"Partners in Educational Technology"

Westin Innisbrook Golf Resort, Tampa, Florida
http://www.starwoodmeeting.com/Book/FAEDS
September 19 - 21, 2005

Dear Conference Partners,

Even a hurricane couldn't dampen our spirits! Despite the inclement weather, last year's conference still attracted a sizeable crowd. This year we look forward to another year of increased member growth and participation in the annual fall conference. The conference dates are set for September 19th - 21st. This event is a unique gathering of IT planners, decision makers, and administrators gathered to exchange ideas. Our membership includes IT Directors and CIO's representing Florida's public schools, community colleges, and universities.

This year's theme focuses on our "Partners in Educational Technology". Changes for this year include an entire day of the conference dedicated to interaction with our members and our business partners. These changes will include:

• Our Solutions Center will be enlarged to allow for more display (8x10) booths. Professionally piped and draped booth areas with single line signage for a more finished and professional look will be provided through Gulf Coast Expo. They will be responsible for all shipping/handling, electrical and Internet services for a separate fee. The hotel will not accept any shipping.

• A new concept, the "Presentation Theater" will be introduced. A seated, multimedia supported , area can be scheduled for 30 minute presentations on products and solutions.

• “Solution Sessions” will give an opportunity for a 50 minute “breakout “ presentation of products and services.

• All meals on Tuesday and our evening entertainment will be held in the Solutions Center to allow the maximum amount of time for our partners and our members to interact. This year we plan to hold a “Casino Night” where you can try your skill at a “Texas Hold’em” Poker Showdown or other friendly games of chance.

The FAEDS conference has grown significantly over last year. We are welcoming to our conference FCITL, representing instructional technology managers and NWRDC (Northwest Regional Data Center), who are conducting training sessions . It is our hope that you will continue to be a committed and significant part of this event.

Sponsorship opportunities for this year's conference are organized into four categories. The categories are listed and described in the registration materials. Please be aware that the signature events, featured sessions and special showcases are in short supply and will fill quickly. Preference will be given to those who commit to sponsorships first. Please remember to register for your space and sponsorships early. Because of demand, sponsorship of events can be reserved only through our receipt of a signed sponsor form via mail or fax. Date and time of receipt will determine the order in which requests will be fulfilled.

Thank you for your past and continued support of the Florida Association of Educational Data Systems. If there are any questions or concerns, please contact me as listed below.

Contact Information:
             Keith Parsons, Management Information Systems
             Volusia County Schools       
             PO Box 2118
             Deland, Florida 32721-2118

             Phone: (386) 734-7190 ext. 20122
             Fax: (386) 943-3422
             Email: kparsons@volusia.k12.fl.us