As my master program draws to a close I am beginning to make plans for my career as a post-graduate. Up until now, I have used what I have learned to bring back to the classroom, school and community. There has always been a clear goal in mind, that is, how my master’s program can benefit the children and community that I work in.  A big part of my goal has always been to be the best resource I can for my students, colleagues, parents and the community. As I look towards the future, I have to consider how I will keep learning and growing as an educator. One of the best parts about being an educator, is that your work is never done. It’s almost comforting in a way, because there will always be something to work towards. Of course, the way I will learn and grow will have to evolve. In order to continue learning and growing as an educator, I will focus on professional development, networking, and creative outlets.

 

 

Professional development is a great way for me to continue learning and growing. Not only does it help you to evolve your teaching and techniques, but it gives you the opportunity to meet new people and exchange ideas. This is one of the best ways to help grow as an educator. The types of professional developments out there are vast, which allows you to cater to your interests, points of weakness etc. Professional development also encompasses professional literature. I feel that using my summers and vacations to read current professional literature will help me to continue to learn and grow. In this “here today, gone tomorrow” world in which we live, it is critical to be involved in the ever evolving puzzle. Keeping current with trends, research etc. is vital to my professional career, even if it doesn’t directly change the way we teach, exposure to this literature is very important. 

 

 

Networking is a big part of my future to continue learning and growing. Often the people you met will change your lives forever. I believe it is very important to continue networking and keeping in contact with people who you can learn from. Whether it is someone who is more comfortable with technology, or someone who is really passionate about history, these people will enrich our lives and help us grow. It is very important to keep strong lines of communication-as these people are a huge asset to your learning. I have even found that people within your community and family are vital factors to your continued growth as an educator. A story around a campfire or a phone call from a relative from another state, can give information that can benefit you, your students, and your community. Continuing to learn and grow from other’s stories, is very important to me.

 

 

Creative outlets are another big part of the way I will continue to learn and grow. For example, I have been teaching for 3 years and I am almost done with my master’s degree, but, up until this past year, I had never painted a picture as an adult. Taking risks and trying new ways to be creative allows you new opportunities and ways to express yourself. Using information learned in a children’s literature class- I took it to my painting class and it made the way I painted much more meaningful. I feel if you continue to challenge yourself creatively you will look at things differently and be able to bring this new outlet back to your teaching. It will also continue to challenge the way you think and view things, which is essential when being an educator. This might also help you to challenge the way you teach. 

 

 

In conclusion, I am reminded about the last day of school this year. On the last day, my students and I walked out for dismissal wearing sunglasses with a tag attached saying, “My future’s so bright…I’ll have to wear shades….” And especially for this time in my career…this saying won’t just be true for my students! I look to the future with the hope of always challenging myself to become a better educator. I also challenge myself to take risks, get involved in new things to continually help my mind, perspective and views evolve. This is a key component to be the best resource for your students, parents, community and colleagues- which in the end, is my number one priority.