Welcome to the final episode of our Back to School Ready Series. I’m Beth, and today we're going to discuss an essential aspect of teaching that often gets overlooked: the importance of connecting with other teachers. Whether you’re a new teacher or have years of experience, building relationships with your colleagues can significantly impact your professional and personal life. So, let's dive into why these connections matter and how you can foster them.
When we really stop to think about it, teaching is such a unique profession. Instead of spending our day interacting with adults like many other professions, we spend out day interacting with students adding in small interactions with adults that happen through quick conversations before school, in the hallways, or during lunch that are usually rushed and disjointed. There's a speed that happens in the school environment that also impacts the connections we are able to make with fellow teachers.
I have heard from many of you that you feel alone and isolated on a teaching island and you wish it would change. This is why I am dedicating a whole episode to the purpose of encouraging you to prioritize creating connections this year. Teachers thrive in collaborative environments. In fact, studies show that educators who have strong professional relationships are more effective in their roles and experience higher job satisfaction.
A report by the Learning Policy Institute found that teachers who participate in collaborative professional development are more likely to implement new teaching practices effectively. In another survey by the National Center for Education Statistics revealed that 94% of teachers who engage in regular collaboration with their peers feel more confident in their teaching abilities.
These statistics highlight the powerful impact of relationships on teachers' work. This is why this matters, because at the end of the day even if you have an amazing classroom, run lessons like a well oiled machine, but are alone in doing it, it will impact you. So how can you, as a teacher, build these meaningful connections?
Education expert Dr. Linda Darling-Hammond emphasizes, "Collaboration among teachers not only improves teaching practices but also creates a support system that can reduce the stress and isolation many teachers feel."
Let's look at some practical ways to connect with your colleagues, both within your school and beyond.
First, consider the benefits of face-to-face interactions at your school. Start by joining or creating teacher study groups. These groups can focus on specific subjects, grade levels, or teaching strategies. Regular meetings provide a structured way to share resources, discuss challenges, and brainstorm solutions.
Another idea is to participate in or organize professional learning communities (PLCs). PLCs are groups of educators who meet regularly to reflect on their teaching practices and student learning outcomes. This is a great place to find those who share the same passion as you, and build those partnerships together.
Mentorship programs are also valuable. If you’re a new teacher, seek out a mentor who can provide guidance and support. If you’re an experienced teacher, consider mentoring a new colleague. This reciprocal relationship benefits both parties and fosters a sense of community.
Attend or create fun opportunities for you and fellow teachers to get to know each other. Maybe 1 Friday you all go to a happy hour at a restaurant near the school, or you do an escape room together. These types of activities help you better relate in the school because you actually know the people you work with.
Collaborate on Projects: Partner with other teachers on interdisciplinary projects. This not only enriches your teaching practice but also allows you to learn from each other.
Share Resources: Create a shared online repository where teachers can upload lesson plans, worksheets, and other resources. This can be a Google Drive folder or a school intranet site.
Join Online Communities: There are numerous online platforms where teachers can connect, share ideas, and seek advice. Some of my favorite facebook groups for teachers of ELLs are ESL Teachers K-12 hosted by Margie Kirstein, Leading ELLs hosted by Pamela Broussard and if you are a member of Equipping ELLs you can come join us in our private community.
@TanKHuynh: Tan Huynh focuses on language learners and provides resources, tips, and strategies for ELL educators.
@Seidlitz_Ed: @Larryferlazzo: Larry Ferlazzo is a high school teacher who shares a lot of practical tips and resources for teaching ELLs.
@TESOL_Assn: The official Twitter account of the TESOL International Association, which supports teachers of English to speakers of other languages.
@ELL_Advocates: This account focuses on advocacy for ELL students and shares resources and news related to ELL education.
Participate in Webinars and Online Courses: These offer opportunities to meet teachers from around the world, share experiences, and gain new perspectives.
Thank you for joining us on this episode of the Back to School Ready Series. Remember, teaching doesn’t have to be a solitary journey. By building strong connections with your colleagues, you can enhance your teaching experience, support your professional growth, and create a more enriching environment for your students. Stay connected, stay inspired, and let’s make this school year the best one yet.
