Learning From My PLN

I started a new position in my school district three years ago.  I left the classroom for a position as the Technology Integration Specialist for grades 3 to 8.  I was so excited about the new challenge and all that it could encompass.  Three years ago, I had no idea what a Professional Learning Network was or how valuable it would be in my current position.  
I have learned that a PLN is unique to each individual, that my PLN may be similar to others but I designed it to fit my needs.  My PLN has been a tremendous resource for me, which in turn has made me a better resource for the teachers with whom I work.  The people in my PLN have shared resources, given advice, and shared learning opportunities that I would not have known about otherwise.

Through blogs, Twitter, and PLN networks such as Classroom 2.0, I now have colleagues outside the walls of my small school district.  It still amazes me when someone from another state or even another country, offers me advice and resources. I do not know everything there is to know about these resources and how to use them to for maximum results but I am learning!  And I am enjoying it.

I advise every educator to begin cultivating a Personal Learning Network.  It not only benefits your professional development but the development of the students you teach everyday.