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Text Box: NMSA Conference - PHILADELPHIA REWIND
NOVEMBER 3-5, 2005

Prepared by National Middle School Association
Text Box: On a beautiful fall week, more than 8,000 middle level educators gathered in downtown Philadelphia to celebrate their work with young adolescents, network with other educators from around the world, and learn and be inspired about their continuing efforts in middle grades classrooms. 
Text Box: Thursday
Text Box: Friday

The Pennsylvania Local Planning Committee, working under Co-Chairs Gail Heinemeyer and Charles Cognato, put hundreds of hours into making the conference come to fruition. Their dedicated work paid off in a big way.

Thursday morning’s attendees were greeted with an array of choices for school visits, action labs, and special workshops. Concurrent sessions began in the afternoon and the day concluded with Rick Stiggins providing the William M. Alexander Memorial Lecture at the opening general session. Distinguished Educator Awards were presented to Robert Caplinger, Pam Millikan, and Ed Vittardi.

Friday began with a general session that included special guests Paul Vallas, CEO of the School District of Philadelphia (newest district member of NMSA) and John Street, Mayor of Philadelphia. Juan Williams brought an inspiring message of equity and education. Concurrent sessions continued throughout the day.