FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE              CONTACT: Tina L. Pugliese, APR
December 23, 2002                      (703) 683-9377; tpugliese@acteonline.org


ALEXANDRIA, VA -- The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) has announced that total registration for its Annual Convention and Career Tech Expo held in Las Vegas, Nevada, December 12-15 topped 6,800. This is a 14 percent increase over last year.

According to ACTE President, Kathy Jo Elliott, ?This increase in attendance is such a positive trend considering the economy and the state of the world. We are pleased that career and technical educators are continuing to participate in increased numbers in a meeting that will enhance their professional development.?

More than 300 education sessions were presented on a wide range of issues ranging from business education to family and consumer sciences. Other presentations included the future of workforce development, preparing students for tomorrow's careers, and managing the Internet revolution. In addition, with more than 250 exhibiting companies, the meeting featured one of the largest Expositions at an ACTE meeting.

The Association for Career and Technical Education is the national professional association for the field of career and technical education. Now in its 76th year, ACTE?s membership numbers more than 30,000 teachers, counselors and administrators at the middle school, high school and postsecondary levels.

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December 23, 2002                         NR#02-021