Why should you join a professional organization? I mean, why spend all that money for a small membership card?

Membership helps you network with other people who have the same passions and interests as you. Members often share ideas and materials. It provides great opportunities for professional development, outreach opportunities, trip ideas, and a way to make new friends. Often, membership fees are tax deductible. Membership might provide discounts to certain vendors. Also, many organizations publish journals or magazines to help improve the profession.

Science Teachers Association New York State (STANYS)
STANYS is New York's oldest professional organization of science educators.

National Association of Geoscience Teachers (NAGT)
Its purpose is to foster improvement in the teaching of earth sciences at all levels of instruction.

National Association for Research in Science Teaching (NASRT)
A worldwide organization of professionals committed to the improvement of science teaching and learning through research.

National Science Teachers' Association (NSTA)
Committed to promoting excellence and innovation in science teaching and learning for all.

American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)
Dedicated to advancing science around the world by serving as an educator, leader, and spokesperson.

American Chemical Society (ACS)
Provides a range of opportunities for peer interaction regardless of professional or scientific interests.

American Institute of Physics (AIP)
Serves physics, astronomy, and related fields by with programs, services and publications

Geological Society of America (GSA)
Goal is enhancing the professional growth of its members, and promoting the geosciences to humankind.

American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS)
Serves as the focal point for public information concerning the forensic science profession.

American Society Crime Laboratory Directors (ASCLD)
Society of crime laboratory directors and forensic scientists dedicated to providing excellence in forensic science through leadership and innovation.

National Earth Science Teachers Association (NESTA)
Purpose is the advancement, stimulation, extension, improvement, and coordination of Earth Science education at all educational levels.