Campus Connection

How joining professional organizations transforms teaching careers

Depending on the time of year, you might find educator Jenny Morgan in her classroom at West Salem Middle School, guiding students through historical sites in Washington, D.C., or traveling the country to attend and lead professional development opportunities. 

Morgan, an eighth grade social studies teacher and UW-La Crosse alumnus, also serves as president of the National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS), executive director of the Wisconsin Council for the Social Studies (WCSS) and fellow for the Korean War Legacy Foundation. 

 Like many educators, Morgan considers herself a lifelong learner. She also feels very strongly that educators need support throughout their careers, not just at the beginning. She wants to model for her students that mentorship is still needed, even when you’re a veteran teacher (Morgan just began her 34th year in the classroom!). 

Throughout the last few decades, professional development opportunities for educators have ebbed and flowed, depending on monetary support from the state as well as local districts. When Morgan became involved with WCSS in the mid-1990s, she was only there to learn.  

Learning turned into a presentation proposal, which then led to serving on the executive committee. As it turned out, the more Morgan gave back, the more she received in return. 

She says she has also gained lifelong friends and colleagues from across the country, who have encouraged each other to carry on in their mission to offer outstanding professional development opportunities. They also assist educators in writing and implementing standards and becoming advocates for the power of social studies education. 

While educators today can be overwhelmed by new expectations, procedures, and the overall day-to-day stress, one thing still rings true: Teachers need each other. Sometimes the mentee and sometimes the mentor, it is a profession of constant growth. Keeping up with changing standards and best practices isn’t done without research. 

When asked for advice for new teachers, Morgan suggests: 

• Follow professional organizations on social media. 
• Join early in your career – membership is sometimes cheaper (or free, like WCSS!). 
• Attend conferences when you are able. 
• Remember that one challenge can often lead you to the next opportunity! 

Hear from other faculty

Dean Vesperman, History

Memberships: Council for the Social Studies (Wisconsin, Iowa, Minnesota, National), College and University Faculty Assembly, Social Science Education Consortium, American Educational Research Association, National Council for History Education

“I’ve appreciated the opportunities to meet with other scholars in my field and discuss research.”

Nathali Jones, Exercise & Sport Science 

Memberships: Wisconsin Health and Physical Education, SHAPE America

“Joining professional organizations provided me with interview preparation, networking opportunities, relevant professional development and opportunities to become a mentor.”

Rosie DeFino, Educational Studies

Memberships: National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, National Science Teaching Association, Association of Mathematics Teacher Educators, American Educational Research Association

“As a faculty member, the Association of Mathematics Teacher Educators has been incredibly helpful for connecting with other math teacher educators who are early in their career. People I’ve met through AMTE have also become research collaborators and an important part of my support system.”

Lisa Lenarz, Art

Memberships: Wisconsin Art Education Association 

“Although I’m no longer serving on the board, I bring students to the annual conference every year for networking and learning best practices.”