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The University of Alberta’s Chapter of Phi Delta Kappa (PDK) celebrated its 50th anniversary in October. PDK Chapter 144 was established in 1963 by 49 members from the Edmonton area; another 72 members joined later that year. Chapter 144 is one of more than 600 chapters of Phi Delta Kappa International.
This professional association for educators was established in the United States in 1906 and enjoys a worldwide membership. PDK believes that high-quality education, particularly publicly supported education, is essential to democracy. Service, research and leadership are the three basic tenets guiding PDK.
In addition to local programs and activities at the chapter level, PDK arranges international conferences, provides travel opportunities for members to study other education systems and publishes Kappan, a professional journal for educators. Through these initiatives, PDK helps members deepen their expertise, advance their careers and experience better results in their education research, classroom practices and school operations.
Chapter 144’s education awards
The Future Educator’s Award is offered to a Grade 12 student planning to study education at an Alberta-based teacher preparation institution.
The Doctoral Dissertation of the Year Award is offered in conjunction with the Faculty of Education, U of A. Recipients must have completed a doctoral degree at the U of A.
The Kappan of the Year Award is presented to a deserving member of Chapter 144 who has contributed to the Chapter and to education in Alberta.
Chapter membership is open to anyone involved in public education in north-central Alberta, including practising teachers, school and system leaders, faculties of education staff, undergraduate education students and government officials. Chapter meetings are held at the Faculty Club, U of A. More information about Chapter 144 is available online: www.pdkualberta.com. ❚
