Take a chance, be yourself
AUGUST 14, 2013
Six years ago almost to the day, before I started blogging, I wrote an article in EdWeek Teacher, aimed at new teachers and offering advice on establishing your professional identity. This is certainly the right time of year to be looking back at it, and I’m glad to say I wouldn’t change a thing. Here are some excerpts from the original article; add your own advice in the comments!
Although the students and the classroom are your top priorities, it’s never too early to think carefully about how early experiences in your career can help you establish a professional identity—about how you can collaborate with others and engage in the profession. Here are some hints to help you think about and establish a professional identity.
First, find your allies. Whether they are teachers, custodians, secretaries, parents, librarians, aides, coaches, or counselors, these are the people who want to help you succeed with students. You’ll hear this advice from others who quite rightly want you to recognize how these people contribute to your effectiveness in the classroom. But, besides helping you in your teaching, true allies will start motivating you and validating your efforts, even beyond what you might think you deserve. Consider what a vote of confidence does for your students, and give yourself permission to actively seek out the same for yourself.… Maximize the time you spend with people who recognize your brilliance while still pushing you to question and reflect. Find allies who are modeling a professional community and who support