Conference Overview
The National Institute for Excellence in Teaching hosted the 11th National TAP Conference in Los Angeles on March 11-13, 2011, at the Hyatt Regency Century Plaza. The National TAP Conference is a dynamic gathering of TAP practitioners, policymakers and members of districts, states, organizations, foundations and businesses involved with TAP implementation across the country. The Conference is a powerful venue, both for those new to and experienced in TAP, to learn more about TAP in practice and its role on the national pulse of innovative education reform.
Attendees enjoyed a range of opportunities to gain a deeper understanding of TAP's elements of success, and network with other TAP participants. In addition to practitioner-focused breakout sessions, trainings and hands-on workshops, the TAP Conference included national plenary panels tying TAP's proven reforms to critical issues facing America's K-12 system today.
As surprise announcements, Lowell Milken presented the 2011 TAP Founder's Award and TAP Recognition Awards. Ben Milam Elementary School in Texas received the 2011 TAP Founder's Award, which comes with a financial prize of $50,000.
You can view the photo slideshow of the event and watch a video capturing TAP in Action at Milam.
The TAP Awards of Distinction went to the Louisiana Department of Education, South Carolina Department of Education and Texas Education Agency.
The TAP School of Promise Awards were presented to Glendale American Elementary School in Arizona and Lincoln Middle School in Arkansas.
The TAP Ambassador Awards were presented to Clinton Elementary School in South Carolina, Lowery Intermediate School in Louisiana and Rolling Hills Elementary School in Texas.
You can view photos of the TAP Recognition Award presentations and watch Award of Distinction videos.
Visit the Conference Photos section for a one-stop-shop of key event photos, from plenary panels and TAP in Action sessions to all Award slideshows.
We look forward to next year's National TAP Conference, where we will maximize our efforts to ensure teacher excellence, student achievement, and opportunities for all. Check back on the TAP website for updates.
Wayne Brazell, Former Laurens County School District 56 Superintendent, Laurens, South Carolina
"The bottom line is that quality teachers make a difference. Our state is in trouble with teacher recruitment, recruiting heavily from foreign nations. Because of TAP, we have been able to recruit powerful teachers to work in our district."