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PTA has a long and proud history. For over 120 years, volunteers have spoken up for children and public education. Join us on April 7 to learn more about this history and to discuss today’s issues and learn how you can continue this legacy of advocating for every child!
Host Facility
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Boston – Westborough, MA is the official facility for the 2018 MA PTA Convention – Celebrating the Past Shaping the Future!
DoubleTree by Hilton -Westborough
5400 Computer Drive
Westborough, MA 01581
508-366-5511
Transportation
Driving Directions
| From Worcester: | Route 9 East to Computer Drive/Research Drive Exit. Take a right at the first set of lights onto New Flanders Road; bear right onto Computer Drive, head straight through the third set of lights, drive 1/2 miles and the hotel is on the left at the top of the hill. |
| From Sturbridge: | From Sturbridge: Mass Turnpike (I-90) East to Exit 11A, I-495 North to Exit 23B (Route 9 West) to Computer Drive/Research Drive Exit. Bear right at the end of the ramp, drive 1/2 mile and the hotel is on the left at the top of the hill. |
| From I-495 North or South: | Exit 23B (Route 9 West) to Computer Drive Research Drive Exit, bear right at the end of the ramp. Drive 1/2 mile and the hotel is on the left at the top of the hill. |
| From Conneticut: | Route 84 North to Mass Turnpike (I-90) East to Exit 11A (Route 495), Route 495 North to Exit 23B (Route 9 West) to Computer Drive/Research Drive Exit. Bear right at the end of the ramp, drive 1/2 mile and the hotel is on the left at the top of the hill. |
Airport
Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)
1 Harborside Drive
Boston, MA 02128
Special Requests
If you have a condition which requires accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act, and you require accommodations at the event, please contact the Massachusetts PTA at info@masspta.org to describe the condition and the specific nature of the requested accommodations. Massachusetts PTA will provide accommodations in accordance with law.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
General Questions
Who:
Registration is open to PTA members, non PTA members, health and education stakeholders of all levels.
What:
Massachusetts Annual Meeting and Convention
When:
Saturday, April 7, 2018
Where:
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Boston – Westborough
5400 Computer Drive, Westborough, Massachusetts, 01581, USA
Why:
We encourage PTA members, nonmembers, education professionals, community leaders, and others interested in the education and well-being of children to register. This year we will be voting on new officers, President Elect, Vice President of Membership, Treasurer, and Secretary. If you would like to nominate a candidate please contact the Nominating Committee.
What can I expect if I attend convention?
At the 2018 MA PTA Convention, you will:
- Get engaging ideas to use at school and at home.
- Be inspired by speakers with innovating strategies for success.
- Learn engaging solutions to challenge PTAs face every day.
- Enjoy captivating performances at our awards ceremony.
- Network with the best in the industry through meetups and other sessions.
Are there any special activities or events that I will be able to participate in while at the convention?
There are several events and special activities that you may choose to participate in during convention. Your registration fee entitles you entrance into:
- General Meetings
- Workshop Sessions
- Expo Hall
- MA PTA Awards and Reflections Celebration Luncheon
Saturday, April 7, 12:15 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Reflections Awards Presented
Entertainment for Reflections Winners
SmartTalk Workshop for parents and attendees
- MA PTA Awards Celebration Dinner
Saturday, April 7, 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Keynote
Membership Awards
New Officer Installation
I am a first-time convention attendee, what can I expect?
Whether you are looking for ways to diversify your PTA’s leadership, increase interest in local PTA events, find no-hassle fundraising ideas or increase and diversify your membership and volunteer leaders, the 2018 MA PTA Convention has opportunities for you to discover it all.
Will there be daycare offered at convention?
PTA does not provide daycare services at convention. Please contact the hotel to inquire about babysitting and children’s program services.
Who are the Keynote Speakers at this year’s convention?
View Convention Speakers section for the list of speakers for convention.
What happens at the General Session?
General Session is where membershelp MA PTA conduct the business of the association. All MA PTA members attend the General Session to vote on resolutions, bylaws and the election of the association’s officers.
What is the schedule for the Convention?
Please note: The Massachusetts PTA Convention schedule is tentative and subject to change. View the agenda for up-to-date changes.
What dates should I book my travel to ensure that I won’t miss any of the Summit?
Plan to arrive Friday night and you can experience it all! Convention activities start on Saturday, April 7, 2018 at 8:30 a.m. and conclude by 10:00 p.m.
What is the dress code?
Attire is business casual. Feel free to be comfortable in slacks, polo shirts, sweaters, blazers, blouses, and, most importantly, comfortable shoes. We do recommend you dress in layers as temperatures in meeting rooms can vary.
What are some recommendations from previous program attendees?
- Register early
- Share hotel rooms
- Wear comfortable shoes
- If coming with several people, plan out who attends what workshops, forums, coaching sessions, etc. to get the most information that you can take back to share
- Don’t be shy… talk to members from other areas to get new ideas and best practices
Registration Questions
How can I register for this year’s summit?
There are three ways to register:
- Online in Advance (by credit card). Go to Register. It is quick, easy, and secure. Online registration will open in February 2018.
- Mail in Advance (by check, or money order). Complete the registration form (last page of brochure) and mail it, postmarked by March 07, 2018 along with payment to the address listed on the registration form.
- On-site. Unfortunately because of counts that need to be submitted to the catering staff we are unable to accept on-site registration. You may pay on-site if you have pre-registered. The Registration Table will open at 8:00 am.
Can Convention costs be covered by my PTA budget?
Convention registration fees and travel costs are legitimate expenses that can be included in your PTA budget. Many PTAs budget to attend training programs every year. While other organizations charge hundreds of dollars for a summit like ours – we keep registration fees low to allow as many PTA leaders, families and professionals as possible to attend. This is just one way Massachusetts PTA invests in its members and volunteer leaders. By seeking sponsors and outside funding to defray the costs of the convention, we can keep registration fees as low as possible.
What are this year’s registration rates?
| Regular Rate | ||
| Member Full Conference
Full conference 9am-9pm. Includes all Sessions, Reflections Luncheon and Awards dinner. |
$60.00 ea | |
| Member Full Conference – Group (2 Members) Full conference 9am-9pm. Includes all Sessions, Reflections Luncheon and Awards dinner. |
$100.00 | |
| Member Full Day
Full Day 9am-5pm. Includes all Sessions, Reflections Luncheon |
$25.00 ea | |
| Non-Member Full Conference Full conference 9am-9pm. Includes all Sessions, Reflections Luncheon and Awards dinner. | $75.00 ea | |
| Non-Member Full Day
1 NON- PTA member- Full Day Full Day 9am-5pm. Includes all Sessions, Reflections Luncheon |
$35.00 ea | |
| Member Awards Dinner OnlyAwards dinner only (6pm-9pm) | $35.00 ea | |
| Non-member Awards Dinner Only
Awards dinner only (6pm-9pm) |
$40.00 ea |
How do I register multiple attendees at one time?
Go to register your group now!
Group Rate Discounts
Save on registration rates when registering as a group. 2 or more MEMBERS must register at the same time to be considered a group.
I am NOT A MEMBER. Can I still attend the convention? If so, how much will it cost to attend as a nonmember?
Massachusetts PTA welcomes participation in the conference by non-PTA members. If you are not a PTA member, you are entitled only to the Non-Member rates above.
Registration Confirmation Questions
I have registered for this year’s Convention. When and how will I receive my confirmation?
A registration confirmation email will be sent to you at the address provided immediately upon completion of your registration. Your confirmation email will include your registration receipt.
Cancellation Policy Questions
What is Massachusetts PTA’s cancellation policy for Convention registrations?
Cancellation Policy
If you register in advance and find you cannot attend the convention, you must cancel your registration and request a refund. Requests for refunds must be submitted by the cancellation deadline of March 17, 2018. Refunds will not be processed after March 17th. Please allow 4-6 weeks for the refund to be issued. Please send your cancellation notice via email to info@masspta.org
I can no longer attend this year’s Convention – Can I transfer my registration to another person?
Massachusetts PTA will allow transfer of a registration to another person with appropriate notification prior to the start of the convention.
Special Needs Questions
If I have special needs, who can I contact?
If you have a condition which requires accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act, and you require accommodations at the event, please contact Massachusetts PTA at info@masspta.org to describe the condition and the specific nature of the requested accommodations. Massachusetts PTA will provide accommodations in accordance with law.
Exhibitor Questions
What can I expect when attending the Exhibitors at this year’s Convention?
You’ll be able to explore exhibits from companies and nonprofit organizations providing products and services for PTAs and schools. Find the latest information and ideas on child and school safety, health and fitness, education, and much more!
How can I find out if a specific company will be exhibiting at the Health Summit?
Stay tuned for a list complete list of 2018 convention exhibitors.