Nine Great Reasons For Joining OCEA
1. NETWORKING:
Keep up to date and informed on new programs and issues that affect our field, and the people that are driving them.
2. PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT:
An annual conference and periodic trainings offer opportunities to develop and improve skills, meet excellent trainers and other professionals in the field, discuss the latest technology, and hold in-depth conversations about the newest trends and issues facing our profession.
3. THE NEWSLETTER:
The Oregon Community Education Association Newsletter, the OCEAN, is mailed to the membership throughout the year. Articles showcasing programs; reports on state and national developments, training opportunities; proven and promising practices; job opportunities; all are included in this publication.
4. FORUMS:
OCEA unites community education practitioners in four networking groups, Community Colleges, Community Schools, Volunteer & Community Partnerships, and Service Learning Forum. These groups meet quarterly to share and discuss ideas, receive training and information, discuss practical applications and become acquainted with others throughout the state.
5. THE DIRECTORY:
OCEA members receive an annual directory which lists all members, titles, contact numbers and addresses. In addition, association bylaws, previous OCEA award winners, forum members, OCEA history, and related state and national affiliations are provided.
6. NATIONAL AFFILIATION:
OCEA holds affiliate memberships in two national organizations: the National Community Education Association (NCEA), the National Council for Continuing Education and Training (NCCET). Involvement opportunities include recognition, conference planning, policy and legislative support, and leadership.
7. BROAD BASED MEMBERSHIP:
The diverse membership of OCEA includes practitioners and volunteers who work in many different positions including: school district superintendents, community relations directors, principals, community school educators, community college educators, school volunteer program coordinators, partnership coordinators, school-to-work coordinators, employment training specialists, prevention specialists, class instructors, business owners and employees.
8. NEW FORUM DEVELOPMENT:
Groups of ten or more members of the association with “job alike" may petition the Board of Directors at any time to form a new forum. Forums are designed to enhance the professional advancement of individuals and promote the general goals of the association.
9. ACTIVE PARTNERS IN ADDRESSING EDUCATION AND COMMUNITY CONCERNS
On a state-wide basis, OCEA works with the Oregon Department of Education, the Oregon Commission on Children and Families, the Confederation of Oregon School Administrators, the Community Services Commission, Oregon State Extension and others to address the vital issues in the forefront of education today.
OCEA is a non-profit Oregon corporation for strengthening community education programs at schools and colleges, and for promoting lifelong learning, school volunteerism, mentorships, youth service learning, and public involvement in schools and community planning. Incorporated March 19, 1975 OCEA is recognized as a 501(c)3 organization. Contributions are tax-deductible. Federal identification number: 93-0646992.
