Submitted by Verna Allen, Executive Director
Arizona Commission for Postsecondary Education

Arizona’s Fifth Annual Best Practices in Education Conference was held March 1. The conference brought together educators of all levels, kindergarten through postsecondary, to share best practices that prepare students for each level of education. The day-long event also recognized educators and organizations that have created partnerships to promote educational practices, by presenting them with the Gold Star Road to Excellence Early Awareness Awards. The Arizona Commission for Postsecondary Education (ACPE) served as host, while USA Funds and the Phoenix Elementary School District sponsored the event.

Gold Star-program winners were selected based on creativity and replicability of the program, impact on the community, target audience, academic preparation and clear and measurable program goals. Award recipients in each category received cash awards to further fund their programs.

The “Communication” section of ACPE’s Web site, www.azhighered.org, offers a list of award winners and a detailed conference resource guide.