Introduction
 
As a professional service organization, the National Council of Teachers of English maintains a careful awareness of its mission.  This mission is expressed in the Constitution as follows:

The purpose of this Association is to improve the quality of instruction in English at all educational levels; to encourage research, experimentation, and investigation in the teaching of English; to facilitate professional cooperation of the members; to hold public discussions and programs; to sponsor the publication of desirable articles and reports; and to integrate the efforts of all those who are concerned with the improvement of instruction in English.

It is of equal concern that all Council subgroups likewise orient themselves as they pursue their more specific charges.  This handbook, authorized by NCTE Executive Committee action, has been prepared to answer recurring questions about the work of NCTE Commissions and Standing Committees and to help directors, chairs, and members carry out their responsibilities as efficiently as possible.  The Executive Committee and the Executive Director are always open to suggestions for improving either this handbook or NCTE Commission and Standing Committee procedures.  (Note:  A separate handbook is available for regular three-year committees of the Council.)