One of the first lessons my dad taught me when I became of age to enter the workforce was that it was not about WHAT you know, it was about WHOM you know. Networking is vital to remain relevant in any industry. I am always looking for ways to connect with others, even outside of education. You never know what tomorrow might bring, so be prepared to take risks.

As I have navigated the post-collegiate workforce, I have joined several professional learning networks (PLN). My most abundant networking sites have resulted from social media (i.e. Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Tik Tok). I am involved with many Facebook educator and technology groups and I follow hundreds across all my platforms. The major PLNs I am a member of are ITSE, NCTM, and TeacherConnect.

In the first weeks of the pandemic, my former coworker started a Facebook group called Teachers in Quarantine. It is a place for educators to share ideas and resources. It was also a great place to find comfort when times were really hard in the classroom. I continue to utilize it today, as we return to a new normal.

Within the larger PLNs, I look for articles about the latest in learning and classroom management strategies. When I have reached a challenge, I will often search through forums to find solutions. I will often post myself looking for feedback and advice. I try to contribute with my own feedback to others’ challenges within education.

I am excited to use these PLNs as I navigate the innovations available due to easier access to technology in my classroom. I hope to provide support to others in my many PLNs.