Finding a Community that allowed me to explore and grow is one of the most important things I did as an educator. I was able to connect with other educators that has the same ideas and questions about education. We might now always agree on the correct answers to those questions, but it was awesome to be able to hear about the different approaches amazing teachers were taking to address these issues. This Professional Learning Community was something that I have held near and dear to my heart.
I have connected with educators all over the world and these connections have led me to wonderful adventures in learning and growth. Over time, these digital friends became my friends. Community is key for teachers because the job can sometimes feel very lonely. Especially if you are an early adopter or an advocate for less popular pedagogical approaches. I get it. I've been there. Many of us have been there and have come out the other end a little worse for wear, but stronger and better in other ways. It was the Community that always lifted us up and made me excited about the next thing.
Social media has changed drastically since these early Communities formed. Free flowing exchange of ideas is not the same as it once was and Communities are tougher to find and people are hesitant to share because of the fear of backlash. It is tough for educators who are trying desperately to connect and grow. I've been very lucky to be able to connect through other Communities over the years. Google, Adobe, and Raspberry Pi are just a few that have made a lasting impact with me. They did this by making sure that the teachers are at the center of the Community. It is something that is really key to a successful Community.
As I have worked for SchoolAI for a little over 6 months now, I have taken on the task of building and growing the Community. Part of that has been taking over the digital events each month and engaging with the online Community on our Circle Platform. I have been working on some really fun Community updates that will be rolling out in the coming weeks and I want to invite all of your to join me in the Community. You do not have to be expert user of AI or have even used AI at all. I want this Community to be filled with educators excited to share and try new things and push back on ideas to help all of us grow and learn. It is a free platform that I manage and want to make THE place to be when it comes to talking and sharing about education.
If you feel like you are looking for a place to have these conversations and ask questions, please take a moment and join the Community and share with the thousands of teachers already there looking to make a difference.
It would be awesome if you shared this in educational spaces for others to see.
If you ever have any questions, do not hesitate to reach out to me at nicholas@schoolai.com. I'm the Community Nerd!
Hugs and High Fives,
Nick
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