For the past 41 years, educators have gathered in Eugene, Oregon, for what has grown into the premiere staff development conference focused on Direct Instruction (DI). Through the years, a DI “community” has developed–a community of like-minded individuals bound by the shared belief that, given the opportunity, all students can achieve remarkable results. The National Direct Instruction Conference and Institutes features a group of the best, most qualified Direct Instruction trainers, innovators, and authors, all working to help professionals such as you improve their ability to serve students. No matter what your job title is–principal, supervisor, literacy coach, teacher, paraprofessional, professor, or something else–the National DI Conference has something for you.
This year, we are happy to welcome back Dr. Anita Archer, who will be conducting a pre-conference session on Foundations of Explicit Instruction. We also have a new session highlighting an application that will make it easier to access students and analyze their progress through the programs. We have updated sessions to help participants understand how the DI curriculum addresses the Common Core State Standards.
We are continuing to partner with McGraw-Hill Education in sponsoring the DI Celebration of Excellence evening of recognition. In conjunction with the Celebration, we are sponsoring a first time Direct Instruction Community Fair. This is your opportunity to show off how you use DI in your classroom, school, district or other setting. See the simple application on page 25 of the brochure. This “poster-type” presentation is sure to be popular. Make your submission early!
Although new features have been added, there are still many familiar traditions of the National Conference. We will continue to hold the Get Acquainted picnic, picnic lunches on the patio each day, and various vendors with tools and materials to help you do the best job serving your students. Finally, you will experience our best tradition: the most comprehensive offering of Direct Instruction training and information available—anywhere!
We look forward to seeing you in Eugene this July!
