Meet Kindermusik Educator Debbie Long!

I'm Debbie Long, from Kalamazoo , Michigan (Yes, There Really is a Kalamazoo!) and the 2008 Convention Committee Chair. You've been hearing a lot lately about Partnerships and working together. Our Committee is an example of one of the ways that Kindermusik Educators and the Employee Owners of Kindermusik International are working together to make sure you have a worthwhile Convention experience. Who is on the Convention Committee? Kindermusik Educators just like you and me:

Patty Karle - Volunteer Coordinator
Katie Henderson - Speaker Content
Jeannie Castillo - International Rep
Andrea Ringer - Logistics
Diane Colin & Julia Cobley - Local Representatives (Raleigh)

Are you excited yet? Not just One chance to save money on accommodations at Convention, but TWO chances?! A big THANK YOU to the folks at KI who extended such a generous offer to their Educators. This is just one of the many ways Educators and Employee Owners at KI work together to promote Kindermusik programs all over the world (have you noticed the new Beta features in the Teacher's Lounge, Success Path and monthly webinars?).

So, what are you doing to get ready for Convention? Me, I'm doing a couple of things. I've already been scoping out the cost of airfare and am monitoring the sites for the cheapest flight to Raleigh (RDU in airplane talk). Do I leave from my town or do I drive a little while to another airport and save some money - whichever is cheaper! Do you have frequent flyer miles? Use them. When I find that bargain I'm booking it!

Another thing I'm doing is setting my Fall class schedule now. I've already mapped out the dates and am not planning on having classes the week of Convention. What?! Cancel classes??? When you think about it - who are you doing this continuing education for? Sure, it's fun to go see old friends, meet new ones, sing and play with adults for once But, really - isn't it for your Kindermusik families that you take time away from your own families and classes? The information you bring back - tools and techniques - are ultimately for them. I think they will be quite happy that you think enough of them to go the extra mile to make sure they have the ultimate Kindermusik experience. Just think of all the hugs you'll receive when you come back.

I am really excited about this year's Kindermusik International Convention and can't wait to see you there. Any questions or suggestions? You may email me at musik4kids_kzo@sbcglobal.net. Keep checking this blog and reading your emails for more Convention information!