If you have never attended this exciting event where we celebrate the success and diversity of quality service-learning as an important part of public education in Maryland, you have an enjoyable day ahead of you. While the conference showcases an array of service-learning opportunities, this year's conference will highlight Maryland's commitment to improving literacy for all, as embodied in our conference theme "Telling a Story through Service-Learning."

On March 11th, we will recognize literacy-related student successes from across the state - including the statewide book drive - and celebrate the success of promoting literacy for all. Our closing celebration will include prominent guest speakers and service providers and recipients. We want to highlight your activities, but can't if we don't hear about them. To tell MSSA how you promoted literacy this year, send a summary of your efforts, along with photos (and signed publicity release forms) or other related artifacts, to kbellinger@msde.state.md.us by January 30.

Our opening ceremony begins with rousing remarks from prominent service-learning champions. From there, participants can engage in interactive workshops that will provide a hands-on approach to improving the quality of service-learning in Maryland. Participants will leave with tools and strategies needed to enhance service projects and deepen the learning experiences for students. Whether you are new to service-learning and looking for basic information or if you have many years of experience and want to improve the quality of your program as based on Maryland's Best Practices, we're sure you'll find a workshop that's right for you.

The day also includes three exciting service-learning projects in which our young people can pre-register to participate. These students will get a first-hand opportunity to recognize the tremendous impact their service makes on the community. Throughout the day, conference attendees have time to learn of additional service opportunities by visiting our exhibits. Our exhibitors include students and student groups who showcase quality service-learning activities and community organizations who offer opportunities for student involvement. The day concludes with a celebration of this year's focus on literacy for all and the statewide book drive. During the celebration, both service providers and recipients will celebrate the activities in which students participated to improve literacy for themselves and others.