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Hello - Hola - Nǐ Hǎo - Salam wa aleikum -

Guten Tag – Bonjour . . . and welcome to the

Arkansas ASCD website

The number of people in the US who speak a language other than English has more than doubled since 1980.That’s hardly surprising, given the ever-expanding diversity of language in the United States and the increasing trend toward bilingual households. Just as our languages have doubled so has the diversity of students in our schools. Regardless of our language or ethnic background, we have one thing in common; the strong desire to educate our children. As Arkansas ASCD strives to provide resources, support and professional growth opportunities to our members, it is critical that we continue to be cognizant of the collective goal of educating the whole child.

Although I consider this a year of celebration for Arkansas ASCD our work continues to be critical and urgent. Implementing the Common Core State Standards presents new, urgent challenges for AASCD members. This is our area of expertise so let's continue our high level of work with all stakeholders to make this a smooth transition.

Reflecting on past accomplishments while looking to the future, I challenge us to celebrate, persevere with current work and accept new challenges for the 2011-2012 school year.

1. Celebrate our past successes such as:

• Affiliate of Excellence Award
• Advocacy Sessions
• Continued growth with our annual conference and drive-in sessions
• Partnership with ADE and Career Workforce
   

2.  Persevere with the current work:

• Have a visible presence for legislative work regarding curriculum and instruction issues.
• Develop position papers as needed addressing proposed legislation.
• Continue Arkansas ASCD's commitment to educating the whole child by advocating  and supporting ASCD’s Whole Child Initiative
• Continue using technology to communicate throughout the year and during conferences
  
  

3.  Accept new challenges:

• Develop and Grow the Emerging Leader Program
• Explore new ways to use technology for increased membership
• Explore ways to add value for AASCD membership

Thank you for your involvement with Arkansas ASCD. I challenge you to stay involved as we work with educators across the state to implement the Common Core State Standards while continuing to meet the needs of the Whole Child.