Okay, I think I’ve saved the best for the last! You must, must, must find a way to get together with other teachers on a somewhat regular basis. Virtually is good, but in person is the best! I am a member of several local music teachers associations, plus our state association, and Music Teachers National Association. I can say without hesitation that I would not be the teacher that I am today were it not for the investment of numerous other teachers in my life. It is impossible to quantify the benefit I have received from attending local workshops, serving on leadership boards, traveling to state and national conferences, and just visiting with colleagues about a host of teaching-related issues. They’ve given me advice, support, encouragement, ideas, and camaraderie that is invaluable!
It’s great to be able to connect with other teachers on-line via forums, blogs, and e-mail (and I’ve met some incredible teachers that way!), but I highly recommend becoming a member of your local association(s) and making plans to attend a state or national conference this year. In fact, I just completed my registration for the MTNA Conference in Albuquerque, NM March 20-24 a couple weeks ago and I think it would be a blast to plan a time to meet-up, get to know each other in person, and talk about all things teaching-related (well, maybe about other things, too…)! Anyone else already going? Anyone else thinking about going? Leave a comment or e-mail me if you’re interested in being part of a group meet-up and we can start working on the specific arrangements. (Or, for those of you on facebook, RSVP on the 2010 MTNA Conference event page and I’ll keep you in the loop as we make plans!) I still have to finalize my travel and lodging arrangements, but now that the registration is in, I’m thrilled and anticipating a fabulous time!
Hopefully this short series on re-igniting enthusiasm has been helpful. Please keep sharing your own thoughts or suggestions in this area. I know we can all use it!
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