Objection: “Why should I join KDP when I already belong to three other honor societies? So, what’s one more?”

Response: “KDP is the only honor society offering ongoing professional development throughout your career with publications, conferences, career-building assistance, and networking opportunities among 50,000 teacher-leaders internationally. KDP also offers more than $100,000 in scholarships annually—for all levels from undergraduate through doctoral students—as well as annual classroom teacher grants. What’s more, members receive discounted registration fees to the award-winning I Teach conferences and the biennial KDP Convocation. This amazing conference features more than 125 workshops, discussion panels on hot topics in education, and outstanding guest speakers. Kappa Delta Pi also provides tools for job hunting including access to sample résumés, interviewing tips, portfolio suggestions, and professional networking with local and national teachers.”

Objection: “I just don’t have time to participate.”

Response: “I understand how busy life is for everyone—believe me! Yet, KDP can help you get the most out of your time. Its Web site lists recommended resources for teachers, a confidential teacher hotline, a discussion forum, and access to e-mentoring by National State Teachers of the Year! KDP sends teaching tips to your desktop through a monthly e-mail Ideas to Go and highlights online information in the Resource Roundup. Participation in KDP can build important leadership skills and save you time and money. Members get discounts on classroom and teaching supplies from classroomdirect.com. There’s an online newsletter, KDP News that keeps you informed of member news—all at the click of a button. Besides, who wouldn’t want to make time to be recognized for their scholarly achievements and join a legacy of members such as Albert Einstein and Eleanor Roosevelt?”

Objection: “I don’t need to belong to some honor society to know how well I’m doing.”

Response: “No, you don’t. But Kappa Delta Pi is more than just an organization that recognizes and rewards high academics. Being part of a community of outstanding professionals is a source of special support and professional growth that can continue throughout your career. It offers professional development workshops—locally and nationally—that connect you to the brightest educators. Members have access to professional liability insurance, as well as discounts on auto insurance and life and health care plans including short-term medical insurance. KDP also offers members more than $100,000 in scholarships and teacher classroom grants every year!”

Objection: “I’m going to be graduating soon. These kinds of organizations are for students in college.”

Response: “Actually, KDP has developed a Life Cycle of the Career Teacher model to address the needs of educators at every level. The first year of your membership, you will receive four issues of the KDP Record as a graduate student, full of tips for practicing educators, or four issues of the New Teacher Advocate–highly valued by preservice and beginning teachers, and four Novice Notes with practical tips and suggestions. KDP has been recognized nationally for the many quality resources it provides to ensure a successful transition into the classroom. KDP presents professional development and leadership conferences locally and nationally. Members receive discounted registration fees for these, by the way. Members also have access to tools for job hunting, including access to sample résumés, interviewing tips, portfolio suggestions, and a database of open teaching positions around the country. And that’s just the first year!”

Do you have other questions or membership challenges? For additional assistance, call the Membership Department at 800-284-3167 or e-mail at membership@kdp.org.