Conference for Rural Adult Learning & Literacy

Conference for Rural Adult Learning and Literacy, 2012

March 15 (8 am to 4 pm) & March 16 (8 am to 2 pm)
Sky Ute Casino Resort
Ignacio, Colorado

Get the scoop on 2011's Conference here.

Sparse populations. Small-town culture. Youth outmigration. Disproportionate costs. For educators in rural Colorado the refrains are all too familiar, though they may sound strange to outsiders. What makes our work so different here? How is the learning curve so distinct, and the adaptations unique? Who advocates for us? What's the future?

With burgeoning questions, and few enough resources, professionals from across Colorado's rural spectrum are coming together to explore ideas, aspirations, and expertise in the now critical debate over America's unemployed and underprepared. In the context of widespread illiteracies in the country--academic, financial, digital, vocational--the goal is to share strength and improve our reach. Specifically the conference is

  • a venue for regional networking and professional development
  • a way for nonprofit professionals, teachers, and coordinators to share Best Practices
  • a start at analyzing the issues that are unique to non-metro areas (e.g., Western Slope, San Luis Valley, etc.)

It's commonplace for many of us to say we feel sometimes like 'out-of-towners' in the disciplines we've helped to forge. More important however is that rural professionals need opportunities to interact and study critically the conditions which make their efforts meaningful. We know at least that not all remedies are the same; nor are all problems equal, geographically speaking. Now's our chance to connect directly.

Cities aren't for everyone--and there are reasons for that, of course, pro and con. As educators, counselors, officials, labor and social experts, and community organizations here draw together to consider questions and strategize, they'll undoubtedly find more in common than not. And if we teachers can assist collectively what's so far been single combat, so much the better.

Registration

If you're interested in attending, please click here to register and provide the following information:

  • your name
  • your organization & title
  • address, direct phone, and email
  • confirmation for Day 1 and/or Day 2

Registration is FREE, but confirmations are required. Please Note: We will be requesting a $50 food/beverage charge to help offset hospitality costs (payable to PRCLC). This covers breakfast buffet Thursday & Friday mornings, refreshment breaks, and Thursday luncheon.

Accomodations

Discounted room-rates at the Sky Ute Casino Resort expire March 1, 2012: $72 for King bed, $80 for two Queen beds. Reservations may be placed toll-free (800-876-7017) or by email (link here). Be sure to reference the Pine River Community Learning Center for your block discount rate.

Presentations

If you are interested in offering a workshop or presentation, please click here for more information. Proposals due no later than February 28, 2012.

The conference agenda will be available March 5, 2012.

Bring your visions for the people of Colorado's "wide open spaces." We look forward to learning from and sharing with you in March!