Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development

Brief History

Founded in 1943, the ASCD was initially part of the National Education Association, until it became independent in 1972. Although the organization was originally envisioned to represent only curriculum and supervision issues, over the years its focus has changed. It now addresses all aspects of effective teaching, learning, and leadership. Throughout its history, ASCD has taken a reform stance and [Page 78]spoken out on issues critical to educating children, including some issues that were quite controversial. Memorable events along its timeline include the 1953 yearbook, written during the McCarthy era, which went on record against “indoctrination, authoritarianism and party lines of either left or right” (Key Events in ASCD History); in 1955, ASCD passed its first major civil rights resolution; in 1959, ASCD passed resolutions that advocated a multicultural curriculum; in 1962, ASCD passed several resolutions on affirmative action related to race, religion, or national origin (the 1962 yearbook marked the beginning of several decades of interest in humanistic approaches to education); in 1981, ASCD passed the first of several resolutions opposing education vouchers, noting that “disbursing public funds could lead to racial, economic, and social isolation of students and weaken public schools” (ASCD Historical Timeline); and in 1998, ASCD and the other 11 members of the newly formed Learning First Alliance convened a summit to explore ways to work collaboratively at the national, state, and local levels.

Membership

The ASCD represents more than 175,000 educators from 119 countries and nearly 60 affiliates. Its members bridge the entire profession, including superintendents, supervisors, principals, teachers, professors of education, and school board members. Because ASCD represents all educators, it is able to concentrate on what is best for children as opposed to what is reflective of a particular educator role.

Based on 2004 data, ASCD's then 160,000 educators reflected the following breakdown:

• Principals/Assistant Principals—37%
• Classroom Teachers—15%
• Directors/Supervisors—13%
• Superintendents/Assistant Superintendents—8%
• Professors/Instructors—6%
• Others—21%

Because ASCD's membership is so large, it actually represents as many members of these individual roles as do their own cohort groups, with the exception of teachers.

Mission, Vision, and Governance Structure

ASCD is a membership organization that develops programs, products, and services essential to the way educators learn, teach, and lead. It is the worldwide leader in learning, teaching, and educational leadership. It provides expert and innovative solutions for addressing the opportunities and challenges learners face in the 21st century. It engages and connects diverse communities dedicated to the success of each learner. ASCD is governed by a 21-member board of directors, which meets three times a year and is chaired by the association's president. The board of directors works with the executive director to set direction and monitor the work of ASCD's staff. Leadership is also provided by an elected (from affiliates and at-large) and appointed leadership council of approximately 160 members. ASCD affiliates, located in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, and East Asia, are separate organizations that work collaboratively to foster ASCD's common values and goals. The nearly 60 affiliates provide forums for the exchange of quality educational practices and serve as key educational links at local, state, and international levels. Membership in ASCD and its affiliates is separate; individuals may elect to join either or both organizations.

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