IDSA FAQ
How and when did the IDSA begin?
In the early 1980s, a group of suburban activity directors convened a group called the “West Suburban Association,” to meet monthly and share ideas from and for each of our schools. Several of these schools were part of the “Des Plaines Valley League” which later converged with the West Suburban Conference into 2 divisions, gold and silver; these Activity Directors were mandated to meet monthly about conference business. We tried to retain our ‘idea sharing’ emphasis and continued to include the other schools from the West Suburban Association for a couple of years. During this time a ‘charter committee’ formed an official state organization for Activity Directors, which was ultimately named “Illinois Directors of Student Activities” and hosted the first state convention under that title in 1987.
What is the IDSA Executive Board?
The Executive Board consists of individuals who are committed to promoting Student Activities within their school. Members of the Board serve as committee chairs for the State Convention, Awards, Student Scholarships, and Student Leadership Workshops.
What is the mission of the IDSA?
IDSA’s mission is to encourage students to involve themselves in Student Activity programs. We also encourage schools to commit portions of their financial resources to provide such programs. We believe Student Activities programs ought to and can accomplish two objectives for the student: cultivate leadership and relationship skills and encourage participation in diverse opportunities.
What programs are available from the IDSA?
The annual IDSA Convention provides a variety of professional development opportunities for advisers. The two-day convention also includes an awards banquet to honor various career achievements. The second day offers the opportunity to attend various workshops, network with other advisers, and gather information from specialized vendors.
IDSA’s Student Leadership Workshop is primarily designed to teach students leadership skills and new techniques to more effectively lead others.
Being an IDSA member has its benefits
The IDSA is composed of administrators, activity directors, and advisers who support the development of student activities. IDSA membership has several advantages! Benefits you have access to include the IDSA website, member LISTSERV and forum, annual state convention for student activities, activities educator award program, student leadership workshops, and student leadership scholarship program.