The VCLD Newsletter

Vol. 16, No. 1

Fall 2001

President's Letter

The Test-Taking Strategy

President’s Letter

Dear Colleagues:

With the horrific events of September 11th, it’s important we all reflect on making the most of every day and every opportunity we have. Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with members and their families who have been affected by this tragedy. We hope all the new and old members of the VCLD “family network” will be able to provide the support and strength needed at this time.

With this in mind, welcome to all our old and new members! This is an exciting time to be a member of VCLD. Our goals for the year include:

1. Celebrating and continuing to refine our website and its accessibility to members.
2. Celebrate regional activities and continue to increase future activities - help support us!
3. Celebrate our existing membership and recruit new members - get others to join!
4. Continue to create VCLD’s niche: “Collaboration, Strategies and Support” - and reach out to General educators - Bring your colleagues to our conference and regional activities!
5. Assist our President Elect with the Spring Conference!

Maggie Kyger, our President Elect, along with the help of Andrea Babkie have been putting together a dynamite Regional Spring Conference at the Charlottesville Omni on March 8 & 9, 2002. Look further in the newsletter for all the nationally renowned speakers on PROVEN, PROMISING AND INNOVATIVE PRACTICES! A lot goes into planning an event like this and we need the help of our members with advertising and local arrangements. Please contact Maggie Kyger @ kygermm@jmu.edu if you can help! Our Poster session is an easy way to share your expertise with colleagues. Contact Judith Curtis @ jcurtis@rcs.k12.va.us if you or one of your colleagues would be willing to share ideas on collaboration and best practices. Click here for more information.

Our National CLD Conference was held in Charlotte, N.C. October 18-20, 2001, and we were well represented by many of our members and Board Members. VCLD plays an impressive role in our national organization. Those of you who weren’t able to attend, plan on coming to Charlottesville this spring to catch up on all the innovative practices in our field!

Opportunities abound for getting involved in VCLD:

1. Spread the word about our upcoming conference!
2. Apply for a mini-grant! (application attached and on our website)
3. Nominate a colleague for an Outstanding Teacher Award! (application attached and on our website)
4. Volunteer to assist with local arrangements for the Spring conference!
5. Submit a proposal for a poster session at our Spring conference!
6. Contact any Board member with ideas or concerns!

Make the most of every day and every opportunity you have. Be an active member of VCLD!

Pray for Peace,
Helen Barrier, VCLD President