Standard Celeration Society

By the SCS Board of Directors

The Standard Celeration Society (SCS) became an ABAI special interest group (SIG) in 1995. The mission of the SCS aims to uphold and advance the defining features and conventions of the Standard Celeration Chart. The SCS strives to be a friendly and enduring forum, supporting application and dissemination of standard celeration charting across an expanding range of practitioners and other stakeholders. The Values of the Standard Celeration Society serve as guiding principles that shape our conduct in fulfilling our Mission. Central to our ethos is the commitment to community, where we actively work towards building a dedicated group that fosters contribution and connection among members, emphasizing respect and generosity in all interactions. Authenticity is another core value that informs our decision-making process, as we pledge to make choices aligned with our values, ensuring transparency and welcoming input from our members. Inclusivity is paramount, as we strive to create a culture and space that is open, inviting, and supportive of differences within the community, promoting equity. Recognizing the importance of legacy, we value the history and contributions of the science and practice, (e.g., “standing on the shoulders of giants”), aiming to build upon the foundations laid by those who came before us. Finally, kindness is a fundamental principle that underscores our commitment to fostering an environment where all members engage with one another with kindness in both verbal and nonverbal interactions. Together, these values form the bedrock of the Standard Celeration Society, guiding us in our collective efforts to advance our mission and contribute positively to the field.

Since 2015, the SCS has employed an organizational structure composed of a board of directors and volunteer leadership teams that actively work toward implementing new and maintaining current initiatives designed to further the organization’s mission. We have an active board of directors consisting of five members on 3-yr terms, an executive director, vice presidents, associate vice presidents, and committee members. The board of directors provide guidance and decision making for the SCS executive director, who implements board initiatives with vice presidents, associate vice presidents, and volunteers. We also have a five-member advisory council that supports the work of the SCS by providing expertise and professional knowledge. Current leadership teams include finance, programs, membership, scientific and academic relations, non-conference programs, operations, communications, international relations, diversity, and website services. Our leadership teams have actively developed the underlying systems to support the SIG’s structure and facilitate institutional memory as individuals transition into leadership roles, a vital component for voluntary leadership teams to maintain productivity.

The Standard Celeration Society (SCS) is embarking on a series of impactful priority initiatives aimed at strengthening our community and advancing the field of Precision Teaching. First, we are actively engaged in a robust membership recruitment drive to expand our network of committed professionals. Membership in the SCS offers additional benefits not available to nonmembers including discounted rates to the conference each year, access to the historical publication database of the Journal of Precision Teaching and Celeration, and web-based continuing education events. Last year the organization implemented a values-based dues model. The suggested dues amount fees range from sustaining membership for $130, full membership for $70, and student membership for $35. The minimum amounts are $130 for sustaining membership, $50 for full membership, and $25 for student membership. The member may also direct any additional dues they choose to pay to be directed toward a specific initiative or to the SCS general fund.

In addition to membership recruitment, the SCS is launching a mentorship initiative to foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing within our community. This program will connect experienced professionals with those seeking guidance, creating a supportive environment for skill development and career advancement. By tapping into the wealth of expertise within the SCS, we aim to nurture the next generation of Precision Teaching practitioners and researchers. This mentorship initiative aligns with our commitment to continuous learning and collaborative growth.

Furthermore, we are excited to announce our second international conference, scheduled to take place in the picturesque setting of Italy. Mark your calendars for this momentous event set to unfold with a backdrop of rich history and vibrant culture. The conference, slated for September 2025 will feature renowned keynote speakers and provide a platform for participants to engage with pioneering research, innovative practices, and collaborative discussions. This gathering in Italy is not just a conference; it is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the global Precision Teaching community, forging connections, and contributing to the evolution of our field. Join us in Italy as we elevate the discourse and chart the course for the future of Precision Teaching.

Finally, our 37th Annual Conference of the Standard Celeration Society will be held November 7 – 9, 2024 in Albuquerque, New Mexico at the Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town. The conference spans three days, with the first day offering invited interactive workshops for practitioners and scientists of all kinds. The last two days feature invited and submitted symposium, panel and paper presentations, poster session, annual chart share, and expo. The scheduled invited speakers are Dr. Richard Kubina, Dr. Peter Sturmey, Dr. Bill Heward and Dr. Elle Kirsten. Please visit www.celeration.org for more information regarding all of our upcoming conferences. The SCS eagerly welcomes new charters and members into our community. This nurturing group is full of brilliant and seasoned professionals who are always willing to offer advice or mentorship. Simply become a member and see the opportunities accelerate!