The Louisiana Reading Association will hold its 2012 state conference Dec. 8-9 at the Hilton Riverside Hotel in New Orleans, at the corner of Poydras and Convention Blvd.

Keynote speakers will be Carrice Cummins, current IRA president from Louisiana, and author Timothy Shanahan, a past IRA president. Presenters include Kerry Laster, Jill Slack, March McLeod, Jane Feber, Jerry Johns, Michael Optiz, Mary Ellen Vogt and Susan Hall. These well-known educational speakers will be sharing information on assessments, vocabulary, comprehension, technology, core curriculum and more.

A Meet and Greet is scheduled for Friday night, with the location to be announced. On Saturday, Dec. 8 from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. there will be Presidents’ Reception Tailgate. Tickets are free, but only 200 will be available on a first come, first served basis. A cash bar will be available.

Numerous companies are exhibiting their books and other educational materials for teachers and other professionals. Teachers are encouraged to attend to connect with colleagues from across the region and learn the latest research-based practices and teaching strategies.

For more registration form or information, visit www.lareading.org, or contact Gerri Settoon, chairperson at 504-554-9315, or gerri.settoon@gmail.com.