This article was written by Dr. Mark Wagner.
Connect, build your relationships and be patient are all key phrases that stick out in my mind after reading this article. With all relationships in life, you have to nuture them and then watch them grow and strengthen. Professional Learning Networks (PLN's) are no exception. I was humored by the idea that I am looking for another "relationship" I have to nuture. My hands are full with the ones I have now and I can't keep up! What Dr. Wagner helped me to realize, is that I may put the time and energy into building the trust now; however, when I am need of some assistance, opinions or resources, the response will often be quick and plentiful.
Where to begin? I am very fortunate to work for a district that offers professional development. I don't have to do the research to discover what might be the best tool to help. As I attend each professional development, I am given another resource, website, web browser, social networking site, etc. that can help me grow and help my students thrive. Often I feel like I could use the same session twice ;) I need just another "run through" so that I can really feel comfortable with the program. (I can't believe I am THAT person!) I am given an opportunity to set up my connections.
The next step is to help build the relationships. As I stated earlier, I don't feel I have a great deal of time to devote to nuturing these relationships; however, how often do I spend several hours searching for new ideas or activities to match the curriculum? If I had put this time into developing my online relationships, I could save time when collecting new activities. The Core Curriculum is a VERY large part of my future in teaching. I need to reflect on the resources that I have gathered and which ones to continue with. Are they the best way to help my students achieve success? While working through this process for the next two years, it would be helpful to turn to my PLN across the US and find out what they are doing to help deliver the best lessons to their students.
Finally, "Be Patient". As a kindergarten teacher, I am ALWAYS searching for more patience. My 21 little friends have taught me the importance and the rewards of showing such extreme patience. In our fast-paced, instant-gratification society, patience has to be practiced. Learning comes with patience. Just as I would like to receive a second session from our Elite team, students want an opportunity to discover, fail and learn from those mistakes. I have to have patience and allow myself those same opportunities.
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