Membership in the Virginia Council for the Social Studies (VCSS) connects you with a statewide community of educators committed to strengthening social studies education. Members gain access to high-quality professional development, networking opportunities with educators and leaders across Virginia, advocacy on behalf of the profession, and discounted registration for the annual VCSS Conference. Membership also provides opportunities to present at conferences, share best practices, receive grants, pursue leadership roles, receive member communications and resources, and collaborate with colleagues who are passionate about preparing informed and engaged citizens.
Membership is free and open to any Virginia social studies educator, advocate, or partner!
1. Access to High-Quality Instructional Resources
Members receive access to:
NCSS national standards and position statements
A digital library of webinars and professional learning materials
Classroom-ready teaching resources
Research-based instructional strategies
Journals such as Social Education and Social Studies and the Young Learner. View past issues here
2. Professional Development
NCSS offers:
On-demand webinars
Virtual learning opportunities
Conferences and workshops
Access to current research in social studies education
Many sessions focus on civics, historical thinking, inquiry design, disciplinary literacy, and current issues in social studies instruction. See upcoming events here.
3. Networking With Social Studies Educators Through NCSS Commons
Membership connects you with a nationwide network of more than 7,000 educators through NCSS Commons and affiliated councils. Membership includes access to NCSS Commons where you can:
Connect with other social studies educators across the country and internationally.
Join discussion groups centered on grade levels, subject areas, and professional interests.
Ask questions and crowdsource ideas from experienced teachers, curriculum specialists, and university faculty.
Share lesson plans, resources, and instructional strategies with colleagues.
Learn about conferences, grants, awards, and professional opportunities through member discussions and announcements.
Build leadership connections that can lead to conference presentations, committee service, or publishing opportunities.
4. Advocacy for Social Studies Education
NCSS actively advocates for the importance of social studies, civics, history, geography, and economics education. Members have opportunities to:
See how NCSS is advocating for you here.
5. Leadership Opportunities
NCSS provides pathways to:
Present at conferences
Serve on committees
Publish articles
Participate in special interest groups and affiliated organizations
6. Recognition and Awards
NCSS administers multiple awards recognizing:
Apply for awards here.
7. Conference Discounts
Members receive discounted registration for the annual NCSS Conference, one of the largest gatherings of social studies educators in the United States.
The conference is often considered one of the best places to:
Discover new resources
Learn from historians and education researchers
Meet fellow history, government, and civics educators
Join or renew your membership today to enjoy these benefits!