they are doing and hope to hear more from them in the future!. Their presentation is available below: