The 2010 National Charter School Conference will be held at McCormick Place in Chicago from June 28 – July 1, 2010.  According to news reports, the Chicago Public School (CPS) system is getting rid of over 2,000 staff members because of a huge budget crunch, thus adding to Chicago’s already inflated unemployment rate.  CPS has also developed a reputation for failing to educate students, although that does not apply to all schools.  With that said, following are eight reasons why Chicagoans should attend this conference.

1. It’s in Chicago.
2. To determine if charter schools are better, comparable or worse than Chicago public schools.  There is an ongoing debate as to whether charter schools actually yield better results than public schools.  Also, it is still being determined which students benefit most from the non-traditional curriculum offered by charter schools.  This is your chance to get answers to these and other questions you have always wanted to ask.
3. Learn new and different ways to teach students.  Educators can learn about some of the methods and tools used to teach students for their classrooms.  Non-educators can use the information for other programs and activities.
4. Network.  You just never know who you will meet who can help you in any of your endeavors – educational and non-educational.  The old adage stands true: It’s not what you know, it’s who you know.
5. Educational opportunities.  Workshop topics include, but are not limited to, law/policy, communications, and leadership development.
6. Employment Opportunities.  There will be charter schools as well as organizations that provide services to these institutions in attendance.  If you are seeking a new position or career change, this is your opportunity to see what’s available.
7. Entrepreneurial opportunities.  Even if you are not an entrepreneur at heart, check out the services and resources you can provide to the charter school community.  Entrepreneurs  can only add to their arsenal of knowledge as well as cash flow by offering additional products or services.
8. Hear what Arne Duncan, U.S. Secretary of Education; Bill Gates, Co-Chair, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation; Reed Hastings, Founder, Chairman & CEO of NetFlix; and Joe Scarborough, MSNBC’s Morning Joe have to say about this educational system.  They are all keynote speakers for the event.

Above are eight reasons why Chicagoans should attend the 2010 National Charter School Conference next week.  Visit http://www.nationalcharterconference.org for details on how to register and the event schedule.  Don’t let the cost deter you; the benefits will greatly outweigh the cost.  Hope to see you there!