o help establish an outside support network, start by arranging meetings between teachers par-\ ticularly at the beginning of the year. Reach out using social media tools such as Facebook and Twitter \ or simply send out a mass email to any colleagues who might be interested. You might also organize logistics (such as deciding a meeting time and finding a location), bring snacks, provide reflection ques- / tions and discussion starters, or offer to host a question-and-answer session. / ff Meetings can be strictly professional, strictly personal, or a combination of the two. For professional meetings, publicly post a discussion topic using social media or an electronic mailing list. Teachers who are interested in the topic can voluntarily attend the meeting. Sample topics for professional meetings might include: ¢ Creating a community of learners in your classroom ¢ Pacing a lesson or unit ¢ Communicating with parents ¢ Mastering work-life balance e Understanding the evaluation process e Increasing student engagement * Connecting assessment and grading e Managing student behavior ¢ Fostering technology skills in the classroom ¢ Using homework and enrichment efficiently / ¢ Participating in action research In a personal meeting, simply allow attendees to get to know one another. To break the ice, present some conversation starters on cards at tables or on a projection screen. These could include questions such as the following.
also important for growing community!