Jerry Johns fall conference

Long ago I went to a International Reading Association conference in Anaheim. I ended up meeting Jerry Johns through Faye Brownlie and remember a magical mystery tour searching for a party given by P. David Pearson because I told Jerry what a hero he was of mine. We didn't find the party but it was fun trying. (Years later I did go to one of those parties and I actually met P. David for the first time in China but those are other stories. )
When I returned home I received a note from Jerry saying how nice it was to meet me.
That kind of sums up Jerry Johns, always thoughtful and fun as well. Jerry has come to Vancouver on several occasions and proven always popular. He is an excellent presenter but again always shows that interest in people and his care of what is best for students.
BCLCIRA and LOMCIRA are honoured to have him as our our speaker at our fall conference on the October PSA day. I know that he will inspire as well as give practical suggestions on Linking Assessments and Interventions: Pathways to Fluency and Comprehension
That link will enable you to download a registration form. Please note the special group rate which is a really great saving as it includes lunch, coffee etc.
Picture is from the Canadian reception as Jerry has a chat with Jenny Clay. Jerry is a former president as was Jenny's mom, Marie.

The Annual Convention

Blogs have a way of making me feel guilty but then of course, I am never sure who actually reads them. This one I haven't added to for quite some time.
We had a small yet enthusiastic group at the discussion of the work of Donald Leu and all thoroughly enjoyed the school tour and good conversation and wine. Thanks to our gracious hosts at Dickens!
I have just returned from the International Reading Association Annual Convention in Minneapolis (a city I loved and blogged about in the late literacy blog). It was a great if smaller conference with so many excellent sessions. LOMCIRA achieved Honour Council Status and for the first time BCLCIRA achieved the Award of Excellence. It's always amazing what small groups of volunteers can achieve!
A member of the BCLCIRA executive, Shirley Choo received the Maryann Manning Outstanding Service Award at the Annual Awards Dinner. At the Canadian reception, Carol Hyrniuk- Adamov received the Canadian Special Service Award. Garth Brooks (not the singer) received an award from the Leaders Special Interest Group. Congratulations to all our Canadian "winners".
A special guest at the Canadian reception was Jenny Clay, daughter of Marie Clay, who was at the conference for the launch of a book that is a tribute to her famous mom. The picture shows conferees signing up for the Canadian Special Interest Group at the reception.
Next year the conference will be at one of my favorite cities, Chicago. If you wish to put in a proposal they are due June 1. Just go to the IRA website for more details (link on the side)