I think interoperability is having a moment–we are feeling the momentum. I don’t have any empirical evidence to support this claim, but as the Ed-Fi team travels throughout the country spreading the message of data driven education, we are seeing our sessions packed, hands shooting up with eager questions and a spike in the number of partnerships and requests coming our way. This is exactly what we are working towards and we want to keep that positive energy moving forward. Which brings me to the Ed-Fi Summit.
The Summit is an experience like no other and it honestly feels like a great group of friends getting together to solve this very big challenge. Our conference still feels like it did when we had just 20 people sitting at a conference table–except its better.
We have over 50 sessions where Ed-Fi Community members are sharing their experiences and learning with their peers. We’ll have three networking events that bring the Community together each evening to reflect on the day. We’ll have announcements and keynotes that will enrich your experience and help you along your interoperability path. There is so much in store for you, and I truly hope you can make it to Austin in the Fall to join us.
I actually attended a mini-conference yesterday, and one of the attendees remarked about how easy it is to fall into the trap of sitting at our computers and interacting only through email and calls, in a way it makes you think you are alone in your work. But we know that’s not true; there is great value in actually getting out of our seats and being in a room with someone that has the same problem as us. There is value in sharing our stories, our struggles and our successes. That is what the Ed-Fi Summit endeavors to bring to our Community.
Just in case you needed even more reasons to attend, I’ve compiled a top 5 list for you.
Reason #5: Deep in the Heart of Texas (in Autumn)
The Summit takes place here in Austin—hometown of Ed-Fi and one of the most dynamic cities in the country. The conference is being held at the Hilton Austin, a beautiful space right in downtown—and the hotel is offering reduced rates for government agencies.
And best of all: Because the Summit takes place in October, you won’t be stuck inside sitting next to the AC!
Reason #4: It’s Just Flat-Out Fun
You’ll take away a lot from your three days in Austin, and you’ll leave equipped with new ways of making interoperability a reality at your organization. But just as importantly, you’ll have a good time doing it.
You’ll learn as much as you laugh. You’ll see the city. You’ll bond with new colleagues. And throughout your stay, we’re committed to making sure the trip is as complete as possible.
Reason #3: Network for Real
Good networking doesn’t happen by accident. That’s why—before, during, and after the Summit—you’ll have countless, planned opportunities to meet, talk with, and share resources with your peers from across the country.
Last year, half of attendees were educators, half were ed-tech vendors. The even mix creates fascinating conversations that can’t happen anywhere else. You’ll return to the office with new connections and big ideas.
Reason #2: It’s Affordable
Unlike other conferences, the Ed-Fi Summit’s registration fee is kept purposefully low to encourage attendees from across the world to join us in Austin. If you register before August 31, we are offering special Early-Bird pricing.
Reason #1: Shape the Future of Education Technology
We’re on a mission to make seamless, secure interoperability a reality. To do that, we need your expertise and your input. At the Summit, you’ll lend your voice to a growing community of data-passionate educators and technologists.
See you in October.
