Connecting with “Your People”

As education professionals, you know who “Your People” are. If you are a high school math teacher, your people are other high school mathematicians. If you are a teacher for preschool students with autism or severe intellectual disabilities then your people are other autism or ‘sped folks’. School psychologists and speech language professionals want the same things. How do I get together with more people like me? Sometimes we find ourselves at a school or in a job where there are few people who really know the challenges in your corner of the education world. Fear not. In this day and age, there are a lot of ways to find your people to connect, collaborate, and continue to grow.

Pick One, and Away You Grow

1. Join or Start a Professional Learning Community (PLC)

• PLCs are a fantastic way to dive deep into topics that matter to you and your colleagues. Whether it’s a book study, data analysis, or exploring new teaching strategies, PLCs provide a structured environment for collaboration and idea-sharing.

2. Attend and Present at Conferences

• Attending conferences allows you to meet like-minded professionals from outside your immediate circle. Presenting at these events takes it a step further, positioning you as a thought leader and opening doors to deeper professional connections.

3. Join a Professional Association

• There are professional groups for every educational niche. See the sidebar for a sample of well-respected associations, organizations, and international networks of like-minded professionals.

4. Collaborate on Cross-Subject Projects

Working with colleagues from different subject areas can offer fresh perspectives and help you develop new skills. It’s also a great way to connect with people you might not interact with otherwise. Consider joining a project with colleagues from different departments (math and English) or grade levels (3rd grade and 8th grade).

5. Engage in Mentorship, Either as a Mentor or Mentee

Mentorship is a powerful way to build relationships. Whether you’re guiding a new teacher or learning from a seasoned veteran, the shared experience fosters a strong bond that often extends beyond the professional.

6. Utilize Social Media to Stay Connected

Platforms like X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn, and educational blogs are invaluable for connecting with educators across the globe. Joining groups, participating in chats, or even just following inspiring educators can help you feel more connected to your professional community.

7. Attend School Events Together

Going to school events, like sports games, performances, or fundraisers, with colleagues is a fun way to build camaraderie. It’s a chance to support your students and bond with your peers outside of the classroom.

8. Create a Shared Resource Library

Starting a shared drive or a collaborative folder for lesson plans, resources, and best practices encourages regular interaction and collaboration. It’s a simple yet effective way to keep the lines of communication open.

9. Host a Workshop or Professional Development Session

If you have expertise in a particular area, consider hosting a workshop or PD session for your colleagues. This not only showcases your skills but also provides a platform for others to engage with you and learn together.

10. Organize a Book Club

Starting a book club focused on educational topics (or even just popular fiction) can be a great way to bond over shared interests. It provides regular opportunities for discussion and deepens relationships through meaningful conversations.

Find Your People

Building connections with colleagues might require a little extra effort, but the rewards are well worth it. Strong professional relationships not only make your workday more enjoyable but also provide a support system that can help you navigate the challenges of our field. So, take the first step—reach out, get involved, and find “Your People.” You might be surprised at how much these connections enrich your professional and personal life.

A Sample of Well-Known Education Associations

• American Educational Research Association (AERA)

  • Focuses on improving educational processes by encouraging scholarly inquiry related to education and promoting the dissemination and practical application of research results.

• Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD)

  • A global community dedicated to excellence in learning, teaching, and leading, with a focus on professional development and educational leadership.

• Council for Exceptional Children (CEC)

  • The largest international professional organization dedicated to improving the educational success of individuals with disabilities and/or gifts and talents.

• National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)

  • Focuses on the education and development of young children, promoting high-quality early learning through professional development and accreditation.

• National Association of School Psychologists (NASP)

  • Represents and supports the profession of school psychology by advancing effective practices to improve studens' learning, behavior and mental health.

• National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP)

  • Supports secondary school principals and other school leaders in the United States and promotes student achievement through strong leadership.

• National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM)

  • The largest organization dedicated to mathematics education, providing resources and support for teachers of mathematics at all levels.

• International Literacy Association (ILA)

  • Focuses on advancing literacy for all, offering resources and professional development for educators involved in teaching reading and writing.

• International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE)

  • Focuses on the effective use of technology in education, providing resources and professional development for educators around the world.