This month ASCD celebrates its 65th anniversary; therefore, it seems appropriate to remember how and when the Association came to be. In March of 1943, two national professional education organizations (the Department of Supervisors and Directors of Instruction and the Society for Curriculum Study) joined forces to create the Department of Supervision and Curriculum. In the 1986 ASCD in Retrospect, former ASCD leaders reflected on the Association's history and explained that ASCD was created because of the interest among education professionals in curriculum planning, teaching methods and practices, and the multiple aspects of improvement in instruction.
In its founding year, ASCD published the first issue of Educational Leadership with the lead story, "Teaching in Wartime," and ASCD also established its first eight affiliates.
In 1945, the board of directors voted to change the name to the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development. As the name reflects, ASCD was initially envisioned to represent curriculum and supervision issues. Over the years, the focus broadened. ASCD now addresses all aspects of effective learning, teaching, and leadership (e.g., professional development, educational leadership, and capacity building). By advocating for policy and practice that is in the best interest of children, ASCD has built a core set of values and beliefs in support of the whole child.
ASCD 1984–2004: Defining Moments, Future Prospects looks back at the Association's successes and explains that despite the change in focus over the years, ASCD has demonstrated commitment to "democratic principles, a focus on teaching and learning, and a recognition of the intrinsic worth of each individual."
ASCD will begin its 65th anniversary celebration at the 2008 Annual Conference and Exhibit Show in New Orleans (March 15–17). Please share your memories of membership with ASCD—visit Inservice, the ASCD blog, to post your memories at http://ascd.typepad.com/blog/2008/01/65th-reflection.html.Education Update will share some of these memories throughout the anniversary year.