When I was a classroom teacher I belonged to professional
organizations that were specific to the subjects I taught.
Some of the organizations
had dues requirements, some not.
All were valuable in terms of access to
trends, current scholarship and providing a feeling of community.
I counseled
my student teachers to join at least one professional organization ... if only
to round out their resume!
Here are five broad-based education organizations - a good place to start
looking.
From Top Education Degrees
(accessed online on 11/4/2020 at https://www.topeducationdegrees.org/)
About this article: There
are many great professional organizations for teachers, but this article will
inform you about five of your options. It is a fact that there is never enough
time in the day for what a teacher has to accomplish. Why would you want to add
“one more thing” to your full plate? Joining a professional organization will
give you opportunities, resources, and connections that could save you time.
Most likely, you will receive publications giving you the most up to date
practice and research, which you can apply to your classroom.
1. National Education Association
(NEA)
Advancing the cause of public education is the goal of the National
Education Association. The professional teaching organization has three million
members and is represented in every state. Both digital and print publications
provide educators with the most recent happenings within the realm of public education.
Educators can find helpful tools and ideas on the website to immediately use in
their classrooms and assist their students. Another benefit to membership
includes discounted legal services. The NEA is adamant that every child in
America deserves the right to quality education, no matter where they reside or
what the family income might be. With more than three million members, the NEA
has helped to improve teaching and learning.
2. American Federation of Teachers
(AFT)
Democracy and political activism is a major part of the American
Federation of Teachers, which was founded in Chicago in 1916. This professional
organization engages in collective bargaining and has professional interests in
mind when working for human and civil rights within schools. Historically, AFT
has led the way in educational reform and is dedicated to taking action.
3. Kappa Delta Pi (KDP)
Kappa Delta Pi is an International Honor Society in
Education and promotes working with educators throughout their teaching
careers. Networking, resources, and leadership opportunities have been a
cornerstone of the organization founded in 1911. KDP’s mission is to provide
teachers with research-based strategies and professional growth opportunities
to help retain teachers and encourage them to become masters within the
profession. Furthermore, KDP partners with teacher preparation programs to
mentor beginning teachers in the skills necessary to be responsive to diversity
within the educational climate.
4. Phi Delta Kappa (PDK)
“Growing and connecting leaders in education,” is the slogan
of Phi Delta Kappa. Like some of the other professional teaching organizations,
PDK offers a professional education magazine to keep you up to date on the
latest in education. Other member benefits include scholarships, international
study tours, discounted insurance, PDK book club, and much more.
5. Computer-Using Educators (CUE)
Technology is on the rise within schools and classrooms. CUE
has a written strategic plan to “inspire innovative learners” and has
encouraged relationships between educators within various stages of their
careers. They work to engage educators as speakers, volunteers, attendees, and
leaders within its organization. A few goals include promoting educational
backing, thinking about the future, and supporting student success.
Conferences, professional development, and providing connections to a community
are all good reasons to join this professional community.
