Welcome! And thank you for coming to the 26th annual NECC where together we will illuminate 21st-century education and Spark a Revolution in Learning. Thanks also to all the staff, volunteers, presenters, members, and participating organizations who've worked long and hard to bring you this exciting NECC program.

I believe that Student Voices are Key to revolutionizing education, and you'll find that idea emphasized throughout the conference. Don't miss the many ingenious projects in our expanded Student Showcase or the fascinating perspectives in the juried Student Film Festival -- co-produced this year with WHYY. Students play a lead role in many sessions, keynotes, and activities, too. A megaphone icon indicates student involvement.

You'll also find leading-edge learning environments here at NECC 2005, as well as the latest and best in leadership training, assistive technologies, assessment solutions, broadband access, global initiatives, resources for advocacy—and more. We hope you and your team will explore and sample this rich array, then share what you learn when you get back home.

Our goals, as always, are ambitious: to help improve educational opportunity, success, and performance for all 21st-century learners. ISTE's message—Spark a Revolution in Learning—is urgent. And this historic city is the perfect place to revisit first principles and primary commitments.

Have an exciting week, and thank you for your dedication and transformative energies.

Kurt Steinhaus, President
ISTE Board of Directors