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DKG Practice/Program

had even left this one. The memories that we created that day were priceless.
2. Plan a craft activity. We chose to invite a member from another district in our state to attend
one of our meetings and lead our members in an optional craft after our meeting had adjourned.
Members did have to commit to the event so that the needed materials were provided, and there
was a small cost per member, but because this was voluntary, members could choose to opt out.
For our craft, we painted holiday door hangers. For me, the most enjoyable parts of this experience
were the conversations that I had with other members while we painted. I left with not only a cute
door hanger but an experience of “genuine spiritual fellowship.”
3. Create a buddy system. Our chapter established Pi Pals to help build relationships. Each member
completed a Google Form with information about herself. Questions ranged from favorite snacks to
hobbies and interests. Newer members
were paired with veteran members,
and the information from the form
was shared with each Pi Pal. Specific
instructions were shared to guide
the relationship. Pals are expected to
maintain contact throughout the year—
phone calls, emails, text messages, and/
or coffee dates. They plan to sit together
at meetings and encourage each other to
attend. In addition, instead of our usual
door prize, each member brings a small
“happy item” of the same value for her
Pi Pal.
Have these ideas for building
relationships worked out perfectly? No,
of course not . . . but have our members
Give Me a Hand and I’ll Do Your Nails © Mixed Media by Camille benefitted? Yes! Has it been worth
Taylor, Washington, D.C.; Fall 2023 Art Gallery it? Yes! All these ideas are risks, as

anything new will be. They may not work out. There might be an unhappy member. Things will inevitably
go wrong. When we take risks, we must be ready to face obstacles, but we must also understand that those
obstacles are simply there to help us grow and become something even greater, and that is exactly what
we want.
Each chapter is unique just as each member is unique. Chapters just need to ask what their members
desire so that those needs may be met. So, grab a pencil and paper or even your iPhone’s Voice Memo and
start brainstorming. Right now is the time to make your chapter the best version it can be. Provide your
members with the most fulfilling experience that you can. Don’t become complacent; think outside of the
box and create purposeful social occasions; build those relationships that will last a lifetime! Support for
fellow educators was what our Founders desired when they began our Society. I wish meaningful social
interactions and relationships for all members—from my chapter to yours.

Beth McKay is a veteran English teacher of 18 years. In 2022, she became a National Board Certified Teacher. She serves as president
of Pi Chapter in Mississippi State Organization (MSO) and is a member of MSO’s Headquarters Committee. In addition, McKay is a
2023 graduate of MSO’s Leadership Management Seminar. beth.mckay@rcsd.ms

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