Networking with Educators

Supporting Student Needs

Collaborating for Student Success

How many of you consider taking the time to meet other educators and growing your network? I know that sounds simple, but if you have transitioned into a solo educator, you no longer have the built-in network of educators that your school provided.

I have found that my biggest successes come when I network with other educators and grow my "bank" of educational professionals that I can not only go to with concerns, but I can recommend to my families when I am not the expert they need. As a former classroom teacher, I knew the value of the Special Education Teachers, the Speech Therapists, the Counselor, the Principal, the Occupational Therapists, etc. I knew that I was a specialist in the classroom, but there were times that I could not address the needs of my students because I was not trained in EVERYTHING. Knowing who to turn to made my job much easier! I had a band of educators who were ready and able to support ALL of my students.

I have found the same is true as a private reading tutor. I can definitely support many of the students I meet. However, I have found that sometimes I need to refer students on to other professionals. Knowing who I can send parents to for support is really important. I don't want to just provide a name without knowing the person I am recommending.

Having those trusted educators in my "bank" of professionals is really important.

The question is, "HOW do you find them?" I have found the professionals by showing up and attending trainings that I have paid for and also free trainings. When given the opportunity to chat with the other educators, I TAKE the opportunity. Sometimes there isn't always time to do that. If allowed, I will exchange an email and then line up a "face-to-face" chat on Google Meet or Zoom so I can get to know them.

Many times, I will then line up a collaboration with the other educators and actually WORK with them to meet a goal.

By taking the time to meet educators and learn more about them and their expertise, I am not only meeting the needs of my students and families, I am also meeting my own needs as a professional educator.

Below you will find a few educators I have met along the way that may be useful in your own network!

Are you ready for a FREE networking event? That is great because I am hosting one! You can join me on Thursday, February 6th at Noon, Central Time./ Let's meet, introduce ourselves and take some time to learn about one another expertise! This is a GREAT way for you to grow your "bank" of educators!

Click the link and accept the invitation!