Most new teachers will at some point consider joining an educational association. Educational associations not only provide support; they also provide continuing education for teachers. New teachers will soon find that most fellow teachers belong to the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), or the National Education Association (NEA), or both. The decision as to which one to join is usually guided by the school location and fellow teachers’ involvement. Two of the main benefits of membership are professional collaboration and mutual support. Dozens of professional organizations provide continuing support for teachers, from further training to collective bargaining for better working conditions. These organizations tend to create communities where teachers can get help and protection regarding teachers’ rights, expand teaching knowledge, receive teaching materials, and even relieve stress by connecting with other teachers.

The Internet is a wonderful resource for training materials and teaching resources as well. Check out the following links for information on:

Training materials:
– Education Week (www.edweek.org)
– Teacher Magazine (www.teachermagazine.org)

Activity ideas:
– Inspiring Teachers (www.inspiringteachers.com)

Connecting with other teachers:
– Education World (www.education-world.com)

Teaching organizations:
– The Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (www.ascd.org)
– National Middle School Association (www.nmsa.org)
– National Association for the Education of Young Children (www.naeyc.org)
– National Association for Gifted Children (www.nagc.org)
– The Council for Exceptional Children (www.cec.sped.org)

Remember, with education, the more you know, the better you do! Don’t miss out on the opportunities to expand your knowledge and connection base that teaching associations provide!