Oh the Places We Can Grow!

Every teacher will not remain in the classroom teaching groups of students for 30 years and then retire. I would guess that most teachers will not. I wish I could say that I intentionally chose the path I have taken in education but I did not. It happened by chance for me and it can happen on purpose for you!

I have been reflecting on professional experiences that have made me an amazing educator, a mindful responsive coach and a master developer and facilitator of professional learning. My unofficial first move, let's call it the "0" move, is learning to say you are good. It is okay to acknowledge that you are amazing at your work. You can do this and at the same time recognize that you are on a learning journey. I say this for my own heart. I am learning to accept that I am very good at what I do and that it is okay to say so! (hope that helps somebody) Here are 5 moves I unintentionally made that have set me up well for different stages of my professional success:

Who you choose to work for matters: Choose Well

I graduated from NCCU and went to work for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools. At the time one of my professors said "If you can work in CMS, you will be able to work anywhere. It is a beast of a district." I had no idea what they meant. I was following love and friendship to Charlotte. My professors were right. CMS was an innovative district that was committed to developing educators. The district leadership followed current research and collaborated with other large districts across the nation, which presented rich opportunities for growth and development at no cost. The organization you choose to work for matters. A few considerations to get you started:

• Research the district and learn what they care about and how they are developing their teaching staff. Most districts have some sort of district plan outlined by the superintendent. (Small and large districts have unique experiences to offer it is not about the size is about the innovation and leadership vision)

• Are they engaged in research with local colleges in the area you will be serving? (Check with local colleges to learn about partnerships)

The leader you work for matters: Choose Well

Join outside organizations

Attend conferences

Find Community

I don't have all the answers but I have a wealth of experiences to draw from. I continue to take my own advice. If any of these ideas have been on your mind, I hope this helps. Do your research then act. Don't perseverate too long before taking action. Your next steps await! Happy end of the year educator friends. See you again soon.

-Kaneka