The Benefits of Joining Kappa Delta Pi: A 15-Year Journey of Growth and Service

How KDP Membership Supports Educators Through Networking, Learning, and Service

Recently, I had the honor of speaking at the Kappa Delta Pi (KDP) induction ceremony at Grove City College for new members during the spring semester. It was a privilege to share my journey with KDP a story that spans over 15 years!

Before I dive in, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to all the new members of Kappa Delta Pi around the world. Thank you for choosing to become educators. Thank you for making a difference in classrooms, schools, and communities globally. You are now part of an organization that celebrates excellence in education welcome!

My Kappa Delta Pi Story: More Than a Resume Booster

I’ve been a proud member of KDP since 2004. I even dug up an old photo from my induction—thanks to my mom, the scrapbooker! Back then, I naively believed that simply having “KDP Member” on my resume would land me a job. I thought, “Surely, they’ll see that and hire me on the spot!” Spoiler alert: that’s not how it works.

But here’s what I’ve learned—Kappa Delta Pi is so much more than a resume booster.

KDP has helped me grow into an educator of excellence through networking, continuous learning, and service. Yes, it helps you stand out as a teacher candidate, but to truly benefit, you must engage. You must connect, share, learn, and serve.

Networking: Building Your Professional Learning Network (PLN)

One of the greatest benefits of joining Kappa Delta Pi is the opportunity to connect with educators and future teachers across the globe. With over 1.2 million inducted members, the network is vast and powerful.

Use these connections to build your Professional Learning Network (PLN). Collaborate with peers, share best practices, and explore areas of need in education together. KDP is your gateway to a global community of passionate educators.

Learning: Take Control of Your Professional Growth

KDP offers endless learning opportunities—from micro-credentials to webinars. You can truly take charge of your professional development.

Webinars are available live and on demand, featuring fresh and relevant content for preservice teachers every month. I’ve had the honor of presenting in two KDP webinars, and it’s been a fantastic way to grow and connect with others. If you’re ever interested in co-presenting a webinar with me, reach out!

KDP also publishes several educational resources. One of my favorites is The New Teacher Advocate, where I’ve contributed to the “Technically Speaking” column. I love sharing EdTech tools that teachers can implement immediately, like Microsoft Learning Tools and Book Creator for social stories.

Another incredible learning opportunity is KDP Convo, a conference that celebrates preservice teachers and showcases the amazing work KDP members are doing worldwide. Attending and presenting at Convo helps you gain visibility, presentation experience, and valuable networking connections.

Service: Making a Difference in Education

Service is at the heart of KDP. From professional development initiatives to literacy programs, KDP chapters are leading the way in serving their schools and communities. Let’s go back to that interview scenario. If someone asked me, “So, Sam, tell me about your involvement with KDP,” I’d have so much more to say than, “I paid my dues.” I’d talk about the connections I’ve made, the webinars I’ve led, the articles I’ve written, and the service projects I’ve supported.

Don’t just pay your dues—DO something. Get involved. Your future self will thank you.

KDP is so much more than a resume booster.

Share Your Why: #WhyIKDP

At the end of my talk, I invited students to share why they joined KDP using a printable template. I encourage you to do the same! Download the freebie, write your “why,” and post it on social media using #WhyIKDP. Don’t forget to tag @kappadeltapi and @sfecich!

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