Convention to be virtual, half-price

On Board Online • July 20, 2020

By Eric D. Randall
Editor-in-Chief

NYSSBA has canceled plans to hold its Annual Convention & Education Expo in New York City this fall. Instead, the entire convention experience is being converted to a two-week-long virtual event in October.

The registration fee is expected to be about half of the regular amount.

"We are committed to delivering all the great content and networking opportunities members are used to experiencing at our Annual Convention & Education Expo via a top-notch online platform," said Barry Entwistle, who has headed NYSSBA's convention for 15 years.

"One advantage is you won't miss anything, even when sessions occur simultaneously," Entwistle said. "Most events will be archived, and you can view them at your convenience."

The online convention will take place on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays for two consecutive weeks. The Annual Business Meeting will be held online on a Saturday in October. Dates are to be announced.

Here are some questions and answers:

How will the programming compare to a regular convention?

"Very similar," Entwistle said. "It will include featured experts, educational seminars led by member districts and meetings of various groups such as rural schools. The Education Expo will also be virtual."

Will it be a live event?

"Most programming will occur live with some content pre-recorded," Entwistle said. "Pre-recorded material will include bonus content contributed by member districts."

Is there a keynote speaker?

"No - there are three!" Entwistle said. "We call them the Three Doctors, and they are extraordinary role models for anyone who's been through any kind of life challenge. I think people are hungry at this time for inspirational stories, and that's what you will hear from Drs. Sampson Davis, Rameck Hunt and George Jenkins."

Will there be pre-convention events?

Yes, the Pre-Convention Law Seminar and Pre-Convention Communications Workshop will both be held, Entwistle said. A separate fee will apply for each.

How can I get updates?

"NYSSBA will be keeping members and district clerks informed, and updates will be posted at convention.nyssba.org ," Entwistle said. Contact him with questions at barry.entwistle@nyssba.org  .