I've been a Superintendent for almost 7 years now and an AASA member for a bit longer than that — and I've never been to a National Conference on Education. I've come close a couple of times, but for some unexpected reasons, I've needed to back out at the last minute.

Not this time. And I'm pretty excited about it.

When Jay Goldman (editor of Conference Daily Online) asked if I would be a guest blogger I said YES right away. I've written quite a few entries in my own professional blog, “The Power of Why” so I'm comfortable writing my thoughts down. I write on topics that I'm passionate about or exploring. I've found that blogging helps me to really crystalize my thinking — it's a main reason I keep doing it.

Being a guest blogger at this conference is going to be fun. As it's my first NCE I'm anxious to see how everything all unfolds. Blogging will give me the outlet to spend a bit of time processing what I've learned that day. The challenge is going to be picking a topic because of the incredible scope of offerings — there are literally hundreds of things to choose from over the 3 days:

• The engaging variety of Opening Sessions;
• The dozens of Roundtable offerings;
• The sessions that focus on current issues as well future opportunities;
• Even the Exhibit Hall with 327 exhibitors is going to be great.

I have already found some sessions on Artificial Intelligence and Culturally Sensitive Leadership that have piqued my interest — and I haven't yet had time to really pour over the conference schedule.

Along with the added bonus of meeting leaders from across the continent I can't wait to begin.

This is going to be a great 3 days!