Bytes and Pieces

FEASIBILITY STUDIES

BRING CHANGES At the 2019 International Convention members approved three resolutions for feasibility studies. Bytes & International Executive Board Chairman Sandy Wolfe appointed ad hoc committees to study each resolution. The commit- piecestees researched and gathered information before presenting their recommendations to the International Executive Board (IEB). The Board approved the recommendations of the three committees.

Resolution #1 – Chaired by Two-Year IEB Member Su Wade, the committee studied the feasibility of creating a special recognition for sisters with 10 years of service to Alpha Delta Kappa. The announcement of the creation of the Violet Sister recognition was made in the June 2020 KAPPAN. Upon achieving ten years of service, sisters will receive a 10-year Vio- Distinguished Program let Sister certificate from Headquarters. A ten-year charm is available for purchase. Awards Announced

Resolution #2 – Chaired by International President- Congratulations to the seven chapters who received the Elect Mollie Acosta, the committee studied the feasibility of 2020 Distinguished Program Award for their outstanding proattending and participating in chapter meetings virtually with grams. The recipients and their regions are Gulf: Georgia suggestions regarding the creation of a Technology Committee Sigma, Northeast: Delaware Eta, North Central: Indiana Beta for each chapter and every S/P/N board. The Virtual Atten- Gamma, Northwest: Alaska Alpha, Southeast: Virginia Lambda, dance at a Chapter Meeting Guidelines were announced in the South Central: Texas Sigma, Southwest: Arizona, Psi. June 12 e-blast. Those guidelines are available on the Interna- Descriptions and details of the programs will appear in the tional website under Chapter Meetings. June issue of The KAPPAN.

Resolution #3 – Four Year IEB Member Ann Marie The award recognizes chapters with outstanding proBrown presented the committee’s report at the November 2020 grams that promote involvement and attendance of members IEB Meeting. while attracting prospective members through creativity and

The Alpha Delta Kappa Constitution and International uniqueness. The award is focused on the specific chapter proBylaws Membership Eligibility state that to be eligible for mem- grams offered either prior to or following the business meeting. bership a woman shall be under contract in teaching, administration, or some specialized field of education. The 2019 Resolution #3 requested a feasibility study to investigate language to include and accommodate educators who do not enter education fields traditionally. These women may not have an education degree or licensure for membership qualifications but possess a four-year college/university degree.

The study determined that the language’s intent in the guiding documents did not preclude educators working in, or retired from, specialized fields. In the (November 2020) International Policies & Procedures Manual, 13. Membership, Specialized Field of Education Status, there is a listing of considerations for membership to include prospective members in some specialized field of education. The list of specialized education fields was expanded to include Community College/College/ University Faculty. This addition satisfied the sponsors of Resolution #3.

NEW MEMBER ONLINE REGISTRATION PROCESS IS OPEN FOR BUSINESS

As of January 1, 2021 Chapter Membership Chairmen have been able to help new and reinstated members register online immediately following initiation. In addition to the ability to pay dues online, the new and reinstated members have timely access to their profile and the International website. There is no paperwork and no delay. New members will be added to the chapter roster within an hour after completing the registration form. The International Membership Committee and S/P/N membership consultants have provided training in this process to chapter membership chairmen. If you have any questions, please contact your S/P/N membership consultant.

SEEKING MEMBERS

When considering prospective members for Alpha Delta Kappa, do not overlook prospects who may not be in the traditional classroom setting. These fields may include Guidance Counselor, Physical Therapist, Occupational Therapist, School Psychologist, School Social Worker, Speech and Hearing Practitioner/ Educator, Orientation and Mobility Specialist, Audiologist, School Nurse (Registered Nurse), Instructional Technology Teacher, Media Specialist/Librarian, Vocational/Occupational Teacher, Career/Technical Education Teacher, or Community College/College/University Faculty. In the study of 2019 Resolution Three, women in these fields qualify for membership. Chapters are urged to fill the year 2021 with an enriching chapter membership to include various prospective members working in, or retired from, traditional settings and non-traditional specialized fields.