Vision and Voice conference this Saturday

Media release: It takes teamwork to help a children navigate the path from birth to happy, productive adult.  Local schools and community agencies have come together to plan a one-day conference that will provide parents, teachers and local volunteers with information and resources to assist our area children on their journey.  The community will host the "Vision and Voice Family Engagement Conference" this Saturday at The Well next to West Rome Baptist Church on Shorter Avenue.  The conference program will run from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. with State Superintendent of Schools, Dr. John Barge, kicking-off the conference. The event has been organized by the Rome/Floyd County Collaboration Team comprised of representatives from local service agencies and organizations, Floyd County Schools and Rome City Schools.  There is no charge for admission and a box lunch will be provided to all registering. 

The conference will feature topics ranging from teen pregnancy, helping children with special needs, mental illness, bullying, dating violence, social media and  Internet safety, helping kids learn about money, and talking to children about substance abuse,   Those attending will also learn more about how to save money on energy, parenting styles, empowering children, developing literacy skills, Common Core State Standards, and adult education. The conference will offer workshops presented in Spanish focusing on behavior, dealing with trans-cultural language, teaching your child the value of money and the program "STOP and See Your Future."  All workshops will be offered in 45 minute blocks throughout the event.  More than 26 workshops have been planned for the conference.

The conference's roots are anchored in the organizing team's shared vision of improving the lives of children and families of the Rome/Floyd community.  "We started with the goal of building a partnership between parents, schools and community agencies that would connect these vital resources for the benefit of children," stated Tina Black, parent involvement specialist for Floyd County Schools. "If we face these issues as a community, we will uncover solutions as a community." 

 It is very important for you to register, if you plan to attend.  Your registration will help organizers know the number of lunches to provide.  You may register on–line by visiting the Floyd County Schools website at www.floydboe.net.   "Click" on "Vision and Voice Conference" listed under "Quick Links".  A listing of all presenters along with a brief description of the workshops can also be found on the website.  To register by phone, contact Tina Black at the Floyd County Board of Education office at 706-234-1031.  The first "Vision and Voice Family Engagement Conference" has been generously supported by: Rome ReSale, Amerigroup Scholastic, Rome Rotary Club and Seven Hills Rotary Club .