2009 NCSS Conference Registration Scholarships for First-Time Attendees
NCSS is pleased this year to offer a limited number of conference registration scholarships to teachers who have never been able to attend its annual meetings in the past for lack of financial support. All teachers from Georgia who meet the qualifications are eligible to apply.
The FAQs below lay out the details of what is covered, eligibility, and how to apply.
What is the deadline for application?
All scholarship applications must be submitted online to NCSS by September 14, 2009. However, we encourage you to apply early while administrators are still budgeting professional development funds for the 2009-2010 school year.
What does a Conference Registration Scholarship cover?
The scholarship covers the conference registration fee for the 2009 Annual Meeting in Atlanta and a one-year regular membership in NCSS. It does NOT cover additional expenses including:
- travel, lodging and meals
- ticketed events such as tours or clinics
- substitute teacher to cover your class while you are attending the conference Attendees will need to cover these costs with district or personal funds.
Who may apply for a 2009 scholarship?
The intent of the scholarship is to enable teachers from diverse ethnic groups and/or who teach in high-poverty schools who have never attended an NCSS conference before to take advantage of this premier professional development opportunity. Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- first time attendee at an NCSS conference
- full-time preK-12 school teacher from Georgia
- supported by the school administrator in the desire to attend the conference
Priority will be given to applicants who are:
- in their first five years of teaching
- working in a high-poverty school
How do I know if I work in a high-poverty school?
The U.S. Department of Education defines a high-poverty school in three ways:
- The school is in district that serves at least 10,000 students from families living below the poverty line. OR
- The school is in district in which at least 20% of its students are from families living below the poverty line. OR
- The school receives Title 1 funding. If you are not sure whether your school meets any one of these criteria, consult your principal or district office for clarification.
Why do I need to get support from my principal or other administrator to apply?
In order to take full advantage of the conference, you will need permission to be absent from your classroom on Friday, November 13. You will also need financial support to cover the cost of a substitute. Your principal or administrator may be able to access professional development funds that will defray some of these expenses.
When will I find out if I received a scholarship?
You should receive an email indicating the status of your application by October 5, 2009. If you are awarded a scholarship, you will receive a special conference registration form for scholarship awardees.